The ultimate guide: Buy a used MacBook

Introduction to buying a used MacBook

You're thinking about getting a used MacBook? Good idea! But you are probably wondering: “What should I pay attention to when buying?” Don’t worry, we are here to help you! In this guide, we'll show you step by step how to find the perfect used MacBook - without falling into the typical traps.

Why buy a used MacBook?

Why should you even consider a used MacBook? This is a valid question. We all know that Apple products are known for their quality and performance, but they also often come with a higher price tag. Buying a new MacBook can be expensive, especially if you're looking at the latest models.

This is where the option of buying a used MacBook comes into play. With a used MacBook you can save significantly without sacrificing quality and the Apple experience. However, that is not the only reason why a used MacBook makes sense for your purposes.

Reasons for buying a used MacBook:

• Cost Efficiency: The most obvious advantage of buying a used MacBook is the cost savings. Used models are usually significantly cheaper than brand new MacBooks.

• Environmental awareness: By buying a used MacBook, you are helping to reduce electronic waste and supporting sustainability. By reusing a device that has already been produced, you help to conserve resources and minimize the ecological footprint.

• Proven Performance: MacBooks are known for their durability. Even used models can provide excellent performance for many years to come.

• A wide selection: There is a wide range of used MacBook models on the market, so you can find exactly what suits your needs.

• Integration into the Apple ecosystem: A used MacBook can be seamlessly integrated into the Apple ecosystem so that you continue to benefit from the excellent connectivity and functionality with your other Apple devices.

If you want to buy a used MacBook, we have further information and valuable advice for you. Learn how to find the perfect used MacBook and what to look for when buying. From inspection to choosing the right model, we will provide you with comprehensive information so you can make an informed decision.

Used vs. Refurbished: Which option is best?

If you are thinking about buying a MacBook, you basically have two options available: buy used privately via portals such as classifieds or refurbished from providers such as Janado, Refurbed or Backmarket. Both offer ways to save money, but they differ in many ways.

• Standard used MacBooks are usually devices that have already been in the hands of a user and are then resold privately. The advantage here is that you can often find the cheaper price, but there can also be some uncertainty. With used warranties, there is no guarantee that they will be fully functional. But that doesn't mean they are bad.There are many used MacBooks that are in good condition and work reliably. The key is to check the device thoroughly and make sure it meets your needs.

• Refurbished MacBooks are used devices that have been checked, cleaned and refurbished by experts - like ours at Janado. In this way we ensure a technically new condition. They are tested for quality and performance and offer a guarantee and a legal return period that provides additional peace of mind. If you're worried about buying a used MacBook that might not function properly, a refurbished MacBook could be your best choice. Refurbished MacBooks offer the best of both worlds: you save money and buy worry-free.

Buying a used MacBook: What to look out for?

Here are the key steps to ensure you get a MacBook in good condition:

1. Check if the MacBook starts and runs smoothly: Start the MacBook and see if it boots without problems. Listen for unusual noises or error messages during startup.

2. Check whether the MacBook is still linked to the old owner and, if necessary, remove activation lock: Make sure that the MacBook is no longer linked to the old owner to avoid possible usage restrictions avoid.

3. Test a MacBook that has been reset to factory settings: Test the device as if you had purchased it new. Perform various tasks to check functionality.

4. Evaluate MacBook performance and heat generation: Check performance by running multiple applications at the same time. Pay attention to smooth performance and low heat generation.

5. Test the keyboard, trackpad, and ports: Make sure all keys are responsive and the trackpad works accurately. Also check the connections for functionality.

6. Check the screen for broken pixels or other problems: Inspect the screen for broken pixels, spots, or other anomalies.

7. Assess the health of the battery: Check the battery life and health status of the battery. A worn out battery can significantly affect its service life.

8. Check if a charger is included in the purchase: A missing charger may result in additional costs.

Different states of MacBooks:

Janado categorizes used refurbished MacBooks into different condition levels to give you a clear idea of ​​the device's condition:

• Like new: Devices with no visible signs of wear and in almost flawless condition.

• Very Good: Minimal signs of wear, technically perfect.

• Good: Visible signs of wear, but fully functional.

