Laptop Grading Guide
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of how our devices are assigned a specific condition grade. Our devices are classified by their visual appearance and functionality. With a clear and consistent testing process, we aim to be as transparent as possible.
1. Testing Stages
All our laptops go through the following testing stages before being listed for sale:
2. Secure Data Erasure
We ensure that all devices are fully cleared of user data, giving users peace of mind that their data has been securely removed.
Initial Data Erasure
All data is erased through the device software using manufacturer-recommended methods. We verify that all user accounts, files and personal data have been removed.
Certified Tool Usage
We use certified data erasure software that meets industry standards (e.g. Blancco). Secure data erasure is confirmed to prevent data recovery.
Erasure Confirmation
After data erasure, we perform a check to confirm the device has been fully wiped. We issue an erasure confirmation certificate proving the device is clean and data-free.
Purpose: To provide devices that are completely free of previous user data, ensuring user privacy and security. Certified data erasure guarantees that all data has been permanently removed.
3. Visual Assessment Guide
The following section explains the details of our visual classification. For inspecting the top and bottom covers, corners, and internal condition (keyboard, screen, etc.), we follow a simple guide.
The grade most likely reflects the screen condition — a device with a C-grade screen will end up as C class, regardless of how few wear marks its body has. Always check additional info provided separately for each product.
4. Visual Inspection Process
Visual inspection takes 15–20 seconds per device and devices are assessed at arm's length (40–50 cm). We always consider the device's overall appearance and how a laptop is used under normal conditions, rather than looking for flaws.
The lid, screen and chassis (where the keyboard and trackpad are located) are the most important factors in determining laptop quality. The bottom of the chassis or corners may show more wear.
Visual grades (working devices only):
Note: Apple devices are available in all grades. However, we do not use the C+ grade for laptops.
5. Screen Inspection
The screen is inspected for physical defects (scratches, wear marks, delamination, etc.) and functional issues (discoloration, backlight, spots, etc.). We have 3 levels of imperfection:
Normal Wear
Common imperfections resulting from the device's age and regular use that affect the device's visual quality. For example: wear marks that are nearly invisible when the screen is turned on are considered normal wear for B-grade laptops.
Minor Wear
When there is a clearly noticeable physical or functional imperfection on the working screen, it is considered functional. The specific defect is always described alongside the defect description. While in use, there may be wear marks, lighter spots, deep image-distorting scratches, etc.
Heavy Wear
Defects that render the device unusable in its current state. These defects include heavy delamination, LCD panel damage, screens that won't turn on, white spots that are large, strong, or cover most of the screen. Devices with serious defects are classified as E grade.
Visual assessment is always subjective and not all possible defects can be covered in this guide. This guide is intended for general use to provide an overall overview of the grades.
6. Laptops – Brand New
The device is in factory-sealed packaging and security seals have not been tampered with. The frame and screen should be clean — we do not open the original box. The device body must meet the following conditions:
- Manufacturer security seals must be intact.
- The box must be undamaged.
- When opened, the device itself is separately sealed in the original pouch. In that case, a broken seal defect description is used.
7. Grade A+ – Like New
The device is like new, with minimal wear. The screen is in near-perfect condition, only one small micro-spot or scratch is allowed.
Body
- Maximum of three miniature scratches on the bottom of the body.
- Maximum of one miniature scratch elsewhere.
Screen
- Screen is nearly perfect. Minimal micro-wear/1-2 hairline scratches allowed.
- When turned on, there must be no white spots, lines, discoloration, dead pixels, or spotlights.
Sample images
8. Grade A – Excellent
The device is well-preserved, with little wear.
Body
- Minor wear may be present on sides, bottom, or other less noticeable areas.
- Small chips and scratches on the sides or bottom of the body.
- May have one micro-dent in a less noticeable area (bottom body, sides).
Screen
- Similar to A+ screen, but may have visible mini-defects.
- Deep scratches are not allowed.
- May have a few light hairline marks in the center of the screen. Usually visible only at certain angles and lighting.
- When turned on, there must be no white spots or other similar defects.
Sample images
9. Grade B – Very Good
The device has seen regular use. Wear marks may be present, but no deep scratches.
Body
- Security sticker removal marks are allowed.
- If the rest of the device is B-grade, a small bend in the corner is allowed.
- Dirt between keyboard keys is allowed.
- A small crack near the USB port is allowed.
Screen
- Light key imprint marks on the screen (key corners are more visible).
- Deep scratches are not allowed, but hairline-length scratches may be present.
- Overall looks fair at arm's length.
Sample images
10. Grade C – Used
The device has been in use. Laptops have noticeable signs of wear, but they are still fully functional.
Body
- Body may be slightly bent.
- Cracks that do not compromise structural integrity are allowed.
- There must be no gap between the top cover and the body/frame.
- Heavy security element removal marks are allowed.
- Adhesive marks and missing rubber feet are allowed.
- Some missing screws are allowed, but the bottom cover must stay in place.
- Bent corners are allowed if they do not affect lid opening/closing.
- Keycaps must be clean, but dirt between them is allowed. Keycaps may be worn but not missing.
Screen
- Noticeable keycap imprint marks on the screen are allowed.
- Screen has scratches.
- When turned on, light must not "break" or "interrupt".
- Dust is allowed in screen corners and on the sides.
Important: Wear marks are generally only visible when the screen is turned off and viewed from the right angle. These imperfections do not interfere with or prevent laptop use.
Sample images
11. Summary
All laptops sold by Greenfox OÜ are inspected following a defined process and protocol. Greenfox does not sell any laptop that has a functional deficiency. Devices with functional issues, such as a non-working USB port, are not included among Greenfox's products for sale.
Our goal is to offer A, B, and C grade laptops that allow our customers to choose their desired model according to their budget. The differences between grades are only in their cosmetic wear, not in functionality.
Want real photos? If you'd like to receive actual photos of your desired device, feel free to contact us by email at info@greenfox.ee. We'll request real photos from the warehouse and send them to your email. It may take up to 1 business day.
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Last updated: March 31, 2026