Why February is the best time to buy a MacBook on Back Market

The cat’s out of the bag. Right now you can get the most for your money if you purchase an Apple MacBook on Back Market.  We’ve pulled together top-secret-super-under-wraps data to show you why this month is the best time to pick up your Verified Refurbished device.

So, when is the best time to buy a MacBook?

The short answer is February.

This is all thanks to some shake-ups happening at Apple HQ. It’s predicted in February 2025 Apple will release a new model, the MacBook Air M4. Because of this, we can expect the price of their latest model – the M3 MacBook Air – and previous models, to drop.

Let’s look at why that is. Really, it’s the same thing that happens with their new iPhones year after year – when a new device comes out, it’s customary that older models will go down in value, and there’s a price shift across major markets.

It’s exactly what happened when the M3 MacBook Air came out in February of last year, which saw the M2 versions and earlier all price drop. So whether you’re buying a new or a refurbished model (which is more affordable and better for the planet) it’s the perfect time for getting your hands on one.

What will happen to my old MacBook?

Here’s the caveat. When the newest MacBook is released, some of the older models might stop functioning. No shade to them, but Apple loves putting their old tech out of service when new devices are released. It’s called planned obsolescence and it sucks (more on that here).

Here’s a list of models available on Back Market that still work with the current system, macOS Sequoia:

MacBook Air: 2020 or newer

MacBook Pro: 2018 or newer

Apple also has a comprehensive, readily updated list here.

If you get a model outside of this range, be warned that it may be unable to run on newer macOS systems in the future. But if you don’t mind using a MacBook that can’t run on macOS Sequoia, many earlier models outside the list that run on older systems can still be functional.

Ways to save on a new MacBook

We’re biased, but you should look at the Back Market catalogue to get the best MacBook deal. If you already have a device and are looking to upgrade, using our Trade-In service lets you trade your old tech for cash money.

Here’s our recommended list of models for 2025 based on last year's popular sales:

MacBook Air M1 (after MacBook Air M4 release) 

Between £320 – £360 or 500€ – 600€. This model was our top seller last year, with most buyers picking up the 2020 version.

MacBook Air M2 (if discontinued by Apple)

Between £400 - £485 or 600€ – 700€

MacBook Pro M1

Between £725 – £805 or 900€ – 1000€

You may think refurbished tech doesn’t include the latest innovations, but that’s not true. Apple still dishes out some latest features and updates on older models. You may have seen the news about Apple’s new AI features rolling out across devices soon. If you get a refurb model, it doesn’t mean you have to miss out. Selecting a MacBook from 2021 or newer, or a device from 2020 or later with an M1 chip present will mean the device is compatible with Apple’s software come rollout.

Let’s get shopping

Well, there you have it. Start looking for that MacBook before your fave gets snapped up next month. Unlock unbeatable MacBook deals this February with Back Market – right time, right place, right price.