KEY TAKEAWAYS
- In an October 2026 illustration, a refurbished Apple silicon MacBook (Human-I-T’s $589.99 Get it Done Pro Apple Laptop, M1 or M2) costs $15.99 to $159.99 more over four years than a new Chromebook Plus ($399 to $449 on sale at Best Buy), with no protection plan and when both devices land in the same resale case (both low or both high).
- With protection plans on both (AppleCare+ at $84.99 a year, a stand-in price; a 4-year Geek Squad plan at $219.99 to $229.99), the same matched cases put the MacBook between $33.04 cheaper and $120.96 more expensive.
- The MacBook costs $140.99 to $190.99 more upfront; resale shrinks that gap. A used 2020 M1 MacBook Air averages $369 to $384 per sale on Swappa, while ValueSnap, a reseller, estimates a $300 Chromebook is worth $50 to $100 used.
- macOS 27 Golden Gate runs only on Apple silicon Macs. Four Chromebook Plus families on Google’s list show Auto Update Expiration (AUE) dates, the end date for updates, from June 2032 to June 2035.
- A Chromebook is enough for most K-12 schoolwork. Several college IT departments (for example Christopher Newport, Western Carolina, and Rowan) discourage Chromebooks, and some engineering programs require Windows.
A $400 Chromebook looks far cheaper than a $590 refurbished MacBook. Over four years, resale value, protection plans, battery service, and software limits can shrink that gap.
This post models the four-year cost of a refurbished Apple silicon MacBook (M1 or newer) versus a new Chromebook, for students and families, including high schoolers who cannot use Apple’s education pricing. Chromebook Plus is a Google-defined tier with at least 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage (Google). Auto Update Expiration (AUE) is the date after which a ChromeOS device gets no more OS, browser, or security updates. It does not rank sellers, list individual store products, or cover Windows laptops except where a major requires one. All totals are illustrations from published prices and market data, not quotes or guarantees.
Table of Contents
- What does “four-year cost” include beyond the sticker price?
- What does a refurbished MacBook cost to own over four years?
- What does a new Chromebook cost to own over four years?
- Is a refurbished MacBook worth it over a new Chromebook?
- What are the inputs?
- Scenario A: no protection plan (illustration, prices as of October 2026)
- Scenario B: protection plan on both (illustration, prices as of October 2026)
- What do the numbers show?
- How do used Mac and Chromebook resale values compare?
- Is a refurbished Mac as safe to buy as a new Chromebook?
- When does the Chromebook still win?
- How old of a MacBook can I buy and still get macOS updates?
- Will a new Chromebook still get updates and run school software through year four?
- Chromebook vs. MacBook: which is better for students?
- Which college majors need a Mac or Windows laptop instead of a Chromebook?
- Decision framework: refurbished MacBook or new Chromebook?
- Frequently asked questions
- How much is a refurbished MacBook Air in 2026 compared to a new Chromebook?
- Is a refurbished MacBook cheaper than a Chromebook over four years?
- Does a Chromebook Plus really get 10 years of updates?
- How long will an M1 MacBook Air get macOS updates?
- How much does a MacBook Air battery replacement cost?
- What warranty comes with an Apple refurbished MacBook?
- Can my high schooler use a personal Chromebook for the SAT?
- Is a Chromebook good enough for college?
- Sources
What does “four-year cost” include beyond the sticker price?
Four-year total cost of ownership is the purchase price, plus protection, battery, repair, and software costs, minus the device’s value at year four. This post uses those six components, in order, for both devices. Accessories are excluded because they vary by student and are optional on both.
AppleCare+ is Apple’s paid protection plan. It costs $84.99 per year for a refurbished 15-inch MacBook Air M4 (Apple); our sources list no price for M1 or M2 models. Accidental Geek Squad Protection is Best Buy’s accident-coverage plan; its 4-year plans on three Chromebooks cost $129.99 to $229.99 (Best Buy, October 9, 2026).
The usual objection is “a Chromebook is cheaper, so it wins.” The largest swing factor is year-four resale: a roughly six-year-old 2020 M1 MacBook Air averaged $383 to $384 per sale on Swappa (October 9, 2026), while ValueSnap estimates a Chromebook is worth far less (ValueSnap, July 2026). These are reseller and marketplace data, not manufacturer figures.
What does a refurbished MacBook cost to own over four years?
Human-I-T’s refurbished M1 or M2 MacBook is $589.99, and Apple’s lowest-priced refurbished MacBook Air was $1,019 on October 9, 2026. Without a plan, budget $159 for one battery service. Resale data for a used M1 MacBook Air runs $190 to $384.
MacBook purchase price
- Human-I-T’s Get it Done Pro Apple Laptop (Apple silicon M1 or M2, 8 GB+ RAM, 256 GB+ SSD) is $589.99 standard or $549.99 at the Gold Member rate (Human-I-T, verified August 2026; check the store for current prices).
