How to spot low quality laptop parts from non-Australian company online
We know it can be a minefield when purchasing replacement laptop chargers and batteries for your laptop online.
Unfortunately, many laptop batteries and laptop chargers found during online searches are advertised by less than legitimate companies based somewhere overseas. To persuade customers of their authenticity and that they’re Australian-based, some providers implement tactics such as including ‘au’ in their URL or having an Australia Post logo on the website. These factors alone may not point to an authentic Australian company.
So, what’s the problem, we hear you say?
Well, for the same reason as you wouldn’t put cheap fuel someone was selling in bottles on the side of the road into your car, you wouldn’t use a cheap and low-quality battery or charger for your laptop.
These companies often sell poorly manufactured, low-quality and unsafe products which often claim to be genuine brand-name products for a very low price. As a result, they often don’t perform or if they do, only for a limited time and worse yet they can damage to your laptop.
These fake companies are well aware of this, but know that due to the difficult overseas returns policies and low initial cost, consumers won’t usually complain or try to return the product - leaving the customer with no options but to look for another battery or adapter - this is why many of these companies offer a “3-year warranty” on a product that usually has a 12-month warranty - they know they won’t ever need to honour it.
What should you consider when purchasing laptop parts and accessories from an online retailer?
Where are your items being shipped from?
It’s important to pay attention to where the parts and accessories are being shipped from. If you’re buying from a real Australian-based company, surely the parts should be shipped from Australia.
How long will your items take to be delivered?
Check how long it’s going to take to receive the part ordered. Again, even with processing and packaging time, an Australia-based company should be able to get this to you relatively quickly. For example, here at Laptop Plus we offer next business day delivery* on some items.
Does the retailer provide contact details?
It’s often a red flag if the company can’t provide any contact information besides an email or online form, the best reference is a phone number based on the company’s location in Australia. At Laptop Plus we have a local team in Adelaide, who are always on hand for questions, troubleshooting and support via phone, email and an online contact form. We also provide our warehouse address should you need to drop by for in-person support.
Do the products comply with Australian standards?
If you have made an online purchase from a questionable company, the type of cable that is supplied with the part (in case of adapters - the type of wall socket plug) should be an indicator as to where the product was actually purchased from - all Laptop Plus adapters are manufactured and tested for to Australian standard and comes with Australian approval number.
How long is the item’s warranty period?
All laptop parts and accessories you purchase should come with a 12 month warranty. At Laptop Plus every item carries a 12 month comprehensive warranty unless otherwise stated. For laptop chargers in particular, they should come with an Australian approval number for quality standards, which means it meets Australia’s strict requirements for safety and performance.
The above are just some quick ways to help you spot an unreliable operator at first glance, there are of course many other things to look out for. At Laptop Plus we are dedicated to not only providing you with a premium product, quickly but also an end to end service, that supports you and meets your needs.
If you are looking for a top quality replacement laptop battery or laptop charger - use our product search wizard here.
*Orders must be placed before 2.30pm (AEST) in order for the order to be received the following business day.
