We notice you are currently visiting the UK site. Would you like to visit our main site instead?

Upgrading business laptops for personal use

A man at home sitting at a table, installing an SSD into his open laptop with tools nearby

In an era where technology evolves at breakneck speed, the allure of purchasing a new laptop can be strong. However, if you're in the market for a cost-effective, high-quality laptop, buying a used enterprise-grade model might be the perfect solution.

Business laptops are built to last, offering durability and reliable performance for everyday tasks like web browsing, streaming and word processing. By purchasing a used machine and upgrading its components, you can achieve a powerful setup without breaking the bank. And contribute to reducing electronic waste, making it a sustainable option for your tech needs.

Enterprise-grade laptops are renowned for their durability, security and high performance. These machines are designed to withstand the demands of corporate use, meaning they come with robust construction and specifications that can handle intensive tasks.

When sold as used, these devices retain much of their original capability but come at a fraction of the cost. However, it's important to note that used tech generally doesn’t come with a guarantee or warranty, which adds an element of risk but is often offset by the cost savings.

Local corporate resellers and online marketplaces are excellent sources for finding used business laptops – as well as online platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace and Amazon. When buying an ex-enterprise laptop online, carefully review the seller’s ratings, descriptions and return policies. For local resellers, enquire about the laptop’s condition, history and any testing they’ve conducted.

Why choose an enterprise-grade laptop?

Laptops for business are built with superior materials and engineering compared to consumer-grade models. They feature:

  • Durability: Rugged designs that can handle heavy use.
  • Performance: Powerful processors, efficient cooling systems and upgradeable components.
  • Longevity: A longer lifespan thanks to their enterprise-grade construction.

These features make them perfect for anyone looking for reliable machines for non-gaming tasks. Plus, used models are often priced much lower than their original retail value, making them a great choice for budget-conscious buyers.

Popular models to check out include Lenovo’s ThinkPad series, like the X1 Carbon, T14 and T16. These laptops are built for demanding professional environments, which makes them an excellent pick for personal use too.

Upgrading your used laptop

One of the biggest advantages of enterprise-grade laptops is their upgradeability. Most models allow users to easily replace or expand key components like RAM and storage, which can breathe new life into an older machine.

  • RAM upgrades: Adding more RAM can significantly improve your laptop’s multitasking capabilities. Kingston’s ValueRAM memory modules are compatible with most enterprise laptops and are easy to install.
  • SSD upgrades: Replacing a traditional hard drive or existing SSD with a Kingston SSD can boost your system’s speed, responsiveness or storage capacity. SSDs offer faster boot times, quicker file transfers and a smoother overall experience, as well as providing more storage if needed.

Both the Lenovo T14 and T16 models come equipped with 8GB of RAM and a 256GB SSD out of the box. Depending on the generation that you buy, these can be upgraded to a maximum of 64GB of RAM and paired with a single-sided SSD, like our NV3 NVMe SSD. These upgrades can transform used machines into powerful and efficient tools for everyday use.

If you need help selecting the right storage and RAM for your laptop, just use our Configurator. Enter your laptop’s make and model, and it will show you the compatible products for an easy, hassle-free upgrade.

Opting for a used enterprise-grade laptop from local corporate resellers or online marketplaces is a smart choice for anyone seeking high quality without the premium price tag. With a little research and the right upgrades, you can have a powerful, reliable machine tailored to your needs, ensuring you get the most out of your tech investment. Remember, while there’s no guarantee with used tech, the potential for savings and performance makes this option worth exploring.

Was this helpful?

Related Articles