When I need something for a hobby project I most of the time get it for free from family or take the part from a broken item. The only exception is for games. In the past I bought nearly all gameboy games and ds games second hand from a local shop.
The reason is that you can get used ThinkPads , recent enough and at a significant discount but still covered by warranty, and Lenovo will honour such warranty.
Dell instead (Dell Italy, specifically) asked for the original purchase receipt to honour warranty still valid according to their website and plain refused to honour warranty without it.
Other brands, I don't know, but since I get a "new" laptop only once every three years at least, I wouldn't risk it.
I pay 50% or less for all used technology. I know when I see a good deal, which is not true for many people.
My latest computer was $400 off ($1600 usual price) just for having been opened.
Just make sure to wipe it/reinstall the software.