Looking to buy the latest Mac Mini (M4 or M4 Pro) but want to avoid paying full price? Here are some lesser-known tips to help you score the best deal possible!

1. Shop Apple’s Refurbished Store

Apple’s official refurbished store often lists the latest Mac Mini models at a discount. These units are tested, certified, and come with a full warranty just like new. Inventory changes frequently, so check back often and act fast when you see the model you want. Refurbished Macs are a great way to get near-new hardware with significant savings, and you can even add AppleCare for extra peace of mind.

2. Wait for Major Sales Events

Big sales like Black Friday, Back to School, and Amazon Prime Day can bring rare discounts on Apple hardware. Set alerts and be ready to buy quickly, as Mac Mini deals tend to sell out fast. Consider signing up for retailer newsletters to get early access to deals. If you miss a sale, keep an eye out for flash deals or clearance events, which sometimes pop up unexpectedly.

3. Check Authorized Resellers

Retailers like Best Buy, B&H, and Adorama sometimes offer exclusive bundles or instant rebates. Compare prices across these sites and look for open-box or clearance deals for extra savings. Some resellers also offer financing options or bundle accessories, which can add value to your purchase.

4. Leverage Student & Education Discounts

If you’re a student, teacher, or work in education, Apple’s Education Store offers special pricing on Mac Mini models. You may need to verify your status, but the savings are worth it. Combine education pricing with other offers, like discounted gift cards or trade-ins, for even bigger discounts. Some universities also have their own Apple deals, so check with your campus tech store.

5. Use Discounted Apple Gift Cards

Here’s a pro tip: buy discounted Apple Gift Cards from CardCherry before making your purchase. CardCherry is a gift card discounts comparison tool that finds the best deals across resellers, offering up to 10% off Apple Gift Cards. For a $499 Mac Mini, that’s almost $50 in savings instantly! You can stack these savings with other offers, and gift cards work for both online and in-store purchases. Always check CardCherry for the latest rates before you buy.

6. Trade-In Your Old Device

Apple and other retailers offer trade-in programs. Get a quote for your old Mac, iPad, or even PC and apply the value toward your new Mac Mini. The process is simple: answer a few questions online, ship your device, and get credit once it’s received. Apple’s trade-in program is reliable, but compare offers from other retailers for the best value. Trading in can make upgrading much more affordable.

7. Stack Cashback & Rewards

Use a cashback portal like Rakuten or TopCashback and a rewards credit card to earn extra savings on your purchase. Some cards offer bonus points for electronics or Apple purchases, and cashback portals often run special promotions. Always start your shopping journey through a portal and pay with a card that maximizes your rewards. These savings can add up quickly, especially on big-ticket items like the Mac Mini.

8. Monitor Price Trackers

Set up alerts on sites like Honey, CamelCamelCamel, or Slickdeals to get notified when prices drop or new deals appear. These tools can help you spot short-lived discounts and track historical pricing trends. Use browser extensions to automate alerts and never miss a deal. Price trackers are especially useful for monitoring authorized resellers and Amazon listings.

Bonus Tip: Always check for student, military, or corporate discounts before you buy. And don’t forget to use discounted Apple Gift Cards from CardCherry for an easy, risk-free way to save up to 10%! Combine multiple strategies for maximum savings and enjoy your new Mac Mini at the best possible price.

Happy deal hunting!