Refurbished Late 2013 27-Inch iMac Models Now Available in Apple's Online Store

I'm sure they have plentiful stock of these models with all the returns they've taken from people unfairly complaining about yellowing and backlight bleed, color inconsistency in the imac forums here. :eek: But it's good these fantastic machines will find a happy home from a more appreciative owner.

Many companies use simplified inspection methods for reworked/repaired/refurbished products, often inspecting only that which was a known fault. I see this happen and I work in the medical device industry, so I find it hard to believe that it doesn't happen in the tech industry. Thus, the idea that Apple does "extra testing" for their refurbished products is very hard to believe. Rather, let's give them the generous assumption that they perform a complete inspection for refurbished goods, meaning there is no difference between inspection of new or refurbished products. And if that's the case, well... some people already get lemons.

Now, I have complete faith in Apple's inspection methods, but inspections are not fool-proof. Furthermore, inspections are typically designed to identify known faults. A faulty system that previously passed inspection may suffer additional systemic problems that simply won't be identified by additional inspection. And that's why I'll never buy a refurbished machine that I need to depend on.

I always hear how Apple refurbished machines are "rigorously tested," but does anyone have any proof that they are subject to any additional testing beyond standard production machines?

I've *never* seen a refurbished Mac come DOA. Seen plenty of new ones DOA though :P. Refurbs got through a ridiculous amount of testing - same as when you have, for example, your logic board replaced. It doesn't just test faults, it tests all functionality.

The only risk you're taking IMO with refurbs is minor cosmetic imperfections. If they're big/noticeable, the casing will probably have been replaced, but if they're small/in an awkward position they may have been overlooked. Even then, it's not really a risk since you can return it anyway.

both iMacs with $330 and $410 discounts are sold-out already :D