Is it safe to buy computer parts off eBay?

christianelliott

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Mar 8, 2012
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Hello, I am building a computer, and the motherboard that I want, an asus saber tooth z77 is 245 dollars on amazon and tigerdirect. However, I can get it for under 200 dollars on eBay. I don't know much about eBay however, so is it safe to buy delicate things from them like motherboards, or is it too huge a risk? There is a no returns policy.

Thanks
 

kurjack

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Dec 19, 2011
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Buying a motherboard on ebay is like trusting the future of your own child to another person. They could either do a good job or a bad job, either way if they do bad your screwed. Saving a 100$ is not worth what hassles could await if you buy on ebay.
 

kurjack

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And if you get the board and its doesn't work out of the box what do you do then. RMA it and wait a month to try and build your machine again.
 
Ebay items can be a hit and miss.

Who knows what the previous user did with their equipment?

I would rather save up money and buy from a proper store than buy something off of ebay (unless I know for sure I am getting an item that hasn't been tampered with). This way at least you get a good warranty if the part fails.

If you buy the item off of ebay - and it craps out on you 1 day later, you will be out that money you spent on the item, no warranty, no RMA, do not pass go.
 

fudoka711

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Yea I think you've found a "safe" eBay seller to buy from. I agree that buying computer parts off of eBay is really hit or miss. If you find a reliable electronics seller - make sure you save them in your favorites so you can always go back to them later if the need arises.
 

wiinippongamer

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Same thing anywhere else you buy, RMA process is usually more like 2 weeks. I've heard many horror stories about amazon/newegg/tigerdirect and whatnot.
 
Ebay is fine, only buy from credible buyers with high feedback ratings. Also I wouldn't buy a motherboard unless they offer refund options for DOA or non-functioning boards. I buy the majority of my stuff on ebay it's the only way I can resell a build and make enough of a profit for it to be worthwhile. I offer warranties on my machines that were made from used parts from Craigslist or Ebay. I have yet to replace anything except for a powersupply or two. But those were bought new.
 

christianelliott

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I would, but this item is an auction that I hope to win. They have the same item for much more in buy-it-now