Refurbished iMac vs MacBook - Comparison Guide to Help Decide

In the world of Apple products, it can get a little confusing when it comes to deciding which device will work the best to suit specific needs. A part of the decision can be based on personal preference – do you prefer a desktop or a portable laptop? Overall, you can count on a refurbished iMac or refurbished MacBook to provide the best value. When you’re not spending top dollar for a brand new computer, you do not have to be locked into one or the other forever. In fact, many of our customers have purchased both refurbished iMacs and MacBooks for less than the cost of a new Apple computer. But for those who need to select one or the other, we put together a little comparison guide.

There is more to it than the obvious stationery desktop versus a portable laptop. For each Apple product, there are variations intended to attract specific users. It can get a little complex because Apple keeps the same names for many of its products, so when it comes time to buy make sure you review all of the specifications to confirm you are getting what you need.

Does Screen Size Matter?

For example, refurbished iMacs are available in 17-inch, 20-inch, 21.5-inch, 24-inch, and 27-inch. Refurbished MacBooks are offered in 13-inch, 15-inch, and 17-inch. So the smallest iMac monitor is the largest MacBook laptop monitor. If you are into editing, photography, video, graphic design, or music you may want to consider the larger screen size of either the iMac or MacBook. The cost differences are not significant.

Refurbished iMac vs MacBook

How Old is Too Old for a MacBook or iMac?

You would be surprised, as often as tech changes the more the important parts stay basically the same. The operating systems and features are tweaked in the newer models, but for most users, the older refurbished models provide the same functionality as the newer models.

If you are looking at refurbished MacBook models older than three years, be sure to inquire if the battery has been replaced. But if you are buying one from a reputable dealer, you can count on the refurbishment process to bring the laptop back to factory standards and that will often include a new battery. Refurbished Apple computers undergo rigorous testing and anything missing or broken is replaced and/or fixed.

Older iMacs are often considered the best deals. They can be easily upgraded if buying one that Apple no longer supports. For example, a 2000-year iMac only held 1Gb of RAM. Ten years later, iMacs come with 8Gb of VRAM so, with a few simple upgrades, your 2000-year iMac could pretty much run like a new machine. You can upgrade the CPU, graphics, hard drives, and RAM and still pay far less than you would with a brand new iMac.

All-in-all, we recommend that you stay with models no earlier than 2012 for both refurbished MacBooks and refurbished iMacs. They will be easier to upgrade. You should be able to get 10 good years out of a properly refurbished Apple computer, regardless if it is a laptop or desktop.

What Warranties Can You Expect?

Our refurbished MacBook laptops and iMacs are certified to be in great condition and are backed by our 90-day warranty, which includes a battery and charging cord (for MacBooks). We also offer 1-year and 2-year extended hardware warranties. Call us anytime with any questions or if you simply need help in determining which refurbished model is best for you. 1-800-463-1322.