The Best Time of Year to Sell Your Mac

Most people sell their Mac when it's convenient — right after buying a new one, or when they need cash fast. But if you can plan ahead by even a few weeks, you can often get meaningfully more money.

When Mac Prices Are Highest

Just Before a New Apple Release

Apple typically refreshes the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro lineup every 12–18 months. In the weeks before a new model is announced, used prices for the current generation are still strong. Once Apple announces the new chip, demand for older models drops almost immediately.

Watch Apple's event schedule and try to sell 2–4 weeks before an expected release.

Back-to-School Season (July – August)

Students and parents are actively buying Macs in late summer. Demand goes up, which keeps used prices competitive. If your Mac is in good shape, this is one of the strongest windows to sell.

Tax Refund Season (February – April)

Consumer spending spikes when refunds hit. More buyers in the market means less downward pressure on prices. Selling in February through April often produces better results than January.

When to Avoid Selling

Right After a New Apple Release

This is the worst time. The week Apple releases a new MacBook Pro M4, everyone who was thinking about buying a used M3 suddenly wants the new thing. Supply of used M3s spikes as people upgrade, and demand drops. Prices can fall 10–20% in a matter of weeks.

Holiday Season (November – December)

Counterintuitive, but true: the holiday buying boom mostly benefits new product sales, not used. Buyers are focused on gift cards and Apple Store deals. Used Mac prices are often softer in November and December than in August.

How We Price Macs at MacPro-LA

We track resale prices across eBay, Swappa, and other platforms daily. Our offers reflect current market conditions, not fixed charts. So if the market is strong, you benefit. If prices dip, we'll still give you the fairest offer available in Los Angeles.