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TorontoLRT

macrumors 6502
Original poster
Jun 4, 2010
424
0
Toronto, Duh!
I don't want to get a computer that was screwed up in manufacturing. Also, there was one part of their terms that implied they don't reinstall the OS. Am I going to be getting someone else's photos or software on my Air if I buy refurbished?!
 
I won't say never because everyone screws up once in a while. However, based on feedbacks, people have said most of good things about apple's refurbished products.
 
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Everyone messes up, but the refurbs are tested. If you have any issues, Apple will make sure you are happy!
 
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Everyone messes up, but the refurbs are tested. If you have any issues, Apple will make sure you are happy!
 
I bought a refurb 32GB iPad in December and a refurb 13" MBA 2.13GHz with 4GB ram and 256GB SSD - both work flawlessly! However, I did drop my MBA from like 4 feet off the ground onto tile, but the only thing there is a small dent on the back left corner - barely noticeable! :-D Scared the crap out of me though!


- Joe
 
Refurbs are exactly the same thing as new. Practically. All parts that can be seen or touched are replaced with new parts (monitor, keyboard, touchpad, entire unibody, backcase, etc.) and tested and certified. The fact that it was in someone else's possession for a brief period of time makes it a "refurb". Not saying thats its impossible to get a defective one but you can get a defective brand new unit too. Apple stands by their refurbs and offers the same coverage and warranty and applecare as any of their new products.
 
^ actually even though they are all called refurbs, some are simply returned stock which has not been touched (changed mind, build to order models that people decide they dontwant or have over ordered etc.) and are often returned unopened. Ironically it's Apple who then opens them, puts them in brown box and sells on as refurbished.

Refurbished is Apple's equivalent of a supermarkets own 'finest' range. Same product as the branded, manufactured at the same factory, sold in blander packaging ;)
 
I've been using a refurb MBP 15" for over three years now, and it's been great. I wouldn't hesitate to buy another one.
 
would almost think there better....

would have been completely looked over by some apple tech to figure out reason for return...where factory default ones just auto on by...
 
While not an Air, I ordered a MBP Pro 13" and it came in perfect condition and has been working flawlessly. I won't hesitate to purchase another refurb.
 
would almost think there better....

would have been completely looked over by some apple tech to figure out reason for return...where factory default ones just auto on by...

I would agree for most things, for most anomalies/functionality of the machine.

But consider this:

http://www.9to5mac.com/33774/apples-internal-pixel-policy-leaked

Quite a few people don't accept a single dead pixel, and let's be honest - if a customer makes a fuss, the majority of the time Apple will take those back for an exchange. And those machines within spec likely go into the refurb pool. Would the number of these machines be enough to increase chances a significant amount? I don't know, just food for thought.
 
refurb

I will say I bought a macbook 2.4 ghz unibody from the refurb store and it was DOA. I called apple and they determined it was DOA and I returned and ended up buying a brand new one instead. So things do happen but it was easily corrected.
 
i have had a terrible experience with a MBA refurb, and i wouldn't get one ever again. I have soured on refurbs. YMMV.
 
I just got a 13" Ultimate refurb, it looks as new, and so far no problems with it. It had 3 battery cycles, so they either replaced the battery, or it was returned soon after purchased.
 
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