Apple's Hidden MacBook Pro Discount

After a long wait for a new MacBook Pro design, consumers pent-up demand was released by Apple last month with its announcement of new hardware. Sales on these 'late 2016' models have been faster than any laptop currently on the market, and the critical reaction has been positive but not overwhelming.

There are consumers who are upset at the lack of backward compatible ports, and the high cost that Apple has placed on its premium laptop. Thankfully there is an answer to both of these issues, and it is lurking in the digital depths of the online Apple Store.

Apple's refurb section recently returned to the spotlight with the appearance of the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6S models. Unlike the smartphone models, there has been a constant turnover of MacBook Pros (and Macbook Airs) for many years. The machines generally come with a $200-$300 discount depending on the model, but Apple will still offer a twelve-month warranty and you can purchase Apple Care for the same price as those who buy their MacBooks new.

For those looking for a MacBook with an extensive array of ports, including ethernet, USB-A, and firewire, the refurb MacBook Pro machines will make a lot of sense. Apple's iterative approach means the 2015 hardware is still up to the task, and while you potentially lose the TouchBar, in my opinion the price conscious consumer that must have a Mac should seriously consider a refurb unit.

Stock levels are variable, so if you are looking for a specific set-up you may need to keep checking in with the online store. In general the machines on offer will be from the last two years, but that means that as well as a discount you have the option to pick up one of the best MacBook Pro machines in the market - the legendary MD101LL/A originally released in late 2012.

Still on sale in early October 2016, this model allows an owner easy access to the memory, the hard drive, the secondary drive, and the battery. It's a simple matter to buy off the shelf components to increase the memory, switch in a high-capacity SSD, and potentially add in a second storage drive in place of the CD.

For a general purpose computer that won't need to do intense video editing or graphical work, the upgradeability and repairability of this model is worth the slight loss in ultimate power. The same is true of all the refurb MacBook machines. Moving away from the bleeding edge is cheaper and offers more flexibility with Apple's ongoing support of the hardware.

Now read why the big winner from the new MacBook could be Samsung...