Refurbished PC Review: Is a ₹10,000 Setup Worth Buying in 2026?
Buying electronics on a tight budget often feels like a gamble. Can you really get a functional computer for the price of a budget smartphone? Last year, I tested a ₹20,000 refurbished unit, which performed decently. This year, I decided to push the limits further.
I ordered a complete refurbished PC setup for just ₹10,000 ($120) from Amazon. This package included the CPU, Monitor, Keyboard, Mouse, and Wi-Fi adapter. In this article, I will break down the build quality, performance benchmarks, and whether this ultra-cheap PC is actually usable in 2026.
1. Unboxing & First Impressions
The package arrived in a massive box, much larger than expected. Unlike modern compact PCs, this unit features a classic horizontal "Industrial" design chassis from Lenovo.
Package Contents:
- CPU Unit: Lenovo ThinkCentre (Horizontal Form Factor)
- Monitor: Acer 19-inch LCD Display
- Peripherals: Wired Keyboard & Mouse
- Accessories: Wi-Fi Dongle, Power Cables, VGA Cable, and Webcam.
2. Technical Specifications
For ₹10,000, the specifications are surprisingly robust. The most critical inclusion here is the SSD, which ensures the system doesn't feel sluggish.
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Processor | Intel Core i5 (6th Gen) |
| RAM | 16 GB DDR4 |
| Storage | 256 GB SSD (SATA) |
| Operating System | Windows 10 Pro |
| Connectivity | 10x USB Ports, Ethernet, VGA, DisplayPort |
3. The Good, The Bad & The Ugly
The Monitor (Display Quality)
The included 19-inch Acer monitor is functional but dated. It uses a TN Panel, which means viewing angles are poor. You must sit directly in front of the screen to see accurate colors. However, for basic coding, billing software, or reading documents, it is perfectly adequate.
Connectivity Options
One major advantage of these enterprise-grade bodies is the I/O. You get 10 USB Ports (4 Front + 6 Rear). This eliminates the need for any USB hubs.
4. Performance Benchmarks
I tested the system with a standard "Student Workflow":
- Web Browsing: With 10 tabs open in Microsoft Edge, switching was snappy thanks to the 16GB RAM.
- Video Playback: YouTube videos played smoothly at 1080p without stuttering.
- Boot Time: The SSD allows Windows 10 to boot up in under 15 seconds.
5. Final Verdict: Value for Money?
✅ The Pros
- Unbeatable Price (₹10k for Full Setup)
- 16GB RAM & SSD Standard
- Excellent Build Quality
- Genuine Windows 10 Pro included
❌ The Cons
- Dead Accessories (Webcam didn't work)
- Weak Wi-Fi Dongle included
- Monitor has poor viewing angles
- No HDMI Port (VGA Only)
Conclusion: If you are a student, a shop owner needing a billing PC, or simply someone on a very strict budget, this deal is hard to ignore. It offers significantly more utility than a tablet or budget smartphone at the same price. However, be prepared to replace the cheap Wi-Fi dongle and webcam.
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