Tag Archive for: refurbished ATM machines

Where to Buy ATM Machines

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If you want to start an ATM business, you need to know where to buy ATM machines. This is the business. You can’t get started until you have one. It is one of the first and most important steps of starting an ATM business. 

But if you’ve never purchased ATM equipment before, you might have no idea where to start. And once you start shopping around, who can you trust?

In this article, we’ll offer some recommendations for where to buy ATM machines. We’ll also let you know what red flags to look for and what to avoid. This way, you can be confident that you have the perfect ATM machine for your business needs and budget.

Where to Buy ATM Machines: Our Top Recommendations

You can buy an ATM machine from a variety of sources depending on your needs and budget. Here are the most common ways and places to buy one:

ATM Manufacturers and Distributors

You can purchase ATM equipment straight from the companies that manufacture them. You can buy an ATM brand new, or distributors may have select refurbished options. The top ATM manufacturers are

  • Hyosung
  • Genmega
  • Hantle
  • Triton

You can buy directly from their websites or through authorized distributors like ATMDepot. 

ATM ISOs and Processing Companies

Independent Sales Organizations (ISOs) and processing companies like ATMDepot often bundle ATMs with transaction processing services. This can be a huge benefit because you can purchase equipment and partner with just one company. Otherwise, you still have to find a processing company after purchasing your machine from anywhere else.

ISOs and processing companies might also offer leasing options. While this can reduce your upfront cost, it will increase total cost over time.

Online Marketplaces

Finally, you might come across or even search for ATM equipment on sites like Facebook Marketplace, eBay, or even Amazon. Local sellers sometimes list ATMs on Facebook Marketplace. You might find listings for both new and used ATMs on eBay. And some new ATMs are listed by commercial resellers on Amazon.

However, in terms of where to buy ATM machines, this is the riskiest route. Although you might find a used or refurbished machine cheaper in online marketplaces, you can’t always be sure what you’re getting.

Not Where to Buy ATM Machines: Sources to Approach with Caution

Peer-to-peer resellers like eBay or Craigslist will list older ATM models that might look like a great deal. However, looks can be deceiving. Just because an ATM machine looks legit, it might not be EMV-compliant or no longer be supported by processors. Not all listings disclose model years or software versions. So you have no guarantee that the machine functions, is compliant, or can be upgraded.

Local Buy & Sell groups like Facebook Marketplace can also advertise outdated equipment. You might even see listings for stolen equipment for sale.

Non-ATM-specific equipment liquidators can be risky, too. You might find ATM machines on general auction or surplus equipment sites like Liquidation.com, but often these are old bank ATMs that lack proper documentation. An old bank ATM might not be the kind of machine you want to start your business with anyway. They are large, outdated, hard to move, and not retail compliant.

The risk with unverified third-party sellers on sites like Amazon or Alibaba is that the machine might be shipped from overseas. This can take longer, be more expensive, and increase the risk of damage during the shipping process. Furthermore, overseas equipment might not be configured for U.S. networks and/or might not be EMV/ADA compliant without necessary upgrades.

And of course, a big drawback of purchasing from these sources is that you are left without processing services. You still have to find a company to process transactions on your machine on top of making a purchase risk.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

Now, if you are on a tight budget, you might be able to find a good deal from a local peer-to-peer seller. There is nothing wrong with that. But it’s up to you to make sure the ATM machine checks all the necessary boxes.

First, check for an EMV chip reader. An ATM machine without an EMV chip reader is a red flag. If a machine only has a magstripe reader, it’s outdated. U.S. networks now require EMV for liability protection and transaction approval. Some machines, however, support an EMV upgrade. So this isn’t always a deal-breaker. But it will be an additional cost and something you will want to use in price negotiations.

Next, you want to know what operating system (OS) the machine is running. Missing Windows CE or updated operating system is a red flag. Older operating systems may no longer be supported by ATM processors.

Older models also don’t support secure network protocols and can’t connect to processors anymore. So if a machine doesn’t support TLS 1.2 encryption, it isn’t going to work.

While some models can be upgraded to become compliant and operable, discontinued models cannot. Even name-brand machines like Triton 9600 may not be upgradable. To be sure, you can check the model number against the manufacturer’s website for End-of-Life (EOL) notices.

Finally, a super-low price tag is an obvious red flag. A $500 ATM might sound like a deal, but if it’s non-compliant, it’s just a heavy paperweight—too cheap to be true.

