August 10, 2022 at 5:14 p.m.
- Amazon is the world’s largest online retailer, with $121 billion in annual sales in 2021.
- Founded in 1994, Amazon grew from an online bookstore to the largest online megastore.
- Apple products were sporadically available on Amazon for many years due to both parties’ anti-competitive actions.
- With its generous 30-day return policy (compared to Apple’s 14 days), Amazon is one of the best places to purchase Apple products.
Best Prices on Apple Products at Amazon
Shopping for Apple products on Amazon is a stochastic experience. There’s probably some order to it, but the patterns are practically impossible to discern. For example, at this time, you can’t buy a Mac Pro on Amazon. It’s not due to competitive practices. It’s just that no one is selling one.
To compete with eBay, Amazon lets just about anyone sell things. This means that some Apple products are used and even abused.
This article highlights only new Apple products sold by legitimate retailers at exceptional prices. The vast majority of these products offer a 30-day return window, which is much more generous than Apple’s 14-day policy. It’s not a comprehensive list. Instead, it’s a space to quickly find excellent deals on Apple products. This page is updated frequently. Fee free to add a bookmark and check back often.
The Amazon product links are dynamic but not in real-time. Sometimes the price shown is different than the price on Amazon. This article is updated almost daily to display accurate prices in the text. If in doubt, click on an Amazon link to view the product page.
2022 13.6″ MacBook Air with M2 Processor for $1173.95
As inflation grips the economy, it’s good to see some things resist price increases. Thanks to Apple’s own M2 chip, the Cupertino tech giant isn’t subjected to the whims of the tech economy. By leveraging vertical integration (making their own parts, such as chips), Apple can still offer an excellent MacBook at a low price — even during a global chip shortage.
The new 2022 13.6″ MacBook Air comes equipped with Apple’s latest M2 chip. It’s a perfect model for students headed back to school. Right now, it’s selling for only $1173.95, only slightly below Apple’s price. You also get 30 days to return this Mac, which is why it’s always a good idea to buy Apple products from Amazon.
Specifications:
- M2 processor with 8-core GPU and 8-core CPU
- Neural Engine with 16 cores
- 13.6″ True Tone Liquid Retina display
- 1080p FaceTime camera
- up to 18 hours of battery life
- three mic array for creating multimedia and Podcasts
- two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports
- 8 GB RAM
- 256 GB SSD
- Magic Keyboard with Touch ID
- stereo speakers with Spatial Audio support
- weighs only 2.7 pounds
2021 11-inch iPad Pro with M1 Processor for $749 at Amazon
The 2021 11-inch iPad Pro features a relatively new M1 processor. At this point, the M1 processor’s track record makes it a proven technology; however, some may choose to stick with an A-series-based iPad or wait for the next iteration of the M-series processor. For those who don’t know, the Mac also employs an M1 processor, and it’s clear that Apple is unifying their devices to use M-series processors. In fact, future iPhones will likely feature an M-series processor.
In addition to a new processor, the 2021 iPad also features a gorgeous screen with ProMotion technology. This enables refresh rates of up to 120 Hz, making motion smoother. Personally, I don’t think there’s anything professional about an iPad. Who cares? With an amazing screen, fast processor, and excellent built-in speakers, this iPad Pro is like a home theater you can take anywhere, with long-lasting battery life.
Amazon’s discount on the 11-inch iPad Pro isn’t steep, but keep in mind that they more than double the return and refund window. Instead of Apple’s 14-day return policy, Amazon gives you 30 days to return your iPad Pro if it’s not up to snuff. At $749, you’re saving $50 over the Apple Store price, and with Amazon rewards, you may save even more.
