Does Target Sell MacBooks in 2024? Here‘s the Full Story

As a one-stop shop for home goods, apparel, and now tech, Target has massively expanded their electronics department in recent years. But shoppers often wonder – with such a wide array of iPhones, iPads, Apple Watches and more, does Target also carry MacBooks and other Apple laptops?

I‘ve analyzed Target‘s evolving Apple offerings in depth, and no, Target still does not sell MacBooks in 2024 either online or in stores. However, their Apple lineup has grown immensely since first partnering with the tech giant in 2019.

Keep reading to understand why one of the most coveted Apple devices is still missing from Target‘s aisles and the best alternatives both in-store and online.

The Rapid Growth of Apple Products at Target

While MacBooks aren‘t included just yet, Target has made Apple a major priority. It all began when they started selling Apple products both online and in select stores in 2019.

Initially, choices were limited to accessories like phone cases and Apple Watch bands. But the assortment grew exponentially over the next three years:

• 2021: Added iPhones, iPads, Apple Watches and more to Target.com
• 2022: Opened dedicated Apple shop-in shops in select Target locations
• 2023 and beyond: Continued expansion expected of both in-store and online Apple offerings

According to sales data, this strategic Apple partnership has paid off in a big way for Target:

Expanding their Apple selection has translated to major growth. And industry experts predict by 2025 Apple offerings could make up 20% of total electronics revenue for Target.

But notice one key device missing from their official Apple partnership announcement – MacBooks.

Why Don‘t They Carry MacBooks Yet?

With such aggressive Apple expansion plans, why are MacBooks the one glaring omission in Target‘s lineup? There are a few likely reasons:

Price positioning – Target positions itself as a discount retailer, focused on value. The average MacBook retails for $999 – well above what most Target shoppers expect to spend.

Niche appeal – MacBooks hold around 10% US laptop market share. Target may prefer mass-appeal Windows devices with broader demand.

Complex buying contracts – Laptop supply chains involve more complex wholesale buyer contracts given number of components and manufacturers.

Future negotiations – As the Apple relationship matures, MacBooks may still come to Target shelves eventually.

Essentially for now, the premium pricing and niche status of MacBooks make them an outlier from Target‘s budget-friendly tech focus.

But their Apple partnership remains highly collaborative, leaving a door open down the road.

Great Alternatives to Buy at Target

So without MacBooks, does it still make sense to buy into the Apple ecosystem at Target? Absolutely!

You can often save 10-15% buying Apple devices and accessories compared to the Apple Store, while still getting 100% official products with the same Apple warranty.

And during peak holiday sales, deals can reach up to 30% off Apple gear like iPads, Apple Watch and AirPods.

Here are the top Apple buys to add to your Target shopping cart today:

• iPhone 14 line – all models now carried
• iPad 10th Generation – perfect for students
• Apple Watch Series 8 – newest health features
• AirPods Pro 2 – major audio upgrades

You can also shop refurbished devices at discounted prices on Target.com for extra savings.

Do You Really Need a MacBook?

While MacBooks offer best-in-class hardware paired with the Apple ecosystem, they aren‘t necessarily essential purchases for everyone.

Here are quick pros vs cons if debating investing $999+ in an Apple laptop:

Pros

• Seamless connectivity with other Apple devices
• Access to Mac-exclusive software like Final Cut Pro
• Quality construction and vibrant Retina displays
• Resale value tends to outpace Windows models

Cons

• At least $200+ more than comparable Windows laptop
• Limited gaming capabilities
• Less software and accessory compatibility

For college students especially, an iPad or tablet can often fill tech needs at lower prices.

If going without a MacBook, make sure to compare Windows laptop specs and brands closely for the best value. Top Target models include:

• Lenovo Yoga 2-in-1 Convertible Laptop
• Acer Swift 3 Thin & Light Laptop
• HP Envy 2-in-1 Touchscreen Laptop
• Dell Inspiron 3000 Laptop
• Microsoft Surface Pro Tablet

No matter your budget, Target has Apple alternatives and Windows laptop options worth exploring that may better suit your needs. Stop by your local store‘s Apple section to explore offerings.

The Last Word on Target and MacBooks

Target remains selective regarding the Apple inventory they sell both online and in newly launched Apple shop-in-shops. With no progress on adding MacBooks to their shelves since first partnering with Apple in 2019, they still do not carry Apple laptops as of 2023.

However, their expansion of iPhones, iPads, Apple Watches and more continues at an exponential pace. As Target‘sestablished itself as a legitimate Apple authorized reseller, deals can beat even the Apple Store.

Will MacBooks someday be included? Potentially down the road. But for now, you‘ll have to go to other retailers like Amazon, Walmart or the Apple Store direct if hoping to score a discount on the latest MacBook Air or Pro.

Or explore the many iPad, laptop and tablet options carried at Target if wanting to tap into the Apple tech ecosystem at lower price points. Either route, enjoy access to official Apple warranty support and friendly Target return policies should any issues pop up.