Top 5 Things to Consider When Buying a Used iPad
Here are the top things to consider when shopping for a used iPad:
How much should you spend on a used iPad?What’s the difference between a used and refurbished iPad?Where should you buy a used iPad?What condition should a used iPad be in?How old should a used iPad be?
How Much Should You Spend on a Used iPad?
Where Should I Buy a Used iPad?
If you have a friend, a relative, or a friend-of-a-friend who is selling an iPad, you have this part solved. Buying from someone you know reduces the stress of the exchange. You still need to buy the right iPad for a reasonable price and review what to do during and after the transaction. Other possibilities include:
What Condition Should a Used iPad Be In?
Examine the iPad to see if it appears to be in good shape. Check the screen for any cracks and the case for any dents. A small dent in the outer casing of the iPad isn’t a big deal, but any damage to the screen is a deal-breaker. Do not buy an iPad with a cracked screen, even if it is only a tiny crack outside the display. A small crack tends to lead to a bigger one, and you may be surprised by how quickly it can transform into a shattered screen. Launch a few apps, including the Notes app, which allows you to use the on-screen keyboard. Open the Safari web browser and go to several websites if you have Wi-Fi access. Plug the iPad into a wall outlet and confirm the battery icon in the upper-right corner shows a lightning bolt, which means it is charging. That indicates the port at the bottom of the iPad is in good working order.
How Old Should a Used iPad Be?
Look at models from the last two years. These models are the most powerful, with the most features, and Apple will support them for years to come. Check the model number advertised to make sure it matches the iPad model you are buying. If the person you are buying from seems uncertain of the model, double-check. You can find the iPad’s model number by opening the Settings app, going to General, and choosing About. You can compare the model name against the list of models.
Who Should Buy a Used iPad?
If you’ve never had an iPad or other Apple products, trying a used iPad can help you decide if you want to spend more money on a new device. If you’re familiar with Apple products but don’t care about having the latest and greatest version, an older used iPad will meet your needs if you want to listen to music and browse the web. If you need an iPad for work or playing online games with 3D graphics, you’re better off with a new iPad.
After You Buy a Previously Owned iPad
After you check everything out, reset the iPad. Even if the iPad was restored to factory default when you picked it up, you should reset it before the purchase is complete. It doesn’t take long to reset, and it is worth the hassle to know that services such as Find My iPad are off when you take possession. As important as it is to turn off Find My iPad when you are buying a used iPad, it’s essential to turn on Find My iPad after you take possession and set it up for your use. The setup process should prompt you to do so, but if it doesn’t, turn the feature on by going to Settings and flipping the Find My iPad switch. Find My iPad doesn’t just locate the iPad if it is missing; it also allows you to put it in lost mode or remotely reset it.
Which iPad to Buy
While it is crucial to decide on the best place to buy a used iPad, the essential part of the process is making sure you buy the right iPad for you. You don’t want to get stuck with an obsolete iPad within a year or two. Consider the price, display size, camera quality, CPU, and storage space when comparing iPad models. Avoid unsupported iPad models. Obsolete iPads no longer get operating system updates, and many new apps do not work on them.
