Buying a Used iPad: Your Ultimate Pre-Purchase Checklist

The Smart Way to Tablet Ownership: What to Check Before You Buy a Used iPad

The Apple Ipad has been the gold standard of the tablet world for more than a decade. It is the perfect combination of intuitive software paired with powerful hardware in a beautiful form factor. Everyone wants to have an Ipad, however the price tag prevents people from buying it.

With the refurbished Ipad, more users can get on board the iPad experience at a fraction of the cost.  However, before buying a refurbished iPad you should understand the difference between models, their use case and target audience.

In the guide below I will provide a detailed explanation on how to find a perfect pre-owned iPad, including the differences between different models, the chipset used in them, and a step by step inspection process for the iPad to ensure that you buy right.

2. Different Types of iPad: Finding Your Perfect Match

The iPad lineup has evolved significantly over the previous decade. When it was launched there was only one type of device. However, over the years new models, in different sizes have evolved with different features. Today there are four product lines. Their feature dictates its value and what you can do with them. They primarily differ in screen size, connection type (cellular vs. Wi-Fi), and processor power.

The iPad Product Lines

Connectivity: Wi-Fi Only vs. Wi-Fi + Cellular (The “Calling” Factor)

One of the most important factors in price and functionality is connectivity.

• Wifi Only: These iPad’s can on only connect to the internet through a Wifi. The primary user for these iPads are those who use it at home, school or in offices. SIM card cannot be installed in Wifi only iPad;s
• Wiifi + Cellular: Here you can connect to the internet through telecom operators, either by insalling a physical SIM or an eSIM. The internet connectivity is similar to a mobile phone. However, these are more expensive.
  • The calling minconception: The Wifi + Cellular units are not designed for making voice calls like a smartphone. The Cellular network is primarily for internet connectivity. You can make calls via iCloud’s Continuity feature, provided you have a linked iPhone nearby.

Connectivity Options

📶 Wi-Fi Only

Connects only via Wi-Fi networks. Perfect for home, school, or office use. More affordable option. No SIM card slot available.

📱 Wi-Fi + Cellular

Internet via telecom operators (physical SIM or eSIM). Use data anywhere like a phone. More expensive. Note: Not for voice calls—internet only!

Screen Size & Display Technology

The screen size impacts portability and use case:

• Small (mini): It is best for reading books, a portable media device.
• Medium (Standard/Air): It is the ipad between the ,mini and large versoions,  it is best for couch surfing and viewing content.
• Large (Pro 12.9-inch): It offers a near laptop experience. Used mostly by professionals in art and entertainments , and also some video editing can be done.

Newer models, especially the Pro and Air lines, feature superior display technology like ProMotion (adaptive 120Hz refresh rate for smoother motion) and brighter, more color-accurate Liquid Retina XDR (Mini-LED) or Ultra Retina XDR (OLED) displays.

3. Chips in iPad: Understanding the Powerhouse (A-Series vs. M-Series)

The speed and performance of any computer machine is determined by the chip that powers it. Apple currently has two mail lines of processors – the A-series (adapted from iPhones) and the M-series (the same chips found in Mac computers).

The A-Series Chips

The A-series chips (e.g., A14 Bionic, A15 Bionic) are found in entry-level Standard iPad and iPad mini lines.

• Performance:  These are superior mobile chips. The previous versions like A12/A13  Bionic chip’s are capable of handling everyday tasks like browsing, streaming, light gaming for years to come.
• Longevity: Apple provides IPadOS updated for 5-7 years after the release.
• Target User: Perfect for the casual user, student, or media consumer.
  

The M-Series Chips

The M-series chips (M1, M2, M3, M4, M5) are featured in the high-end iPad Air and iPad Pro lines. This is the same silicon that powers MacBooks.

• Performance: M series chips power the current line of Macbooks. These chips are capable of providing Macbook level performance, which exceed the need of casual users. You can do 4K video edidting, 3D rendering, and graphic design.
• Graphics: They have high performance GPU’s integrated, making them idea for high end console quality mobile gaming.
• Future-Proofing: An M series Ipad can get most things done and also you can expect the longest support from Apple and Software developers on this line of Ipad. You can do the most extensive software and professional workflows, similar to a Macbook, making it an ideal replacement.
• Target User: Best for power users, creative professionals, and as a replacement of a traditional laptop.

Key Takeaway: If the chip number is higher (e.g., M3 is better than M2, which is better than A15), the device is faster and will be supported by Apple for longer.

Understanding iPad Chips

⚡ A-Series Chips

Found in: Standard iPad & iPad mini

•       iPhone-derived processors (A14, A15 Bionic)
•       Perfect for everyday tasks
•       5-7 years of iPadOS updates
•       Great for casual users
•       Browsing, streaming, light gaming

⚡ M-Series Chips

Found in: iPad Air & iPad Pro

•       MacBook-level performance (M1-M5)
•       4K video editing capable
•       High-end GPU integrated
•       Longest Apple support
•       Professional workflows ready
•       Laptop replacement potential

The Comprehensive Pre-Purchase Checklist: 15 Critical Checks

Once you’ve decided on the model and chip that suits your needs, it’s time for the physical and digital inspection. This meticulous, step-by-step process will help you avoid buying a lemon.

1. Initial Power & Functionality Check

• Power On/Off: Ensure the device powers on and off smoothly and quickly. Swithc on and off the device and see if smoothly does so.
• Battery Health: Check the battery health in in Settings > Battery > Battery Health.

Though you should not expect a used iPad to have full battery health. You should look for devices in the 70-80% range. This is a reasonable expectation. Anything below 60% will require you to get the battery replaced.

• Charger & Charging Port: Plug in the charger and gently wiggle the cable. This will check if the port is not loose. Inpect the charging port for lint or damage.
  

