Whole apples will usually keep 5 to 7 days at room temperature; longer than that and they will start shriveling up and lose their flavor and crispiness. Apples continue to ripen after they’ve been picked (especially at room temperature), so don’t buy fully ripened apples unless you’re planning on eating them within a day or so.
Ensure the apples are firm and steer clear of soft spots! Treat apples like you would eggs: don’t damage their skins if you want them to last long! Apples with damaged skin will release ethylene gas, making your apples will rot faster. Apples will last much longer if stored in the refrigerator.