Deals: M3 MacBook Air at $500 off M4, Apple Watch Ultra bands up to 30% off, and more

The latest 9to5Toys Lunch Break is packed with significant savings across Apple's ecosystem, focusing on hardware that's still highly capable but now available at compelling prices. For those who don't need the absolute latest specs, today's deals offer a chance to save hundreds of dollars on premium Apple gear, from laptops to smartwatch accessories.

M3 MacBook Air: Up to $500 Less Than M4 Models

With the M4 MacBook Air now priced closer to its original retail price, the previous-generation M3 models present a compelling value proposition. Trusted Apple dealer Expercom is offering brand-new M3 MacBook Air units with Amazon fulfillment at significant discounts, some reaching $800 off their original launch prices.

The standout deal is on the 15-inch M3 MacBook Air with 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage in Midnight color. This configuration is currently available for $999—a massive $700 saving from its original $1,699 price and $400 less than the comparable M4 model's regular price of $1,399. For those needing more memory, the 24GB/512GB model in Starlight is down to $1,099, saving $800 from its original $1,899 price.

Performance Context: M3 vs. M4

While the M4 chip offers improvements in CPU and GPU performance, the M3 MacBook Air remains a powerhouse for everyday tasks, creative work, and even moderate video editing. The M3 chip already delivers exceptional battery life (up to 18 hours) and handles most professional applications with ease. The $400-$500 savings could be better spent on accessories, software, or simply kept in your budget.

The M3 models retain all the key features of the MacBook Air line: the brilliant Retina display, MagSafe charging, two Thunderbolt/USB-C ports, and the same thin-and-light design. For students, professionals, and creatives who don't need the absolute latest neural engine capabilities or slightly faster ray tracing, these M3 deals represent exceptional value.

Official Apple Watch Ultra Bands at Up to 30% Off

Amazon is currently offering substantial discounts on official Apple Watch Ultra bands, with prices starting as low as $31. This is an excellent opportunity to upgrade your Apple Watch with genuine Apple accessories rather than third-party alternatives.

Notable Band Deals:

• Apple Sport Band (40/42mm Neon Yellow): $31 (down from $49) – A vibrant option for everyday wear
• Apple Watch Ultra Trail Loop (Bright Blue/Black, M/L): $68 (down from $99) – The lightweight, breathable Trail Loop
• Apple Watch Ultra Alpine Loop (Light Blue/Black, S/M): $78 (down from $99) – The durable, single-piece Alpine Loop
• Apple Watch Ultra Ocean Band (Anchor Blue/Black): $83 (down from $99) – The rugged, dive-ready Ocean Band

Band Selection Considerations

When choosing between Apple's Ultra band options, consider your primary activities:

• Trail Loop: Best for runners and athletes who need breathability and quick adjustment
• Alpine Loop: Ideal for outdoor adventures with its durable, single-piece design
• Ocean Band: Designed for water sports and diving with its secure titanium buckle
• Sport Band: The classic, comfortable option for all-day wear

The Milanaise Loop has also hit a new Amazon all-time low at nearly 25% off, making it an excellent choice for a more formal, professional look.

Additional Notable Deals

iPhone Air MagSafe Battery

Apple's official MagSafe Battery for iPhone Air has reached its best Amazon price yet at $79 (20% off the regular $99). This slim, 6.5mm-thick power bank adds up to 65% additional charge and features seamless integration with the iOS Battery Widget. It's designed specifically for iPhone Air, providing a perfect fit from edge to edge.

Best Buy Open-Box Magic Keyboard Deals

For those needing a Magic Keyboard for their iPad, Best Buy's open-box offers provide substantial savings:

• 11-inch Black Magic Keyboard: $198 (down from $299)
• 11-inch White Magic Keyboard: $179 (down from $299)
• 13-inch Black Magic Keyboard: $280 (down from $349)
• 13-inch White Magic Keyboard: $272 (down from $349)

These open-box units include the full 1-year Apple warranty and are Geek Squad verified to work and look like new.

M4 Mac Mini and Accessory Deals

The M4 Mac mini continues to see discounts at Amazon, with prices up to $110 off, bringing the base model to around $499. Additionally, numerous accessories are on sale, including:

• Anker's 14-port Prime Docking Station with Smart Display: $100 off
• Anker's 100W 3-port GaN Prime charger: Down to $45
• Belkin's Qi2 15W 3-in-1 MagSafe pad: Down to $62 (52% off)

Ecosystem Considerations

When taking advantage of these deals, consider how they fit into your Apple ecosystem:

1. MacBook Air + Apple Watch: The M3 MacBook Air pairs seamlessly with Apple Watch for unlocking and other continuity features
2. Band Compatibility: All Apple Watch bands work across Series 4 and later models, including Ultra
3. MagSafe Ecosystem: The iPhone Air MagSafe Battery works with other MagSafe accessories and chargers

Final Thoughts

These deals represent some of the best prices we've seen on Apple hardware and accessories. The M3 MacBook Air at $500 less than the M4 model is particularly compelling for budget-conscious buyers who still want premium performance. Similarly, the official Apple Watch band discounts offer a chance to upgrade with genuine Apple quality at a fraction of the usual cost.

For those considering these purchases, remember that Apple typically maintains software support for older hardware for many years. The M3 MacBook Air will receive macOS updates for at least the next 5-7 years, making it a sound long-term investment even at its discounted price.

All deals are subject to availability and may change without notice. Prices were accurate at the time of writing.