I found a computer monitor listed locally for $30, even though it originally cost around $200. The seller says it works perfectly and is only being sold because they upgraded, but the power cable is not included. I found a compatible cable for about $5 and would be willing to bring it along, but I have never bought electronics from a private seller before and would rather not go inside a stranger's home. Would it be reasonable to ask the seller to meet somewhere neutral so I can plug it in and test it before paying? What should I check, such as dead pixels or input connections, and does the low price or missing cable seem suspicious?
4 Answers
A monitor is generally one of the safer electronics to buy used because most problems are obvious as soon as you turn it on. For $30, it may be worth the small risk, but test it first if possible. Bring a laptop and the appropriate HDMI or DisplayPort cable, then display a bright white image and inspect the screen for dead pixels, lines, flickering, or discoloration. Meeting at a neutral public location is a perfectly reasonable request. A standard power cable is usually inexpensive and easy to replace.
The price alone is not necessarily suspicious. Used monitors often sell cheaply because people upgrade and do not want the hassle of storing or shipping the old one. Still, the missing cable means you should arrange a way to power it on before handing over the money. Check the exact model and whether it uses a normal power cord or a specialized external adapter. If it requires a missing power brick, replacing that could make the deal much less attractive.
You can go ahead, but treat it like any other local cash purchase. Meet during the day in a public place, avoid entering the seller’s home, and do not pay until you have seen the monitor working. If the seller refuses a quick test or insists on an unusual meeting arrangement, skip the deal. If it powers on and produces a clean image, the odds are good that it is fine.
For a basic check, turn it on, look at a completely white screen for dead or stuck pixels, then try the main input you plan to use. Also check for cracks, flickering, horizontal or vertical lines, and a loose stand or damaged ports. A $5 standard cable is reasonable, but confirm the monitor’s model first so you buy the correct one.
That makes sense. I’ll message the seller and ask whether we can meet somewhere public and test it briefly. I was probably overthinking the low price, but I don’t want to waste a trip if testing it is not possible.