Opening a fresh iPhone, iPad or MacBook is always thrilling, but what if you could keep that excitement while spending less?
Apple sells certified refurbished versions of many of its devices, letting you score beloved Apple hardware at discounts commonly around 23% or more. We even spotted a certified refurbished iPhone priced about 50% below a comparable new model.
So, what exactly are Apple refurbished items, and do the price cuts justify the purchase? Below we walk through Apple’s refurbishment workflow to help you determine if a refurbished iPhone, iPad, Mac, Watch or Apple TV makes sense for you.
(Spoiler: Purchasing a certified refurbished Apple device can definitely be a smart choice.)
What Does Apple Certified Refurbished Mean?
Apple refurbished products are gadgets that can’t be marketed as brand-new. They might have been display units, returns that were barely used, or devices used briefly. Apple restores these units back to factory standards.
When you buy a refurbished Apple product, it arrives in a sealed white Apple box. The unboxing experience for a refurbished iPhone mirrors that of a new one — you shouldn’t notice any meaningful difference. It’s not the same as purchasing a plainly used device.
Refurbishing an Apple product involves a comprehensive inspection, cleaning and testing routine for every iPad, MacBook and other device. Apple will swap out defective or worn parts with authentic replacement components to meet its standards.
Technically, Apple refurbished devices are used, but they’re returned to the marketplace in like-new condition. Most refurbished items include 90 days of complimentary technical support and a one-year limited warranty — the same coverage you get with a new product.
If saving money on an Apple Watch or other device interests you, buying a certified refurbished model is a reliable option.
How Much Can You Save on Refurbished Apple Products?
Apple lists many of its items as refurbished, including iPhones, iPads, Macs, Watches and Apple TVs.
Although the refurbishment steps are broadly similar across product lines, certain devices receive focused attention to ensure they function like new.
On average, you’ll cut about 23% off the price by choosing Apple certified refurbished merchandise, though discounts can be larger on high-end items. (The biggest markdown we observed was roughly 50%.)
Bear in mind stock levels and promotions change often with refurbished inventory. What’s available today may disappear tomorrow.
Refurbished Macs
Refurbished MacBooks, iMacs, Mac minis, Mac Studios and Mac Pros can yield notable savings. Since Macs are among Apple’s priciest devices, the refurbishment discounts can be particularly valuable.
Refurbished Macs are cleaned, inspected and covered by a standard one-year limited warranty. All original accessories and cables are included too.
Below are a few refurbished Macs we spotted in the online Apple Store.
Refurbished Macs
| Refurbished Model | Refurbished Price | Equivalent New Model | New Price | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 13.3-inch MacBook Air Apple M1 Chip with 8-Core CPU and 7-Core GPU | $849 | 13.3-inch MacBook Air M1, 8-Core CPU, 7-Core GPU | $999 | $150 |
| Mac Mini Apple M1 Chip with 8-Core CPU and 8-Core GPU | $759 | Mac Mini M1 Chip with 8-Core CPU and 8-Core GPU | $899 | $140 |
Refurbished iPhones
Since the original iPhone launched in 2007, it has reshaped the tech landscape. Today the iPhone is Apple’s top-selling product — and the refurbished store lets you buy one for considerably less.
Every certified refurbished iPhone undergoes a strict refurbishment sequence that includes repairs. Apple installs new batteries and replaces outer shells, so you don’t have to worry about cosmetic wear. Original accessories and cables are provided and every device comes with a one-year limited warranty.
Here are several refurbished iPhones currently listed in the online Apple Store.
Refurbished iPhones
| Refurbished Model | Refurbished Price | Equivalent New Model | New Price | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Refurbished iPhone 12 Pro 256GB | $849 | iPhone 13 Pro 128GB | $1,099 | $250 |
| Refurbished iPhone 12 Pro Max 128GB | $549 | iPhone 13 Pro Max 128GB | $1,099 | $550 |
Refurbished iPads
Over time iPads have become increasingly capable as Apple enhances iPadOS and adds features. A refurbished iPad can be an excellent substitute for a laptop for many users — and choosing refurbished saves money.
All refurbished iPads are cleaned, examined and include a one-year limited warranty as standard. Batteries and outer shells are replaced on these units as well. Original accessories and cables come with your purchase.
