Apple products (iPhone, MacBook, iPad, Apple Watch, etc.) are known for being expensive, but if you use discount programs, promotions, and used-device options, you can buy them at about 5~20% off in many cases.
Here are practical ways to do it.
If youโre a student, prioritize education discounts first.
The best option is to use Appleโs official education store, which students, new university students, and school staff can use right away.
(Apple official site)
https://www.apple.com/us-edu/store
The next option is to buy through Costco and get reward points at the same time.
There are other methods too. See the details below.

- Use the education discount store (student/teacher discount, up to 15% off)
If youโre a university student, graduate student, teacher, or school staff member, you can buy Mac and iPad with a discount at the official Apple education store. For example, a MacBook Air with a regular price of about $929 can be around $776, about a 10~15% discount.
How to do it: Go to the Apple education store โ upload student ID or enrollment certificate โ purchase. Parent-purchase on behalf of the student is also possible.
Tip: Bundle discounts for Apple Pencil or keyboards may also apply.
- Apple Trade In (trade-in used devices for about $67~$334 in credit)
If you return an existing Apple device (iPhone, iPad, etc.), you can receive credit toward a new purchase.
Example: iPhone 14 can get about $201 in credit.
How to do it: Enter your device details on the Trade In page โ check the quote โ submit online or in-store. Credit can be applied immediately or received as a gift card.
Tip: Credit is usually higher when the battery condition is good. Trading in an older model right after a new iPhone launch is often more favorable.
- Buy from the Refurbished Store (15~20% off, Apple-certified pre-owned)
These are refurbished by Apple from returned/repaired units, are close to new in condition, and include a 1-year warranty. The latest models may not always be available, but previous generations are usually cheaper.
How to do it: Check the Apple Refurbished Store. Example: MacBook Pro M2 at about a 20% discount from the regular price.
- Use online shopping promotions (Costco, etc., 5~10% card discounts)
Buy iPhone, AirPods, and other products during sales on Coupang and similar platforms. Waiting 1~2 months after launch often allows opportunistic coupon stacking for extra savings.
Costco: Apple event promotions can offer about 5% off, and with Hyundai Card you can earn 3% points on purchases of $334 or more.
How to do it: Search โApple saleโ in Coupang โ join Rocket WOW membership ($3.34/month) for free shipping and discounts.
Black Friday (November) are strong timing opportunities. You can also check real-time sale alerts on X.
- International shopping (Amazon, Japan Apple Store, usually 10~20% cheaper)
If exchange rates are favorable, buying in the U.S. or Japan can help. Apple stores in Japan may be cheaper due to tax refund options.
How to do it: Check unlock status and buy unlocked devices on Amazon/eBay. Be sure to account for shipping and customs tax (13%)โimports under $67 may be exempt.
Tip: A day-trip โairfare + shoppingโ strategy can also work, especially when the yen is weak.