It's the perfect time to buy a refurbished iPad ... right?
On Friday, Apple will launch a fresh model of its iPad at $329. It's a step up from the iPad Air, the tablet it will replace in the rotation. On top of a lower price, it will boast a faster processor.
Although it beats iPad Air, it's a small step down from the iPad Pro. Both Pro models — the 9.7-inch and 12.9-inch models — boast a faster processing chip, support Apple's digital Pencil and Smart Keyboard, improved displays and additional speakers. In the case of the 9.7-inch Pro, it has a better camera, too.
When something new comes along, it always makes for a good opportunity to look at the old. It's also a good time to look at the refurbished. And because of the new iPad's price, it could make the decision on whether to buy new or refurbished a little more tricky.
Wait, what does refurbished mean?
A product that's been "refurbished" mean it is used, but tested and tweaked by manufacturers to operate like a new device. It's great for consumers since it allows them to get a device that's close to new for a lower price.
However, if you're set on buying an iPad, the decision to go new or refurbished depends on the model, plus what you want from your new tablet.
Let's break it down:
If you're considering a 4th-generation iPad or older
This applies to all iPads from the fourth generation model launched in 2012 all the way back to the 2010 original (if you can find one). The prices on refurbished models are attractive. For example, on Gazelle, you can find a second-generation 16GB iPad for $158. A separate listing offered a 64GB, fourth-generation iPad for $249. You can find similar prices at retailers including Best Buy and Walmart.
An older iPad is ideal if you want an affordable tablet but don't need the latest bells and whistles. However, in the case of all iPads before the fourth-generation model, they don't support iOS 10, which means they won't update to iOS 11 later this year either. Although the fourth-generation iPad runs iOS 10, it would not be surprising if Apple chose to exclude it from iOS 11 updates.
If you're considering a refurbished iPad Air or iPad Mini
This is where the decision gets interesting. Gazelle offers a 32GB iPad Air (WiFi only) in fair condition for $269. On Apple's website, they offer a refurbished 16GB iPad Air with cellular connection for $319. In some cases, there's roughly a $50-$60 difference in price compared to the new iPad. The price difference also varies on whether you want a WiFi-only iPad or one with cellular connection. The new iPad (the one on sale Friday) with cellular connectivity costs $459, so that $319 iPad Air looks pretty good in comparison.
Before you buy refurbished ...
Read the fine print. For example, Apple offers a one-year warranty on its refurbished products. Also, find details on what retailers do to refurbish a device. On Apple's website, it says all refurbished iPads "include a brand new battery and outer shell."
Final thoughts
It all boils down to what you want from the iPad. An entertainment device for kids? A low-cost entry to the Apple ecosystem? A cutting-edge tablet? Buying a refurbished tablet can be a good deal, but in some cases, you might be better off buying new.
Follow Brett Molina on Twitter: @brettmolina23.