FAQs
Should I Buy My Child a Refurbished Laptop or Chromebook for School?
May
When your child needs a device for school, it’s tempting to go straight for a new Chromebook at the big-box store. But what if there’s a smarter option? More and more Kiwi parents are asking: should I get a refurbished laptop instead? The answer depends on your child’s needs — but in many cases, a refurbished laptop offers more flexibility, power, and value than a basic Chromebook.
Let’s break it down.
💻 Chromebook: The Pros and Limitations
Chromebooks are popular in New Zealand schools because they’re:
- Lightweight and portable
- Affordable
- Easy to manage for teachers
- Great for web-based learning tools like Google Docs or Class Dojo
However, they come with limitations:
- Very limited storage (often just 32GB)
- Can’t run full desktop apps like Microsoft Word, Zoom, or Minecraft Education
- Often feel laggy after a year or two
- Locked down in school-managed systems
If your child just needs basic web browsing, they might be enough — but not always for long.
🖥️ Refurbished Laptop: A Smarter Long-Term Investment?
A professionally refurbished Windows laptop from NZ Laptop Wholesale offers:
- Full access to all school software (including Microsoft Office, Zoom, web portals, etc.)
- Fast SSD storage and enough RAM to handle multiple apps
- The flexibility to be used for both school and home tasks
- Durable business-grade build quality
- Local support and warranty if anything goes wrong
You’re getting a device that was designed for daily office use, not just light web browsing.
💸 Value for Money
The real kicker?
A refurbished laptop from NZLW often costs the same or less than a new low-end Chromebook — and lasts longer too. That means better performance, more freedom, and less frustration for your child.
We also clearly list expected battery life and provide return-to-base warranties for peace of mind.
✅ Final Verdict
If your child’s school allows Windows devices, a refurbished laptop is almost always the better choice — especially from a trusted local seller. You’ll get more power, more flexibility, and more value for your money.