Safe Buying Tips for Where to Buy ATM Machines

To ensure you get the best deal, there are some things you can do to protect yourself. The first thing is to buy from an ATM distributor or ISO who can confirm certain machine specs like compliance and programming. These companies are also likely to offer you tech support and product warranty to further protect yourself.

Always ask for the model number and software version before buying anything. And consult with your intended processing company before buying to make sure your machine is supported.

Where to Buy ATM Machines that Are Compliant

There are some names in the ATM industry you can trust. Some recommended ATM models for 2025 and beyond include Genmega G2500, Genmega Onyx, Hyosung Halo II (2600SE), and Hyosung Force (2800SE).

Known obsolete or risky models to avoid include all Tranax machines, Triton 9600/9700, Genmega G1900, Diebold, and NCR. Early Genmega 1900 models may not support EMV. And bank ATMs like Diebold and NCR are too large and outdated.

Where to Buy ATM Machines Refurbished

Choosing between a new and refurbished ATM machine depends on your goals, budget, and how involved you want to be with maintenance. However, if you do go the refurbished route, ensure that it is a certified refurbishment. Certified refurbished means that the machine has been repaired, updated, and good as new, just pre-owned. Some sellers advertise refurbished equipment when all they did was clean and polish it. 

Our top recommendations for where to buy ATM machines are all likely to offer select refurbished ATM machine options. The sources to approach with caution, on the other hand, are much more likely to skimp on the refurbishment.

When making the decision between new and refurbished, here’s what you need to know: 

Refurbished ATM machines are a popular route because they are sold for a much lower initial cost than a new machine. So if your location is low-traffic, this might be a wise decision since your ROI will be slower. Refurbished machines should include all EMV/ADA upgrades if sold by a reputable dealer. And refurbished machines can be suitable for DIY owners comfortable with minor repairs or part replacement.

However, refurbished machines might come with a shorter or no warranty. Upgrades not already included could add to your equipment cost. Parts may be harder to source. There could be hidden wear and tear. You don’t have as many options—you are limited to the refurbished machines on-hand. And you lose out on resale value.

If you’re considering refurbished, only buy from a vendor who guarantees that the model is compliant, is tested and certified to work with your processor, and comes with tech support or setup guidance.

Now You Know Where to Buy ATM Machines

Now you know your options for where to buy ATM machines. Equipped with the necessary knowledge, you can confidently purchase an ATM machine from anywhere. Just be vigilant about the specifications and ask the seller the right questions. 

If you want to get your ATM machine and processing service all in one place, check out ATMDepot’s equipment options! We carry the full line of Hyosung, Genmega, and Triton machines including BITCoin sidecars and crypto kiosks. We also offer new, used, and certified refurbished ATM equipment at discounted cash prices.

All ATM machines include nationwide processing services at no charge. But you don’t have to purchase equipment from us to receive free ATM processing. And if you only need equipment, we match or beat most written quotes.

You don’t have to look any further for where to buy ATM machines. Just click here!

Choosing ATM Equipment: Everything You Need to Know About Refurbished ATM Machines

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If you are new to the ATM business, you might be shopping around for equipment and wondering which is a better deal: new or refurbished ATM machines. 

If you are an experienced ATM owner, you might wonder what else is out there. Maybe you purchased new at first and are now considering adding refurbished ATM machines to your business. Or the opposite: you first purchased refurbished equipment and now wonder if that was the right move.

In this article we cover some main differences between new and refurbished ATM machines, particular advantages of refurbished ATM machines, and what red flags to look for. 

Purchasing ATM equipment is a big deal. It’s a $2,000+ investment and is usually your biggest startup cost. Not every ATM business looks the same. So we want to make sure that you make the best decision for your business. Let’s weigh our options: 

5 Differences Between New and Refurbished ATM Machines

1. Lifespan

Probably the most obvious difference between new and refurbished ATMs is the lifespan. A new ATM machine has an expected lifespan of about 15 years. So depending on the age of the machine, you could still get a good 10 or more years out of a refurbished one.

Refurbished doesn’t necessarily mean old. People sell their used machines for all kinds of reasons: they didn’t like the model, they decided another machine better suits their needs, they changed their mind about owning an ATM altogether, etc.

When shopping for a refurbished machine, consider how many years minimum you’d like to get out of it and compare that to the age of the machine. 