Specifications:
- 10MP Ultra Wide camera, 12MP Wide camera, LiDAR Scanner for AR, and TrueDepth camera system
- 11-inch Liquid Retina display with True Tone, ProMotion, and P3 wide color
- Apple M1 chip
- all-day battery life
- Face ID for Apple Pay and secure authentication
- Thunderbolt / USB 4 port with support for: DisplayPort, Charging, USB 3.1 Gen 2 (up to 10Gb/s), USB 4 (up to 40Gb/s), Thunderbolt 3 (up to 40Gb/s),
- five studio-quality microphones for video recording, calls, and audio recording
- four speakers for high-quality audio output
- 4K video recording at 24 fps, 25 fps, 30 fps, or 60 fps
- 2x optical zoom
- supports an external display
- support for Smart Keyboard Folio, Apple Pencil (2nd generation), and Magic Keyboard
2022 iPad Air for $559 at Amazon
Apple’s 2022 iPad Air is now available on Amazon at an affordable price. Keep in mind that this model features an M1 processor instead of the A-series chips used in older models. Some may prefer this, while others may want to wait for the M2 chip.
At this point, the M1 chip is well-established and proven technology. An M1 iPad Air will be supported longer by Apple than one with an A-series chip, simply because it’s a newer model.
At $559, there’s only a minor 7% discount; however, you can return it within 30 days. Apple only offers a 14-day return window.
Specifications:
- 5G model available
- 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display with P3 wide color, True Tone, and an anti-reflective coating
- Apple M1 Neural Engine processor
- 12MP Ultra Wide front Center Stage camera
- 12MP Wide camera
- 64GB or 256GB of storage
- Available in space gray, starlight, purple, pink and blue
- USB-C port (supports DisplayPort compatible monitors)
- Stereo speakers (landscape)
- Touch ID for secure authentication and Apple Pay
- 9-10 hours of battery life on a full charge
AirPods (2nd Generation) For Only $99 at Amazon
AirPods are a ubiquitous status symbol these days. I own a pair of PowerBeats Pro, and although Apple owns Beats, they may as well be part of the Android ecosystem. Sure, they have the same chipset and integrate with Apple products seamlessly. It’s just that they don’t have the same appearance as AirPods. AirPods are stylish, and although PowerBeats Pro sound better, it’s all about looks in our social media reality where selfies are the most important currency.
If you want to look “cool” and have two white straws dangling from your ears, you can now achieve this look for $99. If you purchase them directly from Apple, they cost $129, and you only have 14 days to return them. Amazon offers a 30-day return window, which starts when your package arrives. They’re perfect if you listen to pop music and TV shows. They also work well for phone calls. If you’re looking for studio-quality sound, go for the AirPods Max.
Specifications:
- H1 headphone processor
- motion-detecting accelerometer
- two beamforming microphones
- two optical sensors
- speech-detecting accelerometer
- tap earpiece to control playback, phone calls, get directions, access Siri, and other features
- charging case
- 24 hours listening time (with charging case)
- 18 hours talk time (with charging case)
- 5 hours listening time (with single charge)
- 3 hours talk time (with single charge)
- quick 15-minute charge for 3 hours listening time and 2 hours talk time
- Bluetooth 5.0 compatibility
- seamless integration with Apple products
- share audio with another set of AirPods or Beats wireless headphones
AirPods Pro on Amazon for Only $179.99
If standard AirPods aren’t up to snuff, you can get AirPods Pro for a little more. If I didn’t already have a pair of wireless earphones, I would go for these. AirPods Pro offer extra functionality that’s worth the price. With their industry-leading Active Noise Cancellation and Transparent Audio, so runners and bikers can safely hear their surroundings, AirPods Pro pack a lot of value into a small package.
Right now, you can pick up a pair of AirPods Pro for only $179.99 at Amazon. That’s a 28% savings over the Apple Store. As with most Apple merchandise sold on Amazon, you get 30 days to decide whether to keep them or not. Apple only offers a 14-day return window. This is important because AirPods don’t fit all ears.
Specifications:
- supports “Hey Siri” activation
- water and sweat resistant
- 24 hours listening time (with MagSafe case)
- Active Noise Cancellation
- Transparency mode for safety while running or biking.
