Buying used memory off Ebay!!!!

[JMT74]

Hi, I am looking to go from 256 meg to 512 meg and I was wondering what people thought about buying used memory off of ebay? It is the exact same manufacturer and product number that is in my computer. I mean memory is memory used or not right?

 

[Rumpo-Stiltskin]

Used maybe, but abused also.... probably.
It's a really bad idea.

I wouldn't even buy "new" memory via eBay.

 

[Triple6]

But it could be faulty, mishandled, subjected to environmental/phyiscal damage. Warranty can be a problem too. Also some of the prices aren't that great compared to retail stores, don't forget about shipping costs.

 

[Shamou]

Well, I did buy a Sonny VAIO laptop on eBay... how could a guy go wrong... it was said to be in top shape...

...when I received it, the battery had a life expectancy of about two minutes... (a replacement cost about $200.00)... and the OS...was pirated... the clip for the extended power line was broken... and would not hold the cord...

...I wrote a nasty review for the person who sold it to me... but, that was my only satisfaction... and $700.00 down the drain...

That is only my experience on eBay... but maybe worth sharing...

 

[Triple6]

Well, I did buy a Sonny VAIO laptop on eBay... how could a guy go wrong... it was said to be in top shape...

...when I received it, the battery had a life expectancy of about two minutes... (a replacement cost about $200.00)... and the OS...was pirated... the clip for the extended power line was broken... and would not hold the cord...

...I wrote a nasty review for the person who sold it to me... but, that was my only satisfaction... and $700.00 down the drain...

That is only my experience on eBay... but maybe worth sharing...

Trust me, you're not alone.

 

[JohnWill]

Buying technology items used on eBay is a fools errand! Way too many people selling their junk there.

 

[Rich-M]

It's like buying anywhere, what people don't do is research the item to make sure it's right fpr them, and check out the seller to make sure they are straight shooters.
I buy mostly memory used on eBay which I use to upgrade used pc's in my business and have never had a problem. If you know what desnity means, ecc and cas latency, then you are good to go. If you don't stay away and if you have a doubt on what you are about to bid on, pass.
eBay has many dealers who are online retailers selling for less, new perfectly valid merchandise. The othert thing I have bought about 50 of is used cpu's and never had a problem. new ones are too high there, better off an online retailers.

 

[Mulderator]

Used maybe, but abused also.... probably.
It's a really bad idea.

I wouldn't even buy "new" memory via eBay.

I have purchased a lot off E-bay including two computers with no problems. You have to make sure you are buying from reputable sellers. I also make sure there is a return policy.

If the person who is selling it guarantees it will work or can be returned, I see no problem with used memory, although I would expect to pay a considerable discount to make it worth it.