brand new imac cheaper than refurb. Which one to buy

[sepandee]

In Canadian dollars:

Education discount: $1679 for imac. I sell the ipod touch for, say, $250. That gets me to $1429 (not including taxes).

Refurb: $1529 (same specs).

Pros of education discount: cheaper at the end (after mail-in-rebate).
Cons of education discount: extra hassle.

Pros of refurb: some people say that because of the refurb quality control, it might have a better quality over a brand new computer

Con of refurb: more expensive.

What to do, what to do...
Any thoughts?

 

[zedsdead]

Buy the new computer, especially if it is cheaper.

 

[dborja]

Buy the new computer, especially if it is cheaper.

+1

I'd go for the cheaper iMac, whether it's the new one or the refurb. Especially since you have no need for the iPod. You will get the $100 printer credit and a full one-year warranty either way.

I do tend to prefer the refurbs (cheaper, more testing, brought up to new condition, etc) but, in this case, the new unit is cheaper. Most defects tend to show up within the one year warranty so it really doesn't matter whether new or refurb; you're covered.

Also, the resale value of bought-new units tends to be higher if you decide to sell later. It's a psychological thing with buyers...

 

[freepeacesweet]

I would always buy new over a refurb but that's just my view. I believe Apple apparently have good quality control and give you the same warranty. I have purchased refurb products in the past which have always turned out to be lemons in the long run. You never know the history of a refurb machine.

Your bigger savings are with new so go for it! I am sure the hassle is worth $100 bucks worth of your time.