- Apple’s refurbished store listed a MacBook Air from $1,019 (a 15-inch M4, reduced from $1,099) and a refurbished MacBook Neo (A18 Pro chip) at $599 (Apple, October 9, 2026).
- Used 2020 M1 MacBook Airs, not refurbished units, averaged $369 to $458 per sale depending on storage (Swappa, Swappa blog, September and October 2026).
For a refurbished Mac with a warranty and support included, see Human-I-T’s affordable MacBook for students options.
MacBook warranty and protection
All three major refurbished channels include a one-year warranty:
| Refurbisher | Warranty | Returns | Battery promise | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple Certified Refurbished | 1 year | 14 days | No battery percentage published for Macs | Apple |
| Back Market | 1 year (from the seller) | 30 days | At least 85% of original capacity for laptops | Back Market |
| Human-I-T Get it Done | 1 year | 60 days | No battery percentage published | Human-I-T |
Human-I-T includes 1 year of free tech support with every computer purchase (Human-I-T). Back Market’s warranty excludes drops, liquid damage, and normal battery decline (Back Market). Human-I-T replaces a device that fails from a hardware defect with a same-or-better device, and accidental damage may make a device ineligible (Human-I-T).
MacBook battery service
As of October 2026, out-of-warranty battery service for an M1 or M2 (2022) MacBook Air costs $159, and $159 to $199 for other Air models; Apple sets the final fee on inspection. Under AppleCare+, it is $0 when capacity drops below 80%. AppleCare+ fees are $99 for screen or enclosure damage and $299 for other accidental damage (Apple). That gives two paths: pay $159 once, or pay $84.99 per year for AppleCare+, which makes battery service $0. For care tips, see our guide to caring for a refurbished laptop.
MacBook repairs and software
Our sources include no out-of-warranty accidental-damage price for a MacBook Air and no damage-rate data, so repairs are excluded. The no-plan path could cost much more than shown if damage happens.
Microsoft says the Windows and Mac desktop versions of Microsoft 365 cannot be installed on a Chromebook, so a Mac is the option here that can use them. Microsoft 365 Personal costs $99.99 per year (Microsoft) on either device, so it is left out of the totals.
MacBook year-four resale value
No source can say what an M1 or M2 MacBook will sell for in 2030. Today’s used 2020 M1 MacBook Air market is the best proxy (market data, not official figures):
- $369 to $384 average sale (Swappa, September to October 2026).
- Trade-in quotes of $190 to $416, with a $250 median. Apple Trade In offered a maximum of $190 for a 13-inch M1 Air with 8 GB/256 GB (Macfax, May 2026 data).
- $220 to $290 in four r/AppleSwap owner listings marked sold, August to October 2026 ($220, $250, $275 bundle, $290). These are listed, not final, prices.
What does a new Chromebook cost to own over four years?
As of October 2026, Best Buy sale prices ran from about $289 for an 8 GB non-Plus Chromebook to $399 to $449 for a Chromebook Plus. A 4-year protection plan adds $129.99 to $229.99. Manufacturer warranties start at one year. Resale at year four is estimated at $0 to $100.
Chromebook purchase price
- A new Chromebook Plus sold for $399 to $449 at Best Buy on October 9, 2026, during the “Techtober” sale that ends October 11 (HP 14-inch Chromebook Plus, Acer Chromebook Plus 516).
- An 8 GB non-Plus Chromebook sold for $289 on sale (Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 Chromebook).
Chromebook warranty and protection
HP lists a 1-year limited hardware warranty for the Chromebook Plus 14c-na0003dx (HP), and Acer lists one year for Chromebooks generally (Acer). Lenovo lists 1-year base options, with 2- and 3-year options on some configurations, without saying which applies to Best Buy’s model (Lenovo PSREF).
Best Buy’s 4-year Accidental Geek Squad Protection cost $129.99 on the $289 Lenovo, $219.99 on the $399 HP, and $229.99 on the $449 Acer on October 9, 2026. District plans for school-issued devices cost far less: $27.95 per year at Central Dauphin ($25 plus a $2.95 fee) and $40 at Western Placer for 2026-27.
Chromebook battery service and repairs
Our sources include no consumer battery price, repair price, or damage-rate data for a retail Chromebook Plus, so both are excluded. For reference only, one district charges $90 for a Lenovo 500e battery (Upper St. Clair), a district fee, not a retail price.
Chromebook software
Microsoft 365 on a Chromebook means web apps only. The desktop versions cannot be installed, and the Android versions are “not currently supported on a Chromebook” (Microsoft).
Chromebook year-four resale value
Estimated resale at year four is near zero (a reseller estimate and owner reports, not official figures):
- ValueSnap estimates $50 to $100 used and $0 to $30 on trade-in for a Chromebook that cost $300 new in 2022 (ValueSnap, July 2026).
- One owner reported “the used market is flooded right now” (Reddit r/chromeos, February 2025).
