Everything You Need to Know About Purchasing a Used iPad in 2025

Plenty of Apple enthusiasts are on the fence about purchasing a new iPad or a pre-owned model. From soon-to-be iPad owners to Apple devotees looking for the next best deal, it’s easy to be consumed by analysis paralysis when shopping for Apple products as each one is unique with many advanced features. 

Searching for the best used iPad to buy in 2025 can be a daunting process. Take the guesswork out of buying a pre-owned iPad this year with this detailed survival guide for shopping second-hand. 

Should I Get a Used iPad or a Refurbished iPad? 

Many Apple enthusiasts are on the fence about whether to purchase a new or pre-owned iPad. Your options for buying a second-hand iPad model are pretty simple: 

• Used or second-hand
• Refurbished.

Knowing the differences between these types will empower you to make an informed decision that aligns with your needs and budget. 

Should I Buy a Used iPad?

iPads that have a previous owner are used iPads. Used iPads come as-is with varying degrees of wear and tear.

Pros:

• Generally the lowest possible price 
• Potential to negotiate with the seller for a better price
• Immediately available
• Possibility to inspect in person before purchasing.

Cons:

• No warranty
• iPad use history is unknown
• Potential bugs or hidden tech issues

Used iPads are ideal for those already familiar with the iPad user interface and don’t mind being Sherlock Holmes to score the best deal. 

Refurbished iPads:

Refurbished iPads are like used iPads with a full cosmetic and internal hardware makeover. 

These iPads have gone through a professional restoration process that typically includes the following:

• Inspection
• Cleaning
• Repair
• Battery replacement
• Testing
• Outer shell replacement
• Factory Reset.

Pros:

• Quality Assurance testing
• Warranty Coverage
• Clean factory-reset condition
• Repairs performed by highly skilled IT technicians.

Cons:

• More expensive than used models
• Limited model selection
• Longer wait time for popular models
• Less room for price negotiations.

Refurbished iPads are for those who want to play it safe. While refurbished iPads can still experience bugs and technical issues, they typically have fewer problems than used iPads. Refurbished iPads will be more reliable when using your iPad to stay organized preparing pitch decks, sending urgent emails, or logging in for conference calls.

Pre-owned iPad Models Worth Considering

If you are looking to add a new Apple product to your collection that provides reliable performance without the steep costs, then start searching for the best used iPad to buy now! In 2024, prioritize finding an iPad with software support and feature compatibility. This will help ensure longevity and allow you to get the most out of your new purchase. Let’s explore two models that offer a balance of software support, modern features, and value in today’s market.

iPad Pro 3rd Generation (2018)

Despite its age, this model runs the latest iOS and is expected to receive updates in 2025. It offers no-frills value for budget-conscious customers such as art students who want premium features like a 120Hz ProMotion display and an A12X Bionic chip that has Face ID for extra security and supports creative apps like Adobe Illustrator. 

iPad Pro 11 ( 2021)

With a performance that rivals a desktop computer and exceptional display quality, this model is great for working professionals and casual users alike. It’s a good choice for content creators, students, digital artists, and corporate professionals who need performance but don’t require all of the upgraded features of the M4 Pro. This model has  8 GB of RAM and the M1 chip makes it a smart investment for years to come.

Avenues for Buying Used iPads

Where you decide to purchase your iPad is just as important as the type of model you select. The difference between having the iPad of your dreams and a problematic purchase all boils down to the type of seller you choose. Let's look at the three main avenues for purchasing a used iPad and what each one has to offer.

Authorized Resellers

Apple’s Certified Refurbished iPads are the gold standard for the best used iPad to buy in 2025. iPads receive a pristine upgrade by Apple technicians, and Apple ensures that each refurbished model, no matter the release date, is backed by a one-year warranty. 

Amazon and Best Buy offer certified refurbished iPads that follow a similar control process. These retailers offer a more competitive price for iPads than Apple. However, the warranty and return policies may vary depending on the iPad model you’re interested in.

Online Market Places

Imagine scrolling through Facebook Marketplace and stumbling upon a listing for a well-looked-after iPad 9th Generation. You marvel at the screen, impressed by the detailed photos and the column of positive reviews from the seller. You say to yourself, “Should I buy this second-hand iPad before it’s too late?” 

Your best bet in such a situation is platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and third-party sellers on Amazon that offer a vast selection of second-hand iPads at various price points.

Here’s what to expect when shopping on these online marketplaces:

eBay: 

• Provides buyer protection
• Detailed seller ratings.
  

Facebook Marketplace:

• Message sellers directly
• Arrange local meetups
• Negotiate prices in real time.
  

