Apple expands refurbished store to include 2026 M5 Macs and Studio Display 2

At a glance:

• Apple adds M5-based MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models to its refurbished inventory.
• Second-generation Studio Display (2026) is now available at discounted rates in select regions.
• Refurbished pricing has shifted upward following recent price hikes on brand-new hardware.

New high-performance hardware hits the refurbished market

Apple has significantly expanded its Certified Refurbished online store, bringing several high-end products from its March 2026 lineup into the secondary market. The expansion is notable for its inclusion of the latest silicon architecture, specifically targeting users who want the performance of the M5 family without the premium of a factory-new unit. The new additions include:

• MacBook Air with the M5 chip
• MacBook Pro models featuring M5 Pro chips
• MacBook Pro models featuring M5 Max chips
• Second-generation Studio Display (2026)

In addition to the standard models, the higher-end Studio Display XDR was briefly spotted on the refurbished store in Canada. While the listings for the standard Studio Display (2026) incorrectly claim it features an XDR display—a specification reserved for the premium XDR variant—the availability of these machines marks a rapid turnover for Apple's latest hardware cycle.

Pricing shifts and consumer value

Recent adjustments to Apple's primary retail pricing have had a direct knock-on effect on the refurbished store. Because Apple recently raised the MSRP for several Mac products, the price gap between new and refurbished units has narrowed significantly. For instance, the MacBook Air with the M5 chip saw its brand-new starting price climb from $1,099 to $1,299, which in turn pushed the refurbished starting price to $1,099.

Despite these broader increases, certain products still offer meaningful savings for budget-conscious professionals. The Studio Display did not undergo a price hike, allowing refurbished units to remain a strong value proposition. In the United States, the second-generation Studio Display starts at $1,599 brand new, while the refurbished version is currently available starting at $1,359, representing a clear saving of $240.

Global availability and quality assurance

While the initial rollout focused heavily on the United States and Canada, the refurbished inventory expansion is reaching a global audience. Apple has confirmed that these new listings are appearing in select European countries, Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore. This suggests a coordinated global effort to move high-value inventory through official secondary channels.

Apple maintains strict quality standards for its refurbished program to ensure consumer confidence. Every device undergoes a full functionality testing phase, a thorough cleaning process, and a comprehensive inspection. To mitigate risk for buyers, these products are backed by a one-year limited warranty and remain eligible for extended AppleCare+ coverage, making them nearly indistinguishable from brand-new retail units.