- Best Buy offers recycling instead of a payout for items with no trade-in value (Best Buy). You can also donate or recycle an old computer through Human-I-T.
Is a refurbished MacBook worth it over a new Chromebook?
Usually it costs a little more, and the gap depends on resale value. A refurbished MacBook costs $140.99 to $190.99 more upfront. After four years and resale, it costs $15.99 to $159.99 more without protection plans, and from $33.04 less to $120.96 more with plans on both, when both devices land in the same resale case.
What are the inputs?
- MacBook: Human-I-T’s $589.99 Get it Done Pro Apple Laptop (M1 or M2), used as the example; other sellers charge different prices. Resale: $190 (low, Apple Trade In maximum) to $384 (high, Swappa average).
- Chromebook Plus: $399 to $449 (Best Buy sale prices, October 9, 2026). Resale: $0 (low, trade-in) to $100 (high, ValueSnap estimate).
- Not symmetric: the MacBook no-plan path includes one $159 battery service, but the Chromebook path has no battery cost because our sources have no retail price. This makes the Chromebook look somewhat cheaper than it may be.
Scenario A: no protection plan (illustration, prices as of October 2026)
| Cost line | Refurbished MacBook | New Chromebook Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase price | $589.99 | $399.00 to $449.00 |
| Protection plan | $0 | $0 |
| Battery service | $159.00 (one service, assumed) | Excluded (no price) |
| Repairs and software | Excluded | Excluded |
| Subtotal | $748.99 | $399.00 to $449.00 |
| Minus year-four resale | $190.00 to $384.00 | $0 to $100.00 |
| Net four-year cost | $364.99 to $558.99 | $299.00 to $449.00 |
Matched by resale case, the MacBook costs $109.99 to $159.99 more if both devices get low resale value ($558.99 vs. $399 to $449). It costs $15.99 to $65.99 more if both get high resale value ($364.99 vs. $299 to $349).
Scenario B: protection plan on both (illustration, prices as of October 2026)
| Cost line | Refurbished MacBook | New Chromebook Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase price | $589.99 | $399.00 to $449.00 |
| Protection plan | $339.96 (AppleCare+, 4 × $84.99) | $219.99 to $229.99 (4-year Geek Squad) |
| Battery service | $0 (AppleCare+ covers below 80% capacity) | Excluded (plan terms not in our sources) |
| Repairs and software | Excluded | Excluded |
| Subtotal | $929.95 | $618.99 to $678.99 |
| Minus year-four resale | $190.00 to $384.00 | $0 to $100.00 |
| Net four-year cost | $545.95 to $739.95 | $518.99 to $678.99 |
Matched by resale case, the MacBook costs $60.96 to $120.96 more with low resale ($739.95 vs. $618.99 to $678.99). With high resale, the result ranges from the MacBook costing $33.04 less (vs. the $449 Chromebook Plus) to $26.96 more (vs. the $399 model). The $84.99 AppleCare+ price is a stand-in from a 15-inch M4 listing.
What do the numbers show?
In every matched case, the net four-year gap is smaller than the sticker gap, and in one case (plans on both, high resale, the $449 Chromebook Plus) the MacBook comes out ahead. Mismatched cases do not hold: a MacBook at low resale against a Chromebook at high resale costs $259.99 more with no plans. An M1 or M2 bought in 2026 will be older than today’s six-year-old M1s when sold in 2030, so its value may be lower. Gold Member pricing ($549.99) lowers every MacBook total by $40. To compare refurbished Mac options, see Human-I-T’s affordable MacBook for students page.
How do used Mac and Chromebook resale values compare?
The 2020 M1 MacBook Air (256 GB) sold for an average of $369 against its $999 launch price, about 63% below launch, and the 2022 M2 Air for $626 against $1,199, about 48% below (Swappa blog, September 25, 2026). A $300 Chromebook worth $50 to $100 after about four years has lost roughly 67% to 83% of its price (ValueSnap estimate).
Is a refurbished Mac as safe to buy as a new Chromebook?
On warranty terms, yes. Refurbished Macs from Apple, Back Market, and Human-I-T all carry a one-year warranty, as do HP and Acer Chromebooks (Lenovo lists one to three years by configuration). Human-I-T’s 60-day return window is longer than Apple’s 14 days (Human-I-T, Apple). For what to check before you buy, see our guide on whether refurbished laptops are worth it.
When does the Chromebook still win?
The Chromebook is the better buy for a K-12 student whose school issues the testing device and who never needs a desktop app, because the core school platforms run in a browser. Human-I-T’s Get it Done Chromebook, a different class of device from the Chromebook Plus modeled above, costs $149.99 standard or $104.99 at the Gold Member rate, with a guaranteed AUE of 2027 or later (Human-I-T, price checked October 9, 2026). See the refurbished Chromebook with a guaranteed AUE of 2027 or later. That AUE would not cover a full four-year window, so it fits short-term or younger-student use best.
