Summary created by Smart Answers AI
In summary:
- Macworld highlights that Apple’s Certified Refurbished Store has become the top MacBook shopping destination following recent price hikes on new models.
- Refurbished M5 MacBook Pro models offer substantial savings of $230-$450 with full warranties, while MacBook Neo models save $120 compared to new prices.
- These certified refurbished devices look and function like new, providing an attractive alternative as Amazon Prime Day stock dwindles and new model prices increase.
We’re still recovering from the price hikes Apple announced on Thursday. One way to avoid the new prices is to shop at Amazon during its Prime Day sales event, but if you’ve yet to act, you may have missed out. For example, Amazon U.S. no longer has the MacBook Neo without Touch ID in stock, which it was selling for $590. And after the Prime Day sale officially ends today, we don’t know what prices are going to look like.
Where else can you turn? There’s Apple’s Certified Refurbished Store, where Apple has increased the value to essentially match the older prices. Anything bought from Apple’s refurb store will look and work like new, and you even get a full 1-year warranty, more than you get from most used storefronts. Here are a few MacBooks you can get there right now.
Refurbished versus new
A refurbished MacBook is one that was returned to Apple by a customer. Apple takes these Macs, replaces any parts if necessary, tests them thoroughly, and cleans them up. Apple takes great care of these Macs, and they look as good as new. Apple includes a one-year limited warranty, 90 days of technical support, and offers AppleCare. Learn more about refurbished Macs.
