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Even in Europe the difference is quite astonishing. A 32GB iPhone 5S in Ireland costs €799. In the US it is $649* or €480. In the case of a Mac, the difference will cover a return flight to the US.

*Without taxes, but as a tourist you can claim those back. Even taking into account taxes of both it's still a lot cheaper in the US.



I don't think you can get tax refund when you leave U.S. Those are mostly an European thing.


Technically you are supposed to pay import tax into EU when the item is brand new, even if you bring it with you. And then the price difference between US and EU is not in your favour.


6.5% import duty then 20% VAT on top of Price + Duty for UK last time I investigated importing a cheap 27" monitor. I decided not to


> A 32GB iPhone 5S in Ireland costs €799

And includes a two-year warranty package that is not included in the US price.


That can't account for the cost difference.


The US phone comes with a one year warranty, which can be extended to three years for $99.




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