How old of a MacBook can I buy and still get macOS updates?
Buy an Apple silicon MacBook: M1 (2020) or newer. macOS 27 Golden Gate, released September 14, 2026, runs on no Intel Mac. The oldest supported laptops are the MacBook Air (M1, 2020) and MacBook Pro (13-inch, M1, 2020) (Apple Support, Apple). For help choosing a model, read our ultimate guide to buying a used MacBook on a budget.
Why do Intel MacBooks fall short for four years of updates?
The 2020 Intel MacBook Air tops out at macOS Sequoia, and the 2018 and 2019 Airs at Sonoma (Apple Support). Only two Intel MacBook Pros, the 16-inch 2019 and the 13-inch 2020 with four Thunderbolt 3 ports, reach macOS Tahoe 26 (compatibility list, Identify your MacBook Pro).
How long does Apple support older Macs?
Apple publishes no fixed number of years of support. It says it offers security updates to the previous major version “for a period of time” (Apple). The release history shows a pattern, not a promise: Golden Gate 27.0.1, Tahoe 26.7.1, and Sequoia 15.8.1 were all released September 28, 2026, and Sonoma’s latest, 14.8.9, on August 6, 2026 (Apple security releases).
For repairs, Apple offers service and parts for at least 5 years after it last sold a product, and up to 7 years subject to parts availability. Products are vintage 5 to 7 years after sales stop and obsolete after 7 years, when hardware service ends; Mac laptops may get battery-only repair for up to 10 years. The 2019 and 2020 Intel MacBook Air models are already on the vintage list (Apple, page checked October 9, 2026).
Will a new Chromebook still get updates and run school software through year four?
For current Chromebook Plus models on Google’s list, updates last past 2030. Check the exact model, because Google counts 10 years of updates from the platform release date, not the purchase date (Google). Software compatibility can matter more than updates.
What are current Chromebook Plus update dates?
As of October 2026, four Chromebook Plus families on Google’s Auto Update policy list show these AUE dates (model-family rows):
| Chromebook Plus family | AUE date |
|---|---|
| ASUS Chromebook Plus CX34 | June 2032 |
| Acer Chromebook Plus 516 | June 2033 |
| HP Chromebook Plus 14 inch | June 2035 |
| ASUS Chromebook Plus CX14 | June 2035 |
How do I check a Chromebook’s AUE date before I buy?
- Look up the exact model on Google’s Auto Update policy list.
- On the device, open the time at the bottom right, then Settings.
- Go to About ChromeOS, then Additional details.
- Read the “Update schedule” section (Google).
Which testing software works on a Chromebook?
Bluebook, the College Board app for the SAT, PSAT, and AP Exams, runs on Windows or Mac devices, iPads, and school-managed Chromebooks, not on a personal Chromebook (College Board). For 2026-27, a Chromebook needs ChromeOS 144 or higher and verified mode enabled by the school’s admin console (College Board). For school-day tests, the school decides whether personal devices are allowed (College Board).
Do proctoring tools and Microsoft 365 web apps work on a Chromebook?
Proctoring varies by college. Respondus LockDown Browser and Monitor support ChromeOS (Respondus, July 1, 2026), and the University of Arkansas allows Chromebooks by default through a Chrome extension (Arkansas, March 4, 2026). The University of Houston warns that Chromebooks “may not meet the requirements for proctored exams and are therefore not recommended” (UH).
Word for the web lacks macros, mail merge, citations, bibliography, section breaks, and offline viewing and editing (Microsoft, March 27, 2026). Students with an eligible education email address can get Office 365 A1, Microsoft’s free education plan, for free (Microsoft).
Chromebook vs. MacBook: which is better for students?
It depends on grade level and required software more than brand. A Chromebook is sufficient for K-12 because Google Workspace, Meet, Zoom, Canvas, and Schoology run in a browser. For college, a MacBook is accepted at more programs than a Chromebook, but not at Windows-only programs. Google Workspace for Education is entirely web-based (Google). One district, Davis Joint Unified School District, sets a minimum of 4 GB RAM and 16 GB storage for student-provided Chromebooks (Davis JUSD).
| Student tier | Chromebook | Refurbished Apple silicon MacBook |
|---|---|---|
| K-12 | Sufficient for browser-based schoolwork | Works, but often more than needed |
| College, general | Some IT departments discourage or reject it | Many general programs accept Windows 11 or macOS |
| College, demanding majors | Not supported by most required desktop software | Accepted at some programs; rejected at Windows-only programs |
For a K-12 student, a refurbished Chromebook with a guaranteed AUE of 2027 or later can cover browser-based schoolwork at low cost.
What do college IT departments say about Chromebooks?
As of October 2026 (or academic year 2026-27):
- Rowan University: “We recommend that you not use a Chromebook” (Rowan IRT).
- Christopher Newport University: Chromebooks “are not supported nor suggested” (CNU ITS, July 27, 2026).
