Refurbished iPad Buying Guide 2026: Which Model Should You Buy?
We may earn a commission if you buy through links on this page, at no extra cost to you. It never changes which retailer we list as cheapest.
The iPad (10th generation) is the best refurbished iPad for most people in 2026. It has USB-C, a modern design and years of updates ahead. Choose an iPad Air with an M1 chip or newer if you want Apple Intelligence or more power.
Which iPads still get updates?
iPadOS 27 dropped every iPad with an A12 or A12X chip. Avoid these, because they won’t get new features:
- iPad (8th generation)
- iPad Air (3rd generation)
- iPad mini (5th generation)
- iPad Pro 11-inch (1st generation, 2018)
- iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation, 2018)
The oldest supported models are the iPad (9th generation), iPad Air (4th generation) and iPad mini (6th generation). Apple Intelligence needs an M1 chip or newer, or the A17 Pro in the latest iPad mini.
Quick picks
| Pick | Best for | Why |
|---|---|---|
| iPad (10th generation) | Most people | USB-C, modern design, long support ahead |
| iPad (9th generation) | Tightest budgets | Cheapest supported iPad, but the oldest |
| iPad Air (5th gen, M1, or newer) | Apple Intelligence | M-series chip, more power |
| iPad mini (6th generation or newer) | Portability | Small, light, USB-C |
| iPad Pro (M1 or newer) | Creative work | ProMotion display, top performance |
We compare refurbished iPad prices from Back Market, musicMagpie, Envirofone and Loop Mobile every morning. Browse every model in our refurbished iPad comparison.
iPad (10th generation): best for most people
It has USB-C, a 10.9-inch screen and slimmer bezels than older base iPads. Ideal for streaming, schoolwork, browsing and video calls. Compare 10th generation prices.
iPad (9th generation): best on a tight budget
The cheapest iPad that still runs iPadOS 27. It uses Lightning and has the older home-button design. As the oldest supported base model it’s the most likely to lose updates next, so it suits kids or light use. Compare 9th generation prices.
iPad Air (M1 or newer): best for Apple Intelligence
The M-series chip handles demanding apps, multitasking and Apple Intelligence. With a keyboard it can replace a laptop for many people. The 5th generation Air (2022) was the first with M1. Compare iPad Air (5th generation) prices.
iPad mini (6th generation or newer): best for portability
Easy to hold in one hand, so it’s great for reading, travel and notes. Compare iPad mini (6th generation) prices.
What to check before you buy
- Storage: 64GB suits light use. Choose 128GB or more for games, photos or offline video.
- Wi-Fi or cellular: most people only need Wi-Fi.
- Accessories: check which Apple Pencil and keyboard work with the model before buying them.
- Grade: lower grades only differ in looks, not in how they work.
- Warranty and returns: Back Market includes a year and 30-day returns; musicMagpie 12 months and 14 days. Compare retailers.
Our verdict
For most buyers, a refurbished iPad (10th generation) gives the best balance of price and lifespan. Spend more on an M1 iPad Air for Apple Intelligence, or save with a 9th generation for light use.