- Adaptive EQ
- Spatial audio with dynamic head tracking
- Force sensor to easily control media playback, accept/end calls
- three sizes of soft, tapered silicone tips to fit many more ear shapes and dimensions
AirPods Max For Only $479.99 at Amazon
If you’re looking for studio-quality headphones, AirPods Max may fit the bill. Apple’s Amazon-based store sells the popular headphones for $69 less than the Apple Store. AirPods Max are available in several colors, with price varying depending on their finish.
Specifications:
- high-fidelity dynamic audio driver
- active noise cancellation
- spatial audio with dynamic head tracking
- H1 chip with computational audio
- share audio between two sets of AirPods (of any type — standard, Pro, or Max)
- 20 hours of listening time
- comes with charging case
- memory foam, knit-mesh ear cushions
2021 4K Apple TV For Only $119.99
Apple TV offers yet another view into the Cupertino tech giant’s ecosystem. Although you can experience every Apple service on an iPhone or iPad, these small screens leave much to be desired. Plugging your iPhone into a TV using an HDMI adapter works, but it’s a hack and will destroy your phone’s battery.
Although there are myriad inexpensive TV appliances, Apple TV is the best option if you’re vested in the ecosystem. For example, if you subscribe to Apple Music, Apple Arcade, and Apple TV+, all of these services are also available on Apple TV. Moreover, tvOS now makes it easy to switch between users. This means every household member can enjoy a personalized experience on Apple TV.
I’ve been using Apple TV since 2010, starting with the 2nd generation model. The next one I purchased, which I currently still own and use, is the 4th generation model, which debuted way back in 2015. Seven years later, this is still a useful and viable product. Indeed, Apple TV is inexpensive and offers years of service.
Amazon sells this 2021 4K Apple TV unit with 32GB of storage for only $119.99. This is a 33% discount compared to the Apple Store and you get a 30-day return window versus Apple’s 14-day policy. Given that Apple TV tends to be highly polarizing, a 30-day return window gives the customer more time to evaluate the product.
Specifications:
- A12 Bionic processor
- Dolby Vision
- 4K High Frame Rate HDR
- connect two sets of AirPods
- easily pairs with HomePods for fantastic sound
- Apple TV+ streaming service
- download thousands of apps, including Netflix, YouTube, Hulu, and others
- enjoy Apple Music on your TV
- new, improved Siri Remote
- Use AirPlay to wirelessly beam photos, videos, and more from your iPhone, iPad, and Mac to your TV
- Dolby Atmos
- makes an excellent hub for smart home accessories
Series 7 Apple Watch for Only $329
The Apple Watch provides a useful window into the Apple ecosystem for those who can’t always access their iPhone. If you opt for a cellular model, you can even use your Apple Watch independently of your iPhone to take calls, send text messages and use other wireless services.
Amazon offers great deals on various models of the Apple Watch. The Series 7 wearables seem to be the best deal right now. Amazon sells Series 7 Apple Watches for only $329, compared to $399 at the Apple Store. Amazon gives you 30 days to return it, while Apple only provides a 14-day window for returns.
2nd Generation Apple Pencil for Only $99 at Amazon
If you prefer to use a stylus instead of your fingers, it’s a good sign that Steve Jobs isn’t communicating to Tim Cook from the “other side.” Jobs infamously detested styluses, but Tim Cook’s strategy fooled some into believing the iPad is as competent as a notebook. The reality is, it’s different. Working on an iPad with an Apple Pencil makes a lot of sense for creative types. If you’re a coder, an iPad’s only purpose is to test iPadOS apps.
You still cannot fully develop iOS, iPadOS, watchOS, or tvOS apps with an iPad; hence, it cannot replace a laptop. Swift Playground allows for some app development, but it is a watered-down version of Xcode. It seems like a way to fool people into buying an iPad. They’ll eventually buy a Mac to compensate for its shortcomings.
Most people do not write code or build software for a living or hobby. PC ownership is in decline because smartphones and tablets are so capable. Indeed, an iPad with an Apple Pencil is an entirely new computing experience that’s accessible and engaging for the masses. Most people don’t need a Mac or PC.
