Verkkokauppa.com has replaced underpowered computers with more efficient refurbished models at the same price.

Verkkokauppa.com has introduced a bold, customer-centric solution: the company removed Windows computers with underperforming processors from its range, replacing them with high-quality refurbished alternatives. This move supports the goal of extending the lifespan of electronics while offering sustainable options for those on a student budget.

Back-to-school is a peak season for laptop sales, with many students seeking budget-friendly options for high school or university. However, shoppers should be cautious: the low-quality processors in the cheapest models can often disappoint those unfamiliar with technical specifications.

According to Verkkokauppa.com experts, choosing a computer based solely on a low price tag can lead to significant issues with performance, upgradeability, and connectivity.

“We want to provide our customers with durable, high-quality solutions. In our view, computers that barely meet the minimum requirements for Windows don't fit that description. The processors in the cheapest models are often underpowered, making basic tasks slow and resulting in a poor user experience. Furthermore, components like memory or storage often can't be upgraded in these entry-level devices, significantly shortening their lifespan,” says Verkkokauppa.com’s long-term Purchasing Manager Antti Aulavuori.

Refurbished alternatives replace new Windows PCs with Intel Celeron and N100 processors

According to the Electronics Sustainability Barometer* conducted by Verkkokauppa.com, 41% of Finns expect electronics retailers to remove short-lived or otherwise unsustainable products from their range.

The survey also revealed that more than half of Finns would opt for a used device when replacing their current one.

“We took a calculated risk with this change, as some customers are still hesitant about refurbished devices. However, the future of used electronics is promising. Our latest sustainability barometer shows that 62% of Finns—and 75% of Verkkokauppa.com customers—would be willing to buy used devices if they were more readily available,” says Suvituuli Tuukkanen, Director of Marketing, Communications, and Sustainability at Verkkokauppa.com.

Prices for laptops under the FWD: brand, launched by Verkkokauppa.com two years ago, start at just €100. The range currently includes models from Apple, HP, Lenovo, and Dell. Just like new devices, these refurbished laptops come with a three-year warranty.

“Our goal is to extend the lifecycle of electronics, and we aren't afraid to make bold moves. A refurbished device is not only ecological but also much kinder to your wallet,” Tuukkanen concludes.

*Verkkokauppa.com conducted a survey to gauge Finnish attitudes toward responsible electronics purchasing and consumption. The study was carried out by Kantar in May 2024, with 1,044 respondents aged 18–79. The full results will be published in September.

Explore the FWD: range »

Additional information
press@verkkokauppa.com (Ulkoinen palvelu)

Verkkokauppa.com
Verkkokauppa.com is Finland's leading online retailer, offering a wide range of products from home technology to leisure and business needs. Operating since 1992, the company is one of the world's oldest online retailers, combining e-commerce and physical stores into a seamless omnichannel customer experience. Verkkokauppa.com's four megastores are located in Oulu, Pirkkala, Raisio, and Helsinki's Jätkäsaari district. To deliver an exceptional customer experience, the company delivers products to your door in as little as one hour, around the clock, using automation and robotics. Verkkokauppa.com employs approximately 600 people, and the company's shares are listed on Nasdaq Helsinki.