As 2024 comes to a close, it’s time to look ahead — and consider an upgrade. Apple is one of our top brands when it comes to new tech. Just take a look at the best phones and tablets around right now and you’ll find Apple’s logo on many of them. Apple’s MacBook lineup is also responsible for some iconic models, many of which we consider to be among the best laptops money can buy. They’re fast and typically sport long battery life and gorgeous designs, and they just keep going from strength to strength with each iteration.
Right now, the fast and powerful M4 MacBook Pro and the previously released M1 MacBook Air can be found at lower prices than usual, which means everyone can find a MacBook that suits their needs and budget. That means you can save hundreds on a state-of-the-art laptop.
With more than 20 years of experience, Matt Elliott is one of CNET’s resident laptop experts, and he’s collaborated with CNET’s team of dedicated deals writers to bring you the best MacBook bargains out there at the moment. Below, you’ll find savings on all the latest MacBooks in Apple’s lineup, as well as some older models that you can still snag at a great price. We’ll continue to update this page as offers come and go, so be sure to check back often.
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What is the best MacBook deal right now?
CNET named the 13-inch M3 MacBook Air the overall best laptop of 2024, which means it’s already a pretty good value even at full price. Right now, some color variants are around $200 off at Amazon, which drops the starting price down to $899. That’s $50 more than the low price over the holidays, and it’s a great bargain considering this is the model best suited for most people. In addition, the 14-inch M3 MacBook Pro is on offer for $500 off at B&H Photo, dropping that price to $1,299.
Best M4 MacBook deals
Right now you can upgrade to the model with an M4 Pro chip at a discount. The basic configuration has a 12-core processor, a 512GB solid-state drive and a staggering 28GB of RAM. Both colors are on sale at B&H Photo, though the space black model is a bit cheaper.
The M4 Max version also comes in two sizes: 14- and 16-inch. The M4 Max chip has up to 16 CPU cores and 40 GPU cores, making it a gamer’s paradise. This version also includes the Thunderbolt 5. The M4 Max MacBook Pro is Apple’s most powerful option. At the moment, only the space black variant is on sale. Note that this model might arrive after Christmas, depending on where you are.
Best M3 MacBook deals
The latest M3 MacBook Air was reviewed in March by CNET’s Joshua Goldman, who noted the graphics performance has a significant upgrade over previous M2 MacBook Airs. Right now, you can snag the midnight color for $150 off. Other color variants are available for more modest discounts.
If you want the same portability with a larger screen, Amazon is offering a $200 discount the 15-inch model.
The previous-gen M3 MacBook Pro still has a ton to offer, including a stunning display and powerful hardware. And right now, you can snag the smaller 14-inch model for more than $500 off. Shop at B&H Photo right now and you can upgrade to 16GB of RAM for the same price you’ll find the base configuration listed for at other retailers.
Best M2 MacBook deals
Now two generations old, the M2 MacBook Pro is getting a little tough to find in stock. It comes equipped with a 14-inch display, an M2 Pro chip and a 512GB SSD. You can pick up the basic configuration for less than $1,700 right now, though frankly, you’d be better off upgrading to the M3 model, which is both newer and cheaper right now.
Battery Life/Runtime 1,039 minutesWeight 2.7 poundsDisplay size/type 13.6-inch 2560 x 1664 Liquid RetinaProcessor tested Apple M2 8‑coreGraphics tested Apple M2 8‑core
This MacBook Air has a 13.6-inch display powered by Apple’s M2 chip and 8GB of RAM. It also has a Touch ID sensor, two USB-C/Thunderbolt ports, a MagSafe charger and 18 hours of battery life. Best Buy is offering a straight $150 discount, and you can save even more when trading in your old laptop as well.
Best M1 MacBook deals
Battery Life/Runtime 1,026 minutesWeight 2.8 poundsDisplay size/type 13-inch, 2560 x 1600 IPS LCDProcessor tested Apple M1 8‑coreGraphics tested Apple M1 7-core
Although the M1 MacBook Air is a couple of generations old at this point, it’s still our top pick for those on the hunt for an affordable MacBook. This model usually lists for $699, making this $50 discount a great value for Apple users on a budget.
MacBook prices
Compare prices with this chart.
| Model (with chip and screen size) | List price | Best price (current) | Best price (all-time) |
|---|---|---|---|
| M2 MacBook Air (13-inch) | $999 | $749 | $700 |
| M2 MacBook Air (15-inch) | $1,299 | $1,299 | $999 |
| M3 MacBook Air (13-inch) | $1,099 | $899 | $849 |
| M3 MacBook Air (15-inch) | $1,299 | $1,099 | $1,050 |
| M2 MacBook Pro (14-inch) | $1,999 | $1,695 | $1,699 |
| M2 MacBook Pro (16-inch) | $2,499 | N/A | $1,998 |
| M3 MacBook Pro (14-inch) | $1,599 | $1,299 | $1,299 |
*Note that “all-time” means the best price we’ve seen on a new model at an Apple-authorized retailer in the product’s lifetime. Prices change frequently and may differ between colors.
How we choose MacBook deals at CNET
CNET’s dedicated deals writers have years of experience scouting the best deals out there on top tech, including bargains on Apple devices. Our combined expertise helps us discern which standout deals are truly a good bargain — evaluating the model, year, specs, discount and our reviewer’s thoughts for each model. We also ensure that all deals featured on this list are sourced from a trustworthy retailer so you never have to wonder if a bargain is too good to be true.