Opinions on refurbed PC’s versus new? Anything I should do or not do?

Looking to get a newer laptop than the old Mac I have, to learn Linux and continue my learning journey of infosec, rudimentary coding and other stuff. Won’t be doing any high end gaming.

I know I’ll need sufficient storage to hold programs + VMs without tapping out too easily, and the power for those to run without heating my house by its fan. Aside from that, my PC knowledge is a bit rough.

I know this is a deeeeep rabbit hole. Not looking to break the bank. Just need a serviceable option to learn on and not get smoked.

#asknostr