Used Gaming PC Inspection Checklist

Before you arrive

• Ask for the exact GPU (graphics card) and CPU (processor) model strings (not “RTX gaming”).
• Request a photo of the Windows System > About screen, or a CPU-Z / GPU-Z summary (CPU-Z and GPU-Z are free apps that read out the exact chip names) so the hardware matches the listing.
• Ask the seller to run a quick, reputable check and share a screenshot or let you watch: UserBenchmark, Cinebench (CPU render test), 3DMark (GPU-focused benchmark), or OCCT (stress test for stability). Any one of these plus CPU-Z helps confirm the PC is stable and performs where it should for those parts.
• Agree on a public meetup or insured delivery terms.

On-site checks

• Boot to desktop; open Device Manager and confirm GPU identity matches what you were told.
• If they did not pre-run tests, politely ask to launch a game you bring on a USB drive, or a short run of Cinebench, 3DMark, OCCT, or UserBenchmark while you watch, you want proof it boots, renders, and does not crash under load.
• During load, glance at temperatures in whatever tool they use (HWiNFO or MSI Afterburner, both show sensor readouts). CPUs and GPUs that spike unreasonably high or throttle (slow down to cool off) right away may need new paste, fan work, or better case airflow, factor that into price or walk away.
• Listen for rattling fans or coil whine at load.
• Check cable management and case dust, extreme neglect can hint at thermal habits.
• Note the PSU (power supply) brand and wattage; unknown units are a negotiation point, not a silent OK.

Red flags

Refusal to show device info, mismatch between listing and hardware, “no returns” paired with rush pressure, or a price far below every comparable listing without a clear story. Walk away if anything feels off, the Ontario market usually has another PC next week.