Equipment Condition Grades: Used Equipment Grading System & Aesthetic Equipment Grade A vs B 2025

When shopping for pre-owned aesthetic equipment, condition grades are the first filter buyers use. But grades can be misleading if you do not understand what they actually measure—and what they do not. A Grade A system with worn handpieces may deliver worse results than a Grade B system with fresh components.

This guide explains exactly what each grade means, what to budget for additional costs at each level, and which grade offers the best balance of quality and value.

The Condition Grading Scale

| Grade | Cosmetic Condition | Component Life | Typical Discount | Additional Budget Needed | |-------|-------------------|----------------|-----------------|------------------------| | A (Excellent) | Like new, minimal signs of use | 80–100% remaining | 35–45% off new | $0 — ready to treat | | A- (Very Good) | Minor wear marks, fully presentable | 60–80% remaining | 45–55% off new | $0–$2,000 for minor items | | B (Good) | Visible wear, functional | 40–60% remaining | 55–65% off new | $5,000–$15,000 for service | | B- (Fair) | Significant wear, functional with limits | 20–40% remaining | 60–70% off new | $10,000–$25,000 for parts/service | | C (As-Is) | Unknown or poor condition | Unknown | 70–85% off new | $15,000–$40,000+ for refurbishment |

Grade-by-Grade Breakdown

Grade A: "Like New"

Grade A equipment looks and performs as if it came off the factory floor. These units typically come from practices that upgraded to newer models after light use, or from demonstration units that were used for training only.

What you get:

• Pristine exterior with no scratches, dents, or discoloration
• All original accessories, handpieces, and documentation included
• 80–100% remaining component life (lamp, diode, flashlamp)
• Current software version
• Complete service history with no gaps
• Often still under manufacturer warranty

Who should buy Grade A: Practices where equipment appearance matters to patients (visible treatment rooms), practices that want zero risk, and practices that plan to keep equipment for 5+ years.

Price example: A new Cynosure GentleMax Pro at $120,000 would sell Grade A for $66,000–$78,000.

Grade A-: "Very Good" (Best Value)

Grade A- is the sweet spot for most buyers. The equipment has minor cosmetic wear from normal clinical use—small scratches, slight color fading, or minor marks on handpieces—but every function performs identically to a new system.

What you get:

• Minor cosmetic wear (small scratches, slight fading) — purely aesthetic, no functional impact
• 60–80% remaining component life
• Complete or near-complete service history
• Current or one-version-behind software
• All functional handpieces included

Who should buy A-: Most practices. The 10–15% additional savings vs. Grade A buys you the same clinical performance. Patients do not see or care about minor cosmetic wear on equipment.

Price example: The same GentleMax Pro would sell Grade A- for $54,000–$66,000—saving $12,000–$24,000 vs. Grade A with identical treatment outcomes.

Grade B: "Good" — Buyer Beware

Grade B equipment is functional but shows clear signs of extended use. It may need service within 3–6 months. The equipment works today, but you should budget for maintenance.

What you get:

• Visible cosmetic wear: noticeable scratches, wear marks, possible small dents
• 40–60% remaining component life — service horizon approaching
• Service history may have gaps
• May need software updates
• Some accessories may be worn or missing

Budget for: $5,000–$15,000 in service and component replacement within the first 6 months. Factor this into your total cost calculation when comparing to Grade A- pricing.

Who should buy Grade B: Budget-conscious practices with access to independent service technicians, or practices buying for a secondary treatment room where maximum uptime is less critical.

Grade B-: "Fair" — For Experienced Buyers Only

Grade B- equipment requires immediate investment. The savings are significant, but so is the risk. This grade is appropriate only for buyers who have technical knowledge or access to reliable service.

Budget for: $10,000–$25,000 in parts and service. Common needs include handpiece replacement, lamp/diode replacement, and software updates.

Grade C: "As-Is" — Parts or Refurbishment Projects

Grade C equipment is sold without guarantees. It may be non-functional, have unknown history, or require extensive refurbishment. This grade is typically purchased by refurbishment companies or practices with in-house technical capabilities.

Budget for: $15,000–$40,000+ in refurbishment costs. Do not purchase Grade C unless you can absorb a total loss.

Which Grade Should You Buy?

| Practice Type | Recommended Grade | Rationale | |--------------|-------------------|-----------| | New practice, first equipment purchase | A- | Best value, lowest risk, no immediate maintenance | | Established practice, primary treatment room | A or A- | Maximum reliability for revenue-generating equipment | | Adding secondary/backup equipment | B | Lower cost, acceptable for non-primary use | | Multi-location, bulk purchasing | A- | Volume buying at A- provides best fleet economics | | Technical practice with in-house service | B or B- | Can self-service, making lower grades cost-effective |

For the complete buying process at any grade level, see our Complete Guide to Buying Used Laser Equipment. Before you purchase, use our Equipment Inspection Checklist to verify condition claims.

Browse certified refurbished equipment or contact our team to discuss which grade fits your practice and budget.