The smart choice for a new laptop
Buying a new laptop seems simple, but once you start searching, you're lost in a maze of specs, prices, and promises. MacBook Air or Pro? How much storage? Which model suits your work? And then there's the price – a new MacBook can easily cost two months' salary.
But here's what most people don't realize: that brand-new laptop you've been lusting after loses thirty percent of its value within a year . While a refurbished MacBook from two years ago technically has at least five more years of life left.
The real secret? Companies lease laptops en masse, trading them in after three years—not because they're broken, but because the contract expires. These refurbished Apple products are fully inspected, fitted with new parts where necessary, and function as new. For half the price .
Useful links:
- MacBook Air collection - Lightweight and long battery life
- MacBook Pro collection - Powerful for professionals
- Accessories - Protect and optimize your purchase
The drop in value of new laptops
A brand-new laptop loses about thirty percent of its value within the first year. We know this phenomenon from cars, but it's often even more dramatic with electronics. While you're enjoying that "new laptop smell," thousands of euros' worth of value evaporates. A €2,500 MacBook Pro is only worth €1,750 after twelve months if resold.
Interestingly, the technical lifespan of modern laptops is much longer than their economic depreciation suggests. A two-year-old MacBook will still function flawlessly for at least five to seven years. The processor, memory, and storage are designed to last for years.
The leasing secret of companies
Large companies lease laptops en masse for their employees. These contracts typically run for three years, after which all devices are returned—not because they're defective, but simply because the contract expires. These laptops have often had a quiet office life: used for email, presentations, and video conferences.
These business devices are thoroughly inspected after receipt. Broken parts are replaced, and the software is cleaned and updated. The result? A laptop that technically functions like new, for about half the original price.
MacBook Air vs. MacBook Pro: The Practical Differences
MacBook Air: the all-rounder
The Air is designed for everyday use. Weighing in at about 1.3 kilograms, it easily slips into your bag. The battery easily lasts an entire workday—often even longer. For students, home workers, and those who primarily do word processing, browsing, and light photo editing, this model is more than adequate.
The 13-inch screen offers ample workspace without making the device feel bulky. Newer models with M1 or M2 chips have become surprisingly powerful, even enabling video editing.
MacBook Pro: the powerhouse
The Pro series is aimed at professionals who perform demanding tasks, such as video editors, graphic designers, programmers, and music producers. These models are available in 13, 14, and 16 inches.
The 13-inch model is the entry-level model in the Pro line: more compact and lighter than its bigger siblings, but with more processing power than the Air. The 14- and 16-inch versions offer the ultimate in performance: powerful processors, more memory, and improved graphics performance. The larger screen is beneficial for working with multiple windows for extended periods.
Touch bar: yes or no?
The Touch Bar was Apple's experiment with a touch-sensitive screen above the keyboard. For some users, it's convenient—you can quickly select emojis, adjust brightness, or scroll through your timeline in video editing software. Others find it a gimmick that lacks the traditional function keys.
Apple has since ditched the touch bar in newer models. If you're considering a refurbished model with a touch bar, consider whether you value the extra functionality or prefer physical keys.
Specifications that matter
Processor: The transition from Intel to Apple Silicon (M1, M2) chips was a turning point. These new chips are more energy-efficient and powerful. A two-year-old M1 MacBook often outperforms a brand-new Intel variant.
Memory: For basic tasks, 8GB of RAM is sufficient. If you work with large files, multiple programs simultaneously, or virtual machines, 16GB or more is recommended.
Storage: 256GB is the minimum these days. For photographers and video editors, 512GB or 1TB is more realistic. Keep in mind that MacBook storage isn't expandable—what you buy is what you get.
The refurbishment process
A professional refurbishment process consists of several steps. First, the device is fully inspected for damage and wear. The battery is tested – does it still have at least 80% of its original capacity? If not, it is replaced.
Next, the software is completely erased and reinstalled. This ensures that no old files or problems remain. The keyboard, trackpad, and all ports are checked for functionality. Finally, the laptop is given a thorough cleaning.
Warranty and security
A key difference between used and refurbished items is the warranty. Private sellers rarely offer a warranty, while professional refurbishers offer a standard warranty. This usually ranges from six months to two years.
Also consider Apple Care. This comprehensive warranty covers not only defects but also accidents like drops or liquid damage. For those who use their laptop intensively or travel frequently, this could be a worthwhile investment.
Sustainability and environmental impact
Producing a new laptop requires a significant amount of energy and resources. Rare earth metals are mined, plastic is produced, and the entire device has to be shipped worldwide. By choosing refurbished, you avoid this environmental impact.
Moreover, you prevent electronic waste. Worldwide, we produce millions of tons of e-waste every year. Much of this is equipment that still functions perfectly well but has reached its economic end.
Practical purchasing tips
Always check the specifications thoroughly. Not all MacBooks are created equal—even within the same model year, there are differences in processor, memory, and storage capacity. Ask about the battery life and how many charge cycles it has undergone. A MacBook battery typically lasts 1,000 cycles.
Pay attention to the keyboard. Certain MacBook Pro models from 2016 to 2019 had the notorious butterfly keyboard, which was prone to failure. Apple has acknowledged this issue and offers repair programs, but it remains a concern.
Compare prices between different providers, but look beyond the price tag. Warranty, return policy, and customer service are just as important. A slightly more expensive laptop with a two-year warranty may ultimately be more affordable than a cheaper model without any guarantees.
Why refurbished is the smart choice
Buying a refurbished laptop isn't a compromise—it's a conscious choice . You avoid the dramatic depreciation of new devices, get a professionally inspected device that will technically last for years, and you contribute to a more sustainable world.
Whether you choose a lightweight MacBook Air for everyday work or a powerful MacBook Pro for demanding tasks, you'll get exactly what you need, with a warranty and at half the price. Without the financial hangover .
