# Apple Price Hikes: How Refurbished Tech Offers Real Savings

Back Market's GM reveals cost advantages of certified refurbished devices amid rising prices.

- **Source:** [So Money with Farnoosh Torabi](https://brifing.si/source/ba7217e1-e8fd-4c0b-b098-7d3f39643300)
- **Published:** 2026-07-29
- **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business)
- **Original article:** <https://shows.acast.com/so-money-with-farnoosh-torabi-1/episodes/the-real-cost-of-family-tech-and-how-to-afford-it>
- **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/43ffb5b1-95d1-4e72-85b3-91267855cef7

## Apple's Price Surge

Apple increased prices up to $300 on select MacBooks and iPads in fall 2023, with iPhone hikes expected. Analysts warn this will strain family tech budgets. Back Market's GM Lauren Benton suggests refurbished devices as a smart alternative during this period, offering comparable quality at lower prices.

## Refurbished Tech Reality

Contrary to common belief, Back Market's certified refurbished devices undergo 70-point inspections by licensed technicians. Each device is restored with original parts and comes with 12-month warranty. 94% of customers report satisfaction with refurbished products, matching new device performance.

## Tangible Savings Data

Back Market data shows 40% savings on iPhones, 35% on MacBooks, and 30% on iPads. For instance, while a new iPhone 14 Pro costs $999, refurbished models start at $599. Families can save $1200 annually by choosing refurbished tech without compromising quality.

## E-Waste Crisis

Global e-waste reaches 50 million tons annually, with only 20% being recycled. Back Market extends device lifespan by 3 years through refurbishment, reducing carbon footprint by 87% - equivalent to removing 10 million cars from roads. Their model combats planned obsolescence.

## Hidden Tech Costs

30% of tech budgets go to accessories, insurance, and software. Refurbished devices cut these additional costs by 50%. For example, while Apple Care+ costs $99/year, Back Market's warranty is included. Users save $15 monthly on average with refurbished options.

## Trade-In Strategy

Customers trading in old devices receive 25% additional discount on new purchases. At Back Market, a 2-year-old iPhone retains $250 value on average. Five unused devices in drawers represent $1000 of lost family budget potential through trade-in programs.

## Back-to-School Tips

Experts recommend focusing on core needs during school shopping season. For example, choosing a refurbished 9th-gen iPad over iPad Air saves 40%. The MacBook Air M1 is 25% more economical than M2 model. Families can save up to $500 with strategic refurbished purchases.

## Sustainable Consumption Trend

The refurbished tech market grew 28% in 2023, with 65% of younger consumers preferring pre-owned devices. Back Market has renewed 10 million devices in 5 years, preventing 150,000 tons of carbon emissions. This trend benefits both household budgets and environmental sustainability.

## Sources covering this story

- https://shows.acast.com/so-money-with-farnoosh-torabi-1/episodes/the-real-cost-of-family-tech-and-how-to-afford-it — 

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_Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._