2. Technology

A new ATM machine is going to come equipped with the latest technology, all of the best bells and whistles. A refurbished machine won’t, necessarily, but it will still perform all of the same basic functions.

When it comes to technology, you need to consider “nice to have” versus “need to have.” If you are an experienced ATM owner, you probably have a good idea of what features you for sure want your ATM to have and which you can do without, especially if it saves you a buck to let it go.

If you are a new ATM owner, you don’t have this experience, so you might expect and even want those bells and whistles at first. Only through experience will you be able to determine what features to budget for.

3. Usability

Technology improves with each new model. Customer feedback is used to make each upcoming machine better than the last. Therefore, typically, improved technology makes newer machines easier to use. So if you’re looking to purchase your first ATM or aren’t particularly tech savvy, you might want to play it safe and go with a machine that will be easy for you to handle.

On the other hand, if you’ve been in the ATM business a while and have experience with older machines, you probably won’t have a problem navigating the technology on an older, refurbished model.

4. Compliance

Just as technology changes, so do regulations. New ATMs are going to be fully compliant right out of the gate, meeting ADA and EMV requirements. This isn’t a guarantee with refurbished ATM machines. However, upgrades are often available.

If you are looking at a refurbished machine that isn’t completely compliant but will meet standards with an upgrade, you might opt to go that route if the total still comes out to be less than just purchasing a fully-compliant, new machine.

5. Total Cost of Ownership (TCO)

This one is tricky. If you purchase a discounted, refurbished ATM machine but then have to invest in a number of upgrades, you might not end up saving as much money as you’d hoped. 

In this case, it might be worth it to just purchase a fully-loaded, new ATM. So do a little research and some math before purchasing so that you know exactly how much your initial investment will be.

Additionally, ATMs are electronic machines. They have intricate moving parts, electrical components, and software that all need to be maintained and can fail at a moment’s notice. So this goes for both new and refurbished ATM machines. You should know you can’t predict certain glitches and failures.

So in terms of overall repair costs associated with your machine, it’s really a gamble either way. The main price point to consider is the cost of purchasing the machine itself. A 1-year-old, refurbished machine, for example, is going to be hundreds of dollars cheaper than a brand new machine. So it might be worth it to go refurbished in that case.

But again, if you’re looking at an older refurbished machine that will need a number of upgrades, consider the overall price difference once you’ve added up all of the expenses.

5 Advantages of Refurbished ATM Machines

1. Cost Effective

Just like any other high-end electronics, the newer they are the quicker they depreciate. Refurbished doesn’t mean old, it just means not brand new. So you could find a like-new ATM for hundreds of dollars less than a new machine just because you aren’t the first owner.

Or, you could find an older machine for even less than the like-new one. Machines will get cheaper with age, but that does not necessarily have anything to do with the quality of the machine. Quality depends on the machine itself and its maintenance. So, hands down, refurbished ATM machines are cheaper to purchase than new ones. 

2. Lower Overhead

If you opt to save a few bucks and purchase a refurbished ATM instead of a brand new one, that allows you to profit quicker. Before you can profit off of your ATM transactions, you have to first make your return on investment (ROI). The smaller your investment, the quicker you can pay yourself back, and the quicker you can start making a profit.

The quicker you start making a profit, the more time you will spend profiting from your business. Say you purchase a brand new ATM for $3,000. You average 180 transactions a month at $2.50 each. You won’t start making a profit for about 7 months. So in a year, you have 5 profitable months.

On the other hand, if you only invest $2,000 in your machine, you start profiting in about 4 months allowing you to profit the other 8 months of the year. So not only do you invest less, but you also make more.

3. Long Lifespan

When we talk about refurbished ATM machines, we aren’t necessarily talking about 10-year-old machines. While you could get five good years out of that machine, you could also find a refurbished machine that is only a couple of years old. Even a 7-year-old machine has about 8 years of life left.

With an average lifespan of about 15 years, there’s still a lot of profit to be made from many refurbished machines. Just remember to check the age before purchasing.

4. Ready to Use

Most new ATMs are shipped directly from the factory. That means they need to be programmed during installation before they are ready to use. Refurbished machines, however, can often be programmed before they are shipped.

Purchasing a pre-programmed machine saves you time and potentially money if you don’t have to pay someone on-site to program your machine. And again, the sooner your machine is operational, the sooner you can start making money!

