You can save around 20% by shopping open-box, but these items aren't always a good deal.
BY:
ELIZABETH HARPER
DealNews Contributing Writer
Refurbished goods tend to get a bad rap, but these items can actually save you a bundle if they're truly in like-new condition. Open-box products have a similarly bad reputation because the term suggests they're used. However, they may actually be brand-new items — just with a nice discount because the box happens to be open.
While open-box products can be a good deal, that doesn't mean they always are. If you're considering buying open-box, here are a few things you need to know first.
What Does 'Open-Box' Mean?
When you see an item marked as "open-box," it means just that: the packaging has been opened. It's likely been returned for some reason, but not necessarily because it's damaged. An open-box product could simply be something a shopper changed their mind about. The buyer may have returned it because they decided they didn't like the color, or for an equally trivial reason. So you could be picking up a completely new, unused item for a nice discount.
Open-box products are typically floor models or returned goods that have been inspected to make sure they work.
However, that may not always be the case. Most stores allow you to return products for at least a couple of weeks, and as a result, open-box items could have seen some use. They could show a little wear or cosmetic damage from their brief time in the original buyer's hands. This usually isn't a problem, but you should be aware that buying open-box means some items will be used, if only lightly.
Open-box products can also be floor models that the store has used to show the item off to customers. These can be a risky buy, as they've probably seen a lot of use. They may have never left the store, but all-day demoing from random customers adds up, and can make the items more prone to failure. If the open-box item you're looking at is a floor model, you may want to reconsider.
Whatever the reason items have been labeled "open-box," these products usually get an inspection to make sure they're working before they're resold. This could be a thorough check of each product's functionality, or the inspection could be as basic as plugging the item in to make sure it powers on. Either way, open-box products should (usually) work, though it's worth finding out how they've been tested by the retailer. More testing can help ensure a more reliable product.
SEE ALSO: What Is eBay Certified Refurbished All About?
One other thing to be aware of is the fact that open-box products may be sold "as is," meaning you can't return or exchange them. The manufacturer's warranty may or may not apply, too. So if you buy an open-box product that turns out to be damaged or defective, you have no recourse. Not all retailers do this, but you'll want to find out before you buy.
Even with these caveats, open-box items can still be a bargain for careful shoppers.
Open-Box vs. Refurbished Items
Retailers may sell refurbished and open-box items in the same section of their store or website, and even use the terms like they're interchangeable. However, there's a big difference between refurbished and open-box products. Refurbished items tend to be damaged goods that have been repaired to return them to like-new condition, while open-box items have simply been returned to the store for some reason, then put back on store shelves with an open-box label.
Refurbs tend to be damaged goods that have been repaired, while open-box items have been returned, then put back on store shelves with an open-box label.
Either type of product can give you a great deal, but be sure you know which one you're buying — and what to look for — before you take it home.
The Whats, Whys, and Wheres of Buying Open-Box
What to Consider Before Buying Open-Box
Before you buy, be sure to find out the following:
- What the return policy is. While most open-box products work just fine, some may not. A return policy protects you in case you wind up with a lemon.
- Whether it'll cost anything to return. If the store has a return policy, you'll also want to find out whether there's a restocking fee, or if you have to pay postage to return a purchase you've made online.
- Whether there's a warranty. Sometimes the manufacturer's warranty still applies to an open-box item, but sometimes it doesn't.
- Where it came from. If you can, find out if the product was a return (and what it was returned for), a floor model, or something else. Knowing where it came from can tell you a lot about the item's condition. In-store, this may be explained on a sticker on the product box.
- How much wear and tear it has. If you're in a store, ask if you can look at the item before you buy. When online, look for sites with plenty of photos, so you can tell if a product has any obvious physical damage.
- Whether it includes accessories. Sometimes open-box items may be missing manuals, cables, or other accessories. A manual is easy to replace with a digital copy, but cables will just add something else to your shopping list while eating into your savings.
- How big of a bargain it is. You may think all open-box products are great deals, but this isn't always the case. Unless you're getting a good discount, open-box may not be worth the risk.
