Stop Bleeding Cash at the Apple Store: The Smart Way to Upgrade

Let’s be honest for a second. We all love that “new Apple smell.” Walking into the Apple Store feels like entering a temple of sleek design and infinite possibility. But that feeling usually evaporates the moment you flip the price tag over.

$1,200 for a base model? $2,500 for the Pro you actually want? It hurts.

Most of us assume there are only two options: drain our savings for a shiny new device, or take a gamble on a sketchy Craigslist deal where you meet a stranger in a parking lot.

But there is a third option. One that savvy shoppers have been using for decades to build their Apple ecosystem without the “Apple Tax.”

It’s called mac of all trades.

If you haven’t heard of them, you’re missing out on one of the internet’s best-kept secrets for tech deals. They aren’t some random eBay seller. mac of all trades has been in the business of buying and selling used Apple gear since 1995. To put that in perspective, they were refurbishing Macs before the iPod even existed.

Here is why they are the go-to alternative for the smart shopper:

1. It’s Not “Used,” It’s Certified

There is a massive difference between a used laptop and a refurbished one. When mac of all trades gets a device, it goes through a rigorous testing process. They check everything—hardware, battery health, screen condition. If something isn’t right, they fix it. You aren’t inheriting someone else’s problems; you’re getting a machine that’s been reset and prepped for a second life.

2. The “Sleep at Night” Factor
Buying used tech is scary because of the “what ifs.” What if it breaks in a week? What if the screen flickers? mac of all trades includes a standard warranty with their devices. They stand behind what they sell. Try getting that kind of reassurance from a random seller on Facebook Marketplace.

3. Prices That Actually Make Sense
The depreciation on tech is wild. A MacBook that was top-of-the-line three years ago is still a powerhouse today, but it costs a fraction of the price. By skipping the “brand new” label, you can often grab a high-spec MacBook Pro for the price of a basic Chromebook.

** The Verdict**
If you need the latest M-series chip for heavy professional video editing, maybe you justify buying new. But for the other 90% of us—who just want a reliable, beautiful machine for work, browsing, and streaming—paying full retail is just throwing money away.

Check out their current stock. The inventory changes daily, so if you see a deal, grab it.