Buying new on eBay?

[Hypnotist]

I'm new to computing and have posted to any forum only twice. I received excellent advice and was able to solve the problems as a result...thanks again to those who responded!

I want to purchase NEW hardware for my business and want a good buy on a brand system...something fast with good service and support. I've been looking at Dell 8400s on ebay. These deals seem almost too good to be true.

Are these systems cheaper because they're outdated, stolen, broken or some other reason? Are the sellers legitimate? They seem to be, but I don't necessarily believe the seller reviews. How are they able to purchase at a price and sell for much less than the manufacturer? How can they sell Dell cheaper than Dell? I've read some disconcerting stories about the computer auctions on eBay.

I need a fast internet system with storage for databases and the power to run multiple standard business applications, ect., and would like to have some clean multimedia capabilities. Any recommendations regarding safe new computer purchasing on eBay (or really good deals elsewhere) is greatly appreciated.

Thank you!!!

[Jeffbx]

Some ebay auctions are for stolen, broken, etc. machines, but the majority of them are legitimate.

People get in on large purchases (i.e., GE purchases 2000 new machines for 40% off, a few employees get in on it), or they come up with limited time discounts or coupons. There was a $750 off coupon in here a short while ago, and you KNOW there are a flood of laptops on ebay now because of that. If you're patient enough to wait for the deals, you can buy much cheaper than the average joe also.

If you want to buy from ebay, read the feedback, check on how long they've been selling, send them an e-mail beforehand - if you do your homework, you should be OK.

[DarkFury]

Personally, I'd stick to the deals that are posted on the Deals page here... that way, YOU are getting the machine directly from Dell with their full warranty and guarantee.

More or less, you take your chances with what you get out on Ebay.

[Hypnotist]

Gentlemen,

You offer sage advice.

Thank you for your time and recommendations!

Brad

[Agent Plissken]

How much are you looking to spend per system, and how many systems do you wish to purchase? LCDs or CRT monitors?
For what it sounds like you need the computers for, I the lower end P4 Dells would do the trick for you. Someone here may be able to suggest a specific coupon or link if you provide the above information.

[WhiskeyPapa]

I would advise against buying new Dell systems on eBay. Just keep looking at the deal pages here at gotapex.com every single day. You'll start to get a feeling for the ebb and flow of the Dell deals. Pretty soon you'll spot a great deal (like the $750 off deal that I jumped on a couple weeks ago.)

[Hypnotist]

Gentlemen,

My budget is in the $1000 to $1500 range for a single system. I would like a 19" to 20" LCD. This will be for all around use including business.

I've gotten some council regarding lower-end brand systems. Some refer to them as "throw-away" systems. My intention is to receive longer term service from this new system purchase. Therefore, I'm willing to invest a little more for more use.

The point about eBay purchases is a good one, especially in the context of $750 discount cupons. I'm sorry I missed that deal! I also saw an awesome deal here for Dell 8400's (the system I want) a couple of days ago and they apparently ended that "special" a day early. Seems to be the story so far...a day late, ect., etc.

I just discovered this site via...I believe...Computer Hope forums. Best discovery since beginning my "deal search". I've not had an opportunity to fully digest all that's available here, but I'm anxious to begin watching. I just don't understand if the discount cupons/codes are discounts in addition to those offered on Dell, or in lieu of. Would someone clarify how this works?

Thanks for the valuable tips!

Brad

[WhiskeyPapa]

Boy, sometimes they're in addition to, and sometimes in lieu of the current deals. Generally, if Dell issues something huge, like a $750 off or 30% off coupon code, it's in lieu of thier somewhat regular 10% off promotions.

However, if Dell is offering something like free memory upgrade or free printer, then that is in addition to the big coupon codes.

If I were you, I'd go to the deal page and try adding a few of the current specials to your cart just to see how it works. You can delete them from your cart when you're done.

Also, get signed up for Dell's mailing list on their web site. They regularly send out coupon codes via email and on their catalogs. I have two $30 off codes I received with their latest catalogs.

[WhiskeyPapa]

Here's a good Dell business computer that fits your criteria:

Click here: http://www.gotapex.com/deals.php?search=Dimension%203000

Follow the instructions, but bump up the memory to at least 512MB, add XP Pro, DVD-RW drive, 19" flat panel monitor, etc. I come up with a total of $961 with free shipping.

