Choosing a 2nd hand ipad

If purchasing a previously used device, choosing a new model over older will likely extend the usable lifespan before system software updates cease and/or the iPad becomes fully obsolete. In this context, newer is always better; you would be wise to avoid, at the outset, any iPad that cannot be updated to iPadOS 17.x.

While Apple does not pre-announce end-of-life, you might reasonably anticipate system software updates being available for five to seven years from initial release of an individual iPad model - software updates typically being limited to just security point-updates in the final years of support. Many App Developers also limit support and App updates to the current and prior one or two major versions of iPadOS. This may further restrict your potential choice of iPad model.

For information, here is a list of the highest version of iOS supported by the older models of iPad (for simplicity - “generations” are shortened to a number) that are restricted in their ability to be updated:

32-bit devices (obsolete)

iPad1 - iOS 5.1.1

iPad2, iPad3 and iPad mini1 - iOS 9.3.5 (WiFi Only models), iOS 9.3.6 (WiFi & Cellular)

iPad4 - iOS 10.3.3 (WiFi Only), iOS 10.3.4 (WiFi & Cellular)

64-bit devices

iPad Air1*, iPad mini2 and iPad mini3* - iOS 12.5.7

iPad Air2, iPad mini4 - iPadOS 15.8.2

iPad5, iPad Pro (9.7"/12.9" first generation) - iPadOS 16.7.8

(*) obsolete

Newer models are all able to be updated to the current version - iPadOS 17.5.1

• iPad Pro 13" (M4)
• iPad Pro 12.9" (2nd generation and later)
• iPad Pro 11" (1st generation and later + M4)
• iPad Pro 10.5"
• iPad Air (3rd generation and later + M2)
• iPad (6th generation and later)
• iPad mini (5th generation and later)

Technical considerations aside, be very wary of purchasing pre-owned devices that are not being purchased from Apple, or an Apple Authorised Retailer, as a renewed device. Here is a cautionary article authored by one of out senior contributors:

The All Too Common SAD Reality of Buying … - Apple Community

Here is what Apple suggests when purchasing a previously used device:

Check for Activation Lock before you buy a device from someone else

Before you buy an iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch, from someone other than Apple or an authorized Apple reseller, make sure that the device is erased and no longer linked to the previous owner’s account. Follow these steps to check if the device is ready to use: 

1. Turn on and unlock the device. 
2. If the passcode lock screen or the Home screen appears, the device hasn't been erased. Ask the seller to completely erase the device by going to Settings > General > Reset > Erase All Content and Settings. Don't take ownership of any used iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch until it's been erased.
3. Begin the device setup process.
4. If you're asked for the previous owner’s Apple ID and password, the device is still linked to their account. Hand the device back to the seller and ask them to enter their password. If the previous owner isn't present, contact them as soon as possible and ask them to use a browser to remove the device from their account. Don't take ownership of any used iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch until it has been removed from the previous owner’s account.

You will know that a device is ready for you to use when you're asked to "Set up your iPhone," “Set up your iPad," or “Set up your iPod” the first time you turn it on.

I stopped short of recommending that you purchase a new iPad - but have hopefully provided some valuable points to consider. As suggested, you would be very wise to avoid anything that doesn't at least support the current version of iPadOS.

Considering a renewed device from an authorised Apple retailer will provide both a limited warranty and assurance that you'll not encounter many of the risks associated with purchasing a pre-owned device from a third-party.

If you do entertain purchase from a third-party, you'll also know what to look for. We see many tales of woe where basic checks are not performed when purchasing pre-owned devices - with some users scammed and left with a locked device that cannot be used.