If you’ve been considering purchasing a high-end MacBook, now is the perfect moment to make that buy. Apple’s Black Friday promotions have kicked off, featuring discounts on several WIRED-approved devices, including iPads, MacBooks, Apple Watches, and AirPods. Notably, these deals are primarily available through third-party retailers such as Amazon and Best Buy, as Apple itself does not typically offer direct discounts—its current promotion includes gift cards of up to $200 with qualified purchases instead.
As of November 29, updated discounts are available.
Highlighted MacBook Deals:
The MacBook Air stands out for most users (rated 7/10 by WIRED), featuring a 13.6-inch LCD screen, a 1080p webcam, and the powerful M3 chip. This model excels in everyday tasks and performs admirably in photo and video editing.
For those seeking greater power, the upgraded MacBook with M3 offers more connectivity options like three USB-C ports with Thunderbolt 4, an HDMI port, an SD card slot, and a headphone jack. The base model now includes 16 GB of memory, an improvement over previous versions. It’s also customizable with M4 Pro or M4 Max chips for enhanced performance—both versions are currently discounted.
If you need the utmost power, check out the 16-inch MacBook Pro (7/10 by WIRED). This device features a Mini-LED screen, a 1080p webcam, and a six-speaker sound system, along with new USB ports supporting Thunderbolt 5, enabling faster data transfers. The M4 Pro chip has been tested and found to deliver exceptional performance, making this model a robust choice for intensive tasks.
For users looking for a solid, less pricey MacBook Pro option, the 14-inch MacBook Pro with M3 (9/10 by WIRED) remains an excellent recommendation, offering a bright display alongside abundant ports for connectivity.
In terms of desktop computing, the newly launched iMac with M4 (9/10 by WIRED) features enhancements that improve its overall functionality, including a high-quality webcam and a refined display.
iPad Deals:
The latest iPad Mini (8/10 by WIRED) has seen price reductions and is now equipped with the capable A17 Pro chip, successfully handling gaming and productivity tasks.
The 10th-generation iPad (7/10 by WIRED) remains a favored choice, featuring an A14 Bionic chip, a large 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display, and advanced camera capabilities.
For those interested in the iPad Pro, while you can opt for the new M4 version (6/10 by WIRED), the 2022 M2 model is still a worthy alternative for budget-conscious buyers.
AirPods Deals:
Top-rated AirPods (8/10 by WIRED) feature technology to enhance sound experience, including Adaptive Transparency and advanced noise cancellation.
The refreshed AirPods Max now includes USB-C and comes in a range of vibrant colors while retaining premium sound quality and durability.
For a different option, consider the Beats Studio Buds+, which offer active noise cancellation and a long battery life—ideal for Apple enthusiasts.
Apple Watch Deals:
The Apple Watch Series 10 (8/10 by WIRED) features a larger screen while maintaining a sleeker profile and offers fast charging capabilities along with impressive fitness monitoring options.
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 (8/10 by WIRED) caters to outdoor enthusiasts with its robust features, including enhanced GPS and access to offline maps.
Apple Accessory Deals:
Among accessories, the second-generation Apple Pencil stands out with its pressure sensitivity and wireless charging capabilities, making it compatible with various iPads.
The first-generation Apple Pencil, while older, still offers great features for compatible iPads and is available at a good price.
In conclusion, Black Friday offers an excellent opportunity to snag some great deals on Apple devices. From Macs to iPads and various accessories, shoppers can take advantage of significant savings on products that enhance productivity and leisure alike. This could be a great chance to upgrade your tech and enjoy the benefits of Apple’s latest innovations while saving money.