I wouldn't be willing to do my work on a used laptop from eBay. I want something that has a warranty so I can get a replacement if something goes wrong, ideally on the same day.

I don't think my manager would take it well if I told him that my used eBay Thinkpad is broken and I need to find a replacement before I can work again.

If you're diligent with your backups, I guarantee you can buy another eBay/Craigslist Thinkpad and get it working before you get a "Genius Bar" appointment.

Thats IF your local Apple store is even taking appointments; none on Oahu are. Plus there's apparently significant parts delay no matter where you get the repair done.

It took Apple 32 days to get my MBP 16" repaired, returned under Crapplecare.

A week minimum from what I've seen in the past few weeks.

Ah, fair caveat. I suppose the pandemic has changed things. I haven't bought myself a new computer in a few years, but last time I did, Craigslist was full to the brim with sellers.

Yes, if you need that kind of service, then you're going to have to pay for it. That goes without saying.

Better yet, get the office to pay for it, if they're going to be so demanding.

They’re cheap, buy two.