The PlayStation Portable is a handheld game console manufactured by Sony. Buying a refurbished PSP can be a great way of saving money, but be there are several different versions available, some without the newest features.

Game systems can be an expensive, especially as rapid changes in technology mean new and upgraded systems frequently come onto the market. Whether you are an avid gamer yourself, or a parent looking for a system that your child will enjoy, you can buy a refurbished system for a lot less than normal retail prices, and still get great quality merchandise.

Many people are wary of refurbished technology because they don’t fully understand what “refurbished” means in practice. A "refurbished product" can mean an overstocked item or older model still in its original packing. It can also refer to an item that has been sold to a customer who opened the box and returned it, an item with mild cosmetic damage like surface scrapes or dings , or an item that has been rebuilt to repair some problem.

In fact around one in five consumer electronics items sold in the US are returned, and only about 5 percent of those are actually seriously defective. Over two-thirds of electronics returned to retailers work perfectly, and are simply not what the customer expected.http://blogs.consumerreports.org/electronics/2008/08/refurbished-e-1.html

Items that were returned to the manufacturer either with minor cosmetic problems or with more serious technical ones are fully restored to as-new working condition, re-inspected and repackaged before being offered for resale at a much lower price. Usually these refurbished products will be fully backed by the manufacturer’s warranty and will be indistinguishable from brand new products. Therefore they often represent an opportunity to buy an as-new product for a bargain price.

There are three main places where you can refurbished products. The first option is from the manufacturer, in this case Sony. The second is to buy online from a variety of online outlets. The final option is to buy from specialist “buyout retailers”.

• Before buying a PSP, make note of the different versions available and be aware that if you buy an older version, it will not have all of the same features as the latest models. However, older models are well worth considering if on a tight budget because they still provide a great gaming experience at a bargain price.

PlayStation Portable comes in an original version, PSP-2000 editions and PSP-3000 editions.

1. The different editions come in different versions, color, and with different accessories.
2. PSP 2000 versions are lighter and slimmer and have a larger memory.
3. PSP 3000 versions have an improved screen, a microphone, and several other additions.

As with most refurbished electronics, you can buy refurbished PSPs directly from Sony. In the US, visit Sony’s site at www.sonystyle.com, and look for the PlayStation and Outlet links in the Special Offers section. As these offers come and go, don’t be surprised if you don’t find what you want first time, but be prepared to revisit the site a few times to see if any PlayStation deals have become available.

In other countries, you should be able to easily find the local Sony site using a search engine, and you should explore the site until you discover the relevant sections.

Once you’ve found the product you are interested in, carefully review the product specifications to make sure that it is the model you want with the specifications you were expecting. Remember, to get the very best deals you may sometimes have to go for a slightly older.

Before making a commitment to buy, also review all warranty and return policy information. You want to make sure that you are getting a good deal, and that in case something is wrong when your refurbished PSP arrives, you can return it for a refund or replacement. Typically Sony should offer at least a 90 day warranty for a refurbished product, which will provide you with peace of mind against unexpected problems.

The convenience of shopping online means that you can find fantastic deals without even leaving your home. Larger online retailers like eBay and Amazon may sell refurbished PSPs. There are also a number of smaller companies who deal in refurbished electronics, including Gamestop and Overstock.com.

Be aware that these usually ship to US addresses only, and typically do not ship to PO boxes or overseas military addresses such as APO/FPO addresses.

As with purchasing from Sony itself, be careful to check which model you're getting, and if you are getting everything you need. For example a pre-owned model from such supplier may sometimes come without an instruction manual. Likewise check what warranty is offered and the returns policy. These sites may offer a less generous policy than Sony, but you should still have perhaps a 30 day period in which you can get replacements or refunds if you have problems with the product.

In general, before committing to an online purchase, do your homework, read all agreement material and make sure you're getting the best deal.

You may be able to find refurbished PSPs at large, buyout retailers. Buyout retailers often buy the overstock from large corporations for much less than what the merchandise is worth, and in turn sell it to the consumer at low cost. Many of these retailers will also invest in refurbished electronics, like televisions, stereos and video game systems.

Retailers that may be worth checking out include refurbdepot.com, warehousedeals.com and the outlet stores of Crutchfield and Target.

As always be sure to check model details, specifications, warranties and return policies.

If you do decide to purchase a refurbished PSP, you should start your search for one with the manufacturer. A number of other online retailers also offer refurbished electronics, including video game systems like the PSP. Buyout retailers are another option, as they tend to buyout overstock from larger companies.

No matter where you buy your refurbished PSP, it is essential that you know what you are getting into. Getting stuck with an expensive product that doesn't work can be frustrating so make sure you have a warranty and that you understand the company's return policy.

If you take some care you can join the many satisfied owners who have had years of enjoyment from their refurbished game consoles.

• Introduction
• Step 1: Buying a Refurbished PSP
• Step 2: PSP Versions
• Step 3: Where to Buy it
• Conclusion