Apple’s 27-inch iMacs hit the refurb store but you can often get a new one for less

Apple today started offering a couple new models of its latest generation iMac through its refurbished online store. Previously Apple was offering refurbished units of the new 21.5-inch iMac only, but we hadn’t seen any 27-inch models hit yet, which we assumed was likely due to yield issues and significant delays experienced in the iMac’s first few months of launch. Today Apple has finally started offering both the entry level 27-inch iMac and the higher end iMac, in addition to a couple of BTO models. However, taking tax into account, you might be about to score a new one for around the same price…

The entry level 2.9GHz 27-inch iMac will cost you $1529, around $270 or 15% of its usual retail price of $1799. Apple also has the 3.2GHz higher end model for $1,699, or $300 off its retail price $1,999 retail price.

Apple also has a 3.1GHz BTO model and 3.4GHz BTO model available for up to 20% off. 

You might not be able to entirely beat Apple’s refurbished price, but taking the tax into account, you can almost get a brand new 27-inch iMac for the same price. A quick look at the 9to5Mac Products Page shows Amazon and other retailers that don’t charge tax in many locations have the 27-inch iMacs for around the same price as refurbished after tax.

For instance, the high end 3.2GHz model is currently available for $100 off on Amazon for $1,899. If you’re paying 8% tax on the refurb unit, that brings your total up to $1834.92. In many cases, buying new for around the same price or slightly more might be worth your while.