When buying a laptop, it can be difficult to know whether you’re getting a brand new device or a refurbished one. Refurbished laptops can be a great value, but it’s important to know what you’re buying. In this article, we’ll cover three methods for checking if your laptop is new or refurbished.
Method 1: Check the Install Date of Windows
To check the install date of your Windows operating system, press the start key and the r key together to open the Run console. Type in the command “system info” and let the system gather all the required information. Scroll up to the very top of the information and you’ll see the original install date. This is the first time Windows was installed on your system and is the date when your laptop was first booted. The original install date can only change if there was a major upgrade in Windows. For example, from Windows 7 to 8 or 8 to 10. If the original install date is the same as the date the seller is telling you, then your laptop is likely new.
Method 2: Check the Creation Date of Folders
If you’re still unsure if your laptop is new, you can check the creation date of folders on your computer. Whenever Windows is booted, folders are automatically created. Right-click on a folder and select “Properties” to see the creation date. This date will be similar to your original install date. If your laptop was not booted on the date the seller is telling you, then this date will not match and you’ll know your laptop is not new.
Method 3: Check the SKU Key
To check if your laptop is refurbished, press the start button and the r key together to open the Run console. Type in “msinfo32” and press “OK.” Under “System SKU” you’ll see a SKU key. If there is a hash key and just before the hash key there is the character “r,” it means your laptop is refurbished. If there is no “r” before the hash key, then your laptop is likely new.
In conclusion, buying a laptop can be a daunting task, but with these methods for checking if your laptop is new or refurbished, you’ll be able to make an informed decision. Remember to check the install date of Windows, creation date of folders, and the SKU key. By following these tips, you’ll be able to determine if your laptop is new or refurbished.