Buying a used Apple Mac with a comprehensive computer repairs and computer support package can mean really big savings.
Apple Mac laptops are well known for their reliability, and unfortunately, their expensive price. There is a reason for their cost. Everything just seems to work with an Apple. You don’t spend hours trying to re-install applications and you don’t use your device living in the threat of multiple viruses and other malware. Apple’s operating system is extremely sturdy, and because the company specialises in their own machines, you know they are built to last. Apple does business in some very different ways to other manufacturers. For example, Apple warranty and computer support packages are sold per device, and not per owner. This big distinction can really make buying a second-hand machine a much easier task. Here is a look at some tips to getting value for money when buying a second-hand Mac.
- Trading and auction websites.Trading websites, such as eBay, are an excellent location to buy an Apple laptop. You will see just how many machines are on the market and soon realise it is worth taking your time and bidding with care. There is always another device coming on the market. Get to know how to use the sites, and know how to evaluate sellers and the way they have been using their laptops. Remember, personal sellers will often be cheaper than companies that specialise in trading devices.
- Buy a later model of the series.Apple laptops come out in series. The later models of each series are always a good buy because they have juiced up components. Get to know your models and the differences between them. When a new series is released, you can always get a real bargain on the latest model of the previous series. That machine might well last you a very long time considering the discount price you bought it for.
- Understand what makes a laptop ‘slow’. Install the latest Apple operating system (Lion OSX) on a 2-year-old Apple laptop, and you will see it slow right down. This is because the operating system requires more processing and ram power than the machine was originally designed for. You might be able to boost the RAM, and still get some life out of the machine. There will always be a new OS coming out, and there will always be beefier machines being released. It is a game all the manufacturers play, and results in a never-ending cycle of upgrade.Learn how to choose the best machine for your needs, and know how long you will be able to use it. Some music producers are still using very old Apple machines because they use them for a specific use, for example.
- Buy refurbished direct from Apple. Not many people realise that Apple has a special section on their website dedicated to selling refurbished Apple laptops. All of these machines come with one-year warranty, which includes all the support you will need in terms of your hardware. You know the machines are in great condition, and you are buying them with the support of the company that makes them. The prices are always changing and so keep your eye out for great deals.
- Know the difference between marketing and reality.Apple is very good at marketing their devices. Just because an operating system has been released, or a new device has come on the market, it does not mean previous models are not up to par. Improvements are incremental. Sometimes it can be better to wait until newer systems and devices have had the bugs ironed out of them. This was particularly the case when Apple introduced the new Intel processors, and is still an issue with Lion OSX.
Finally, if you are not comfortable with your knowledge of personal computers, and particularly Apple, talk to someone who does. There are a number of companies that sell personalised support and computer repairs packages for home users. These are available on monthly payment plans and they will be able to help you decide, and help you with instant support when you hit a brick wall.
26 Comments
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AG
February 3, 2012 at 4:00 am
omg until today I just knw that apple did resell used Mac! thank you!
Tracyann0312
February 3, 2012 at 7:25 am
I like the last tip, knowing marketing from reality is quite good. It can give you the idea to know the product well before you can buy it! Thanks for sharing the tip, it is useful!
Tony
February 3, 2012 at 9:52 am
I have another tip: always check the screen! It’s the most expensive thing which can be replaced. I don’t like to buy used stuff, at least not so important and expensive like a laptop.
Tea
February 3, 2012 at 11:14 am
Thanks for your effective tips. I am grateful to you. Thank you. Tea
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Danny
February 4, 2012 at 4:12 am
I find Macs are overpriced. If you know how to take care of a computer then you can get much better value for your money. And apple builds their devices to last for around 2 years.
Also when buying second hand or from a dodgy place, make sure that components haven’t been replaced with cheaper stuff.
Joe Cole
February 5, 2012 at 1:42 pm
This is such a worthy article. Apple products are expensive and complicated to use. These five tips will be so helpful for people who wish to own and operate a Apple Mac laptop.
Thanks for sharing.
-Joe
Karen Stromm
February 5, 2012 at 11:51 pm
I didn’t know that Apple sells refurbished units!
Nicholle
February 6, 2012 at 12:32 am
Great tips ahead in buying used apple mac laptops. I agree about the difference between the marketing and reality, I was confused then but as I do further reading it I mean it.
instillagel
February 6, 2012 at 6:34 am
Apple service is pretty impressive. But Apple has battery issue and it is difficult in use. Therefore I always prefer Dell laptop. The main reason of which I bought Dell laptop was its reliability. I am very happy with its all features. You have provided great tips for those who want to buy and used Apple Mac Laptop.
Norma12
February 7, 2012 at 7:12 am
I’m a fan also in buying a used gadget. I always check the features indicated in that item and check also the seller’s feedbacks.