- Western Carolina University: Chromebooks “do not meet the university’s laptop requirement” (WCU IT).
- Western University of Health Sciences: Chromebooks do not meet minimum requirements and will not run required software such as ExamSoft (WesternU IT).
- Temple University: Chromebooks are “not a replacement for a PC or Mac,” with an exception for the College of Education and Human Development (Temple ITS).
Why does refurbished help high schoolers?
Apple’s education store excludes K-12 students (Apple), and ID.me student verification requires age 18 or older (ID.me). Apple Certified Refurbished and Back Market sell to anyone at the listed price. Human-I-T also sells to anyone, and eligible households can get Gold Member pricing on low-cost devices for eligible households; see the Gold Member eligibility requirements.
Does a K-12 student need a Mac “just in case”?
Often not. Some districts issue their own Chromebooks on four-year refresh cycles: Madison Metropolitan School District’s board was asked on April 27, 2026 to approve 4,200 Chromebooks under its “established four-year technology refresh cycle” (MMSD), and Richland School District’s Technology Plan 2026-2027 plans devices that “will remain in use for four years.”
Which college majors need a Mac or Windows laptop instead of a Chromebook?
Engineering, architecture, business and accounting, design and media, computer science, and some health-sciences programs need Windows or macOS. ChromeOS is not listed as a supported platform for AutoCAD 2027, Revit 2027, Adobe Premiere, Visual Studio 2026, desktop MATLAB, or Xcode.
Which software does not install on a Chromebook?
As of October 2026:
- AutoCAD 2027: Windows 11 and macOS only (Autodesk).
- Revit 2027: Windows 11 only; Macs need a Windows 11 virtual machine (Autodesk).
- Adobe Premiere: Windows and macOS, no ChromeOS entry (Adobe, October 7, 2026).
- Visual Studio 2026: 64-bit Windows 11 and Windows Server only (Microsoft Learn).
- MATLAB R2026b: Windows, Mac, and Linux (MathWorks).
- Xcode: macOS only (Apple Developer).
Which majors do not accept a MacBook?
- Virginia Tech College of Engineering: Windows 11 only; “MacOS, Chrome OS, and mobile OS’s such as iOS/Android not supported” (Virginia Tech).
- UT Austin Mechanical Engineering: “required software for courses will NOT run under MacOS” (UT Austin).
- UC Riverside Bourns College of Engineering: Apple M-series chips are “not recommended” (UCR).
- Ohio State College of Engineering: does not support or recommend Chromebook or Mac OS laptops (Ohio State).
- Business schools: Rowan strongly recommends Windows (Rowan), CNU business majors need Windows for Microsoft Access (CNU), and WCU’s School of Business requires it (WCU).
If your program requires Windows, see Human-I-T’s refurbished Windows laptops.
Where is a MacBook the stronger choice?
A MacBook is the stronger choice for iOS and Mac app development, since Xcode installs only on macOS. Many general-purpose college programs accept Windows 11 or macOS, such as the University of Denver and the University of Iowa (campus-wide guidance). University of Washington Engineering accepts Apple M1 or newer Macs (macOS 13+), with virtualization needed for Windows software (UW).
What are the limits of browser versions?
MATLAB Online does not support MATLAB Compiler, MEX builds, Windows-specific components like COM, or uploads over 256 MB (MathWorks). Fusion in a browser requires a commercial or verified education entitlement (Autodesk, September 30, 2026). Microsoft 365 web lacks macros, mail merge, citations, and offline editing, as noted above.
Decision framework: refurbished MacBook or new Chromebook?
Figures are as of October 2026 unless noted; Human-I-T store prices were verified August 2026.
| Decision variable | Refurbished Apple silicon MacBook (M1 or newer) | New Chromebook (Chromebook Plus or 8 GB non-Plus) |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront purchase tier | $369 to $384 used M1 MacBook Air on Swappa (average sale); $589.99 Human-I-T refurbished M1/M2; $1,019 and up for a MacBook Air from Apple’s refurbished store (MacBook Neo: $599) | About $289 (8 GB non-Plus, sale) to $399 to $449 (Chromebook Plus, sale); other Chromebook Plus models at Best Buy listed from about $483 to $774.99 |
| Update coverage through year four | macOS 27 supports M1 (2020) and newer; Intel MacBooks capped at older macOS versions | Four Chromebook Plus families show AUE dates of June 2032 to June 2035; check each model |
| Warranty and protection cost | 1-year refurbisher warranty; AppleCare+ $84.99/yr (15-inch M4 price, check your model); battery $0 under plan or $159 out of warranty | 1-year warranty on HP and Acer; Lenovo 1 to 3 years by model; Geek Squad 4-year plan $129.99 to $229.99; district plans $25 to $40/yr for school-issued devices |
| Expected value at year four (market data) | Used 2020 M1 Air today: $190 (Apple Trade In max) to $250 median trade-in; $369 to $384 Swappa sale | $0 to $30 trade-in; $50 to $100 estimated resale for a $300 model; Best Buy recycles items with no trade-in value |
| Software compatibility | Desktop Microsoft 365, Bluebook on a personal device, Xcode, Premiere, AutoCAD for Mac; blocked at Windows-only programs | Web-only Microsoft 365; Bluebook only on school-managed units; no AutoCAD, Revit, Premiere, Visual Studio, desktop MATLAB, or Xcode |
| Rule-of-thumb threshold | Buy only Apple silicon (M1, 2020, or newer); no Intel MacBook for a four-year horizon | For a four-year horizon, buy only if the AUE date is at least four years past the purchase date (2031 or later when buying in October 2026) and no required course software is desktop-only |
Frequently asked questions
How much is a refurbished MacBook Air in 2026 compared to a new Chromebook?
