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A viral post from August 2025 has reignited debate over Apple’s pricing strategy in India, as a Reddit user claimed to have saved Rs 36,500 by flying to Vietnam to buy a MacBook Pro M4 14-inch. The user not only purchased the device at a lower price but also managed to squeeze in an 11-day budget vacation—all for less than the cost of buying the laptop in India. The story has sparked widespread interest among tech-savvy consumers and budget travelers alike.
Key Highlights from the Viral Comparison
- MacBook Pro M4 14-inch base model costs Rs 1.85 lakh in India (after card discounts)
- The same device was purchased in Vietnam for Rs 1.58 lakh, with a VAT refund of Rs 9,600
- Final cost in Vietnam: Rs 1.48 lakh, resulting in a net saving of Rs 36,500
- Total trip cost including flights, visa, stay, food, and local travel: Rs 40,000
- Combined cost of MacBook and trip: Rs 1.88 lakh, still lower than Indian retail price
Breakdown of Expenses in Vietnam
The Reddit user detailed a budget-friendly itinerary that made the trip financially viable:
- Round-trip flight: Rs 19,000
- E-Visa: Rs 2,210
- Stay for 11 nights: Rs 4,000 (likely hostel or budget guesthouse)
- Food and extras: Rs 5,000
- Local travel (Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh): Rs 10,000
- Total trip cost: Rs 40,000
After receiving the VAT refund at Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi, the effective cost of the MacBook dropped to Rs 1.48 lakh. This means the user spent Rs 1.88 lakh in total, compared to Rs 1.85 lakh for just the laptop in India.
Comfort vs Budget Travel: Does It Still Save?
While the savings are clear for budget travelers, the equation changes for those seeking comfort:
- Comfortable round-trip flight: Rs 25,000 or more
- Mid-range accommodation: Rs 25,000
- Food and activities: Rs 20,000
- Total trip cost: Rs 72,000
- Combined cost with MacBook: Rs 2.20 lakh
In this scenario, the trip becomes more expensive than buying the MacBook in India, especially if card offers and student discounts are applied.
Why Is Vietnam Cheaper?
Vietnam’s lower import duties and VAT refund system make electronics more affordable for tourists. Apple products are priced more competitively, and foreign buyers can claim VAT refunds at designated airport counters. In contrast, India imposes higher import duties and GST, inflating retail prices.
- VAT refund in Vietnam typically ranges between 6 to 10 percent
- India levies 18 percent GST on laptops, plus customs duties on imported electronics
- Apple’s pricing strategy also factors in regional purchasing power and logistics
Should You Consider It?
For tech enthusiasts planning a vacation or remote workers open to budget travel, buying a MacBook in Vietnam can be a smart move. However, it requires careful planning:
- Confirm VAT refund eligibility with the store before purchase
- Retain all invoices and request refund documents
- Ensure warranty coverage is international or valid in India
- Factor in travel risks, currency exchange, and customs declarations
Final Word
Buying a MacBook from Vietnam instead of India can be significantly cheaper—if you’re willing to travel light and plan smart. For budget-conscious buyers, the savings can fund an entire vacation. But for those seeking comfort or unwilling to travel, India’s card discounts and seasonal offers may narrow the gap.
Sources: NDTV, Storypick, Navbharat Times.
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