Grading Information

There are multiple reasons to purchase a refurbished laptop, with a cheaper price being just one of the many benefits.  In this article, we will explain the different grades of refurbished devices and what that means for you. 

Jump to:  Grade A  |  Grade B  |  Grade C

How Are Refurbished Laptops and Computers Graded?

There is a huge misconception that buying a refurbished PC means that you will receive a faulty product. In fact, refurbished computers and other devices such as tablets go through a rigorous testing and grading procedure to assess their quality and to ensure they are fit for purpose.

Each device is inspected by our refurbishment team, both externally and functionally, to ensure it meets our minimum requirements for sale on the website.

Refurbished Grades

Refurbished grades allow you to quickly understand the state and quality of a reconditioned product. The refurbished grade reflects any scuffs, scratches, or faults of the device and explains the extent of the issue at hand.

Refurbished grades have become a quality standard in the refurbishment industry in order to accurately communicate what a consumer can expect from a repaired device, regardless of which company or brand they use.

Grade A – Excellent Condition

Grade A refurbished laptops or desktops will be in great condition! Grade A refurbished laptops mean that the device will be almost new, free from any noticeable scrapes, scratches, or dents. All of the components and hardware will be in good working order, without any known faults or issues.

Some companies may create their own additional grades outside of the industry standard, such as a Grade A+ for a particularly good device that may, for instance, have its original packaging. At the other end, for example, a Grade A2 refurbished laptop may mean that the device is not in as good of a condition as typical Grade A devices but is much nicer than a Grade B laptop or desktop.

The wear on the keys will be barely noticeable

Laptop hinges will be as new, and the ports will have very minimal signs of use, including the scratching that often occcurs with use

The screen will have no scratches or blemishes.

The case on Desktop PC's will have no dents or scratches.

Grade B – Good Condition

Grade B refurbished devices are in relatively good condition. Grade B refurbished laptops are considered fairly middle of the road amongst repaired devices. There may be minor scratches to the casing but the screen and speaker will be free from damage. The system hardware will be in good working order.

These laptops, desktops, and tablets are often available at a reasonable price point, especially compared to a Grade A or open box device. This grade is typically ideal for students that need a laptop to move around campus and anticipate bumps occurring but still want to have a sleek looking device.

There may be some sticker residue on the laptop

There may be minor scratches to the PC case 

  The screen and speaker will be free from damage

  Minor wear on the keys 

Grade C – Fair Condition

A Grade C refurbished device could be described as ‘well used’. The device will most likely have some obvious signs of use, such as clear scratches or slight  dents to the casing, however, this will only be cosmetic damage and will not affect the function of the machine.

Despite these minor faults, the device will still work properly and without issue. This type of device is most suited to families who need a home computer for children completing schoolwork and do not need to be overly concerned with the aesthetic of the machine.

Laptop bottom case showing scratches

The PC casing showing scratches

The keyboard will have obvious signs of use

Laptop case will have clear scratches or slight dents

Open-box computer – As good as new

Open-box laptops are essentially as good as new! Often devices that have been returned, the original packing or security seal of open-box computer will have been opened already but the machine will be new.

Open-box PCs have a particular benefit in that they often still have a remaining manufacturer’s warranty, meaning if you experience a fault the device can be repaired or even replaced in some instances

Ex-Demo – Barely Used

Ex-Demo devices are generally in great condition! The cosmetics may vary slightly, however you can be assured that all of the components and hardware will be in good working order, without any known faults or issues. 

Final thoughts

Here at Stone Refurb, we are always open and honest about our grading policy. Due to their condition, we never sell devices below a Grade C meaning you can always expect to have a functional device suited to your needs. As a bonus, all of our devices come with a minimum of 1 year warranty so that you can be safe in the knowledge that if a fault does occur, we will quickly and conveniently have your device fixed. Find out how we refurbish our devices.