In October 2026, a used M1 MacBook Air averaged $369 to $384 per sale on Swappa, Human-I-T’s refurbished M1/M2 MacBook was $589.99, and Apple’s cheapest refurbished MacBook Air was $1,019. A new Chromebook Plus sold for $399 to $449 on sale at Best Buy, and an 8 GB non-Plus model for $289.
Is a refurbished MacBook cheaper than a Chromebook over four years?
Usually not, but the gap is small. In our illustration, the MacBook’s net four-year cost was $15.99 to $159.99 higher without protection plans, and from $33.04 lower to $120.96 higher with plans on both, when both devices land in the same resale case.
Does a Chromebook Plus really get 10 years of updates?
Google counts 10 years of updates from the platform release date, not the purchase date. Four Chromebook Plus families on Google’s list show end dates from June 2032 to June 2035.
How long will an M1 MacBook Air get macOS updates?
The MacBook Air (M1, 2020) is supported by macOS 27 Golden Gate, released in September 2026. Apple does not publish a fixed support term, and recent update history is not a promise.
How much does a MacBook Air battery replacement cost?
Apple charges $159 for out-of-warranty battery service on an M1 or M2 (2022) MacBook Air, and $159 to $199 on other Air models. With AppleCare+, it is $0 when capacity drops below 80%.
What warranty comes with an Apple refurbished MacBook?
Apple Certified Refurbished Macs include a one-year limited warranty and a 14-day return window. Apple publishes no battery-health percentage for refurbished Macs. AppleCare+ is $84.99 per year for a refurbished 15-inch MacBook Air M4; check the price for your model.
Can my high schooler use a personal Chromebook for the SAT?
No. Bluebook runs on Windows or Mac computers, iPads, and school-managed Chromebooks, but not on a personal Chromebook. For school-day tests, the school decides whether personal devices are allowed.
Is a Chromebook good enough for college?
It depends on the college and major. Rowan, Christopher Newport, Western Carolina, and WesternU IT departments discourage or reject Chromebooks, and engineering programs such as Virginia Tech’s require Windows. Check your college’s laptop requirements before you buy.
Sources
- Apple, “Refurbished Mac” (MacBook Air), https://www.apple.com/shop/refurbished/mac/macbook-air
- Apple, “Refurbished 15-inch MacBook Air Apple M4” product page, https://www.apple.com/shop/product/fc7a4ll/a/Refurbished-15-inch-MacBook-Air-Apple-M4-chip-with-10%E2%80%91Core-CPU-and-10%E2%80%91Core-GPU-Sky-Blue
- Apple, “Apple Certified Refurbished” (about page), https://www.apple.com/shop/refurbished/about
- Apple, “Returns and Refunds,” https://www.apple.com/shop/help/returns_refund
- Apple, “Apple Service and Repair for Mac Laptops,” https://support.apple.com/mac-laptops/repair?services=service
- Apple Support, “macOS 27 Golden Gate is compatible with these computers,” https://support.apple.com/en-us/127255
- Apple, “macOS,” https://www.apple.com/os/macos/
- Apple Support, “Identify your MacBook Air,” https://support.apple.com/en-us/102869
- Apple Support, “Identify your MacBook Pro,” https://support.apple.com/en-us/108052
- Apple Support, “macOS Tahoe 26 is compatible with these computers,” https://support.apple.com/en-us/122867
- Apple Support, “About Apple software updates,” https://support.apple.com/en-us/125039
- Apple Support, “Apple security releases,” https://support.apple.com/en-us/100100
- Apple Support, “Vintage and obsolete products,” https://support.apple.com/en-us/102772
- Apple Developer, “Xcode system requirements,” https://developer.apple.com/xcode/system-requirements/
- Apple, “Back to School Terms and Conditions” (Apple Education), https://www.apple.com/us-edu/shop/back-to-school/terms-conditions
- Human-I-T Store, “Get it Done Pro Apple Laptop,” https://store.human-i-t.org/connect-home-usa/get-it-done-pro-apple-laptop/
- Human-I-T Store, “Get it Done Chromebook Laptop,” https://store.human-i-t.org/basic-chromebook-laptop/
- Human-I-T Store, “Warranty & Returns,” https://store.human-i-t.org/warranty
- Human-I-T Store, “Returns,” https://store.human-i-t.org/returns
- Back Market, “How long can I expect my battery to last?,” https://help.backmarket.com/hc/en-us/articles/360026656374-How-long-can-I-expect-my-battery-to-last
