What PC Parts are okay to buy used? Whether you are building a new PC or replacing damaged parts on the one you already own, buying used PC parts is a great way to save some money. That said, some components are okay to buy used, but you should steer clear of others. 

As you set out to find PC parts that are safe to buy used, you need to consider certain factors about each one. You can buy any of the following used PC parts from a trusted source.

If you are looking for a high-performance CPU, they can be very expensive. For this reason, people often try to find a used CPU that is in good shape. 

You must make sure that you do your research before buying a used CPU and ensure it is compatible with your motherboard - it is also vital that you buy from a trusted seller. 

The CPU is the brain of your computer and so is built to last longer than other parts. It can function for years. 

When you find a quality used CPU, you will save money because it is less expensive than a new one. 

Ensure that the CPU has no bent or damaged pins and doesn't shut down unexpectedly. You should also ensure that you buy from a seller who tests the CPU and makes sure that it is fully functional before you buy it.

RAM is another expensive component in PCs, and programs today require a lot of it. People often find that they need to increase their RAM in order to run memory-intensive programs and apps - this is even more important in gaming. 

RAM is one of the most durable pieces of hardware in a PC, and it can last a long time. You should make sure that the RAM has not had issues in the past and that it's compatible with your motherboard. 

You can find out more information by looking at the manual for your motherboard.

It is easy to find a great used PC case or cover. You should consider how sturdy the frame is - if it looks like it is in good shape, it probably is. 

There is no need to test cases or covers in the same way you might other parts. Just make sure that they don’t have broken parts.

Another part that is safe to buy used for your PC is the cooler. Air coolers are less risky than liquid coolers when you buy them used. Make sure that you look at the condition. 

You don’t want one that has dents in the fins. There shouldn’t be any cracks or holes. 

You should also pay attention to how noisy it is. When coolers approach the end of their time, they are much louder. 

A loud cooler might not last as long as one that is quieter. Liquid coolers do carry a risk of leaking if there are any cracks or dents - this is not a chance you want to take as it could damage other parts inside your PC if it malfunctions.

New monitors can be very pricey, so they are a great option to buy used. One thing you need to look for is any dead pixels. 

The easiest way to check for dead pixels is to check the screen whilst displaying an all-white image. If you find a group of dead pixels, it will interfere with anything displayed on the screen. 

Another thing to look for is any dark marks or any bruise marks. You would see them after you turn the monitor on, and they indicate that there could be something wrong with the light-channelling mirrors or the LED lights. 

Damage like this often occurs when a monitor has been mishandled - avoid buying any monitor with this problem.

You can also safely buy keyboards, mice, or disc readers used. People don’t often buy them used as they are more affordable - but they are safe to buy if looking to save money. 

Just make sure that they aren’t broken or missing any pieces when you buy them.

Avoid Buying These PC Parts Used

There are a few parts that you shouldn’t buy used.

1. Hard Drive

Most hard drives contain magnetic platters that spin at a thousand rpm. They have moving heads, and these moving heads send information to the magnetic platters. 

If any of these components or platters are damaged or worn, the hard drive could malfunction. 

The main problem is that you may not know what the device has been through - you can’t necessarily find out if it has been dropped or damaged.

It isn’t worth taking the chance as the consequences can be severe if it fails and could cause data loss.

2. Motherboard

The motherboard is one of the most vital parts of the PC, as all components connect to it. You might find a used motherboard that's in good shape, but the risk is high if not. 

Since you don’t know what the motherboard has been through, you won't know if parts are damaged or if functionality is compromised. You also need to ensure that the motherboard is compatible with the CPU and RAM you are currently using. 

If you are sure that you are buying from a trusted seller, you can do it, but otherwise, stay away from used motherboards. 

When you buy used parts for your PC, you can save a lot of money as you upgrade, repair, or build it. Make sure that you do your research and buy from a trusted seller.