• Acceptable: Clear signs of wear, but technically in order.

These categories will help you choose the right device according to your needs and budget.

Instalment purchase options at Janado

Janado offers flexible financing options, including the ability to pay for your MacBook in convenient installments. This means you can use the device you want immediately without having to pay the entire amount at once. Payment in installments is possible via the proven provider Klarna, which offers you additional flexibility.

MacBook models: Which MacBook is best to buy used?

MacBook Air M1 (2020)

• Performance: Equipped with the M1 chip, this MacBook Air offers impressive performance for most everyday tasks.

• Battery life: Up to 18 hours, ideal for long working days without constant charging.

• Special features: No fan, which makes it a quiet device, but slight thermal throttling during very intensive use.

Who is it for: Perfect for students, professionals and anyone looking for a lightweight, portable yet powerful laptop.

MacBook Pro 13 inch M1 (2020)

• Performance: Equipped with the M1 chip, it offers slightly more performance than the MacBook Air, especially during longer, intensive tasks.

• Battery life: Up to 20 hours, especially good for those who work a lot on the go.

• Special features: Integrated Touch Bar and active cooling system for sustained performance even during intensive use.

Who is it for: Ideal for creative professionals and power users who need performance and mobility.

MacBook Pro 14 inch M1 Pro/M1 Max (2021)

• Performance: The M1 Pro and M1 Max offer huge leaps in performance, especially for graphics-intensive tasks and multitasking.

• Display: 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR with mini-LED technology for brilliant colors and high brightness.

• Special features: Support for multiple external displays, longer battery life and excellent connection options (including HDMI, SD card slot).

Who is it suitable for: Ideal for professional users such as video editors, programmers and designers who need high computing power and graphics power.

MacBook Pro 16 inch M1 Pro/M1 Max (2021)

• Performance: Even more performance thanks to the larger thermal capacity, ideal for high-intensity applications.

• Display: 16.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR, perfect for detailed creative work.

• Special features: Long battery life of up to 21 hours and high-power mode for maximum performance.

Who is it for?: Ideal for creative professionals who need the ultimate in performance and a large display.

MacBook Air M2 (2022)

• Performance: M2 chip offers an improvement over the M1, especially in multitasking and graphics.

• Design: Available with 13.6-inch and 15-inch displays. The 13.6-inch model is slightly thinner and slightly lighter than the M1 model, while the 15-inch model offers a larger display for more screen real estate.

• Battery life: Up to 18 hours, still strong for mobile use.

• Who is it for: For anyone looking for a lightweight, stylish device with the latest technology, ideal for everyday and professional use. The 15-inch model is particularly suitable for users who prefer more screen space.

MacBook Pro 14-inch and 16-inch M3 (2023)

• Performance: The M3 chip, along with M3 Pro and M3 Max options, offers significant performance improvements, especially in graphics-intensive tasks such as video rendering and 3D modeling.

• Display: 14.2 or 16.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display with a brightness of up to 600 nits and mini-LED technology for brilliant colors and contrasts.

• Special features: Support for hardware accelerated ray tracing, improved power efficiency, longer battery life and additional connectivity options such as HDMI 2.1 and Wi-Fi 6E.

Who is it for: Ideal for creative professionals who need the highest performance, future-proof technology and a high-resolution display.

Conclusion and recommendations

Why Refurbished by Janado is worth considering

If you're looking for a MacBook that's easy on your budget, eco-friendly, and performs like new, consider Janado's option. Janado offers carefully redesigned MacBooks of the highest quality. You can trust that these devices have been thoroughly tested and certified.

Janado's 30-day return policy: your worry-free solution

Janado offers you the opportunity to return your purchased MacBook within 30 days if it does not meet your expectations. This gives you the security to make a good decision without taking any risks.

Summary and conclusion: Buy a used MacBook | Tips

Overall, purchasing a used or refurbished MacBook is a smart decision to save money and protect the environment. Janado offers a wide range of high-quality devices that are backed by the 30-day return policy. Whether you choose a MacBook Air or a MacBook Pro, Janado is here to help you with your purchase, allowing you to fully enjoy technology without harming the environment.