Why to Buy Open-Box
The biggest reason to consider an open-box item is cost. Still, be sure to check that discount before you buy. There's always some risk of getting a damaged good, so if the discount isn't great (or there isn't a return policy), you may want to reconsider. Because the products can be brand-new, they can make for a fantastic buy — and as long as there's a return policy, there isn't much risk to buying open-box.
SEE ALSO: Everything You Need to Know to Buy Refurbished Electronics
Why NOT to Buy Open-Box
Even with a particularly low price, there are reasons to avoid buying open-box. A lack of return policy can be a big warning sign, with the best prices only offered on products the retailer won't stand behind. Because open-box items may not have a manufacturer's warranty either, there may not be anything you can do if the product is defective.
It can also be hard to tell how much wear these items have. You may not know why they were returned or whether they were floor models, and if you aren't careful, you could wind up with an item that's simply used.
What to Buy Open-Box
While not every deal is a good one, shopping open-box can save you in the 20% range — and sometimes more. Your biggest opportunities are with pricey electronics, where even a few percentage points could mean serious savings.
Shopping open-box can save you around 20% — and sometimes more.
Where to Buy Open-Box
The best place to buy open-box products is at a retailer you trust. Amazon, Newegg, and Best Buy all sell open-box items, and products often fall under their standard return policies (though obviously, you'll want to double-check before making a purchase).
eBay is another place to look for open-box items, but you'll want to shop with care. When buying from a small seller on eBay (or anywhere else), you should look for good feedback, so you can be sure you aren't throwing your money at products that just don't work.
Ready to start shopping? Check out the best open-box deals right now!
Related DealNews Blog Posts:
- What Does Refurbished Mean?
- 10 Trade-In Programs That Pay You for Your Stuff
- 7 Ways to Save When Shopping Online at Best Buy
Elizabeth Harper
DealNews Contributing Writer
Originally working in IT, Elizabeth now writes on tech, gaming, and general consumer issues. Her articles have appeared in USA Today, Time, AOL, PriceGrabber, and more. She has been one of DealNews' most regular contributors since 2013, researching everything from vacuums to renters insurance to help consumers.
DealNews may be compensated by companies mentioned in this article. Please note that, although prices sometimes fluctuate or expire unexpectedly, all products and deals mentioned in this feature were available at the lowest total price we could find at the time of publication (unless otherwise specified).
FAQs
What does it mean when an item is open box? ›
Typically, open-box items are goods returned by customers, inspected by the retailer, found to be in working order, and re-sold at a discount, rather than returned to the manufacturer.
Whats the difference between open box and used? ›The main difference between open box vs. used products is that products labeled “open box” mean that the item packaging has been opened, but never used. Open box products are like-new. Used products have been used by another party.
What is open box in Best Buy? ›Open-box. Customers return opened products for a variety of reasons — a gift was the wrong color or model, or the TV or appliance was too big to fit. Some open-box products served as in-store displays.
What is the difference between brand new and open box? ›Most of the open box items are equivalent to the brand new article. As the name suggests, open box electronics are articles that have only been removed from their original packaging and used as demo models at retail locations. Sometimes, they may be unused returns from consumers.
Is it okay to buy open box from Best Buy? ›Some of these items are just like new, while others might have slight wear or cosmetic damage, and are discounted accordingly. While we do our best to ensure all open-box devices are reviewed, and marked accordingly for condition and any missing accessories, occasionally something may be missed.
Is open box the same as refurbished? ›The major difference between a refurbished laptop and an open box laptop is that a refurbished laptop has been audited, reconditioned, and tested before being resold, while an “open box” laptop has just been taken out of the box, previously owned, but not used.
Does open box mean brand new? ›What Does 'Open-Box' Mean? When you see an item marked as "open-box," it means just that: the packaging has been opened. It's likely been returned for some reason, but not necessarily because it's damaged. An open-box product could simply be something a shopper changed their mind about.
Do open box items have warranty? ›Open box items come with all the original accesories minus the manufacturers warranty. It is advisable to buy a certified product and inspect it before purchasing if possible.
Which is better refurbished or pre owned? ›“What is the difference between pre-owned and refurbished??”