BTW, that deal was extended, but ends tonight. But there will always be another one coming later.

[Hypnotist]

Note to self: Extensions are good...Early terminations are bad.

I'll definitely get on the Dell email list. Can't pull the trigger on the Dell 3000 yet...have some low bids outstanding on eBay and it would be great if one came through. Had a "real" seller contact me with a 2nd chance purchase offer after the high bidder flaked on the deal...Dell 8400 with some decent single step upgrades for $700 and $75 shipping...not too bad based on my research. There's still that nagging trust issue with eBay sellers however. That's why I'm gonna shift emphasis per your council.

kb0wwp...Thank you!

Brad

[Jeffbx]

One more thing to keep in mind -

If you're going to use this for a business & want to keep it in use for a number of years, you definately want to get the Dell 3 year on site warranty. Most people who resell on ebay will only get the standard 1 year warranty to keep costs low. However, the 3 year will pay for itself the first time you have a problem, esp. with the LCD.

[Hypnotist]

Extended Warranty...perhaps the most valuable point.

You are absolutely correct...most NEW Dells on eBay offer the basic 1 yr warranty. I've seen one Dell unit offered with a 4 yr warranty included-but I didn't read the full body of the text to determine the depth of coverage. Can you purchase add-on coverage from Dell?

Muy Muchas Gracias!

Another question...

I read somewhere that hardware will generally develop any problems within the first year and that investing in longer term warranties may be money less than well-spent. Any truth to the rumor?

[Jeffbx]

Can you purchase add-on coverage from Dell?

YES - if the system is still under the original warranty, you can buy additional coverage, but at a higher cost than if you bought it with the system. If you're outside the original warranty, you can STILL buy additional, but you'll have to pay an inspection charge (around $200 maybe?) so Dell is satisfied that the machine is in good condition before they cover it.


I read somewhere that hardware will generally develop any problems within the first year and that investing in longer term warranties may be money less than well-spent. Any truth to the rumor?

Yes & no - all depends on who you talk to. On any machine, if there are manufacturing defects, most of the time those will show up within the first month or so. If you're keeping the machine for 3+ years, then you run into the possibility of parts failing due to age. On a desktop machine, it's not at all unusual for it to run 3-5 years without a need for any replacement parts. On laptops I'd say 1-2 years. However, if this is a business machine, then it's more of an insurance policy than anything else. Better to have it & not need it than vice versa. Unless you have an IT staff & spare parts on hand, it'll be more cost effective to outsource this responsibility to Dell, IMHO.

[jng]

Extended Warranty...perhaps the most valuable point.

I read somewhere that hardware will generally develop any problems within the first year and that investing in longer term warranties may be money less than well-spent. Any truth to the rumor?

Yes and No,
Most problems do occur within first year but for a few extra bucks for a business especially, the longer warranty is a safer beat.

[Hypnotist]

I agree...longer term warranties sound like cheap insurance if one plans extended business use.
All good council!
Thanks Guys!

Just a thought...do any of you gentlemen/ladies have your own website or favorite useful resource sites I might visit? I'd love to learn more about you nice folks and the knowledge base here. Again, I'm just at the start of my learning curve.
Live Long and Prosper...

Brad

[DarkFury]

I agree...longer term warranties sound like cheap insurance if one plans extended business use.
All good council!
Thanks Guys!

Just a thought...do any of you gentlemen/ladies have your own website or favorite useful resource sites I might visit? I'd love to learn more about you nice folks and the knowledge base here. Again, I'm just at the start of my learning curve.
Live Long and Prosper...

Brad
More or less... you can get to know most of us from the "Off Topic", "Hardware", "Software" and other G|A forums... lots of good information and "chit chat" go on out there.

And as far as other resource sites... honestly, there are so many out there to choose from. Personally, I'd say start with the G|A "news" page which is maintained by LP Miller... he posts links to all kinds of neat news on technology and such.

Come on down to the Off Topic forums and introduce yourself.. and I'm sure you'll get a hearty welcome... and ask your questions. You'll get plenty of responses out there.

Welcome to G|A... come for the deals... and stay for the community. :D

[Hypnotist]

Dark Fury...Thank you!

I accept your kind invitation.
You've all been so helpful and giving of your time.
I'm looking forward to the learning experience and community atmosphere...not to mention the attractive deals.

See you in the forums! :cheers: (Root Beer)

Brad