MacBook prices have spiralled in recent months, with even the most modest models retailing for at least $100 more than their launch prices. The ongoing Labor Day sales may provide a brief respite, but even these discounts aren't doing much to offset the extra costs that Apple fans now face.
There is a good alternative, however, if you're in need of a MacBook: buying a professionally refurbished listing from a specialist store like Back Market. I've scanned the retailer's pages today, and I can tell you there are plenty of listings on old favorites that are perfect if you need a MacBook in a pinch.
For example, you can get the still-great MacBook Air M1 for an extremely reasonable $357 (was $999) at Back Market this week. This one is an absolute Apple classic and the perfect alternative to the brand-new MacBook Neo if you just want something for the basics. It's still more than capable of smooth everyday browsing, although I'd recommend spending a bit more to upgrade to the 16GB configuration if you're planning on using more intensive applications.
Speaking of which, another standout deal at Back Market today is the MacBook Pro 13 M1 for $576 (was $1,299). The Pro model gives you a little more performance headroom than the MacBook Air, and as you'd expect, this one still holds up great for most work tasks. I could see this one being a great option for college students, or those looking for a reliable working-from-home machine.
You can read more about these machines, and the slightly newer MacBook M2 models, below. Note that all of Back Market's listings are professionally refurbished and come with a one-year warranty, which is very handy — and something you won't get from the usual second-hand auction sites.
Cheap refurbished MacBooks at Back Market
