topic Re: Refurbished or Used 70-200mm? in EF & RF Lenses

Refurbished or Used 70-200mm?

ClayStevens — Mon, 24 Feb 2014 03:36:51 GMT

Wandering between these two choices. Whitch kind is better? Has anyone used refurbished lens?

Re: Refurbished or Used 70-200mm?

ebiggs1 — Mon, 24 Feb 2014 14:20:34 GMT

A refurbished lens from Canon is a s good as a new one from Canon. Same warranty.

Used, you better know what you are buying.

Re: Refurbished or Used 70-200mm?

cicopo — Mon, 24 Feb 2014 15:18:56 GMT

It's a tough call & depends on your ability to judge condition & whether the lens works properly etc. Here in Canada we rarely have the option to buy refurbs from Canon Canada so location also plays into the answer. Now that Canon has increased the warranty from 90 days to one year plus the fact they even run sales on refurbs (from what I've read) it's really one of those things that can go either way. I see a lot of ads locally for "almost new" stuff but at almost new prices but since the warranty can't be transfered I wouldn't pay close to new prices.

Re: Refurbished or Used 70-200mm?

amfoto1 — Tue, 25 Feb 2014 18:03:11 GMT

Used from a reputible dealer is little different from a refurb. Items are often inspected in the same way as refurbs, might be repaired if needed, same as a refurb, and usually comes with some moderate warranty period, though it's usually less than a refurb. Adorama, B&H, KEH are all reputible and reliable used gear dealers.

Used from a private party is generally a bit riskier, but prices are usually lower. As stated above, you have to know what you are buying and be able to evaluate it quickly, if buying in person. Assume there is no warranty, since you'll likely never see the seller again.

If buying from private parties off the Internet - such as certain auction sites - you sometimes have limited recourse if something isn't up to snuff. Sellers at the afore-mentioned auction site do in some cases offer modest right of return, though you might be out the cost of shipping. And there are means of contesting an obvious rip-off.

Over the years I've bought new from dealers, used from dealers, used from private parties, and refurbs... generally not had any problems. Only had a rare issue or two.

***********
Alan Myers

San Jose, Calif., USA
"Walk softly and carry a big lens."
GEAR: 5DII, 7D(x2), 50D(x3), some other cameras, various lenses & accessories
FLICKR & PRINTROOM

Re: Refurbished or Used 70-200mm?

ClayStevens — Wed, 26 Feb 2014 05:58:50 GMT

Thanks all you three reponses. I probably will buy a used one at Adorama or B&H