- Back Market, “How does the 1-year limited warranty work?,” https://help.backmarket.com/hc/en-us/articles/360010237699-How-does-the-1-year-limited-warranty-work
- Back Market, “What if I change my mind about the item within the first 30 days?,” https://help.backmarket.com/hc/en-us/articles/360031517873-What-if-I-change-my-mind-about-the-item-within-the-first-30-days
- Swappa, “MacBook Air 2020 13-inch prices,” https://swappa.com/prices/macbook-air-2020-13
- Swappa blog, “When will MacBook prices drop?,” https://swappa.com/blog/when-will-macbook-prices-drop/
- Macfax, “How much is a used MacBook Air worth in 2026,” https://macfax.com/blog/how-much-is-a-used-macbook-air-worth-in-2026
- Reddit r/AppleSwap, owner listings marked sold (August to October 2026), https://old.reddit.com/r/appleswap/comments/1wvyj4l/, https://old.reddit.com/r/appleswap/comments/1wvk59j/, https://old.reddit.com/r/appleswap/comments/1veyzs0/, https://old.reddit.com/r/appleswap/comments/1w9goe8/
- ValueSnap, “Laptop trade-in value,” https://www.valuesnap.io/blog/laptop-trade-in-value
- Reddit r/chromeos, owner thread on Chromebook trade-in (February 2025), https://old.reddit.com/r/chromeos/comments/1izmom0/
- Best Buy, “Trade-In FAQs,” https://www.bestbuy.com/site/best-buy-trade-in/trade-in-faqs/pcmcat257100050022.c?id=pcmcat257100050022
- Best Buy, HP 14″ 2K Touchscreen Chromebook Plus product page, https://www.bestbuy.com/product/hp-14-2k-touchscreen-chromebook-plus-intel-core-3-n355-8gb-memory-128gb-storage-glacier-silver/JJGWKYQQL7
- Best Buy, Acer Chromebook Plus 516 product page, https://www.bestbuy.com/product/acer-chromebook-plus-516-laptop-16-wuxga-display-intel-i3-1315u-8gb-memory-128gb-storage-wi-fi-6e-google-ai-steel-gray/JJ8V8H3CK9/sku/6618158
- Best Buy, Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 Chromebook product page, https://www.bestbuy.com/product/lenovo-ideapad-slim-3-chromebook-14-2k-touchscreen-laptop-mediatek-kompanio-540-2026-8gb-memory-128gb-storage-cosmic-blue/JJGH3QXZZV/sku/6673809
- Best Buy, “chromebook plus” search results, https://www.bestbuy.com/site/searchpage.jsp?st=chromebook+plus
- Google, “Chromebook Plus,” https://www.google.com/intl/en_us/chromebook/chromebookplus
- Google Chrome Enterprise and Education Help, “Auto Update policy,” https://support.google.com/chrome/a/answer/6220366
- Google Chromebook Help, “Check your Chromebook’s update schedule,” https://support.google.com/chromebook/answer/9367166
- HP, “HP Chromebook Plus 14 inch 14c-na0003dx” datasheet, https://files.bbystatic.com/jcwoTd2lC83S2UVSIGViiA%3D%3D/80dbed34-be08-43b1-90bc-0683e7ab661a
- Acer United States, “Limited Warranty,” https://www.acer.com/us-en/support/warranty/limited-warranty
- Lenovo, PSREF “Lenovo Chrome 14M8911,” https://psref.lenovo.com/Product/Lenovo/Lenovo_Chrome_14M8911
- Upper St. Clair School District, “Student Device Repair Costs 2025-26 School Year,” https://support.uscsd.k12.pa.us/kb/article/785-student-device-repair-costs-2025-26-school-year/1/
- Central Dauphin School District, “Student Device Protection,” https://www.cdschools.org/administration/technology/device-insurance/student-device-protection
- Western Placer Unified School District, “Chromebook Service Plan,” https://www.wpusd.org/departments/administrative-services/it/chromebook-service-plan
- Microsoft, “Compare Microsoft 365 Plans & Pricing,” https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/buy/compare-all-microsoft-365-products
- Microsoft Support, “How to access Microsoft 365 on a Chromebook,” https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/lifecycle/how-to-access-microsoft-365-on-a-chromebook
- Microsoft Support, “Word Features Comparison: Word for the web vs Desktop,” https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/word/word-features-comparison-word-for-the-web-vs-desktop
- Microsoft Education, “Free Microsoft Office 365 for Schools,” https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/education/products/office
- Microsoft Learn, “Visual Studio 2026 System Requirements,” https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/visualstudio/releases/2026/vs-system-requirements
- College Board, “Approved Devices,” https://bluebook.collegeboard.org/students/prepare-your-device/approved-devices
