Canon refurb body

[langdonb]

I have read that buying a refurb body (or lenses for that matter) is actually better than buying new. That based on comments that bodies or lenses are returned to Canon as they are defective in some area and that the techs go over the complete unit to bring it up to factory specs.

Any comments on the truth of that matter would be appreciated.

 

[jdramirez]

everything I've ever received from Canon that was a refurb was in pristine condition. ii still prefer new over refurb if it is the same price, but if it isn't.... I'm comfortable with the refurbs.

 

[GmwDarkroom]

I have purchased 3 lenses and my flash from Canon's refurbished equipment. All work perfectly. Any time they have the best pricing (which isn't always the case), I'll definitely go there for purchases.

As I understand it, refurbished items aren't necessarily equipment that had flaws. Sometimes it's returned dealer stock or customer returns. However according to Canon, each gets a full check to ensure it is operating within expected norms so I think it can be better than new in the sense that since leaving the assembly line, another tech has gone over it to ensure functionality.

Think of it as possibly repaired, but also possibly just double-quality inspected.

 

[mackguyver]

I've purchased a 7D and 5DII from them. The 7D was absolutely pristine, didn't look like it had ever been used. The 5DII had some extremely minor wear from tripod use, but both were perfect. I've purchase multiple lenses from them as well, all in excellent shape.

And yes, what you've read is true. I have never had any issues with refurb equipment, but have had several issues with new electronics. Canon forgot to connect a wire on a brand new battery grip for example - covered by warranty, but obviously missed by QC.

The only catch is to buy "Factory" refurbished. Some retailers offer "refurbished", but it's done by them, not Canon, etc.

My only complaint about Canon's refurbished gear is that the sales tax often makes it more expensive than buying new, unless they're having a sale (such as right now).

 

[crasher8]

Bought my 7D refurb had a total of 21 shots. NEW.

 

[Mt Spokane Photography]

I've bought refurb cameras and lenses, and all were excellent. They may be returns for any number of reasons, or just store demos. The number of exposures may vary, and if the main board was replaced, they might even show up with a very low number, like 21

 

[chas1113]

+1

I have bought both body and lenses through Canon that were indistinguishable from new.

 

[wsmith96]

I've bought 2 refurbished lenses from canon and both looked brand new to me. I've not had any quality issues either. I don't have experience with a refurb body, but I'm assuming the quality control will be similar to that of their refurb lenses. I wouldn't hesitate to buy a refurb body from canon.

 

[mwh1964]

Got a 60D refurb kit. The box was different than the original, everything else was brand new. No issues what so ever.

 

[langdonb]

Thanks to all who replied. It confirmed my suspicions that it is hard to go wrong with a refurb body or lens.