As far as technology is concerned, Apple has earned a reputation of being one of the most high end and reliable brands in the globe. Their products are perceived to be luxury purchases, whether it is the iPhone or the MacBook, iPad, Apple Watch, or AirPods. The expensive retail prices, however, may at times put off buying. That is where Apple products that have been refurbished can help.
Apple itself and authorized retailers are selling refurbished products at discounted prices, so you can afford to own an Apple product without paying retail price. Still, a lot of people ask themselves the question: Is it safe to purchase refurbished Apple products? Do they perform like new? Is the warranty included?
This all inclusive guide will provide the answers to all such questions and then some more and you will have a clear picture of whether a refurbished Apple product is the right call to make.
The meaning of Refurbished Apple?
The refurbished Apple product is a product that has been sold before, sent back to Apple or other retailer, also checked, repaired wherever necessary, and repackaged and resold at a reduced price. As compared to a used device owned by an individual, a refurbished Apple product undergoes a thorough refurbishment cycle, so the product meets the quality and performance standards of Apple.
As an example, a used iPhone can have been exchanged as part of an upgrade, returned in the 14-day warranty, or even displayed as a demonstration in an Apple Store. Prior to resale, Apple repairs faulty components, performs thorough quality inspections, cleanses the device, replaces the batteries and outer shell (where necessary) and installs the most up to date software.
Why use Apple products which are refurbished?
When people decide to purchase refurbished Apple products instead of new ones, there are a number of reasons:
- Lower Price -Cost savings is the most apparent cause. Apple products that are refurbished usually sell at a discounted price of 15 to 30, depending on its model and condition.
- Certified Quality- Apple guarantees that any refurbished products are functional to the same standard as brand new products. They also offer real spare parts when required.
- Warranty Protection- Unlike second hand devices purchased in a marketplace, refurbished Apple devices come with a warranty. Apple Certified Refurbished products have a 1 year limited warranty and can qualify as AppleCare +.
- Eco-Friendly Alternative- Refurbishing is green. Rather than disposing of the old electronics, Apple reuses them, decreasing e-waste and environmental damages.
- Like-New Condition- Apple changes the outside shell and battery of most refurbished products, which makes them almost indistinguishable to the new products.
What Refurbished Products Does Apple Sell?
There are also numerous options of refurbished products sold by Apple Company via their Apple Certified Refurbished Store (online). Some of the typical products are:
- iPhones – Older iPhones, including iPhone 13, iPhone 12, and some others.
- MacBooks MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models, both with the new M1 and M2 chip models.
- iMacs Refurbished desktops.
- iPads- iPad comes in different models such as iPad Pro, iPad Air and iPad mini.
- Apple Watch – Various models, usually with the newest one of the last year.
- AirPods – Refurbished models do exist but these are less frequent.
- Apple TV – Warehouse priced streaming devices.
All products are not in stock at all times. The stock varies constantly based on returned or traded in customers.
Used vs. Apple Refurbished: What is the difference?
It is necessary to note the difference between a refurbished Apple device and the used one:
- Used: Sold in its current state by an individual or third party seller. No condition, warranty or battery health guarantees.
- Refurbished (Apple Certified): Tested, repaired and approved by Apple. Included is a new battery, warranty and performance guarantee.
- When deciding between the two, then refurbished Apple product will almost always be the safer option.
Refurbished Products, Warranty and AppleCare.
One of the greatest benefits of Apple Certified Refurbished goods is the warranty. All refurbished devices come with:
- 1-Year Limited Warranty -Same as new Apple products.
- AppleCare+ Eligibility You have the option to cover 2 to 3 years, depending on the device, of accidental damage coverage as well.
- This is a warranty cover that offers refurbished buyers a sense of security, which is hardly the case when using second hand devices.
How much you can save on refurbished Apple Products.
Savings are based on the product and model and they usually vary between 15 and 30 percent of retail prices.
For example:
- It may also sell a refurbished M2 chip MacBook Air at less than $999, rather than 1,199.
- An iPhone 13 with a fresh paint job might cost $619 rather than $699.
- An iPad Pro that has been refurbished can save you up to 100 to 200.
Such savings are particularly attractive to students, professionals or any other person who needs to upgrade but does not want to spend a fortune on it.
Where to purchase used Apple Products.
The most secure way of purchasing refurbished Apple products is through the Certified Refurbished Store of Apple. Nonetheless, third-party sellers who can be trusted are also present:
- The Official Web site of Apple (most suitable)
- Amazon Renewed- Sells Apple devices that are tested by certified vendors.
- Best Buy- Offers used and open box Apple products.
- Mac of All Trades, Gazelle, Back Market- Online shopping of refurbished Apple products.
- Always ensure that the seller gives warranty and return policy.
Advantages and Disadvantages of used Apple Products.
Similar to any or every purchase, the refurbished Apple devices will have its advantages and disadvantages:
Pros:
- Cheaper than new models
- Same warranty like new products.
- Eligible for AppleCare+
- Verified and well-tested.
- Eco-friendly purchase
Cons:
- Low inventory and supply.
- Not necessarily up to date with the models.
- Retail is not packaging.
- Minor beauty flaws (occasionally).
Buying tips for Refurbished Apple Products.
- Shop at Apple first -Apple quality and warranty is hard to outdo.
- Count inventory often- Time-out products are limited.
- Check out older models- You will save more as you do not need the latest version.
- Add AppleCare – Additional coverage is worth it.
- Compare prices – In some cases, third-party retailers have extra discounts.
FAQs
Is a refurbished apple product reliable?
Yes. Goods refurbished by Apple are tested, have real components and have a warranty, making them very dependable.
Are the refurbished iPhones equipped with a new battery?
Yes. Apple tests iPhones by replacing the battery and outer shell and guarantees them good performance like new iPhones.
Is it possible to purchase AppleCare+ to a refurbished product?
Absolutely. AppleCare+ also applies to refurbished products and provides you with longer warranty and coverage of accidents.
Are Apple products that are being refurbished packaged the same as the new products?
No. They are sold in a simple white Apple Certified Refurbished box and not the retail box.
What is the amount that I will save by purchasing refurbished Apple devices?
The savings are typically between 15 percent and 30 percent of the retail price of the product and model.
Which is the most appropriate source of purchase of refurbished Apple products?
The most secure option would be the official refurbished store of Apple. Nevertheless, such websites as Amazon Renewed, Best Buy, and Back Market can also be trusted.
Do refurbished Apple devices appear scratched or worn out?
The majority of Apple refurb items look new as Apple repackages the casing. You may only have some slight cosmetic flaws at best.
Are used Apple products suitable for students?
Yes. They will suit students who want to get MacBooks or ipads at reduced prices without affecting the performance.
Apple refurbished products are also a good idea to use such quality Apple technology at a low cost. Having Apple undergo a stringent refurbishment procedure, provide full warranty, and make them qualified to purchase AppleCare+, purchasing refurbished is nearly the same experience as purchasing new, only without the hefty price tag.
Refurbished Apple products are also an incredible bargain whether you want a MacBook to take to school, an iPhone to use daily or an iPad to do creative work and help decrease the amount of electronic waste.
In case the idea of saving money and still owning a high-quality and reliable Apple product is attractive to you, refurbished Apple products might be the best offer.