Are Apple Store refurbished units decent?

[kvyoung]

just wondering if anyone has experience they can share with purchasing a refurbished Mac through the Apple Store? I notice you can purchase Apple Care 3 year plans on them and I'm just wondering if it is a decent way to save a few bucks. I've bought manufacturer refurbished PC's before and had good luck (couldn't tell they weren't brand new) but never from Apple.

 

[MarvinHC]

They are like brand-new (you even get the new smell), only difference is the packaging.

I see no reason whatsoever not to buy refurbished.

 

[toddzrx]

In the 6+ years I've been reading this forum, I've often come across the suggestion to buy Apple refurb products, so just based on that I'd say it's safe to buy. My understanding is that most of the refurb products work fine when brand new, but the customer just returned it because they didn't want it and Apple can't turn around and sell that product as brand new again. So most of the stuff being sold as refurbished is really just used for a week or two and returned.

 

[IowaLynn]

My rMB has Dec 2015 date on it, brand new as can be "low mileage, battery on hours" and this my 3rd Apple ref'd special. $200 off was nice and helped buy accessories like BT mouse, WD Passport drive for T/M and HDMI adapter.

 

[2457244]

I wish Apple would sell refurbished Macs in Europe.. Only a few iPads and Time Casules for sale here. Bummer..

 

[fanboi4lyfe]

I haven't had any issues with anything refurbished from Apple, or even the Open-Box items from Best Buy. They are usually decent deals and are really only products that someone bought for a week or two and returned, like someone mentioned above.

The other part about refurbished is that someones they are the loaner iPhones/iPads that they let customers use while having their current model fixed. I've seen those a couple times as well.

 

[997440]

I bought a refurbished mini. I wouldn't hesitate to buy another refurbished unit. With some patience, you'll find one configured to your liking. @MarvinHC said his/hers was like brand new -- even the smell. Ditto for me. Apple Certified Refurbished Products FAQs.

BTW -- the 14 day, no questions asked return policy is applicable to refurbs.

 

[capathy21]

(you even get the new smell)

I love that new Apple product smell!

 

[kvyoung]

Thanks for the feedback. I was wondering if the 14 day return period was offered on refurb so thanks for answering that as well. May have to order one in a week or so once I'm back home.