How to Buy a Mac Computer at a Discount

Last Updated: June 18, 2021 References

Many people prefer Apple computers, but balk at the steep prices. If you know where to look, you can often cut 10% off the Apple Store price. Discounts of 20% or more are not uncommon, especially if you don't need the latest model.

Part 1

Part 1 of 2:

Finding a Discount Computer

1
Choose a model. If you're only interested in the latest models, compare them with Apple's online tool. For older models, check out buyer's guides from Mac Rumors and similar sites.
- If you're new to Macs, visit a physical Apple Store for personal assistance. Just don't be tempted to buy on the spot — there are better deals.
- Apple tends to release new computer models every six months or less. If the current model has been around a few months, wait for an update. The "old" model will drop in price.
2
Get an educational discount if possible. Current or incoming college students get a major discount, as do faculty and staff at any school. Visit the online education store to get the cheaper price. After you choose a product and enter payment info, Apple will send you to another site to verify your status for free.
- You'll need proof of your educational status (typically a student or staff ID). If you do not have this, call or visit an Apple Store for advice.^{[1]
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- Look for summer back to school deals. Apple usually throws in a free $100 gift card to the App Store.^{[2]
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3
Shop for refurbished computers. Refurbished computers were returned to Apple due to some defect, but have since been fixed and tested thoroughly. Most are identical to a brand-new computer, and with free returns you can't really go wrong. They're typically between 10% and 20% off.^{[3]
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Expert Source

Gonzalo Martinez
Computer Repair Technician
Expert Interview. 25 July 2019.}
- Remember to check the exact model of each computer. An older model can save you some money, but make sure it has the specs you need.
4
Check for clearance products. Apple does have clearance sales, but they're not common. Check them out from time to time and you might get lucky.
5
Look for quality used computers. Apple does not allow other sellers to use the term "refurbished."^{[4]
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Research source} This means "used" Apple computers range from dented bricks to fully repaired beauties. PowerMax and Simply Mac are two sellers that offer "used" computers that are often as good as new.^{[5]
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Expert Source

Gonzalo Martinez
Computer Repair Technician
Expert Interview. 25 July 2019.}
- Used computers may lack the original packaging and manual.
- You can find cheaper deals on other sites, but check for Apple certification and good customer reviews before you buy.
6
Find cheaper new computers. Even if none of the discount options above are right for you, you can save money just by shopping around. The Apple Store almost always lists the highest prices. Instead, browse authorized apple resellers such as MacMall or Mac Connection, and larger retailers such as Best Buy.
- Apple has approved sellers with an "Apple Authorized Reseller" title. Stores that offer excellent guidance earn "Apple Specialist" status.
- Search the store's online site first for discount offers. If you decide to visit in person, print out the online deal and take it with you.

Part 2

Part 2 of 2:

Saving on Extra Costs

1
Compare close offers between resellers. If you find two or three offers that are fairly close in price, read the fine print. Many resellers offer extra deals, such as discount Apple Care warranties or free software. If you plan on purchasing the "extra" anyway, the nominally more expensive computer might be the better deal.
- The Apple Store rarely offers this kind of deal on computers, except in the educational store.
2
Install extra RAM yourself. Upgrading the RAM on a new Mac computer can make it much faster, but buying the RAM yourself is much cheaper than getting it from Apple.^{[6]
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Research source} All you need to install the RAM is steady hands, a screwdriver, and a set of instructions. We've got the last covered with guides for Mac Mini, iMac, and MacBook Pro.
- Not all RAM is created equal. As of late 2015, DDR3 and DDR4 are the latest standards, and comparable in performance for home users.^{[7]
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3
Consider buying hard drive space separately. Buying a separate hard drive is generally cheaper than upgrading your Mac's hard drive size at the time of purchase. Just store the files you don't use as often on the backup.
4
Be careful with third-party laptop chargers. Mac laptop chargers are notoriously expensive. Unfortunately, the ultra-cheap options are usually knockoffs that overheat or fail after a short time. It's best to stick with chargers made by Apple.
- Even used laptops usually come with a charger, so you don't need to worry about this for a while.

Community Q&A
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Question

Is it safe to buy a used computer?

Gonzalo Martinez
Computer & Phone Repair Specialist
Gonzalo Martinez is the President of CleverTech, a tech repair business in San Jose, California founded in 2014. CleverTech LLC specializes in repairing Apple products. CleverTech pursues environmental responsibility by recycling aluminum, display assemblies, and the micro components on motherboards to reuse for future repairs. On average, they save 2 lbs - 3 lbs more electronic waste daily than the average computer repair store.

Gonzalo Martinez

Computer & Phone Repair Specialist

Expert Answer

Support wikiHow by unlocking this expert answer.

Yes, generally it's fine. You just want to make sure that there aren't active recalls on the model and that the battery is functioning alright if you're looking at a laptop.
Question

Are there any disabled vet discounts?

Community Answer

Apple does have a discount for veterans, federal and state government employees. There is a $200.00 discount for members of these groups. If you are looking to upgrade your selection they also offer discounts on the upgrades too. If you go to the Apple site and click on the Shopping Help button at the bottom of the page it will bring up several boxes one of which is for Payment and Pricing which will take you to the government pricing page.
Question

Can I get a discount when buying a Mac if I am a private education tutor?

Community Answer

No, that is very unlikely. I would recommend trying to find a used or refurbished Mac at a cheaper price.

Warnings

Be very cautious when browsing non-authorized retailers. Unofficial resellers cannot offer Apple warranty. Check the return policy before buying, since you won't be able to return it directly to Apple.

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