AirTag for Only $27.50 at Amazon
If you lose things easily or are concerned about theft, Apple’s AirTag may be a convenient solution. Not much bigger than a quarter, the diminutive device attaches to essential or valuable belongings, making them easier to find. Simply use your iPhone equipped with a U-1 chip (iPhone 11 or later) to track down your AirTagged object, wherever it is in the world.
In terms of theft, one must conceal an AirTag for it to be of any use. After all, if a thief sees the AirTag, they’ll just remove it or disable it. If you hide an AirTag in your car, the thief probably won’t find it. If you attach it to your purse or wallet, they’ll just remove it and throw it away unless it’s sewn into the lining or concealed.
However you choose to use your AirTag, you can buy it on Amazon for less than the Apple Store. It also comes with a 30-day return window, which is more than twice as long as Apple gives customers. If you like Apple’s AirTag, you can buy a 4-pack for $97.61. That’s less than $25 per AirTag. If you only need one, they sell for $27.50 a piece, which is $3 less than the Apple Store.
Why Buy Apple Products at Amazon?
Years ago, it was difficult to find Apple products, either online or in brick and mortar stores. Your only choice was to buy them from an online or physical Apple Store, as the company was notoriously protective of the customer experience.
After Steve Jobs’ passing, Tim Cook and Apple’s leadership attenuated some of the company’s more restrictive policies. Apple is far from being open; however, you can buy many of its products at Target, Costco, and various stores. This is a smart move, as one may impulsively purchase a MacBook while shopping at Costco for groceries. Selling Apple products everywhere increases sales. While this may seem simple, its execution is not.
It wasn’t possible to buy Apple products on Amazon for a long time. Even after Apple was willing to vend its products on Amazon, the latter party wasn’t always reciprocal. Famously, Amazon stopped selling Apple TV, as the device competed with its Fire TV offering.
Today, one can purchase just about any Apple product on Amazon. A comprehensive list isn’t possible given the multiplicity of options and constant price fluctuations.
It’s often better to buy Apple products from Amazon than from Apple. For one, it offers a way better return policy, at least for items sold within the Apple Store on Amazon. Apple’s return policy is only valid for only 14 days. Amazon will let you return most Apple products within 30 days of purchase for a full refund. You can check a product’s refund eligibility below its “Buy Now” button.
Amazon also sells Apple products for much less than the Apple Store. AirPods, in particular, are a steal on Amazon. But it’s common to see brand new MacBooks going for $300 less than Apple’s price, plus you get a much better return policy. If you’re an Amazon customer with credit card rewards or a Prime member, it’s all the more reason to buy a MacBook, iMac, or AirPods from Amazon.
Don’t Buy an iPhone From Amazon
Despite being the largest retailer globally, Amazon isn’t the best place to purchase an iPhone. If you’re looking for an unlocked device, they only have “refreshed” models, which is a euphemism for “used”.
If you’re looking for an unlocked iPhone, purchase it from Apple. In fact, the best deal seems to be the iPhone Upgrade Program, where one pays a monthly fee, obtaining a new iPhone every year, backed by AppleCare+.
Those who don’t mind signing a multi-year contract will find the best deals directly from carriers. Costco also offers excellent deals on the iPhone if you’re willing to stick with a specific cellular provider.
Hi,
Do you Publish Paid Guest articles?
We totally understand that there might be an editorial or an administrative fee for linking to our website. Could you mention the rates, if applicable?
Best regards,
Parvinder Singh
Appledystopia does not publish paid guest articles. We make most of our money from advertising and some from affiliate marketing. In the latter case, we never steer people into buying junk. For the most part, our affiliate activity involves finding the best deals on Apple products for consumers.
Our duty is to provide independent technology news and information. We need to earn some revenue, however, we never take money to host content on our site. It’s a disingenuous practice.
I think most sites will take you up on your offer.