It’s no wonder the iPod touch is a big hit: with its roomy touchscreen, ability to play movies, music, and programs from the App Store, full-featured web experience, and great looks, it’s a terrific device. But it’s not exactly cheap.
So, those who want one but are on a budget are always looking for new ways to score a cheap iPod touch.
IPod touches almost never go on sale or get discounted because Apple tightly controls the sales of iPods and there’s enough demand that prices stay high. As a result, you’re not very likely to find a really cheap iPod touch, but some strategies can help you find a cheap iPod touch and save some money.
Buy the Last Generation
You get a cheap iPod touch by buying an older model. If you know you’re going to be in the market for an iPod touch soon, check rumor websites and be patient. If you time your purchase just after new models are announced or released, you can get a deal.
Instead of buying the latest and greatest, buy the model that just got replaced. Retailers will still have inventory and may discount prices to clear space for the new models.
While this technique you may not get the latest model, you’ll still get a good, cheap iPod touch.
Buy Refurbished
Even if you want the latest model, you can get a cheap iPod touch by buying a refurbished model. Refurbished iPods carry Apple warranties and are generally as reliable as new ones (though you may want to buy an extended warranty). Though the discounts aren’t huge here, you’ll save some cash. Check the online Apple’s store for refurbished models.
Buy Used
Sometimes finding good deals requires looking somewhere other than Apple. Craigslist, eBay, and companies that specialize in used iPods can offer you good deals. The drawbacks here include that the iPods are used, don’t always have warranties, and, with an auction or classified ad, you might not get what you think you’re buying. Be sure to research the seller’s other transactions where possible. If you’re willing to take a little more risk, though, buying used is a sure bet for saving money.
Don’t Wait for Sales
Because of Apple’s control of iPod prices, and the popularity of the iPod, you’ll almost never see iPods on sale, so don’t look for a cheap iPod touch that way. Apple will occasionally discount iPods around the holiday season, but you’ll be lucky to save 20%. Given this, if you’re in the market for cheap iPods, take the other advice from in this article.
Know What You’re Buying
Saving money is good, but it’s only a savings if you get a model that does what you want. If you going to follow the advice in this article, make sure you understand the trade-offs you’re making. For instance, buying an older model means you may not get the latest and greatest hardware or software. So, before you buy, make sure you understand the plusses and minuses and are making an informed choice. If you do that, you’ll be happy to have both an iPod touch and some extra money.
