Used Apple Laptops: Things You Must Know Before Buying

So, you want to join the snazzy Apple laptop toting crowd, and think that buying used is that best way to do it? You're thinking right, but before you buy your used Apple laptop, there are several things you need know that are unique when buying Apple.

Of course, all the usual bits of used laptop buying advice sill come into play. Check the sellers feedback, read the listing carefully, read up on the quality of the model you're looking into. However, because of some of Apple's unique design decisions, there are a couple other things you must know before your buy.

Firstly, Apple likes to change things. This is nice, because they're always moving forward, but it also means that you can get left behind if you buy certain technologies. The biggest example of this is the fairly recent PowerPC to Intel switch. Since Apple moved from IBM's PowerPC based processors to the fast and cooler Intel ones, the laptop line has been split. Before, the low end laptops (generally made out of plastic) were known as iBooks, and the high end metal models were known as PowerBooks. With the Intel switch, the low end models became the MacBooks, and the high end the MacBook Pros. They still kept the same white plastic/brushed aluminum look to distinguish the models, but what was on the inside was very different.

If you're looking into used Apple laptops, you'll find that there are still many PowerPC based models out there. These can still be a good buy, since much software (including the newest MacOS, Leopard) can still run on these processors. However, as time rolls on, you're likely to see support for these start to drop. Still, if your needs are basic, these can be a great value.

If you get the Intel models, keep in mind that you'll have the added flexibility of being able to run both Mac OS X and Windows on the same machine. This is great for those who have a few Windows applications that they still need to use from time to time. These models will be more expensive, but the added performance can be worth it for many.

Another factor to consider is which operating system your Apple laptop comes equipped with. Since Apple updates OS X every year, it is good to remain on the cutting edge as much as possible to ensure that all the software you need will still work well. As stated before, OS X Leopard is the newest version, with a newer version known as "Snow Leopard" on its way soon. If you buy a laptop with an older system, you can still upgrade to a newer version, which will generally run you around $100. Just something to keep in mind.

So, if you're ready to take the plunge and become a Mac owner, be sure that you check the listings carefully to make sure that you're getting exactly what you need. Mac's are great buys, particularly used, but a little homework can save you a lot of headache.

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