The MacBook Pro M1: why buy new when refurbished is just as good?
The MacBook Pro M1. Fantastic performance, but that price. You know the dilemma: you want the best technology, but spending €2000+ on a new laptop feels like a blow. Especially when you know Apple will release something better next year.
Yet thousands of Dutch people buy brand-new MacBooks every month, convinced that "new" is the only option for premium quality. But here's what most people don't realize: a refurbished MacBook Pro from 2021 often outperforms a brand-new Windows laptop from 2024. For hundreds of euros less.
Same M1 chip, same speed, but without the 40% depreciation the moment you unbox it. The question isn't whether you should buy a MacBook Pro M1. The question is why on earth you'd pay full price .
Useful links
- All about the M1 chip: what makes it so special?
- View our collection of refurbished MacBook Pros
- Find the perfect accessories for your MacBook
Why a refurbished MacBook Pro M1 is the smart choice
Let's face it: the prices of new Apple products are skyrocketing. A brand-new MacBook Pro M1 can easily cost €2000 or more. For many people, that's a significant investment they'd rather use elsewhere. Yet, they don't want to compromise on quality and performance. That's where refurbished comes in.
A refurbished MacBook Pro M1 offers exactly the same specifications as a new one. The M1 chip runs just as fast, the Retina display is just as sharp, and the battery lasts just as long. The difference? You pay hundreds of euros less. At Leapp, all refurbished models are thoroughly inspected, cleaned, and fitted with new parts where necessary. So you get a laptop that's technically as good as new.
M1 Chip Performance Under Scrutiny
The M1 chip was Apple's first in-house processor for laptops, and what a processor it was. This chip combines the CPU, GPU, and Neural Engine on a single chip. The result: faster performance with lower power consumption. In practice, this means you can easily run multiple demanding programs simultaneously without your laptop slowing down or overheating.
Compared to Intel-based MacBooks from the same period, the M1 performs up to 3.5 times faster on CPU tasks and up to 5 times faster on graphics tasks. Editing video in Final Cut Pro? No problem. Working with large Photoshop files? It runs like a charm. Even for developers working in demanding development environments, this model is more than capable.
New vs. refurbished: the numbers speak for themselves
A new MacBook Pro M1 with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage costs around €1,619 at Apple. You can find the same refurbished model for €1,100 to €1,300, depending on the condition. That's a difference of at least €300, often more. For that money, you can buy a 1TB external SSD, a decent bag, and still have money left over for software.
What exactly do you get with refurbished?
With a certified refurbished device from Leapp you get:
- A fully working MacBook Pro M1
- Minimum 12 months warranty
- A clean install of macOS
- All original features and performance
- A checked battery (minimum 80% capacity)
What you won't get: the original packaging and possibly some minor signs of wear on the casing. For most users, this won't be a problem. The laptop works perfectly.
Who is the MacBook Pro M1 suitable for?
The MacBook Pro M1 is ideal for:
Students and professionals : The long battery life (up to 20 hours) makes it perfect for long days at the university or office. No need to lug your charger around.
Content creators : With the powerful GPU and Neural Engine, you can process photos and videos at lightning speed. Editing 4K video is no problem.
Developers : The M1 supports both native Apple apps and Intel apps via Rosetta 2. Docker, VS Code, and other developer tools run smoothly.
General use : For email, browsing, Netflix and office work this device is actually overqualified, but the speed and battery life make everyday use very pleasant.
Practical tips for your purchase
If you're considering a refurbished MacBook Pro M1, pay attention to these points:
- Memory : The base version has 8GB of RAM. This is sufficient for most users, but for demanding tasks like video editing or programming, 16GB is recommended.
- Storage : Start with at least 256GB. You can always add an external SSD later for extra space.
- Device condition : Leapp offers various grades. "Like new" means no visible signs of wear, while "very good" may have a few minor scratches.
- Warranty : Always check the warranty period. Leapp offers a standard 12-month warranty, with the option to extend.
The lifespan of a MacBook Pro M1
One of the biggest advantages of Apple laptops is their longevity. A MacBook Pro M1 from 2020 or 2021 will still last for years. Apple typically supports its devices with software updates for 7-8 years. This means a refurbished model from 2021 will still get the latest macOS versions until approximately 2028-2029.
The hardware itself lasts even longer. It's not unusual for MacBooks to last 10 years or more. The aluminum casing is virtually indestructible, the keyboard has been improved over previous models, and the M1 chip has no moving parts to wear out.
Comparison with Windows alternatives
For the same price as a refurbished MacBook Pro M1, you can buy a new Windows laptop. But beware: that new Windows laptop probably has:
- A less good screen (most do not have Retina quality)
- Shorter battery life (8-10 hours vs. 15-20 hours)
- More fan noise (the M1 is often silent)
- Poor build quality
- Shorter software support
Of course, Windows has its advantages, such as more software options and upgradeable hardware. But for users who value ease of use, battery life, and build quality, the MacBook Pro M1 is hard to beat.
Conclusion: why wait?
Choosing a refurbished MacBook Pro M1 isn't a compromise, it's a smart decision. You get premium technology at a reasonable price, contribute to sustainability by giving electronics a second life, and have the same warranties as a new device.
Whether you're a student needing a reliable laptop, a professional prioritizing productivity, or simply someone who appreciates quality without breaking the bank, a refurbished MacBook Pro M1 deserves serious consideration. At Leapp, you'll find a wide selection with various configurations and price points. Take your time comparing and choose the model that best suits your needs.
Why pay more for the same performance?
Buying a MacBook Pro M1 doesn't have to break the bank. With a refurbished model from Leapp, you get the same powerful M1 chip, the same sharp screen, and the same long battery life—but for hundreds of euros less .
Whether you're editing videos, programming, or just want to work hassle-free, this machine can handle it all. With a minimum 12-month warranty and the assurance that your device has been thoroughly inspected, it's a no-brainer. Why pay more for the exact same performance ?
