We have two Toshiba laptops and you couldn’t tell them from new other than the boxes weren’t branded. I usually buy most electronics as refurbs right from the manufacturer. The only time I recall a cosmetic defect was one power mac that had a small scratch. Usually they will disclose if there are defects like this in the description.
Thanks! I’ve always thought refurbs offer fantastic value for money, but was apprehensive about receiving products with ugly physical defects.
The only "refurb" I bought was an HP laptop I bought as new from Best Buy, it lasted the warranty period plus one month, when the motherboard crapped out. I didn't know it was previously sold until I contacted HP to register it, and found I wasn't the first purchaser.
I don't recommend HP nor Best Buy...