What Is a Refurbished PS3?

Refurbished Hardware

• Refurbished hardware refers to hardware that is repaired and brought back to like-new condition, often back from being totally nonfunctional. Refurbishing a PlayStation 3 can include swapping in new hardware in place of broken pieces, wiping out all profiles and content, and cleaning the system's exterior. Anyone can refurbish a console, so long as they have the technical know-how. Manufacturers may sell used or returned products after refurbishing to repair the issues that got the hardware returned.

Benefits of Buying Refurbished PS3

• The biggest benefit of purchasing a refurbished system is the cost -- because a refurbished PlayStation 3 is used, it comes with a lower price tag than a new system, allowing you to buy a better model than you would have new. Buying refurbished electronics is better for the environment, as it keeps the electronics out of landfills, where the console can seep toxic chemicals. When you buy a refurbished console, it is cuts back on the number of consoles that must be manufactured and shipped, reducing further environmental impact.

Disadvantages of Refurbished PS3

• Refurbished consoles are often sold as-is, especially when purchased from a third-party or individual who refurbishes the console. Unless you're purchasing directly from Sony, there's no guarantee if the console stops functioning. Refurbished consoles have been owned already; in addition to having no real indication of what kind of environment the system was used it, the consoles usually have some wear and indication of use on the console exterior. A refurbished console rarely comes with accessories.

Buying Refurbished PS3

• A refurbished PlayStation 3 can come from a number of sources, some more reputable than others. The Sony Store sells refurbished goods, and produce the best quality of refurbished console. GameStop occasionally sells refurbished consoles; you can also find refurbished consoles on websites such as Amazon.com, NewEgg.com and TigerDirect.com. If you want to purchase from an individual, many will list their refurbished PS3 on eBay. Buying refurbished from the Sony ensures that the parts used are compatible with the console, but there's not guarantee of when Sony will have refurbished PS3 systems for sale.