Apple has consistently provided a refurbished store on its official website, offering recent-generation products at significant discounts. Unlike many other refurbished options, Apple ensures that the outer shell, battery, and glass are replaced, guaranteeing no signs of wear and tear. Purchasers also receive a one-year Apple warranty and the option to add AppleCare for additional peace of mind.
This sounds appealing, but is it genuinely a good deal? The answer varies. We will explore Apple’s refurbished listings and benchmark them against other offerings in the marketplace.
Apple Refurbished
A major advantage of Apple Refurbished is that you can often find current-generation products available for purchase. For instance, you can acquire the M4 MacBook Pro, iMac, and Mac mini from the store. Apple is quick to add new Macs to this section of their website.
In contrast, iPads and iPhones do not have the same availability. Currently, the refurbished store does not offer the M4 iPad Pro or M2 iPad Air despite these models being a year old. The latest available iPads include the 2022 10th generation iPad and the M2 iPad Pro. For iPhones, only the iPhone 14 models are listed.
Nevertheless, many individuals, myself included, appreciate Apple Refurbished because it allows you to purchase products that feel brand new, albeit with plainer packaging. Instead of the traditional Apple box, you’re presented with a simple white box labeled “MacBook Pro.” Your purchase is also protected for a year under Apple’s warranty, ensuring coverage in case any issues arise.
Amazon Renewed Premium
Among various methods to acquire refurbished Apple products, I believe Amazon Renewed Premium stands out as the best alternative.
Why is that? Amazon provides a one-year return period, allowing you to receive a full refund if you encounter any problems. Yes, you have a complete 365-day return window. Moreover, Amazon guarantees 90% battery health for these devices. The Renewed Premium program closely resembles Apple’s refurbished program.
To clarify, there is also a standard “Amazon Renewed” program that only offers a 90-day return policy, but we will not consider that in this price comparison.
Price Comparison
Now, to address the key question: Is Apple refurbished worth the investment? We will compare prices across a selection of products. Please note that the prices may vary and are accurate as of the time of writing.
In summary, Apple Refurbished can be a value-driven option depending on your specific needs. For iPhones, it is frequently a less favorable deal when compared to Amazon’s offerings. For instance, Amazon has a renewed premium iPhone 15 Pro available for $738, which Apple cannot match at this time.
The one-year return policy with Amazon Renewed Premium is also an attractive benefit, giving you the flexibility to change your mind or opt for a different product if it turns out not to be the right fit for you.
However, if you’re keen on the latest products, Apple Refurbished is hard to beat. For instance, the refurbished M4 MacBook Pro from Apple is priced at $1359, while Amazon only offers M3 MacBook Pro models in its renewed premium program.
Sometimes, Apple Refurbished can even be pricier than new alternatives. For example, refurbished AirPods Pro 2 are priced at $209, a figure that often exceeds the price of brand-new units. Currently, Amazon is offering new AirPods Pro 2 for $199.
Ultimately, the takeaway is that if you’re seeking a premium purchasing experience for refurbished technology, Apple Refurbished is an excellent choice. However, it’s essential to remember that it’s not the only option available; ensure you shop around before finalizing your decision.
My favorite Apple accessories on Amazon:
Follow Michael: X/Twitter, Bluesky, Instagram
