iPad comparison: which refurbished iPad should you buy?
Apple sells four kinds of iPad, and each has been through several generations. That's a lot of choice when you're buying refurbished, because older and newer models sit side by side. The good news is that most people only need to answer three questions: what will you use it for, how big a screen do you want, and do you need an Apple Pencil?
This iPad comparison covers the models you'll find refurbished in Ireland and who each one suits.
The four iPad families at a glance
| Family | Screen | Best for | Things to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| iPad | 10.2" (9th gen) or 10.9" (10th gen) | Kids, browsing, streaming, schoolwork | The 9th generation has a Home button and Lightning; the 10th has USB-C |
| iPad mini | 7.9" to 8.3" | Reading, travel, one-handed use | The 6th generation (2021) has USB-C and a larger screen |
| iPad Air | 10.9" | Students, note-taking, light creative work | Air 4 and 5 support the 2nd-generation Apple Pencil |
| iPad Pro | 11" or 12.9" | Drawing, video editing, laptop replacement | Face ID and a 120 Hz screen; 2021 models use Apple's M1 chip |
iPad (9th and 10th generation): the everyday choice
The standard iPad is the most popular model, and the iPad 9th generation (2021) is a common choice refurbished. It has a 10.2-inch screen, a Home button with Touch ID and support for the first-generation Apple Pencil.
The iPad 10th generation moved to a 10.9-inch screen, USB-C and an all-screen design with Touch ID in the top button. Both are well suited to streaming, browsing, homework and video calls.
The best iPad for kids
For children, the standard iPad is usually the sensible pick. It's robust in a case, it runs every app a child will want, and Screen Time lets you set limits and approve downloads. A Used or Very Good grade often makes sense here, since a case will hide minor marks anyway.
iPad mini: small but capable
The iPad mini 6 (2021) has an 8.3-inch screen, USB-C and support for the second-generation Apple Pencil. It's light enough to hold in one hand, which makes it good for reading, travel and taking notes on the move.
The trade-off is the screen. For split-screen multitasking or long documents, a larger iPad is easier to work on.
iPad Air: the best iPad for students
The iPad Air sits between the standard iPad and the Pro. Air 4 and Air 5 models have a 10.9-inch screen, USB-C and support for the second-generation Apple Pencil and keyboard cases.
For students taking notes, annotating PDFs and writing essays, it's often the best balance of size, power and weight. It's light enough for a schoolbag and capable enough for several years of coursework.
iPad Pro: for creative and demanding work
The iPad Pro adds Face ID, a smoother 120 Hz ProMotion display and more powerful chips. The iPad Pro 11 (2021) and iPad Pro 12.9 (2021) use Apple's M1 chip, and the 12.9-inch 2021 model has a mini-LED screen that's especially good for photos and video.
If you draw, edit video or want an iPad that can replace a laptop with a keyboard, a Pro is worth considering. For everyday use, it's more iPad than most people need.
iPad Air vs iPad Pro: which one?
The two look similar, so this is a common question.
- Choose the Air if you want Apple Pencil and keyboard support in a lighter, simpler iPad.
- Choose the Pro if you'll notice the smoother 120 Hz screen, want Face ID, or need the extra power for creative apps.
Wi-Fi or Wi-Fi + Cellular?
Every iPad connects over Wi-Fi. A Cellular model also takes a SIM card or eSIM, so it can get online anywhere with mobile coverage. That's useful if you travel or commute, but most people use their iPad at home or tether it to their phone.
Cellular iPads we sell are unlocked, so they work on any Irish network.
How much storage do you need?
Storage can't be added later, so choose with a little room to spare.
- 32 GB or 64 GB: fine for streaming, browsing and a handful of apps, especially for kids.
- 128 GB or 256 GB: better for students, games and downloaded films for travel.
- 512 GB or more: for video editing and large photo libraries.
What to check when buying a refurbished iPad
Whichever model you choose, check the same things you'd check on any refurbished device:
- Battery health of at least 80%. Every refurbished iPad we sell meets that, with at least 85% in the Like New grade.
- A clear grade. Ours are Like New, Very Good and Used, explained on our grading page.
- Testing. We test every device with M360 Diagnostics.
- A warranty. Ours is 24 months on every refurbished iPad.
- Activation Lock removed. The iPad must not be linked to the previous owner's Apple ID.
Frequently asked questions
Which iPad is best for kids?
The standard iPad, such as the 9th generation, is usually best. It's durable in a case, runs every children's app and has parental controls built in.
What is the difference between iPad Air and iPad Pro?
The Pro adds Face ID, a smoother 120 Hz screen and more power. The Air is lighter and simpler, with the same Apple Pencil support on recent models.
Is a refurbished iPad a good idea?
Yes, if it's been tested and comes with a warranty and a stated battery minimum. iPads are long-lasting devices that keep getting software updates for years.
Do refurbished iPads work with the Apple Pencil?
Yes, but check which Pencil your model supports. The iPad 9th generation uses the first-generation Pencil; Air 4 and 5, mini 6 and recent Pros use the second generation.
Find the right iPad
Compare every model, storage size and grade in our refurbished iPads range, each tested, sent free with DPD and covered by a 24-month warranty.
