10 Ways Apple Is 'Overpriced'

4. iPad charger

It's easy to lose your iPad charger -- especially when traveling, since there are countless opportunities for your charger to become misplaced. And after spending $29 on a new iPad charger, chances are you'll make the effort to hold onto your charger.

While Woroch also suggests browsing eBay for iPad chargers, she offers one word of caution: "Make sure when buying chargers that they have the UL label to ensure safety."

UL (Underwriters Laboratories) conducts various safety and standards tests, which is especially important when purchasing a used charger.

5. MacBook Pro power adapter

Need a new power adapter for your Apple laptop? This isn't a minor expense, as they tend to cost as much as $80 on Apple.com.

"I was looking for a new power cord for my MacBook Air that stopped working," recounts consumer Elise Bauer. "At the Apple store it was priced at $79. The same power cord on Amazon.com? $46.46. Both charge tax. Both have free shipping. However, because I'm a Prime account at Amazon, I get it shipped to me within 2 days. I always check Amazon when buying an Apple product," Bauer advises.

6. Apple EarPods

The earbuds that come with your iPhone tend to be delicate, especially if you don't treat them well. When replacing these earbuds you may be surprised by the $29 price tag.

Check out the sales from CellPhoneShop.net, which recently featured the Apple EarPods for $11.99, instead of $29.

7. AirPort Express

Purchasing refurbished accessories is a guaranteed way to save money -- and you can do so directly on Apple.com's refurbished products page. Even Apple will give the consumer "a deal" when it's of the open box variety.

"Often times refurbished products are those that a consumer purchased, opened and then decided to return due to buyer's remorse," Woroch says, adding, "The goods were never damaged, Apple and other electronic retailers still have to sell it as previously owned and at a discount."

For example, this refurbished AirPort Express device is discounted 14% off (at $85, compared to a new one at $99 on Apple.com.

8. iPhone bumpers

Instead of a case that covers the back-side of your iPhone, an alternative is to purchase a bumper, which only protects the phone's perimeter edges. And the bumpers still cost just as much as a regular case -- including this one for $29.

To save money, especially if you're about to sign a new contract, check to see if your wireless provider offers online coupon codes. The shipping code website FreeShipping.org offers deals from Verizon on accessories, including 20% off three accessories.

9. Cases with batteries

Various iPhone cases go beyond protecting your device from damage -- like the ones which serve as a backup battery.

And if you're not familiar with AccessoryGeek.com, you may be missing out on savings. This battery case on the site is on sale for $14.99, compared to the original price of $39.99.

10. Car chargers

Charging your Apple devices at home may not be enough, which is why some consumers who travel frequently resort to the car charger to fill in the gap. And this car charger from Incase sells for $24.95 on Apple.com. It's an example of a product where the Apple Store price is comparable to online retailers like Amazon, and not the only one.

But if you're buying the iPhone at a cell phone store, ask the manager or store owner (especially if the store is a franchise or independently owned) for a free charger. Think about it: you're shelling out hundreds for a smartphone and likely signing a multi-year contract -- asking for a free car charger isn't as tall an order as you might think. In this case, it's your contract that's the overpriced item and merits some haggling before the purchase is agreed upon.

More on Apple:

How much it costs to make an iPhone 5

Wait to get $29 Lightning fix for less

How to get the iPhone 5 if you're already on contract

--By Scott Gamm

Gamm is the founder of the personal finance website HelpSaveMyDollars.com. He has appeared on NBC's TODAY, MSNBC and CNN. Follow Scott on Facebook and Twitter.

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