Is it better to buy new, used or refurbished gear?
Used gear is more affordable, but it comes with risks.
Photo: tupungato / iStock Editorial / Getty Images Plus via Getty Images
If you're in the market for new photography gear, you'll have to decide between buying new, used or refurbished. Each option has advantages and drawbacks, and which is best comes down to a balance of cost, reliability and your individual needs. Understanding the differences between new, used and refurbished can help you make a purchase that fits your budget and long-term needs.
New gear Photo: Extreme-Photographer / E+ via Getty ImagesMany people prefer new gear because it comes in pristine shape with no wear and tear. You don't have to worry about how the person who previously owned the camera or lens treated it, as it's never been used before. That means that you can, in theory, get the maximum lifespan and optimal performance.
New gear also comes with all the original packaging and accessories, which is a draw for some. Additionally, buying new means you get the benefit of warranties, giving you some protection if something goes wrong.
However, purchasing brand-new gear comes with a higher upfront cost. The higher expense can be a limiting factor for many. Additionally, there may be limited availability for some new models, making it harder to get your hands on it.
Used gear Photo: zoranm / iStock / Getty Images Plus via Getty ImagesUsed gear usually comes at a much lower cost than new, making it a more affordable option for building out your kit. The more affordable prices could mean that higher-end items are now accessible, whereas they wouldn't be if buying new. It also opens up the options of what's available. You'll have access to discontinued or vintage models that simply aren't available new. Likewise, high-demand products may only be available used, even if they are still in production.
However, there are risks when buying used gear. Those risks vary based on where you are shopping, as purchasing from a flea market or Facebook Marketplace is much different than a camera-specific marketplace like KEH, Adorama or MPB (our sponsor). With the former, you don't know if the item will be as described, and could end up with a non-functional piece of gear. Most camera-specific marketplaces will at least inspect gear to ensure it is listed accurately. With all used marketplaces, though, you never know how the camera or lens was treated before your purchase, which adds risks related to longevity.
Depending on where you purchase, there may be no protections or guarantees in place, leaving you out of your hard-earned money if the item isn't as listed. You also won't get the warranties that come with new equipment. Some of the third-party camera-specific marketplaces may offer limited warranties on the used gear they sell, but you'll usually pay a bit higher price than what's available on sites like eBay or Facebook Marketplace. That added cost may be worth it, though, as it takes some of the risk out of buying used.
Refurbished gear Photo: onuma Inthapong / E+ via Getty ImagesRefurbished gear gives you the benefit of the lower cost of used gear, but with some added guarantees in place. Refurbished gear is inspected and repaired by the manufacturer or a reseller, giving you better peace of mind that what you are purchasing is as described and it will be in working order. Plus, many companies selling refurbished gear will have some sort of warranty (though not as extensive as that of new equipment). That way, you have protection if something goes wrong soon after your purchase.
Refurbished gear also has drawbacks, naturally. Like used gear, it likely won't come in the original packaging or with original accessories. You also still don't know the original usage or history, which could lead to a shorter lifespan, no matter how good the refurbishing was. Finally, while some third-party refurbishers will do work up to the quality of the original manufacturer, that won't be the case for all of them. So do your research before buying refurbished from a third-party company.
Shop smartThere's no right or wrong answer when it comes to shopping new or used, as it simply comes down to your budget, needs and preferences. For some, shopping for used or refurbished equipment is always the best option, whereas others will prefer to only buy new. Either way, make sure you are doing your research to ensure you are getting the best deal and only purchasing expensive items from trusted sources.
