GreenDice service VS buying a computer

Looja: Alexander Assmann, Muudetud T, 6 Jaan kell 9:21 autor Alexander Assmann

People often ask, “Why should I pay a monthly fee for a computer when I can buy one myself?”

In this article, we explain the advantages of GreenDice’s service and also identify target groups for whom our service probably isn’t a good fit.

What exactly is GreenDice?

We offer a novel service where members receive fully functional IT hardware with warranty and insurance for a monthly fee. In addition, IT support is included—if you have questions, issues, or problems with the equipment, we provide guidance and help resolve them.
You can cancel the service at any time, and once you return the devices, you no longer pay the monthly fee—joining does not create a fixed-term obligation.

What types of computers does GreenDice provide?

We typically supply used business-class laptops (Dell, Lenovo, HP, Fujitsu). All computers are technically inspected and maintained, suitable for everyday use. Members are guaranteed a computer they’re satisfied with.
If your needs change over time or a device can’t handle your required tasks, we try to find a more suitable option.

Note: you won’t see exact technical specs listed anywhere. That’s intentional, because most users care more about whether the device meets their daily needs, not its spec sheet. What matters is that it can handle the work required—and that’s what we guarantee

Advantages of GreenDice’s service vs buying a computer

Clearly, we’re not competing with brand-new high-end machines. Our offering includes computers that have been in use for more than three years, so we don’t offer the very latest or most powerful tech.
Our service competes with used computers and new budget models:

	GreenDice Service	Used Computer (up to €500)	New Computer (up to €500)
Up-front cost	None, monthly fee	One-time purchase	One-time purchase
3‑year total cost	250€ … 400€, depending on plan	Up to 500€ + repair/maintenance	Up to 500€ + possible new purchase after 3 years
Warranty	As long as device is used	Usually 6 months	2 years
Insurance	Yes, no deductible for accidents	None	None
IT support	Yes, professional help	None	None
Device exchange	Yes, if your needs change	None	None
Return option	Yes, anytime	None	None
Repair & maintenance	Included in service	User pays	User pays
Ownership	Device remains GreenDice’s	Yes	Yes
Quality & reliability	Checked & tested, user-appropriate	Highly variable, depends on purchase	Typically lower quality, limited performance
Environmental impact	Circular economy principles—prolongs device life; ends in material recycling	Reuse, but limited lifespan	New device manufacturing increases ecological footprint
Flexibility	Highly flexible—exchange, return, upgrade	None	None
Risk of “getting ripped off”	Low—device comes from verified source. Return or exchange if unsuitable	High—buyer’s technical knowledge required	Medium—could get poor value
Customer relationship	Support team actively engages, offers help & advice	None—purchase is anonymous	Limited—no technical support or ongoing relationship

Who isn’t GreenDice for?

There are basically three target groups for whom we can’t offer added value:

Users who always want the latest device.
Tech-savvy users who can solve all arising issues themselves
(e.g., battery replacement, software problems, account setups, security concerns)
Users looking for very powerful devices.
Our computers are primarily intended for office work and thus do not feature the most powerful processors or high-end graphics.

If you belong to one of these groups, GreenDice might not be right for you. However, if you value flexibility, support, and environmental friendliness, it’s definitely worth considering!