2. Physical & Cosmetic Inspection

• Screen condition: This is of utmost importance. As screen is the only way to interact with an Ipad. Check that the touch is working properly. Use the touch extensively all corners included. Minor scratches are normal. You should check for cracks and deep gouges. Crucially, look for dead pixels (tiny, permanently black, white, or colored dots) by viewing a completely white screen and a completely black screen.
• Body & Casing: Check the body and casing for dents. A small dent is cosmetic but a large dent might indicate internal damage or a bent chassis, which may impact the screen and components.
• Buttons: Test every button: Home Button (if applicable), Volume Up/Down, and Power/Sleep button. They should feel clicky and responsive.
  

3. Display & Touch Functionality

• Touch Screen: Draw with your finger across the entire screen in the Notes app. Look for dead spots where the touch input cuts out. Try a slow, deliberate scroll and a fast swipe to check responsiveness.
• Touch screen: In the Notes App, draw across the screen using your finger. This will help you identify and dead sports where the touch is not working. Also scroll fast and slow to check the responsiveness.  
• True Tone & Brightness: Verify if the true tone is working, it adjusts the color base on ambient lighting. Also put the brightness to maximum and minimum settings to check the screen quality and backlight is even across the entire display.
  

4. Cameras & Microphones

• Cameras: Take a photo with the camera and also record a short video with both front and rear camera. Check the quality and see that the lenses do not have scratches and are free of dust inside the lens.
• Microphones: Record a voice note and play it back to check the quality.
  

5. Connectivity Check

• Wi-Fi: Connect to a Wi-Fi network to verify it works without issues.
• Bluetooth: Connect a pair of wireless headphones or a keyboard to confirm Bluetooth pairing is working.
• Cellular (if applicable): Ask the seller to remove their SIM card. Insert your own (or a test SIM) to ensure it registers to the network and mobile data works. Also, verify the IMEI number isn’t blacklisted (you can check this online with the IMEI, which the seller should provide).
  

6. Security & Software Checks

• Activation Lock / Find My iPad: This is the most critical step. The device must be fully logged out of the seller’s iCloud and have the “Find My” feature disabled. If it is still linked to the seller’s account, it will be a worthless brick. A reliable seller will have it factory reset and on the “Hello” setup screen.
• Passcode/Touch ID/Face ID: If the device is not yet factory reset, ensure the seller can unlock it and that Touch ID/Face ID works.
• Speakers: Play music or a video to check both the main speakers and the headphone jack (if available). The sound should be clear, and both channels should be working.

CRITICAL MUST-CHECK ITEMS

1. Display Condition – No cracks, check for dead pixels on white/black screens
2. Battery Health – Target 70-80% range (Settings > Battery > Battery Health)
3. Activation Lock – MUST be removed from seller’s iCloud account!

4. Use Cases of iPads: Where Do They Shine?

Ipads are the most versatile form factor in computing devices. They sit between a smart phone and a laptop. Understand the various use cases to select the right model for yourself:

1. The Ultimate Content Consumption Device

• Reading: The mini-iPad is best for reading books due to its small and comfortable size.
• Streaming: You should go with a larger screen size in Standard, Air or Pro models if primary use is to stream videos. Go with the standard or Air version. As Pro has a very powerful chip which may not be fully utilized.
• Web Browsing: The larger display offers a more “desktop-like” experience than a phone, making complex websites easier to navigate.
  

2. The Creative Studio

• Digital Art & Sketching: The Apple Pencil has transformed the iPad into a professional drawing tool. The App store also provides good quality support, with apps like Procreate, Affinity Photo, and Adobe Fresco.
• Photo & Video Editing: The powerful M-series chips can handle demanding tasks like editing 4K video in Lumafusion or DaVinci Resolve, or manipulating large RAW photos in Lightroom, all with a highly intuitive touch interface.
  

3. Productivity & Education

• Note-Taking: For students and professionals, the iPad is an unparalleled tool for digital note-taking with the Apple Pencil (GoodNotes, Notability). You can easily mark up PDFs, digitize handwritten notes, and draw diagrams.
• Portable Workstation: With the addition of a Magic Keyboard, an iPad Air or Pro becomes a highly portable laptop replacement for email / documents (Pages, Microsoft Word), and presentation building.
• Second Screen: Using the Sidecar feature, an iPad can be used as a second wireless display for a Mac, greatly enhancing a mobile workspace.
  

4. Gaming and Augmented Reality (AR)

• Mobile Gaming: With high-refresh-rate ProMotion displays on the Pro models and powerful A/M-series chips, the iPad is a formidable gaming platform, running graphically intensive games smoothly and beautifully.
• AR Applications: Newer iPads with LiDAR scanners (iPad Pro) and advanced chips excel at Augmented Reality tasks, from interior design visualization to complex 3D modeling and training.
  

Conclusion: Smart Buying for Smart Savings

Buying a used iPad is very smart decision which allows you to access the premium tablet experience at reduced cost. However, it is of utmost importance to carefully inspect the iPad or buy it from a trusted refubisher like EazyPC who does it all for you and also provides warranty.

The hierarchy as explained in the articles above is that iPad is for casual use, iPad mini is best known for portability and reading books. iPad Air is best for students and creative individuals and iPad pro is for professional use. The three most important factors in purchasing an iPad is a working display, battery health and factory reset settings, making sure that seller’s account has been removed.

By using the above mentioned checklist, you can find yourself the best ipad and purchase confidently, ensuring that the next used iPad is reliable and ready to enhance your experience.

Smart Buying = Smart Savings

Buying a used iPad gives you the premium tablet experience at a fraction of the cost. Always inspect thoroughly or purchase from trusted refurbishers who provide warranties. Follow this checklist to ensure your next used iPad is reliable and ready to enhance your digital experience!