Pre-owned is just plain used. Factory refurbished means a certified technician took it apart and fixed whatever was broken or worn out. Refurbished is better.
Used - Like New or Open Box: an item in perfect working condition. Original protective wrapping may be missing, but the original packaging is intact and in good condition with minor damage possible. Instructions are included.
What refurbished Best Buy? ›
It means the item was returned for some reason from another customer. The Item was checked, repaired if necessary and is again for sale. It does not usually come in original box and often will not have a manual.
What does Ebay open box mean? ›Open box: The item is in excellent, new condition with no wear. The item may be missing the original packaging or protective wrapping, or may be in the original packaging but not sealed. The item includes original accessories. The item may be a factory second. See the seller's listing for full details and a description.
Is Ebay open box legit? ›Its generally pretty safe to buy these as they are essentially new items. If the customer stated that the item did not function the store would not have put them back out on the floor. If they are defective or missing pieces you can return the item to the store within the usual return period.
What does Iphone open box mean? ›An open-box item refers to one with an opened box that is often resealed or repackaged by the reseller. It's worth noting that an open-box product is also just an opened box, meaning the contents inside (the original product) are brand new and unused.
Is it safe to buy a refurbished laptop? ›In general, you should avoid refurbished laptops that are more than five years old; the components may be outdated, and you might not be able to run the programs you need. If you only need to do basic tasks like word processing and surfing the internet, you can safely look at older refurbished laptops.
Is it safe to buy open box laptops? ›Are open box laptops safe to buy? Naturally, hesitant bargain shoppers may wonder if open box items are safe to buy. Not only are open box returns tested and inspected by retailers, but they also come with peace of mind. Just like brand new items, open box deals are covered under the manufacturer's warranty.
What is open box excellent? ›Open-Box Excellent: Products in Excellent condition look brand new — with no physical flaws, scratches or scuffs — and include all original parts (product might not include the owner's manual) and accessories. The product will be in its original packaging or a suitable replacement box.
Can you return a laptop to Best Buy without the box? ›Please return items with all accessories and packaging. If you do not, we may either deny the return or allow a return with a nonrefundable deduction on your refund for what is missing.
Is refurbished Good Best Buy? ›According to a Best Buy rep, all Geek Squad Certified refurbished items undergo the same detailed product testing, sanitization, and cosmetic grading process. Best Buy won't refurbish something if it has too much cosmetic damage or if it can't be repaired to Geek Squad standards.
What does open box price on wayfair mean? ›It means that a customer ordered something, decided it wasn't what they had in mind and then returned it. The returns department then inspects it to ensure it's in good condition and then they offer it for sale again at a reduced price. So it's a new, unused item that, typically, has been opened or unboxed.
What does open box mean Reddit? ›
generally, "open box" means someone purchased an item, was not happy with it or don't want it, returned it for a refund.
What is the difference between recertified and refurbished? ›Recertified: The Difference. The difference between refurbished and recertified depends on the merchant that uses these terms, such as Apple, Amazon, Gazelle, or Back Market. Both refer to a product that has been reconditioned after an inspection, a test, and a cleaning process.
What are open box phones? ›Let's talk about the Out of Box option (also called unboxed or open box mobile phone) that refers to seal-opened mobile phones which are returned by customers almost immediately after purchase.
What does open box mean Micro Center? ›reliable open box cases 888-235-3067 from a microcenter. What does 'open box' mean? When you see an item marked "open box", it means just that: the package has been opened. It may have been returned for some reason, but not necessarily because it was damaged.
Can you get Geek Squad Protection on open box items? ›Save with Open-BOx; Get peaCe Of mind with Geek Squad
All products come with the duration of the MFG warranty and are eligible for Geek Squad Protection plans.
Items need to be returned in a like-new condition. Items that are damaged, unsanitary, dented, scratched or missing major contents may be denied a return. Apparel must not be worn or laundered, and its original tags must be attached for us to accept a return.
Why is refurbished better than new? ›A refurbished device was either pre-owned or used as a display item. However, refurbished products go through the same testing process as new devices do, so any defect is found and repaired, and any faulty part is replaced. They work as well as new products but have a discounted price because of their refurb tag.