Plus, since refurbished equipment has already been in circulation, you’ll be equipped with plenty of reviews so you have a better idea of what to expect from your equipment. And in most cases you don’t even sacrifice product guarantees, warranties, upgrades, or customer service; these typically follow the equipment whether new or used. So you get the same support either way.

5. Environmentally Conscious

This may or may not matter to you, but it does make a compelling case for purchasing refurbished. Let’s consider what “refurbished” means:

Refurbished means the equipment is cleaned, polished, repaired, and upgraded. It gets a second, third, fourth life. Without these chances, a discarded machine gets sent to a landfill which is harmful to the environment. The more we can extend the life of electronic equipment such as ATM machines, the less waste and pollution we create. 

Just because a machine is used does not mean it isn’t fully-functional. So the more we can refurbish and reuse equipment, the less demand there is for brand new equipment to be manufactured. We must produce less to pollute less. 

The United States alone is responsible for 14% (63 million tons) of the world’s electronic waste. Only about 20% of electronics are recycled. So by purchasing refurbished equipment, you help cut down on the 80% of waste created by new equipment. When you purchase refurbished equipment, you fight back against consumer culture focusing on “need to have” versus “nice to have.”

5 Things to Look For When Purchasing Refurbished ATM Machines

1. Compliance

Depending on the age of the equipment and the quality of the refurbishment, a used ATM machine might not automatically meet current compliance standards. So before you commit to purchasing a refurbished machine, you need to check for the following: 

Is it upgradable? Does it have a headphone jack? Is the highest touchpoint less than 4’ 8”? Is it EMV enabled or can a kit be installed? 

Some machines are just too old to be upgraded. Others are too costly. The Triton 9100, for example, needs a new keyboard before an EMV kit can be installed. Therefore, it is too expensive to make compliant. After calculating the cost of the keyboard and kit, you might as well just purchase a new machine. 

Similarly, the Cress/Tranax MB210 is so old that no upgrade is available. This hurts ATM operation, ability to keep up in the market, and essentially your ATM business as a whole.

2. Age

Think twice before purchasing a machine over 10 years old. Since most machines work well for about 15 years, the closer your machine is to that mark the less life you can expect to get from it. 

Furthermore, check the ATM version to make sure it’s upgradable. Without upgrades, your service will suffer. If the manufactured date is before 2012, it will probably need an ADA upgrade. But funding this will likely counteract any savings on the machine itself. 

And of course, before you purchase a machine, make sure it works. Calculate repair costs and make sure you are still getting a good deal after it’s all said and done. 

3. Discontinued Models

You can find crazy deals on machines that no longer function on ATM networks. They’ve been discontinued and are only valuable for parts. Don’t get taken by surprise. You don’t want to purchase a machine just to find out that it doesn’t work with your provider.

Examples of discontinued ATM machines include the Triton 9600, Triton 9700, WRG Apollo, and WRG Genesis. If you come across or have experience with any of these, ATMDepot.com provides recommendations for similar replacement machines.

4. Refurbishment Quality

Not all used ATM machines are advertised as refurbished, so inquire before you buy. You also want to check the quality of the refurbishment. A quick, poor, “blow and go” job will end up costing you more money down the line on repairs and maintenance that should have been taken care of during the refurbishment.

A certified refurbishment, by definition, should include specific standards checks, detailing, and upgrades. Decals should be replaced, the newest software installed, and security updated.

A well-refurbished ATM machine can and should last at least 10 years. But a bad refurbishment can end up costing you more in the long run than a new machine.

5. Availability

It isn’t wise to go into the market for a refurbished machine with a specific make and model in mind. Unless you have time to wait, refurbished machines are sold based on availability, so you have to be willing to compromise and choose from what’s in stock.

Should You Purchase Refurbished ATM Machines?

Now that you know what to expect from new vs. refurbished ATM machines, hopefully you have a better idea of what ATM equipment is best for you. 

What it really comes down to is experience. If you’ve been in the ATM business for a while, know your way around a machine, and are looking to add more ATMs to your business, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with purchasing a certified refurbished ATM machine.

If you are a first-time ATM owner, it might be a better idea to purchase new. It’s going to be easier to use and you’ll get to experience the best and newest technology so that you can learn a little bit more about what you can expect from a typical machine. Here you can check out our new and refurbished ATM machines. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us! Remember, each ATM business looks a little different. We can help you find what works for you.