Refurbished MacBook Air 2018
The Refurbished MacBook Air 2018 was the biggest redesign in the Air's history: the first Retina display, Touch ID for login and Apple Pay, redesigned wedge chassis, and USB-C / Thunderbolt 3 ports. It's still supported by the latest macOS (Sequoia) in 2026, making it one of the smartest value picks in the Refurb Phone range. Every unit fully tested and covered by a 12-month UK warranty.
Why the 2018 MacBook Air is a huge upgrade
Compared to the 2017 Air, the 2018 model has a much sharper Retina display (2560x1600 vs 1440x900), a T2 Security Chip (encrypts your drive automatically), Touch ID, better speakers, and modern USB-C connectivity. It's the first Air that feels like a truly modern MacBook — and Apple still ships macOS updates for it.
Key specs
- Display: 13.3-inch Retina (2560x1600), True Tone
- Processor: Intel Core i5 dual-core, 1.6 GHz (Turbo Boost to 3.6 GHz)
- Memory: 8GB or 16GB LPDDR3 RAM
- Storage: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, or 1.5TB PCIe SSD
- Graphics: Intel UHD Graphics 617
- Battery: Up to 12 hours web browsing
- Ports: 2x Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C), headphone jack
- Touch ID and T2 Security Chip
- Weight: 1.25 kg
- OS support: macOS Sequoia (15) — still fully supported by Apple
What you get from Refurb Phone
- ✅ 50+ point functional test
- ✅ Minimum 85% battery health guarantee
- ✅ Butterfly keyboard tested and repaired if needed
- ✅ Touch ID verified and reset for new user
- ✅ Latest macOS pre-installed
- ✅ Genuine USB-C charger included
- ✅ 12-month UK warranty
- ✅ Free next-day UK delivery
- ✅ 30-day no-quibble returns
Frequently asked questions
Is the MacBook Air 2018 still worth buying?
Yes — it's currently one of the smartest refurb picks. It runs macOS Sequoia (latest as of 2026), has Touch ID, Retina display, and modern USB-C ports. Ideal for students, professionals, and anyone wanting a still-supported Mac for a fraction of new-price.
How long will a refurbished MacBook Air 2018 last?
Realistically 5-7 more years. Apple still officially supports it with macOS Sequoia in 2026 — likely for another 2-3 macOS releases based on typical Apple support windows.
Does the MacBook Air 2018 have the butterfly keyboard issue?
Yes — it uses the third-generation butterfly keyboard, which was more reliable than 2016-2017 versions but still had issues. Apple's Keyboard Service Program covered it (now expired). Every unit we sell is keyboard-tested and repaired if needed, and our 12-month warranty covers any subsequent issues.
Do refurbished MacBook Airs come with new batteries?
Every 2018 MacBook Air we sell tests at minimum 85% battery health, or the battery is replaced before resale. You can check via Apple menu → About This Mac → System Report → Power.
Does the MacBook Air 2018 have Touch ID?
Yes — the 2018 model was the first Air with Touch ID, which you can use to log in, authorise Apple Pay purchases, and unlock password fields. It's paired with the T2 chip for secure Face-ID-equivalent security on Macs.
Can I get AppleCare on a refurbished MacBook Air 2018?
Not usually — AppleCare+ has a 60-day purchase window from the original sale date, and 2018 MacBook Airs are past that. Our 12-month UK warranty gives you equivalent protection against hardware faults.
Can I upgrade RAM or storage on the 2018 MacBook Air?
No — both are soldered to the logic board. Choose your configuration carefully.
How much does a refurbished MacBook Air 2018 cost in the UK?
Typically £320-£520 depending on RAM, storage, and cosmetic grade. That's around 55-65% off the £1,199 launch price for a laptop that still receives Apple's latest macOS.
Browse our full refurbished MacBook range or explore iPads and Apple Watches.
