Buying Guide
Refurbished Camera Gear: Is It Worth the Risk?
Refurbished camera gear is one of photography’s best-kept deals. I’ve bought four refurbished bodies and two refurbished lenses over the years. Total savings: over $2,000. Problems encountered: zero. But refurb isn’t always a smart buy. Here’s how to navigate it. What “Refurbished” Actually Means Manufacturer refurbished means the item was returned, inspected, repaired if needed, and tested to meet original factory specifications. Canon, Sony, and Nikon all sell refurbished gear directly through their online stores.