For years, Apple pricing was reassuringly rigid. A product launched and stayed at that price until it was retired or replaced. That version of reality did not survive contact with 2026 and the AI boom. In June, Apple pushed prices up across much of its range. And it’s far from alone: everyone from Microsoft to Nintendo has been doing the same.
So, yes, things cost more, but there are still bargains to be had with your next tech purchase, whether that’s from Apple or another big brand. Here’s how to find a great deal – and how to avoid a costly blunder.
Land a bargain
Apple hiked the price of its MacBook Neo. Not all retailers immediately followed suit.
Shop around: When prices go up, retailer lag can be an opportunity. For example, at the time of writing – a week after Apple’s price rises – Walmart (US) and Argos (UK) were still selling the MacBook Neo for its old price.
Sell before you buy: Old gear loses value every day you keep it. Sell what you don’t need to offset new purchases – and before you end up kicking yourself for waiting. Apple trade-in is easy, but pays less. Private sales are more hassle, but earn more.
Don’t fear used: Sometimes “as new” really means it. Refurbs are often returns that legally can’t be sold as new, but haven’t been used. Even second-hand can be a smart buy if someone has simply changed their mind about a nearly new device. Just be cautious and know your return rights.
Check for discounts: Student schemes and employer benefit programs are relatively widespread. You may be eligible for such discounts that can provide a saving or make the difference between settling for a model and getting the one you really want.
Don’t linger: Good deals don’t hang around. Old-price stock gets corrected, sales end, and that great refurb you spotted will eventually be snapped up. So when you find a bargain for something you definitely need, grab it before someone else does.
Avoid traps
If you’re looking for a bargain Apple product, make sure you’re actually saving money.
Use trackers: If you don’t know the usual price, you don’t know whether you’re looking at a deal. Trackers like CamelCamelCamel and PriceRunner cut through “fake sale” nonsense where prices are sneakily inflated before being “discounted.”
Know when not to buy: Tech moves in cycles. Don’t pay full price for something that’s about to be replaced, and don’t assume Black Friday is automatically the cheapest point in the calendar. It’s often great for accessories, but rarely for pricier Apple gear.
Spot scams: If something looks too good to be true, it probably is. So avoid that “totally new, honest” iPhone selling for 50 bucks. Stick to trusted retailers for new and refurbished gear, and use every tool at your disposal (and, ideally, view in person) to protect yourself when it comes to second-hand listings.
Avoid hidden costs: A bargain isn’t a bargain until you’ve seen the final total. Be careful to include add-ons and “hidden” charges, such as delivery, taxes, and finance, because these can quickly erase any savings.
Compare value, not just prices: Seemingly cheaper older tech can be worse value if it ages out sooner. The iPhone 16 is $100/£100 cheaper than the iPhone 17, but the latter’s features more than justify the gap. And with second-hand gear, factor in wear, battery health, and missing extras too.
Bury FOMO: When price rises loom and sales flash up, you might find Fear Of Missing Out takes over. Don’t let such pressure push you into buying something you don’t need. The simplest way to spend less on tech is not to buy anything in the first place.