Refurbs

Hey guys. So i've finally sold my sig laptop because I don't use it anymore and I've been looking to get a mac for iphone development. Has anyone bought a refurb'ed MBP from apple before? Is it usually in perfect condition or does it have blemishes?

I'm looking at the $1299 15 inch MBP here: http://store.apple.com/us/product/FB470LL/A?mco=Nzk3MDMwNQ

Also, are the batteries generally replaced with new ones during the refurbishing process?

 

refurbs are great... but the only replaced parts are ones that test out with issues... usually its just like getting a brand new one, a little cheaper...

 

just bought the exact same machine. it was in perfect condition and the battery had 0 cycles.

 

Go for it. Just received a refurbished unibody macbook from Apple today. Looks brand new. Even had that new computer smell. Only quibble I had is that Snow Leopard wasn't preinstalled. Had to install it myself from the included discs.

 

A good friend bought a 17" refurb on my advice and it was perfect out of the box and has run 100% perfect ever since. Many units are returns from people who changed their minds about what model to buy, or review units lent out for brief periods, and have no issues whatsoever, not even cosmetic ones. If the machine meets your needs buy it!

 

Go for it! Apple refurbs are as good as buying a brand new one!

 

Another vote for refurb, haven't been burned so far by them.

 

Just got my refurb last monday

Very pleased with the purchase, well worth the money. Only thing that upsets me is the battery life and how long it takes to charge the battery, but I think it's a unique issue for my MBP

 

Apple is solid, get it with the warranty extended and I would imagine you're fine. I trust these guys.

 

I bought a refurbished 2.2ghz white macbook a little over a year ago. And this summer i bought the same MacBook Pro you linked and its excellent. Great deal.

 

They closed the thread on macs being expensive, but I think the quality is the reason why. You can buy a refurb because you know it was built right, corners weren't cut, and the support is top notch. It all comes down to peace of mind.

 

The respondents to the recent PCMag Customer Satisfaction Survey agree again this year that in terms of quality Apple is #1. In an industry as highly competitive as personal computers you really do get what you pay for.

 

Complete noob here - when it comes to refurbs and in particular in regards to the newest mbp release with the built in batteries. I've always heard that a battery should be completely drained and recharged a couple of times at first to ensure the battery does not have a "memory".

I'm a little reticent to buy a refurb for assuming that hasn't been done.

Is the drain and charge a thing of the past and if not - does that apply to these types of batteries?

Appreciate any insight and thanks...

 

drain and charge still applies but not to the degree that it once did.

every *once in a while* you should do the full charge discharge cycle to recalibrate your battery to maximize your battery performance.

refurbished macbook pro's are like-new and come with new batteries, and that should apply even to the models with a built in battery.

 

Ditto what Masterchef said; I think Apple recommends you calibrate the battery within the first month or so these days. It really wouldn't be an issue with a refurb which has most likely seen little use before being returned because of buyer's remorse or the original buyer deciding on a different model, etc., even if it has the original battery.

 

Yeah I'm thinking on going refurb for a 17" to save some money. I'm hoping my bad luck doesn't strike and I end up with a bum unit or something full of scratches.

 

I'm taking the don't worry about charge approach. I just use it charge it whatever. When the battery goes, I'll get a new one.

 

thank you for the responses to my question - one last one, can the built in batteries be replaced?

thanks again...

 

Yeah but it'll cost you over a buck. I want to buy the 17" 2.8GHZ MBP Refurb for 2100 but I'm just like so worried. If I don't buy the refurb I'll have to settle for 15" for 2100.

 

Are you the same guy from PS3F? If not, disregard that.

I'm looking at the matte 17" refurb as well. I want the 17" screen, but without the $2500 pricetag.

 

I want the Express Card Slot. If the 15 had one I would just get it without hesitation. I plan on buying a new 1080p capable TV so I can do without the resolution. Oh yes I am the same guy from PS3F LOL.

 

most of the refurbs have a good build quality. this is due to the good apple quality control....

 

Go for the refurb. You're getting ALOT more bang for your buck. Mine came perfect, no scratches scuffs or dents. It's supposed to be brand new, but due to the legal nature of things like this, they can't market it as new, therefore they call it a refurb.

 

I'll probably end up with the 15" but who knows.