- College Board, “Chromebook Requirements,” https://bluebook.collegeboard.org/technology/devices/requirements/chromebook
- College Board, “Prepare Your Device,” https://bluebook.collegeboard.org/students/prepare-your-device
- Respondus, “What are the system requirements for Respondus Monitor?,” https://support.respondus.com/hc/en-us/articles/4409604102171-What-are-the-system-requirements-for-Respondus-Monitor
- University of Arkansas, Blackboard Help for Students, “You can use your Chromebook or iPad to take LockDown Browser Exams,” https://bbhelp.uark.edu/chromebook-ipad-lockdown-browser/
- University of Houston Information Technology, “Computer Recommendations,” https://www.uh.edu/infotech/about/planning/off-campus/computer-recommendations/index.php
- Rowan University IRT, “Student Laptop,” https://irt.rowan.edu/starting/students/laptop/
- Christopher Newport University ITS, “Student Laptop Requirements,” https://cnu.edu/its/laptop.html
- Western Carolina University IT, “Student Computer Purchasing,” https://www.wcu.edu/learn/academic-services/it/computer-guidelines/index.aspx
- WesternU IT Support, “WesternU Student Laptop Requirements,” https://support.westernu.edu/TDClient/1848/Portal/KB/Article/78200/WesternU-Student-Laptop-Requirements
- Temple University ITS, “Recommendations and Requirements,” https://its.temple.edu/shoppers-guide/recommendations-requirements
- ID.me, “Verify your Student status with ID.me for discounts,” https://help.id.me/hc/en-us/articles/204727210-Verify-your-Student-status-with-ID-me-for-discounts
- Madison Metropolitan School District, BOE Consent Agenda 2026-04-27, Chromebook 1:1 Refresh, https://go.boarddocs.com/wi/mmsd/Board.nsf/files/DT5QPG6A4184/%24file/BOE%20Consent%20Agenda%202026-04-27%20Chromebook%201_1%20Refresh_CDW.pdf
- Richland School District, “Technology Plan 2026-2027,” https://4.files.edl.io/5856/04/20/26/181821-ae75452a-5551-44ae-bd20-f06cfd342bee.pdf
- Autodesk, “System requirements for AutoCAD 2027 including Specialized Toolsets,” https://www.autodesk.com/support/technical/article/caas/sfdcarticles/sfdcarticles/System-requirements-for-AutoCAD-2027-including-Specialized-Toolsets.html
- Autodesk, “System requirements for Revit 2027 products,” https://www.autodesk.com/support/technical/article/caas/sfdcarticles/sfdcarticles/System-requirements-for-Revit-2027-products.html
- Autodesk, “System requirements for Autodesk Fusion,” https://www.autodesk.com/support/technical/article/caas/sfdcarticles/sfdcarticles/System-requirements-for-Autodesk-Fusion-360.html
- Adobe, “Adobe Premiere system requirements,” https://helpx.adobe.com/premiere/desktop/get-started/technical-requirements/adobe-premiere-pro-technical-requirements.html
- MathWorks, “MATLAB R2026b System Requirements,” https://www.mathworks.com/support/requirements/matlab-system-requirements.html
- MathWorks, “MATLAB Online Specifications and Limitations,” https://www.mathworks.com/products/matlab-online/limitations.html
- Virginia Tech College of Engineering, “Computer Requirement,” https://eng.vt.edu/undergraduate/computer-requirement.html
- UT Austin Mechanical Engineering, “Laptop Requirements,” https://me.utexas.edu/academics/undergraduate-program/laptop-requirements
- UC Riverside Bourns College of Engineering, “Computer Requirement,” https://student.engr.ucr.edu/policies/computer-requirement
- Ohio State ETS, “Hardware Recommendations for Students,” https://ets.osu.edu/hardware-recommendations-students
- University of Washington College of Engineering, “Technology Expectations,” https://www.engr.washington.edu/current/policies/technology-expectations
- University of Denver IT, “Laptops for Students,” https://www.du.edu/it/support/how-to/students/laptops
- University of Iowa ITS, “Suggested Computer Configurations for Students,” https://its.uiowa.edu/services/suggested-computer-configurations-students
- Google Workspace Admin Help, “Supported browsers,” https://support.google.com/a/answer/33864
- Davis Joint Unified School District, “New Expectations for Connectivity in Phased ReOpening,” https://cdnsm5-ss18.sharpschool.com/UserFiles/Servers/Server_117089/File/Departments/Instructional_Technology/Technology_Policies/New%20Expectations%20for%20Connectivity%20in%20Phased%20ReOpening.pdf
- Human-I-T, “Eligibility Requirements,” https://www.human-i-t.org/eligibility-requirements/