Amazon Resellers:

• Receive iPad quickly with Prime shipping
• Seller ratings.

Local Resellers

To expedite your search for the best used iPad to buy before the end of 2024, look no further than your own backyard! Your local electronic shops and independent tech stores have trade-in programs for old or unwanted devices, and they fix them up by partnering with businesses that specialize in tech repair services. 

Many local businesses provide after-sale support and store credit should you have any issues with your new purchase. Prices may be higher than private sales, but the ability to examine the iPad before purchasing while simultaneously building relationships and supporting the businesses in your community is valuable. 

Used iPad Inspection

Handing over your hard-earned cash for an iPad that wasn’t inspected properly is a mistake that you can’t afford to make! 

These inspection tips will help you navigate the buying process with ease and avoid any unpleasant surprises after your purchase.

1. Assess iPad Condition

Before finalizing any second-hand iPad purchase, examine the physical condition of the model as best you can. 

Press the iPad’s buttons to ensure they respond properly. A volume control button that feels sticky when you press it may be a sign of a technical issue. 

Pay special attention to the charging port. Issues with it can render your iPad unusable or lead to unwelcome situations. It would be a shame if your iPad died in the middle of an important call or as you were listening to your favorite playlist during a gym session—all because you neglected to check for debris and loose connections. 

If you’re purchasing your iPad online, request a detailed video of the seller showing the iPad in proper lighting at different angles and testing the core functions. 

2. Battery Health

Monitor how the iPad performs during actual use. Spend at least five to seven minutes testing basic functions while keeping an eye on the battery percentage. A healthy battery shouldn't drop more than a few percentage points during light use.

How to access battery health: 

• Open "Settings" on your iPad (Settings > Battery)
• Scroll down and tap on "Battery"
• Look for "Battery Health" in the menu
• Check for a percentage of 80% or higher.

Signs of a worn-out battery:

• Rapid battery drain (more than 1% per minute during basic use)
• Too much heat during charging
• Abnormal battery percentage spikes
• It takes a long time to charge.

3. Factory Reset Verification

This is non-negotiable! Buying an iPad that is still locked in someone else’s Apple ID is about as useful as wearing a North Face fleece jacket in the desert. 

Refurbished iPads will already be factory reset, but when purchasing an iPad from a previous owner, get them to perform a factory reset in front of you as a gesture of good faith. 

If the seller gives you every excuse in the book as to why they can’t do it or “they’ll email you the password later,” that’s a red flag and your cue to walk away.

4. Model and iOS Compatibility

When asking yourself “Should I buy this used iPad?”, consider whether the device supports up-to-date software requirements. iOS is essentially the brain for Apple’s communication devices. 

The downside of Apple’s pioneering technology is that the more innovations are made, the more things become obsolete with iOS. You might have found the best used iPad to buy, but in 2025, most current apps need iOS 15 or newer due to the fact that iOS compatibility directly impacts security updates, feature accessibility, and app availability. 

Check the iPad model number in Settings > General > About and check its specifications on Apple's website to verify that your purchase will be able to receive the latest iOS updates.

5. Memory

Trying to find the right amount of storage when buying a used iPad can feel like apartment hunting because you'll always need more space than you think! Simply check out the available storage under Settings > General > iPad Storage to save yourself from the irritation of deleting your favorite apps, photos, and videos every time you wish to download something new.

6. Proof of Purchase and Ownership

Verify that the person trying to sell you a used iPad is the legitimate owner to ensure that you don’t cross any lines of morality unintentionally. 

Tips to verify previous ownership:

• Request original purchasing documentation or Apple Store receipts
• Evaluate the seller’s profile history, reviews, and selling patterns when using online marketplaces
• Verify the serial number through Apple’s coverage check website
• Request a bill of sale.

Your Insurance Policy Against Everyday Wear and Tear 

The lasting power of your iPad directly correlates to how well you take care of it once you bring it home. Apple prides itself on being a brand whose products are built to last. However, proper maintenance and using protective accessories are at the heart of extending devices’ lifespans.

Set aside money in your iPad buying budget for these ZUGU accessories and safeguard your pre-loved iPad:

Case & screen wipes: Paper towels, tissues, and moist towelettes can warp the coating of the screen and the outside of your iPad. That’s not the case with our case wipes and screen wipes. They are durable and prevent micro-scratches while cleaning.

Screen protector: Our screen protectors add an extra layer against scratches and help preserve screen condition.

Protective case: Guard your used iPad against drops and daily wear and tear with ZUGU protective cases. Our durable design is the best match for pre-owned devices more sensitive to breakage than their newer counterparts.