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What price range and performance metrics (anticipated use case, performance expectations) do you have in mind?
 
What price range and performance metrics (anticipated use case, performance expectations) do you have in mind?

Running 4K video over my local network smoothly and having 2 tabs or more without refreshing in Safari. No games
 
If it were me I’d go certified refurb 10.5” iPP from Apple and I’d toss AppleCare on it but based on your requirements even a standard new iPad would do.

I’m merely noting such devices because personally I prefer to purchase products with warranty. I tend to like the Pro line because of the speakers and laminated display (but I’m also a victim of the touch screen sensitivity issue so I’m cautious about iPP’s now).

You have another open thread regarding 4k playback with some feedback on other devices that can support that.
 
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I bought a used iPad Pro 10.5 for $280 off eBay. I’ve seen others in the 270-300 range. I find it to be a good deal. Obviously a new one with a new battery and perfect shape is preferable but i was pleasantly surprised.

I find the best way to find a good deal is set up a saved search for “iPad,” set the search filters and maximum price, and buy it now only. check back a few times a day using the app and you’ll find a great deal within 2 weeks.

if you want one that’s in great cosmetic shape and are willing to spend more, I know of a particular seller that has them. PM me for the name. I have no relationship to them. But have bought 2 iPads in the past with great results.

they sell them for $320 for iPad Pro 10.5 or Mini 5, $380 for Air 3, and $550 for Pro 11 (all base models)
 
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10.2" iPad is the best budget option IMO for a new iPad.

While the 9.7" 2018 iPad is a reasonable option if you can get it cheap on clearance, the 10.2" iPad is also inexpensive and has both a bigger screen and much more memory, which is good for multi-tasking.
 
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Both screens are so bad when you see a iPad Pro screen. I prefer iPad Air instead of iPad 9.7” or 10.2”
 
10.2" iPad is the best budget option IMO for a new iPad.

While the 9.7" 2018 iPad is a reasonable option if you can get it cheap on clearance, the 10.2" iPad is also inexpensive and has both a bigger screen and much more memory, which is good for multi-tasking.

And also I imagine will be supported by Apple longer because of the additional RAM.
 
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I’d say a used 10.5 Pro (if you don’t mind the bright spot too much) is the best option. After that the new 10.2 and 9.7 (2018) should still be good and future proof enough. iPad mini 5 is also starting to come down in price on the used market if you’re ok with having something smaller. I look at Swappa for all my pricing.
 
10.5" Pro is great, and I have one, but even at refurb discounts it's not exactly a budget iPad.
 
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On swappa I found them in great condition for a great price. Sometimes you can find a great deal where they include the Apple Pencil and keyboard.
 
Running 4K video over my local network smoothly and having 2 tabs or more without refreshing in Safari. No games
Any iPad with A9/A9X (1st gen iPad Pro 12.9" and 9.7", 5th gen iPad 9.7") or newer should handle 4K HEVC video playback just fine.

If you've got a lot of tabs or are visiting media heavy websites, Safari refresh is inevitable. More RAM just means you have fewer refreshes. That's just the nature of the beast unless Apple makes iOS virtual memory storage-backed like they do on Macs.
 
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