If you’re looking to buy a cheap apple iPad you are smart to do some research. Of course everyone seems be craving an iPad after the Apple iPhone revolutionized the world of the smart phones. Since the iPad launched it literally has given birth to the tablet computer phenomenon. It has left competitors with their pants down scrambling to produce a worthwhile tablet computer as fast as possible. As the masses have rushed in to find cheaper alternatives many reviews have started to circulate. The great news is top experts and critics are weighing in on the matter. The common denominator is that experts agree that refurbished iPads are the way to go if you’re looking for a price break iced off with free shipping. This is mainly due to great new warranties being issued by Apple.

What Exactly is a Refurbished iPad?

Refurbished for many brings about quite a few misconceptions. A refurbished iPad is a device that was returned for some reason or another. It may have been a blemish that occurred during shipping or the manufacturing process or possibly a more serious issue such as a hardware failure.  By law Apple cannot put this iPad back up for sale as new so they must label it as a refurbished, reconditioned or pre-owned even if it has never been out of the box. These returned iPad tablet computers are put through a very robust process to ensure they stand up to Apple quality standards which may include completely replacing certain parts with brand new hardware. After getting the final Certified Refurbished seal of approval these devices are then repacked in the original Apple packaging along with a new manual and cables etc. From there it is then put back up for resale with a substantial discount coupled with the same warranty as a brand new iPad.

How Are iPads Refurbished?

First upon arrival the units are cleaned. They then move to the next phase which is the diagnostic phase which subjects them to all sorts of diagnostic tests. From these tests they can quickly determine if any computer components have issues. Many times there are none but regardless of the reason for return every device is put through the same test. Again it may have just been a flaw in the case or a chip in the screen but all units must undergo the same process to ensure high quality.

One major change to understand is that parts are not fixed. It has become very apparent to Apple long ago that it is cheaper to just replace parts instead of fixing them. So if a processor has gone bad they just simply put a new processor in the device. Not only is it cheaper it’s also much quicker. Once any faulty or damaged parts are replaced the computer is again put through a barrage of burn in tests otherwise known as stress tests. These help to ensure that all parts of the tablet are working perfect.

Mind you these tests called burn in tests or stress tests are not your normal inspection. They are designed to push the computer artificially hard and make the computer do many functions beyond what it performs on a normal day. It also is made sufficiently long so as to sort out any potential problems. These tests also involve subjecting parts to elevated temperature as well as voltage to further ensure reliability.  By introducing this phase it helps to ensure that the unit is going to stand the test of time and be worthy of the same warranty a new computer receives.

Finally these computers are again cleaned, given software updates and given a final quality analysis. This final quality analysis is where the device receives its new part number and serial number. It is then issued a certified refurbished approval to be added to the refurbished stock posting with a warranty. With this process Apple has been able to retain a very high quality standard that has been responsible for building a reputation for reliability and longevity.

What Can be Expected when Buying a Refurbished Apple iPad?

Because Apple is known to manufacture a much higher quality than any other computer company you can expect that your iPad tablet computer will last for years to come. You should enjoy a substantial savings from the normal retail price but you will also have the peace of mind that you have the same solid 1 year warranty that brand new iPads receive. The device is guaranteed to be fully functional with complete documentation and guaranteed that the unit met Apple’s robust quality standards. Moreover you get assurance that you any defective hardware components have been replaced by genuine Apple parts.

Why a Refurbished Apple iPad?

Falling between a laptop and a Smartphone, the iPad and iPad 2 carry the best traits of both devices. Weighing about a pound and a half with a battery life of around 10 hours, this ultra thin device offers a touch screen much larger than a iPhone. Whether for work or recreation many customer reviews claim the iPad provides a much better user experience with access to even more apps than the iPhone. Now with options of utilizing AT&T or Verizon you can utilize 3G service where Wi-Fi isn’t available with the iPad wifi + 3g model.

Many who have read a kindle review or nook review which utilizes the Droid operating system, end up opting for the Ipad due to its robust amount of extra features. Despite not having a CD ROM Drive or a USB port the iPad can access the net without physical connection via WiFi. Because the iPad is built with the dual core 1 Ghz Apple A5 processor it allows the user to perform a variety of functions including surfing the web, watching movies, even reading magazines and books.  This thing nearly has it all and has fast become a fan favorite for those who travel often or just simply like to lounge on the couch while checking email or catching up on the latest news.

Not offered until recently, the savings currently is around $50 dollars. In these times that extra $50 dollars can make or break many people. The best place to purchase would be direct from the Apple Store as it comes with free shipping, all of the accessories, a full warrant for a year coupled with the option to extend this warranty up to two years with the AppleCare Protection Plan. This truly has many people scratching their heads asking why buy new when the warranty is the same on refurbished desktop computers as well as iPads?