Linda
February 7, 2012 at 12:46 pm
I find macs overprices but are still cool and are easy to use it’s a nice machine to use for homework blogging and chatting with people and yes this can all be done also on a windows but it’s just take more time then a mac to do this
LSZ
February 8, 2012 at 3:22 am
Everything written are really helpful and the tips about buying used Apple Mac laptops are great too. But if the used Apple Mac laptops are same price with the new refurbished, I’d rather to choose the new one :), right?
Olga Harris
February 9, 2012 at 7:22 pm
I’ve been thinking about switching from my PC laptops to an Apple product. The one factor stopping me is price. I’ve never thought about buying a refurbished one – thanks for bringing that to my attention.
Peter Parker
February 11, 2012 at 6:56 am
One way to find a cheap, affordable computer and laptop bargain is to explore the world of refurbished computers and laptops. That may seem like a scary prospect, but not every used computer or a laptop is a lemon or a scam. There are decent deals to be found among those selling used laptops, provided you approach them with the right information, a skeptical eye, and an adventurous spirit. Many readers might be wondering why anyone would want to bother with a previously owned laptop to begin with… There primary reason is that they provide the best savings and works excellent. You can check at ElectroComputer Warehouse (One of largest North America’s Reseller of Cheap Used/Refurbished Computers and Laptops).
Daniel
February 14, 2012 at 4:21 am
I too had absolutely no idea Apple sold refurbished laptops. I’m extremely paranoid of buying from anywhere but an affiliated Apple partner like eBay or auction sites. Thank you! My next MacBook pro is coming directly from Apple and this makes me feel very safe in my purchase!
Peter Parker
February 16, 2012 at 10:07 am
To attract a conclusion, Refurbished Used laptops are the BEST choice people who need to stay updated but dont have the money to get into new equipment. Getting your own computer or laptop provides you with permanent internet access and can help you a great deal inside your education or career. Therefore, should you can’t afford a new laptop you can also choose a refurbished one as the quality level is the same. I was also looking for a Refurbished Laptop.. Bought HP NC6400 from “ElectroComputerWarehouse” and the product id is “hp_nc6400” http://www.electrocomputerwarehouse.com
Peter Parker
February 17, 2012 at 10:24 am
Do you have anything against refurbished computers?? I have saved a lot from buying refurbished items and the products I get have always been good quality and last longer than some things I have bought new. I have a Dell Optiplex GX520 that I bought refurbished for about $119 once during a holiday deal about two years ago from ‘ElectroComputerWarehouse’. It still works great and it serves its purpose. It’s great for surfing the net, watching DVDs and other tasks.. You may check for you as well www . electrocomputerwarehouse.com
Peter Parker
February 20, 2012 at 9:22 am
Refurbished Used laptops are the BEST choice people who need to stay updated but dont have the money to get into new equipment. Getting your own computer or laptop provides you with permanent internet access and can help you a great deal inside your education or career. Therefore, should you can’t afford a new laptop you can also choose a refurbished one as the quality level is the same. I was also looking for a Refurbished Laptop.. Bought HP NC6400 from “ElectroComputerWarehouse” and the product id is “hp_nc6400” www. electrocomputerwarehouse.com
paeton
February 21, 2012 at 10:42 am
I have saved a lot of money by buying refurbished items and the products I get have always been good quality and last longer than some things I have bought new. I have a Dell Optiplex GX520 that I bought refurbished for about $119 once during a holiday deal about two years ago from ‘ElectroComputerWarehouse’. It still works great and it serves its purpose. It’s great for surfing the net, watching DVDs and other tasks.. You may check for you as well www. electrocomputerwarehouse.com
Eric Morris
April 10, 2012 at 5:46 am
The last 3 computers I have bought have all been refurbished. 2 desktops and 1 laptop. I did not have any problems with any of them. I would never buy another computer new when you can save so much money buying a refurbished one.
Aaron
May 6, 2012 at 12:53 pm
Apple laptops are always apple of the eye but bit expensive. I didn’t had any idea that apple sells refurbished laptops and we have option to take warranty on that too. I will definitely visit that section to see whether any is worth.
Thanks
Terry
May 15, 2012 at 1:22 am
that\’s abou the only way i\’ll be able to afford a mac any time soon.
Universe
May 20, 2012 at 8:16 pm
This is the excellent tips to buy a good laptop actually I am looking for this. Thanks for the great thing.
Sam
August 5, 2012 at 4:18 pm
I use to bag apple computers/laptops until I started playing around with my bro’s. Since then I’ve bought nothing but apple. It’s just a better experience and like you say it just works! So yeah of you can’t afford a new apple shop around and get a second hand one.
JennF Hall
November 16, 2012 at 11:12 pm
I think that beauty of refurbished is that it is the same computer but at a discount. At least it make the newer models more affordable. Have you noticed that it seems to me the quality has been less over the last few years? I used to have some Apple II and they were work horse. Now it seems that after a few years, you have something that breaks and to be repaired.Thank you for your comments.
Cheers,
Jenn – midoritech.com