Last updated October 2026 · 1 min read
In this guide 5 sections
New
Sealed, unused
Full manufacturer warranty
Best for marketplaces sold as new
Open box
Opened, like new
Manufacturer or 90-day
Lower price, near-new
Refurbished
Graded A, B or C
30- or 90-day supplier
Budget fleets and schools
Side-by-side comparison
| New | Open box | Refurbished | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Packaging | Sealed retail box | Original box, opened | Generic or original box |
| Cosmetics | Unused | Like new | Graded A, B or C |
| Warranty | Full manufacturer | Manufacturer where eligible, else supplier | Supplier warranty, typically 30–90 days |
| Price vs new | Highest | Lower | Lowest |
| Best for | Retail, marketplaces with brand rules, corporate buyers | Value-conscious retail and online sellers | Education, budget fleets, emerging-market export |
When to buy new
Buy new for marketplace listings that require new condition, for corporate and government buyers who need full warranty, and for products where packaging matters to the customer, such as gifts.
When open box makes sense
Open box offers a discount while keeping near-new condition. It suits customers who care about price but still want a like-new product. Listing rules differ by marketplace, so check before you list open box items as "new".
When refurbished wins
Refurbished business laptops and tablets are excellent value for schools, non-profits and large fleets, where cost per device matters more than packaging. Refurb A units can be hard to tell from new; Refurb C units are best for budget or classroom use.
Tips for selling graded stock
- Describe the grade honestly in your listings, using the supplier's definition.
- Photograph the actual unit for higher-value refurbished items.
- State battery health for laptops and tablets.
- Offer your own short warranty to build trust.
Read our full condition grade definitions.
Questions about buying wholesale?Our sales team answers within one business day.
Contact sales