—TechRound does not recommend or endorse any products, retailers, financial, technology-related or other advice and services. All articles are purely informational—
Apple products are renowned for their sleek designs, cutting-edge technology, and robust ecosystems. However, the premium price tags associated with these devices often discourage potential buyers. The good news is that there are potential strategies and resources available that can in some cases help you find the latest iPhone, MacBook, or Apple Watch without breaking the bank.
Mystery Boxes: A Fun and Affordable Option
One of the more unconventional ways to obtain Apple products without paying full price is through Apple mystery boxes.
Mystery boxes are bundled packages that contain a variety of electronics, often including Apple products, but the exact contents are a surprise until you open the box. These boxes can be purchased at a fraction of the retail price, providing potential savings coupled with an element of excitement and suspense.
While there is no guarantee that you’ll get high-value Apple products, many people have reported scoring everything from AirPods to Apple Watches in these surprise boxes. If you are looking for where to buy mystery boxes, websites and providers including Bitcoinist may be able to provide a few options.
Seasonal Sales and Major Holidays
Apple may not always have sales available, but for consumers that is far from a problem.
The major shopping holidays, such as Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Back-to-School Sales, and the holiday season, are the best periods for buying an Apple product at a reduced price. During this time, there are quite a few sellers that offer Apple products at very competitive prices, sometimes even giving additional accessories at no extra charge.
It is possible to save 10% to 25% of the money if you shop for Apple products during these times. You may also look for short-term deals on the dates of special events when you might come across offers that could be used to get more cashback, reducing your total spending.
Student and Educator Discounts
If you are a student or work in the education sector, Apple offers educational discounts for students and faculty members on various products, including MacBooks and iPads. Discounts can range from 10% to 15%, which is significant when you’re considering a major purchase.
To qualify for the educational discount, you’ll need to provide proof of enrollment or employment, which can typically be done through Apple’s dedicated education store. The discounts are often extended during back-to-school seasons, making it an ideal time to purchase.
Refurbished Products
Apple has a Certified Refurbished programme that offers refurbished products that are like new. These devices go through rigorous testing, repair, and cleaning processes before being sold at a significantly reduced price. Purchasing from the Apple Certified Refurbished store allows you to save up to 15% on products like iPhones, Macs, and iPads.
Refurbished Apple products may in some cases come with a standard warranty and include all the original accessories, so you could potentially get quality assurance without paying full price. This can be an excellent option for budget-conscious consumers looking for reliable devices.
Trade-in Programmes
Apple’s trade-in programme is another potentially good way to save money while upgrading to a newer device. If you have an old iPhone, Mac, or any other Apple product, you can trade it in to receive credit toward your new purchase. The value of your trade-in depends on the condition and model of your device, and the credit can significantly reduce your total cost.
In addition to Apple, retailers like Best Buy and Amazon also have their trade-in programmes that can yield competitive trade-in values.
Buying Older Models
When Apple launches a new product, it often results in price drops for older models. Instead of feeling the pressure to always have the latest and greatest, consider purchasing last year’s model, which can offer significant savings. Retailers are likely to offer discounts on older iPhones, iPads, and MacBooks immediately following the release of their successors.
Purchasing older models still allows you to enjoy the Apple ecosystem without paying the premium for the latest features that you may not necessarily need. This strategy is particularly useful for those who want quality products at a slightly lower price point.
Explore Third-Party Retailers
While buying directly from Apple is convenient, it might not always be the most economical option. Third-party retailers frequently offer discounts, referral bonuses, and even financing options that can ease the purchasing process. Websites like Amazon, Best Buy, B&H, and Newegg often run sales and promotions on Apple products worth checking.
Watch for limited-time deals, clearance items, or open-box sales for even bigger discounts. Some retailers even allow you to use coupons and promotional codes at checkout, stacking savings on top of already discounted prices.
Use Price Comparison Tools
In an age where online shopping has become a need in almost every household due to its convenience and in our tech-driven world, price comparison tools are your best friend. Websites and browser extensions such as Honey, CamelCamelCamel, or PriceGrabber allow you to compare prices across different retailers instantly. These tools help you track price history, show the best available selling options, and notify you when a specific product drops to your desired price range.
By using price comparison tools, you may find insights that make your shopping experience more strategic and potentially even more cost-effective.
—TechRound does not recommend or endorse any products, retailers, financial, technology-related or other advice and services. All articles are purely informational—