Apple Offers Refurbished iPad Mini and 4th-Generation iPad for First Time

[7thMac]

Wow. Has anyone seen a lower discount percentage on an Apple refurb?

 

[zhenlek]

If you can find another place that's offering an equal discount on a new one, then yeah, I'd buy new too.



Yes, the refurbished ones are ones that have been returned. But Apple disassembles them, individually tests all the internal components, replaces any that aren't functioning correctly, and then they put these components in a BRAND NEW casing. You don't get anyone else's scratched or dented casing. It's replaced with a brand new one on every single refurbished product.

It goes in a plain white box with everything that comes with it brand new, same warranty and everything.

I was tentative about buying refurb from Apple a few years ago but I gave it a shot and it's totally worth it. You would not be able to tell the difference in the physical unit unless you look on the back and see the model number starts with F instead of M.

Is it true Apple disassembles these iPads and reassemble them? All I know is iPads are a PITA to take apart....let alone piece it back

 

[zioxide]

Is it true Apple disassembles these iPads and reassemble them? All I know is iPads are a PITA to take apart....let alone piece it back

Apple Certified Refurbished
We test and certify all Apple refurbished products and include a 1-year warranty.
All refurbished iPad models also include a brand new battery and outer shell.

Right from the Apple store refurbished page.

The internal components are removed from the case and tested. If anything is broken or malfunctioning, they fix or replace that component. Then they put it in a brand new outer casing with a brand new battery.

I'd be willing to bet you're more likely to get a brand new one that has an issue than a refurbished one because the refurbished ones have all the components thoroughly tested before being sold.

For me $30 isn't enough of a spread on a $400+ device. For that small amount I'd pay the $30 and put the scratches and first finger prints on it and toss the retail box in the closet. I'm not saying it's got to be 50% off but when I buy used I expect used pricing.

It's not used, it's refurbished. BIG difference. If you want used, look on ebay. That's where you'll find used iPads that are priced according to that.

Like I said above, the refurbished units come in, get disassembled, and they take all the internal components and individually test them. Then these components are re-assembled and placed in a brand new casing with a brand new battery. There's no scratches, dust, fingerprints, or anything. They're wrapped in plastic just like the brand new ones are. They come with the same warranty and are eligible for the same applecare.

The only way you could even tell the difference is the box is just plain white instead of having a picture of an iPad on the front, and the model number starts with an F instead of an M. Other than that, it's basically a brand new unit.

I've bought refurbished iPods in the past and every single one has been in perfect condition and if you held it and I told you I bought it brand new, you wouldn't think twice about it.

 

[Syk]

I have no doubt refurb stuff is good. I even said I have no problem with refrub stuff I buy refrub stuff from time to time if it has a good price tag. I bought a refurb PS3 500gb refurb one time for $150 works like a charm but once it's out of the original box and purchased by someone it's used, doesn't matter how it's been inspected.

I've heard the new case, battery and you get the same warranty which Apple gets an A+ but I've also heard varying reports about scratches on cases which really would never been seen at least for me as I'd have it in some sort of case

If a person wants one I say go for it. Just for me personally $30 isn't enough to meet my buy new or refrub/used price point