Buying Computer Desktops and TFT Monitors in Kenya: Ex-UK vs Brand New
In today’s digital-driven world, whether you’re running a business, setting up a school lab, or working from home, a reliable desktop computer and monitor (TFT) setup is essential. In Kenya, shoppers can choose between ex-UK refurbished PCs and brand-new systems — each with its own pros, pricing, and performance appeal.
So which should you go for?
In this blog post, we break down the benefits, use cases, and key considerations of ex-UK desktops and TFT monitors versus brand-new options in the Kenyan market.
What Are Ex-UK Desktops and TFTs?
Ex-UK (or “refurbished”) desktops and monitors are second-hand computers imported from the UK, Europe, or the US. These units are:
- Professionally tested and cleaned
- Often business-grade (Dell, HP, Lenovo, etc.)
- Sold at a lower cost than new ones
- Ready to use with Windows, basic software, and strong build quality
They offer excellent value, especially for students, startups, schools, or budget-conscious buyers in Kenya.
Brand New Desktops and Monitors
Brand new computers and TFTs are unused, factory-sealed units directly from manufacturers or local distributors. These:
- Come with full warranty support
- Feature the latest processors, RAM, and SSDs
- Are ideal for high-performance tasks like design, gaming, or office use
- Offer modern aesthetics and longer service life
They cost more, but offer peace of mind for users looking for long-term investments.
Why Ex-UK Desktops and TFTs Are Popular in Kenya
Ex-UK computers are widely available in Nairobi, Mombasa, Eldoret, Kisumu, and online stores for these reasons:
✅ Affordable and Reliable
You can get a fully functional HP or Dell Core i5 desktop for a fraction of the price of a new one — great for:
- School computer labs
- Small offices
- Internet cafes
- Home use for students
✅ Business-Class Build
Ex-UK systems are usually enterprise-grade machines made for durability. Many come with:
- Intel Core i3/i5 processors
- 4GB–8GB RAM
- 500GB HDD or 120GB–240GB SSD
- Windows 10 Pro pre-installed
✅ Readily Available TFT Monitors
Most ex-UK TFT monitors are between 17 to 24 inches, and include:
- HP, Dell, Lenovo, and Samsung brands
- VGA and HDMI ports
- Adjustable stands
- Clear displays for general use
Brand-New Desktop Advantages in Kenya
For users who need modern design, top performance, and warranty, new systems are worth it.
✅ Latest Specs
New desktops often feature:
- Intel Core i5/i7 (10th–13th gen) or AMD Ryzen CPUs
- 8GB–32GB RAM
- SSD + HDD combo
- Windows 11 OS
Ideal for:
- Video editing and design
- Office productivity suites
- Developers and professionals
- Gamers
✅ Full Warranty
Most new desktops come with 12 to 24 months manufacturer warranty for hardware support.
✅ Sleek & Space-Saving
Modern mini desktops and all-in-one PCs reduce clutter while improving performance.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Ex-UK Desktops | Brand New Desktops |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Very affordable | Higher, depending on specs |
| Performance | Moderate to good | High-performance, modern CPUs |
| Warranty | Limited (1–3 months) | Full (1–2 years) |
| Condition | Refurbished/used | Factory-sealed |
| Best For | Students, startups, SMEs | Offices, gamers, professionals |
Popular Ex-UK Models in Kenya
- HP ProDesk 600 G1 / G2
- Dell OptiPlex 7010 / 9020
- Lenovo ThinkCentre M82 / M93
- TFT Monitors: Dell 19″, HP 22″, Samsung 24″
These offer great performance for MS Office, browsing, Zoom calls, POS systems, and more.
Popular Brand New Desktop Setups
- HP 290 G4 Microtower PC
- Dell Vostro/Core i5-13th Gen Desktops
- Asus Mini PCs
- Gaming PCs (Ryzen 5, GTX/RTX Graphics)
Pair them with a new 24″ bezel-less LED monitor for a stunning visual experience.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re buying ex-UK desktops and TFTs for budget use, or investing in brand-new systems for performance and future-proofing, the Kenyan market offers a wide range of options to suit every user.
Ex-UK PCs offer unbeatable value for money, especially when performance needs are moderate. On the other hand, new desktops deliver the power and speed needed for high-end tasks, gaming, or corporate environments.
Choose what works for your budget, purpose, and performance expectations — and enjoy reliable computing anywhere in Kenya.
