What to Look for When Buying a Used Laptop in Pakistan

The Used Laptop Market in Pakistan

New laptops in Pakistan are expensive due to taxes and import duties. A laptop that costs $500 in the US sells for 120,000-150,000 PKR here. Buying used can save you 30-50%, but you need to be careful about what you are getting.

Check the Battery

Open a browser, play a YouTube video at medium brightness, and see how long the battery lasts. If it drops below 50% in 45 minutes, the battery needs replacement. Ask the seller about battery health — some will know, some will not.

Test Every Port

Plug in a USB drive, check both sides if there are ports on both. Test the headphone jack, HDMI output, and charging port. A laptop with a broken USB port might seem like a minor issue, but repairs can cost 3,000-5,000 PKR.

Screen Condition

Open a white image full screen and look for dead pixels or dark spots. Tilt the screen at different angles to check for color shifting. A single dead pixel is fine, but clusters of dead pixels or pressure marks mean the screen will need replacement eventually.

Keyboard and Trackpad

Open a text editor and type on every key. Check if all keys register. Test the trackpad for smooth movement and click accuracy. On MacBooks, check if the trackpad clicks evenly across its surface.

Storage and RAM

Check the exact specs. Some sellers advertise "8GB RAM" when they mean 4GB soldered + 4GB in a slot. Check if the RAM is upgradeable. For storage, an SSD is essential — avoid laptops with only HDD for daily use.

Where to Find Deals

Browse laptops on OEADS. Many university students sell laptops at the end of their studies, which means you can find relatively new machines at good prices. Always meet in person and test thoroughly before buying.