A new iPad can be a big and hefty purchase. If you’re on a budget, you might want to consider purchasing a used iPad. If well-cared for, a used iPad can operate almost just as well as a new one.
If you decide to make this purchase, there are certain steps to take before during and after you’ve bought the iPad to make sure you’re buying a product that will last you a while.
What to Know When Buying a Used iPad?
Focus on some of these factors before you decide to purchase a used iPad.
Where to buy a used iPad/h2>
There are two main places you can purchase your used iPad from:
Refurbished From Apple
A common option that consists of little to no hassle is to buy an iPad at the Apple store. Not only are they cheaper when refurbished, the employees at Apple check them to make sure they are still functioning well.
Unlike purchasing a used iPad anywhere else, they’re first repaired to the point of being almost as good as new. They will also have a new battery installed.
Sometimes, Apple does so well with the refurbishment, people can’t even tell they’re used iPads.
Unfortunately, since these iPads are refurbished and repaired, they sometimes won’t be as cheap as buying them used from a different source.
Online
You have a few options if you decide to explore online stores to purchase a used iPad. You can buy one from either Amazon, eBay, or Craigslist. Both Amazon and eBay are fairly reliable options.
If you end up purchasing the iPad and dislike the product or it has any errors, you can contact customer service for both of the companies and they will be able to easily help you.
With Craigslist however, you may find a cheaper iPad than anywhere else. Do note that if you purchase it from Craigslist and are unsatisfied, you aren’t able to hold anyone accountable. Stay cautious when purchasing electronics through Craigslist and make sure the seller delivers what is promised.
Finding the Best Price for Used iPads
The price of your iPad is dependent on several different factors. If you are searching for a more high-quality and long-lasting iPad, then you’ll want to search for one that is refurbished and has been checked for good quality and durability.
If you just need an iPad that won’t be used to often, buying one on Craigslist, eBay or Amazon could be your best option.
You will be able to find iPad products on those sites for a way lower price than in an apple store. Once again, both decisions are dependent on whether the quality of the product is worth the extra dollar you’re spending.
Buying the Warranty
In addition to the purchase of the iPad itself, you’ll also want to look into getting a warranty for this device. This is especially important for a used iPad, as it has already been used and/or repaired before, so it has a greater chance of breaking. The best warranty to purchase is one from AppleCare Protection.
Their plan will extend your iPad’s plan for two years after the iPad is bought. A warranty isn’t cheap and is definitely an investment, but many people find it to be worth it so they don’t have to risk an excessive amount of money if their iPad breaks soon after it’s purchased.
Checking the iPad’s Condition
Whether your newly-purchased used Ipad is being bought in the apple store or on Craigslist, the first thing you’ll need to do before reaching for your wallet and purchasing is to make sure it’s in a good enough condition to take home and use long-term.
Screen and Body Damage
Find a spot with a lot of sunlight and see if there are any noticeable scratches on the screen of the iPad. One or two here and there can be understandable, but if you find too many, it could affect your user experience.
Also, be sure to look at the corners to see if it has ever been handled roughly or fallen on the ground. It should be alright as long as it hasn’t been dropped too many times and isn’t affecting how the device is operating overall.
Charger, Headphone Ports and Buttons
Sometimes when buying a used iPad, the buttons and ports could be broken, and the seller might still try to convince you to purchase it. Before buying, plug the respective charger into the iPad, making sure it fits properly. Then place the charger into any outlet. Check if it begins to charge quickly. Do the same thing with the headphones you’re planning to use with this iPad.
Once you’ve checked for charging and headphone performance, keep the headphones in and try to turn the volume up and down. Then, click the power button to make sure it works correctly by turning the iPad on and off successfully.
Activating your iCloud Account
Buying a used iPad can be cheap and convenient, but sometimes it can be a little risky. People can steal a phone with the intention of trying to resell to you.
With a new Apple feature, Activation Lock used on ios 7, the iPad can’t be wiped out and reused if the original owner activates “find my iPhone”. They won’t be able to do anything with the iPad until the original user unlocks it with their username and password.
You’re also able to look up if it’s stolen by going online to icloud.com/activationlock and entering the iPad’s serial number, which is located in the Settings section. You will then be told whether or not the iPad has been stolen. Be sure to do this before purchasing the iPad from the seller.
Another alternative is to have the seller reset the iPad while you watch. It normally doesn’t take too long. All they will do is put in their iCloud info, then you should be set. If it were a stolen iPad, they wouldn’t have been able to put in any iCloud info. Once this happens, you can purchase the product with little to no worries.
Conclusion
Buying a used iPad can be a wise move that saves you hassle and money. You just need to be smart when making this purchase. Make sure you’re buying a quality product that works properly. Once you’ve determined this, you’ll be the proud owner of a used iPad.
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