Is refurbished 2nd hand? ›Refurbished phones are not like your normal second-hand phones. They are generally used phones that have been either traded in for a newer model, or sent back to the manufacturer due to a minor fault.
Is manufacturer refurbished as good as new? ›There are no rules on how to grade a refurbished product, outside of the fact that the seller can't say it's brand new. They can, however, say it's "like new." That might mean it was never used. It could also mean that the product was refurbished to that state after the product had a hard life.
Does open box mean brand new? ›What Does 'Open-Box' Mean? When you see an item marked as "open-box," it means just that: the packaging has been opened. It's likely been returned for some reason, but not necessarily because it's damaged. An open-box product could simply be something a shopper changed their mind about.
Do open box items have warranty? ›
Open box items come with all the original accesories minus the manufacturers warranty. It is advisable to buy a certified product and inspect it before purchasing if possible.
What is Amazon open box very good? ›Used - Very good. The item has seen limited use and remains in good working condition. Item may show some limited signs of wear with small scratches or cosmetic blemishes. Item may arrive with damaged packaging or be repackaged and could be missing some accessories. Missing accessories are clearly defined for each item ...
What does open box mean on Amazon? ›Used - Like New or Open Box: an item in perfect working condition. Original protective wrapping may be missing, but the original packaging is intact and in good condition with minor damage possible. Instructions are included.
Is Ebay open box legit? ›Its generally pretty safe to buy these as they are essentially new items. If the customer stated that the item did not function the store would not have put them back out on the floor. If they are defective or missing pieces you can return the item to the store within the usual return period.
What is best buy refurbished? ›Refurbished products have been repaired and restored to like-new condition. All parts and accessories that would have been included with the original product are present, and our thorough inspection process ensures that the product is clean and in working condition.
What does Ebay open box mean? ›Open box: The item is in excellent, new condition with no wear. The item may be missing the original packaging or protective wrapping, or may be in the original packaging but not sealed. The item includes original accessories. The item may be a factory second. See the seller's listing for full details and a description.
What does open box price on wayfair mean? ›It means that a customer ordered something, decided it wasn't what they had in mind and then returned it. The returns department then inspects it to ensure it's in good condition and then they offer it for sale again at a reduced price. So it's a new, unused item that, typically, has been opened or unboxed.
Can you get Geek Squad Protection on open box items? ›Save with Open-BOx; Get peaCe Of mind with Geek Squad
All products come with the duration of the MFG warranty and are eligible for Geek Squad Protection plans.
Items need to be returned in a like-new condition. Items that are damaged, unsanitary, dented, scratched or missing major contents may be denied a return. Apparel must not be worn or laundered, and its original tags must be attached for us to accept a return.
Can I return an item to Amazon if I opened it? ›In most cases, used or open box items purchased from Amazon Warehouse and shipped from Amazon.com can be returned within 30 days of receipt of shipment. Some products have different policies or requirements associated with them.
Does Amazon sell open box items? ›
Amazon Warehouse offers great deals on quality used, pre-owned, or open box products. With all the benefits of Amazon fulfilment, customer service, and returns rights, we provide discounts on used items for customer favorites: such as smartphones, laptops, tablets, home & kitchen appliances, and thousands more.
Does Amazon resell returned items as new? ›Returned items are put through a detailed inspection process, and if the product meets our high-quality standards, the item is tagged as “new” and is re-listed for sale. Most returned products meet this bar and are put back on our digital shelves for other customers.
Does Amazon sell used items as new? ›On Amazon Renewed, you can sell high-quality like-new products (refurbished and pre-owned) to millions of Amazon customers worldwide. You can sell on Amazon Renewed if you meet our performance bar and can supply quality products that have been inspected and tested to look and work like new.
Can you return used clothes to Amazon? ›Products must be returned in new and unworn condition, with all original packaging, tags, and certificates of authenticity. Any products returned without their original packaging and documentation will be rejected.
Can you get a refund on Amazon without returning the item? ›Basically put, 'refund without return' or the 'returnless resolution' is an Amazon policy where the buyer receives reimbursement for an item without having to return said item. Yes, you read that correctly, they get to keep the item and their money.