Used Mac prices?

[76ShovelHead]

I'm too cheap to buy a mac at retail lol. So, I'm looking for a laptop, more specifically a used mac. My question is that, is it wise to plunk down close to $600 for obsolete hardware? i.e. Macbook Pro C2D 2.4Ghz when a Core i5 or i7 series laptop can be had for under $600? What should I pay for a decent Macbook/Pro that will run Mavericks?

 

[GGJstudios]

As a starting point, you can check Mac2Sell, eBay (including completed sales), and Amazon for prices of similar models, to get an idea of what a reasonable price may be. Then adjust the price to account for condition, configuration, remaining AppleCare coverage (if any), etc. You can also check the Apple refurbished store to see what similar models are selling for.

 

[afrocleland]

As a starting point, you can check Mac2Sell, eBay (including completed sales), and Amazon for prices of similar models, to get an idea of what a reasonable price may be. Then adjust the price to account for condition, configuration, remaining AppleCare coverage (if any), etc. You can also check the Apple refurbished store to see what similar models are selling for.

I totally agree. eBay would be the best place to check 'market value'. If you're buying privately (craigslist or gumtree) I'd be looking for a 10% discount as the seller isn't paying fees.

 

[Tfb]

I thought about this a lot when I thought I had lost my c2d.

I decided I would not pay more than $500 for a replacement 11" c2d, or $600 for 2011, $700 for 2012. It just didn't make sense when I could get a refurb 2013 for $850. It depends on your budget though of course.

 

[notjustjay]

Used Macs seem to keep their value which is great if you are selling but not so great if you are buying.

Of course if $600 is absolutely all you can afford then you don't have much choice, but I would say that for best results, try to save a little bit more money and then buy a new machine. Perhaps you can buy a refurb from Apple to save some money (Apple refurbs are nearly perfect), or if you are a student (or can borrow one) you can get a student discount.

My current MacBook Pro is still going strong after 5+ years of daily use so you can expect the machine to last. It's still not quite an "investment" since computers are all depreciating assets, but buying a newer machine now will help you get the most life out of it, and the most value for your money.

 

[blesscheese]

Used Macs seem to keep their value which is great if you are selling but not so great if you are buying.

That's going to be the problem you will encounter when buying...my advice?

Look at the Apple Store refurb page...price what it costs there, and then look at used prices. If you are paying not much less for a generation-old computer, it probably is not worth buying something old on ebay.

Having said that, if you take care of your equipment, the Apples should last you years...I have a 2009 MBA I bought new, and a 2009 mini I bought as a refurb, still going strong.

 

[StockDC2]

I would never consider an Apple product still running on Core 2 Duo architecture. If all you can find are Core 2 Duo Macbooks for $600 in your area (which is ridiculous), I'd highly suggest a Dell which you can find nicely equipped for $500 or so during their outlet promotions.