CTO Technology

Have you ever thought the sticker price of a new electronic device was expensive? You’re not alone. The good news is there are ways to save some money while still purchasing great tech. CTO Technology sells electronic devices for a fraction of the cost of buying new. While also selling software licensing, this Richmond Hill-based company has evolved into a leader in high-quality refurbished computers and devices, helping businesses and individuals save money while reducing electronic waste.

CTO Technology specializes in sourcing used devices from corporations who are getting rid of them, refreshing them with upgraded components, and reselling them at a fraction of the cost of new models. Unlike many in the refurbishment industry that deal in outdated hardware, Herman and his team prioritize newer generations of devices, including 8th, 10th, and 11th-generation processors, as well as gaming laptops from brands like Asus and MSI.

“There’s a market for it. There’s more demand; people have less money. Lots of people [and] corporations have lots of material, so we can refurbish and sell it to save people money,” says Herman, the Sales Manager of CTO Technology. “People don’t want to pay $1,000; if it’s 60% [the price of a new device], then it’s worth it.”

Refurbishing devices not only makes high-performance technology more accessible, but it also keeps a significant amount of e-waste out of landfills. Each month, CTO Technology ships approximately 800 refurbished units, preventing an estimated 2903 kg—that’s 6,400 pounds—of electronic waste, including metals, plastics, and hazardous batteries, from being discarded.

Beyond the environmental impact, Herman highlights the issue of overproduction in the electronics industry. Large manufacturers sometimes dispose of unsold devices rather than sell them at reduced prices to maintain their market value. By purchasing and refurbishing these products, CTO Technology ensures that valuable materials don’t go to waste.

Despite the benefits, Herman acknowledges that consumer perception remains a challenge. Many still view refurbished electronics as unreliable or risky. To address this, CTO Technology offers a one-year warranty on most products. Their high ratings on Google Reviews and Best Buy Marketplace demonstrate the trust they’ve built within their growing customer base.

Herman explains that people sometimes think that because it’s used, it’s garbage, and think it should be free. “Customer trust is really important; after-service is important, too. [We make sure the customer] is satisfied.”

Thinking about starting a business to sell technology? “Check what [you] can offer first; think about cost centre. [PCs are refreshed] every two years. Before thinking about buying new ones, come to other businesses to find [used ones to refurbish].” And don’t forget to keep trying. “Stick to the plan and keep working on it.”