Any experience with purchasing used equipment from MPB Camera? Is this a reliable source?
I purchased a lens from them. The lens came with a lens cap that was not noted on the listing and in better condition than stated. I would definitely purchase from them again. The lens arrived well protected and quickly.
I haven't used them, but many have. They'll be along shortly to confirm their positive experiences. I've bought used equipment from KEH, ebay, and B&H, both cameras and lenses. From my experiences and a few items that were not operational when received, be sure to test / review within the return period. For a camera, check the shutter count and find the expected shutter life from an online source. A good buy is less than 10% of the expected useful life, such as less than 5000 for a camera estimated at 50,000. Most resellers do not test and post the shutter count, that's why you should be sure to make a final decision for yourself within that 'no questions asked' return period, using their prepaid return label if needed.
I bought a used Sony RX100 from them. Good item and good service. I think they originated in the UK and then expanded to the US.
I’ve bought from usedMPB, KEH and B&H and been very happy with all three sellers.
"...Most resellers do not test and post the shutter count..." Paul unlike KEH and B&H mpb does post shutter counts for it's digital camera stock... See Below...
mpb has been reputable in my experience with them...
but like Paul said... Trust but verify, they have a "no question" returns period. And provide shipping labels
I bought from them a nikon 17-35mm lens, the picture had the gold ring version. I received a non gold ring version. I returned. No problems. They refund me promptly.
Mistakes happen, I understand. I would buy from them again.
I have bought from and sold to MPB, once trading some gear I had for a new-to-me camera body, once as a standalone sale, and finally once as a standalone purchase. All were incredibly smooth and trouble free. The equipment you buy or acquire comes with a 7 day no-questions return period, and a six month warranty.
I purchased "like new" and the items were exactly as described.
They are well established in the UK, and are now expanding into the US market. So I found they were the best on price, on both sides of the transaction.
laschambach wrote:
Any experience with purchasing used equipment from MPB Camera? Is this a reliable source?
General note; I would tend to favor (with due diligence) any vendor that does not have the phrase "Street Photo" in the title. Like 47th, 17th etc street photo. The phrase "Street Photo" just makes them seem sketchy. I know it sounds weird, but if that phrase is in their title, it is usually not a good sign.
But MPB has a very good reputation.
I have bought from them twice. Very happy with the whole transaction both times. They post the shutter count on all their cameras for sale.
Retired CPO wrote:
I have bought from them twice. Very happy with the whole transaction both times. They post the shutter count on all their cameras for sale.
Once in a great while the shutter count may be missing, but you can contact them and they will provide it and update the listing.
I did this a few days ago. Unfortunately for me the shutter count was a relatively low 12k and someone else snapped it up before my stimulus payment arrived (comes tomorrow) and I could buy it...Nikon D610 in excellent condition for $604...rats.
They only have 3 left in "good" condition with much higher shutter counts so I'm pursuing one on eBay with 5k more clicks and a USA model in "excellent".
Wish me luck
One more thing...on cameras one of the images is of the bottom plate with the serial number shown (at least on Nikons).
If you are looking at a Nikon make sure the serial number starts with a "3". That indicates a US model...except for the early Pro models such as the D2 and D3. On those cameras Nikon used serial numbers starting with a "2" which would normally indicate "Japan". They started using the normal "3" with the D4.
They do sometimes have NON-US models like Japan and United Kingdom, but not many.
In the unlikely event you should ever need repair you will want to have a USA model or Nikon may refuse to touch it.
I'll have to remember MPB. Thanks for the info all.
I bought and sold with MPB years ago. No issues would deal with them again.
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