What exactly is a reconditioned or refurbished notebook computer? Depending on where you are buying, it normally should be a used - or possibly a returned notebook - that has been factory rebuilt. A refurbished notebook computer is basically a cheap, used (maybe) and renovated computer that satisfies all your performance and portability needs and provides all the advantages you would get on buying a new notebook - such as warranty and technical support. This is critical - do not buy a so-called reconditioned or refurbished notebook computer if it does not have the same warranty or guarantee as a new machine.