What are the cons of buying previous year's refurbished macs?

[Macbook14in]

I know the major pro is to save a ton of money. But does the battery cycle count even start from 0?

 

[matt_on_a_mtn]

I've bought several refurb MacBooks, and while some have had a few cycles on them, many did in fact start at 0. One had 4 cycles, one had 9.

The big perk is saving money. The secondary is that out of the box it's extremely unlikely for there to be any issues, as it's already been inspected post-refurbishment.

 

[Macbook14in]

I've bought several refurb MacBooks, and while some have had a few cycles on them, many did in fact start at 0. One had 4 cycles, one had 9.

The big perk is saving money. The secondary is that out of the box it's extremely unlikely for there to be any issues, as it's already been inspected post-refurbishment.

The only major problem is basically not getting the original boxes, which will lead to lower resale value in the future

 

[matt_on_a_mtn]

The only major problem is basically not getting the original boxes, which will lead to lower resale value in the future

That really depends on how long you're keeping it though. If you're selling it in 6 months? Yeah - you'll take a hit. If you're using it for the next 4-5 years? The difference will be nearly non-existent.

I've done the yearly flip thing, and I've moved to buying the right tools for my needs that'll last several years, rather than worrying about bleeding edge. In my case, a 15" MBP, 12" iPad Pro, and an iPhone SE.

If you're doing the flipping game, go new. If you're in it for the long game, save the money.

 

[snaky69]

The only major problem is basically not getting the original boxes, which will lead to lower resale value in the future

I place no value in packaging, it wouldn't affect me one bit as a buyer.

 

[MacInTO]

Cons? None that I can think of. The only one is if you want a newly manufactured machine.

There are way more pros.

 

[iMi]

I purchased the first refurbished Mac last year as the deal was too good to pass up.

I was stunned just how perfect the device was out of the box. I mean it when I say that it was indistinguishable from new. Packaging was the only indication. Accessories were brand new and the Mac was wrapped in plastic much like a new unit would be. I am very particular and would notice any imperfections.

I would buy refurbished again if the price was right. No doubt.

 

[EugW]

Pros: Excellent. As new. Full warranty.

Cons: No additional education discount, and no free headphones for education. Limited selection.

 

[Fishrrman]

One generally doesn't save "a ton of money" by buying an Apple refurb.

Rather, one -does- save a modest amount, if one is willing to accept a used computer (either of the current model release or perhaps an earlier design).

And in return, as additional compensation one gets a 1-year warranty AND the option to purchase AppleCare along with it.

 

[PBG4 Dude]

One generally doesn't save "a ton of money" by buying an Apple refurb.

Rather, one -does- save a modest amount, if one is willing to accept a used computer (either of the current model release or perhaps an earlier design).

And in return, as additional compensation one gets a 1-year warranty AND the option to purchase AppleCare along with it.

Apple's refurb store used to be a much better deal. For example, I bought my late 2008 15" MBP the day after the 2009 model was announced, at a $650 discount. Got it for $1,349 +tax.