12 Things to Check while Buying Used MacBook

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Inspect for Physical Damages

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Get the Serial Number

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Check Serial Num. on Apple Website

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Remove Firmware Password

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Don’t Buy Locked MacBook

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Check the Screen for Dead Pixels

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Check Keyboard and Trackpad

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Check all Ports

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Run the built-in Hardware Test

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Check Battery Health & Charger

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Check the Webcam

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Check Hard Drive Status

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12 Things to Check while Buying Used MacBook

Inspect for Physical Damages

Check if there are any physical damages on the body, and to the screen. Also, if you see any loose screws.

1

Get the Serial Number

If the dealer or the owner is not providing you with the serial number, then stop the discussion right there and leave.

2

Check Serial Num. on Apple Website

Go to https://checkcoverage.apple.com/ and input the serial number to know about the warranty details.

3

Remove Firmware Password

If you see there is a Firmware password, ask the owner to remove it, before making the payment.

4

Don’t Buy Locked MacBook

If a dealer says that they will unlock it only after getting the payment, avoid buying that MacBook. Possibly, it is a stolen MacBook.

5

Check the Screen for Dead Pixels

go to https://devicetests.com/dead-pixel-test and click on Start Monitor Test. While testing on the color screens, check for any dots.

6

Check Keyboard and Trackpad

Examine every keys on the keyboard to ensure they are functioning properly. Also check that the trackpad is responding properly.

7

Check all Ports

Carry your USB drive and wired headphone along with you. Ensure all the ports are functioning properly.

8

Run the built-in Hardware Test

Run Apple’s built-in tool (Apple Hardware Test or Apple Diagnostics) that detects various hardware problems.

9

Check Battery Health & Charger

Ensure that the battery cycle count and condition are within good limits. Also, check if the charger is original or not.

10

Check the Webcam

Open the Photo Bhoot app or Facetime app and test the iSight camera. Check if the camera captures properly.

11

Check Hard Drive Status

Use the Disk Utility app on MacBook to scan the hard drive. Make sure there are no critical red flags.

12

Read more

12 Things to Check while Buying Used MacBook