So I have neither the need, nor the funds for a Pro device. I have an iPhone 6s and a MacBook Air but could use an iPad to make certain consumption activities a bit easier. Specifically, there is one particular app I use for studying and reading documents that are in a proprietary format (can't be exported and read in other apps). I use this app on the iPhone but the experience isn't great on the small screen. I thought about getting a used iPad Air 1 or Mini 2 because this is app is not particularly taxing on a processor or RAM but, for whatever reason, the developer of this app quickly drops support for old versions of iOS. My budget, being what it is, makes it difficult for me to go much beyond $250. I've been watching prices on used 2017 iPads and ipad Air 2s. The Air 2s are a little cheaper than the 2017 iPad, however, I am weary of putting much money into a three year old device when future OS support is a critical issue. Any opinions as to whether an iPad Air 2 is woth $250? Or would I be better served waiting and saving to afford a 2017 iPad? My other uses would be pretty basic- little bit of Netflix, the Kindle app, Omni Focus task management, some note taking in OneNote, and some light web browsing. I want to be sure that I am being smart with what little I have to spend as I would like the device to last for a while. Thanks very much for any suggestions.
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Looking at second-hand iPads- where would the best bang for the buck be?
- Thread starter jeff123816
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Air 2 is still a great device. You can find them discounted on Craigs List but you need to look them over.
Being your iPad uses are fairly light for productivity, I personally would invest in the 2017 9.7 iPad. The reason I suggest this model, is it likely will see longer iOS support over the iPad Air 2 for longevity as you mentioned, which the 2017 iPad has the upgraded A9 processor.
Also, for the price point of $329, I would consider the 2017 9.7 iPad, mainly because it isn't that much more expensive over a used Air 2, depending on what storage you choose, and you will see some increased performance.
Also, if you search, you can find an iPad Air 2 used for around $225 if you are not interested in the 2017 9.7 iPad and wanted to save as much money as possible.
The other advantage if you went with an iPad Air 2, is you would have the laminated display, which helps with reflectivity, which the 2017 9.7 iPad does not have.
As others have stated, you could search Craigslist or Swappa, but I would avoid eBay if you can.
If you check swappa you can get an iPad Pro wi-fi 32gb for about 275-300, just look on there on a daily basis.
Thanks for the suggestions. I neglected to mention that I would need a minimum of 32 GB of storage. 16 GB is just too small and so that brings up the Air 2 prices beyond $250.
Wow, I have been looking at Swappa and have never seen a Pro for under $350. I don't see anything under $375 now but I'll keep an eye out. Thanks.
Wow, I have been looking at Swappa and have never seen a Pro for under $350. I don't see anything under $375 now but I'll keep an eye out. Thanks.
Used: 9.7 Pro - Well outclassed by the 10.5" both with the all-new form factor/screen size and much better hardware, including double the RAM. I think 9.7" Pro owners have the most to lose on the used market because the upgrades were most significant, which should make them a good buy. Probably out of budget though.
or
New 2017 iPad - No laminated display, but faster than the Air 2, cheap, supported for longer than the Air 2, and great battery. Might be worth stretching the budget a bit for something new. Otherwise the Air 2 is IMO the clear choice.
or
Refurb Mini 4's going for around $300.
or
New 2017 iPad - No laminated display, but faster than the Air 2, cheap, supported for longer than the Air 2, and great battery. Might be worth stretching the budget a bit for something new. Otherwise the Air 2 is IMO the clear choice.
or
Refurb Mini 4's going for around $300.
I've been looking on Swappa but it was hard to find an iPad that checked all the boxes I was looking for:
- Very good price
- Mint condition
- 6+ months of warranty left
- Seller w/ good history
Well damn. I just sold my iPad pro 9.7 32 GB in perfect condition with orginal box and case for $300 on CL. I guess he got a great deal lol
I only paid $399 brand new from BB though using a sale and a student coupon
I only paid $399 brand new from BB though using a sale and a student coupon
Well damn. I just sold my iPad pro 9.7 32 GB in perfect condition with orginal box and case for $300 on CL. I guess he got a great deal lol
I only paid $399 brand new from BB though using a sale and a student coupon
Yeah, $300 is way below what the current market value is. Average recent sale price of the 32gb wifi version is $406 (and that includes lower priced "good" and "fair" condition ones as well) according to Swappa. At least you got it on a good sales price to begin with so you didn't lose too much.
Like Restless Power said, I think you are better off with 2017 iPad. You could check out for Apple refurbished for cheap price. Don't trust Craigslist. eBay is okay but be careful.
