September 28, 2026 — For years, Macs had been getting more affordable. Cheaper starting points, more memory per dollar, and the arrival of MacBook Neo made Apple one of the best values in computing . That trend has now reversed.

The global memory shortage has pushed Mac prices up across the board. Apple has raised prices on Mac and iPad models by roughly 20% to offset component costs. Mac mini, Mac Studio, and MacBook Air shipping times have all been extended due to memory constraints .

The good news: Macs are still a solid value compared to the rest of the market, and there are still ways to save — particularly through refurbished units and channels that adjust pricing to real-time conditions. Here's what to know before buying.

MacBook Neo: Apple's Most Affordable Mac

MacBook Neo is Apple's first genuinely budget MacBook, and at $699 it remains the cheapest way into the macOS ecosystem .

It makes compromises — the A18 Pro chip is a repurposed iPhone processor, there are fewer ports, and memory is fixed at 8GB. But the build quality, display sharpness, and macOS experience are essentially uncompromised. It also comes in fun colors like Citrus, Blush, and Indigo.

Apple's refurbished MacBook Neo units offer roughly $100–$120 off retail, with the same 1-year warranty and a like-new experience — every major component is replaced, and you won't find scuffs or battery degradation .

MacBook Air M5: The Sweet Spot

Until the MacBook Neo launched, the MacBook Air was the entry point to Apple's laptop lineup. It's still a great choice for buyers who want a better experience without needing anything premium.

Key upgrades over the Neo include MagSafe charging, a P3 color display, Center Stage on the webcam, and more battery life. It also comes in a 15-inch size, which the Neo doesn't offer.

Apple's refurbished store also carries an M5 MacBook Air with 1TB storage and 16GB memory at $1,529 .

MacBook Pro M5: Three Tiers, One Caveat

The MacBook Pro sits at the top of the lineup, with three chip tiers: M5, M5 Pro, and M5 Max .

There's an important timing consideration. Apple is reportedly redesigning the high-end MacBook Pro models later this year with OLED displays, touchscreens, and thinner designs . That redesign will only debut with the M5 Pro and M5 Max chips — so if you're buying the base model with the M5 chip, you're safe to buy now. The same applies if you don't care about the redesign, since M5 Pro and M5 Max are still excellent chips.

Apple's refurbished store carries a MacBook Pro with M4 and 1TB storage at $1,609, and an M5 model at $1,699 .

Refurbished vs. New: What to Know

Refurbished Macs offer the biggest savings, but the details matter depending on where you buy.

Apple's refurbished program is the safest option for buyers who want a genuine Apple warranty. Third-party refurbished units are cheaper but come with much shorter coverage. Brightstar-certified devices sit in between — genuine Apple hardware at lower prices, backed by Gzmato's own warranty rather than Apple's.

GzmatoCare+: Extended Protection for Refurbished Macs

Refurbished Macs from third-party sellers often come with only 30–90 days of warranty coverage. That's a short window for a device you may plan to use for three to five years.

GzmatoCare+ is a 1-year self-operated extended warranty that covers hardware manufacturing defects — not accidental damage. For $30–$60 depending on the device value, it extends coverage well beyond the typical refurbished warranty period .

The coverage period runs for 12 months from your order date, and no separate registration is required — your order number is your proof of coverage. If a device is deemed unrepairable, Gzmato offers either a replacement of equivalent specifications or a depreciated cash buyout .

For buyers considering a refurbished Mac or a Brightstar-certified device, GzmatoCare+ is a practical way to extend hardware protection without paying AppleCare+ prices. Read the full GzmatoCare+ terms here.

Gzmato Stock: What's Available Now

Gzmato currently carries a range of Mac models, from the latest releases to well-maintained older stock. Rather than listing every configuration — which changes with inventory — here's what's generally available:

Because pricing follows real-time market and inventory conditions, the most accurate way to check current availability and price is to contact us directly. If you need a specific configuration — or want to know whether a particular model is new or refurbished — our team can confirm details before you order.

For a broader overview of how Gzmato categorizes Mac and iPhone products across five tiers, see our buying guide here.

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