MobileRead Forums - View Single Post - What should I beware of when buying a used ebook reader?

happy_terd · 01-17-2010, 01:15 PM

I would first make sure that it works. A box can be made to look like it hasn't been opened yet. The problem with that is that the owner may not want to open the box up to show you because if you don't want it then he couldn't sell it as a new product. It may also be stolen.

I would simply ask a lot of questions to guage the validity of this item, such as: Where did he get it? Why is he selling it? Why doesn't he simply return it to the store he purchased it from?

Most people who have expensive items like this brand new have some means of receipt. Why is he not returning it for cash or store credit? That usually is more then you could sell it for second hand.

I am not saying that this sale is a scam, I am just saying be careful.

edit:

heck i trust bying a second hand ereader a lot more then a brand new one. At least with a second hand one you are pretty sure on the reason why he is selling it. A brand new one would mean he didn't even open it up to see if he likes it, and if he got another one somehow as a gift or something then how come he cannot return it?

01-17-2010, 01:15 PM	#2
happy_terd Banned Posts: 13,045 Karma: 10105011 Join Date: Jan 2010 Location: Finally made it to Walmart. Device: PRS 420	I would first make sure that it works. A box can be made to look like it hasn't been opened yet. The problem with that is that the owner may not want to open the box up to show you because if you don't want it then he couldn't sell it as a new product. It may also be stolen. I would simply ask a lot of questions to guage the validity of this item, such as: Where did he get it? Why is he selling it? Why doesn't he simply return it to the store he purchased it from? Most people who have expensive items like this brand new have some means of receipt. Why is he not returning it for cash or store credit? That usually is more then you could sell it for second hand. I am not saying that this sale is a scam, I am just saying be careful. edit: heck i trust bying a second hand ereader a lot more then a brand new one. At least with a second hand one you are pretty sure on the reason why he is selling it. A brand new one would mean he didn't even open it up to see if he likes it, and if he got another one somehow as a gift or something then how come he cannot return it? Last edited by happy_terd; 01-17-2010 at 01:18 PM.