An analysis of discount patterns by Dealnews reveals the not entirely surprising news that the best deals on Apple products are typically to be had 3 to 9 months after launch.

While waiting that long for a product you don’t yet own may be a considerable test of one’s patience, savings of up to $350 may be sufficient incentive to delay upgrading an existing device until a little way down the road.

The best discounts on current products were found to be:

  • MacBook Pro 15″ Retina: $350 saving at 9 months
  • MacBook Air 11″: $199 at 7 months
  • iPad: $59 at 1 month
  • iPad Mini: $29 at 5 months
  • iPhone: $73 @ 3 months
  • iPod Touch: $50 at 3 months …