Apple Deals: How to Find Discounts on iPhone, iPad and MacBook

Updated May 24, 2026

Apple is famous for protecting its prices — you will almost never see a sale on Apple.com. But there are predictable ways to pay less for the same iPhone, iPad, or MacBook.

The best times to buy

Back-to-school (July-Sept): Apple includes bonus gift cards for students/teachers; third parties run their own education-season deals.
Black Friday / Cyber Monday: The deepest third-party Apple discounts of the year.
After a new launch: The previous generation drops in price the day the new model is announced — often the smartest value.

Where the discounts actually are

Since Apple holds its own pricing, the savings live at Amazon, Best Buy, Costco, Target, and Walmart, which regularly knock $50-$200 off popular models. Carrier promotions (trade-in + plan credits) can be the biggest savings of all on iPhones.

The refurbished angle

Apple Certified Refurbished (on Apple.com) is the underrated move: fully tested, new battery and outer shell where needed, full 1-year warranty, and 15%+ off. It is nearly indistinguishable from new and far safer than random used listings.

We track Apple and electronics markdowns across retailers. Browse current electronics clearance →

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to buy Apple products?

Back-to-school (July to September) for education pricing and gift cards, Black Friday and Cyber Monday for the year’s best third-party discounts, and right after a new model launches when the previous generation drops in price.

Does Apple ever have sales?

Apple itself rarely discounts, but it runs a back-to-school promo with bonus gift cards, and third-party retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, Costco and Target discount Apple products regularly.

Is Apple Certified Refurbished worth it?

Yes. Apple Certified Refurbished products are tested, get a new battery and shell where needed, include the full one-year warranty, and typically save 15 percent or more.