The Alamo Geeks refurb standard
How we refurbish computers, step by step.
Every computer we sell goes through the same three stages. First, a physical inspection to make sure it can be refurbished. Second, secure data destruction, so nothing from the last owner is left on it. Third, every part is tested, then the computer is cleaned and set up with Windows and the latest updates.
Every computer we sell includes a 90-day parts-and-labor warranty · Store pickup Tue–Sat, 12–5:30 pm
- Veteran-operated
- 20+ years in IT
- Hundreds of devices refurbished
- 4.7 from 88 Google reviews
Stage one: inspection
Not every computer makes it to the shelf.
We look for:
- A solid case, hinges and screen
- Ports that work, including every USB port
- Keys, trackpad and buttons that respond
It doesn’t go on sale if:
- The screen is cracked
- USB ports or other ports are broken
- The case or hinges are badly damaged
- It can’t be refurbished to our standard
A computer that doesn’t pass inspection isn’t sold as refurbished. Some light wear on the case is normal, and we’re upfront about it.
Why each stage matters
What the three stages protect you from.
Each stage deals with a different risk of buying a computer someone else owned.
Inspection
Damage like a cracked screen or a broken port is easy to miss in a listing photo, and it’s the first thing you notice once you get home.
Computers that can’t be refurbished don’t go on sale.
Secure data destruction
A computer that’s only been reset can still hold the last owner’s files and accounts.
Old data is securely destroyed before setup starts.
Testing and setup
A worn drive, a weak battery or a dusty fan won’t show up in five minutes of use.
Every part is tested, then the computer is cleaned and set up fresh.
Stage three, up close
Tested, cleaned and set up with Windows.
Every part is tested. That means the drive, memory, battery, screen, keyboard, ports, fans, Wi-Fi and the rest. Turning on isn’t a test.
Then it’s cleaned, so it looks the way it should when you pick it up.
Windows is installed fresh, with the latest updates, so it’s ready to sign in and use when you pick it up.
Want Windows 11? It needs UEFI firmware that supports Secure Boot, and a TPM 2.0 chip. Ask us and we’ll tell you whether a computer you’re looking at has both.
The process
From drop-off to the shelf.
The same four steps for every laptop, desktop and gaming PC we sell.
Physical inspection
We check the case, screen, hinges, keyboard and ports to make sure the computer can be refurbished. Broken USB ports or a cracked screen means it doesn’t move on.
Secure data destruction
Everything from the previous owner is securely destroyed. No old files, accounts or passwords carry over.
Every part tested
Drive, memory, battery, screen, ports and the rest are tested so problems are caught before you buy, not after.
Cleaned and set up
The computer is cleaned, then set up with Windows and the latest updates, ready to use.
Buying from Alamo Geeks
What that means when you buy.
- Inspected, with every part tested
- Previous owner’s data securely destroyed
- Cleaned, with Windows and the latest updates installed
- 90-day parts-and-labor warranty
- Mostly business-grade models from Dell, Lenovo and HP
- Come in and see it before you buy, Tuesday to Saturday
If a part fails in the first 90 days, we repair or replace it at the shop. See how our warranty works.
FAQs
Common questions about refurbishing.
How are refurbished computers refurbished?
At Alamo Geeks, in three stages. A physical inspection makes sure the computer can be refurbished. The previous owner’s data is securely destroyed. Then every part is tested, and the computer is cleaned and set up with Windows and the latest updates.
What does refurbished mean?
A refurbished computer has had a previous owner and has been inspected, tested, cleaned and set up again by a seller who stands behind it. A used computer is sold as-is. See refurbished vs used computers.
What happens if a computer fails inspection?
It isn’t sold as refurbished. A cracked screen, broken USB ports or a damaged case means it doesn’t go on our shelf.
Is the previous owner’s data really gone?
Yes. Secure data destruction is the second stage of every refurb, before any setup starts. Nothing from the last owner carries over to you.
Does a refurbished computer come with Windows?
Yes. Every computer is set up with Windows and the latest updates. Windows 11 needs UEFI firmware that supports Secure Boot, and a TPM 2.0 chip, so ask us if you need it.
Will a refurbished computer look brand new?
Not always. Some show light wear on the case. Cracked screens and broken ports don’t pass inspection. Come in and see it before you buy.
What warranty comes with a refurbished computer?
Every computer we sell includes a 90-day parts-and-labor warranty. If a part fails, we repair or replace it at our shop. Physical and liquid damage aren’t covered.
More questions? See the Alamo Geeks FAQ.
Visit the shop
See our refurbished computers in person.
11503 Jones Maltsberger Rd, STE 1138
San Antonio, TX 78216
Tue–Sat · 12:00–5:30 pm
Sun & Mon · Closed
No appointment needed. Store pickup only: we don’t ship.