Below are a few refurbished iPads listed in the online Apple Store.
Refurbished iPads
| Refurbished Model | Refurbished Price | Equivalent New Model | New Price | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| iPad Air Wi-Fi 256GB (4th Generation) | $599 | iPad Air Wi-Fi 256GB (5th Generation) | $749 | $150 |
| 11-inch iPad Pro Wi-Fi 512GB | $769 | 11-inch iPad Pro Wi-Fi 512GB | $1,099 | $230 |
Refurbished Apple Watches and Apple TVs
While Macs, iPads and iPhones often get the spotlight, Apple’s ecosystem also includes Apple Watch and Apple TV devices worth considering.
A refurbished Apple Watch makes a handy partner for your iPhone, delivering fitness metrics and notifications right on your wrist. With Apple Pay, you can even handle purchases from your watch.
After a workout you can relax with a refurbished Apple TV and stream your preferred shows.
All refurbished Apple Watches and Apple TVs are cleaned, inspected and covered by warranty. Original accessories and cables are included.
Here are some refurbished Apple Watches and Apple TVs listed in the online Apple Store.
Refurbished Apple Watch and Apple TV
| Refurbished Model | Refurbished Price | Equivalent New Model | New Price | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Refurbished Apple Watch Series 7 GPS + Cellular, 45mm | $449 | Apple Watch Series 7 GPS + Cellular, 45mm | $529 | $80 |
| Refurbished Apple TV 4K 32GB | $129 | Apple TV 4K 32GB | $179 | $50 |
Where to Buy Refurbished Apple Products
Unfortunately, you can’t typically stroll into a neighborhood Apple Store and purchase a refurbished device in person. Apple’s refurbished inventory must be ordered through the Apple online store, and they can ship to your residence or to a local store for pickup.
Until now we’ve focused on certified refurbished items sold directly by Apple. That said, independent sellers that specialize in refurbished Apple gear are available.
While third-party vendors might offer deeper discounts, it’s important to verify their refurbishment methods before buying. A trustworthy refurbisher will clean, test and perform maintenance on every unit to ensure it’s in excellent shape.
If you choose a third-party Mac refurbisher, we suggest picking a seller that provides at least a one-year hardware warranty. Vendors with free return windows are preferable so you can send the device back if it doesn’t meet expectations.
Also consider reading our guide about whether refurbished electronics are worth it to better understand the refurbishment steps and what to watch for when shopping. You might also find it helpful to learn what does refurbished mean to get a clearer picture.
Some third-party Apple refurbished retailers we recommend include:
Is Buying Apple Refurbished Products Worth the Savings?
We strongly endorse Apple refurbished devices when purchased from Apple or a respected third-party seller. A refurbished purchase will typically feel much like buying new — but for less money.
Our analysis indicates you can save roughly 23% on average buying Apple certified refurbished devices compared with buying equivalent new models. The greatest discounts often appear on refurbished iPhones.
Buyers can feel confident knowing refurbished Apple hardware is thoroughly cleaned, inspected and, when necessary, repaired using genuine Apple replacement parts. It’s also reassuring that Apple provides the same warranty on many refurbished units as it does on new products, and AppleCare+ remains an option for added coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes — we recommend certified refurbished iPhones from Apple. When purchased directly from Apple, the device has been extensively cleaned and inspected to ensure it functions like new.
Apple replaces the battery and outer shell on iPhones and includes all original accessories in a sealed box.
Buying a refurbished Apple Watch from Apple is also a solid option. Apple’s refurbished watches are cleaned and inspected, and they perform like fresh units.
Refurbished Apple Watches typically offer savings in the neighborhood of 15%, depending on the model you’re after.
It’s usually difficult to distinguish between a new and a refurbished Apple product. Apple’s refurbishment process includes careful cleaning, inspection and replacement of any worn or faulty parts. iPhones and iPads receive new outer shells and batteries as part of that process.
Refurbished Apple devices come packaged like new products and include the original cables and accessories. You receive a one-year limited warranty, 90 days of free tech support, and a 14-day return policy if you’re not satisfied.
Jordan Ellis is a senior writer for Savinly covering technology topics.
