Considerations When Purchasing a Pre-Owned Tablet

The realm of pre-owned devices is a robust one across several specific device types, and the world of tablets is no exception. While many people prefer to go with new devices for their needs, refurbished options are a great way to save some money while also still getting most or all of the functionality you require.

At FixIT Mobile, we're proud to not only offer the very best phone and tablet repair services around, but also to provide clients with pre-owned tablets and other devices for their needs. What are some of the important elements to think about when purchasing a pre-owned tablet? Here are several.

How Much Should You Spend?

There's no set answer here, as it depends on how much you're looking to get out of your tablet. If you need something for very specific tasks and aren't too worried about having the latest and greatest device, you can find a used model for a fraction of the price of a new one.

Conversely, if you're looking for a high-end tablet with all the bells and whistles, you'll likely need to spend closer to the price of a new device. It's important to set a budget and stick to it when shopping for pre-owned tablets.

What Operating System Do You Need?

When it comes to tablet operating systems, there are really only two major options: iOS (used by Apple devices) and Android (used by practically every other manufacturer). Both have their pros and cons, so it's important to decide which one is right for you.

If you're heavily invested in the Apple ecosystem, getting an iOS tablet is likely your best bet. On the other hand, if you prefer the customization options and wider app selection of Android, that's the route you'll want to go.

What Size Tablet Do You Need?

Tablets come in a wide range of sizes, from small 7-inch models to large 12.9-inch ones. The size you need will depend largely on how you plan to use your tablet.

If you're looking for something to use primarily for reading or browsing the web, a smaller tablet will be just fine. On the other hand, if you need something for gaming or watching movies, you'll want a larger screen.

What Features Do You Need?

Again, this will come down to how you plan to use your tablet. If you need something for work or school, you'll want a tablet with a good processor and plenty of storage.

If you're mostly using your tablet for entertainment, a good screen resolution and loud speakers should be at the top of your list. And if you're looking for a device to replace your laptop, you'll need something with a full-sized USB port.

Age Considerations

You should also be considering the age of the tablet you're looking at. Newer tablets will obviously be more expensive, but they'll also likely have better specs and features.

Older tablets can still be a great value, but keep in mind that they may not be able to keep up with newer apps and games. It's important to strike a balance between price and age when shopping for a pre-owned tablet.

Warranty and Return Policy

In addition, be sure to check the warranty and return policy of the seller before making a purchase. Ideally, you'll want a warranty that covers at least six months, in case there are any issues with the tablet after you get it home.

Now, this is an area that can be a bit trickier with some pre-owned tablets. There may be no return policy at all, or the seller may only offer a limited warranty. In these cases, it's even more important to do your research and make sure you're comfortable with the purchase before hand.

Choosing the Proper Model

When you come to a store like ours, you'll have more than one robust option for your needs. We have a wide variety of pre-owned tablets to choose from, all at different price points.

One of the main considerations here will be which iteration of a given tablet you go for. Apple, for instance, has produced numerous versions of the iPad over the years. The latest and greatest will obviously cost more, but an older model may be just what you're looking for.

The same goes for Android tablets. There are countless different models on the market, so it's important to do your research and find the one that's right for you.

In particular, it's important to be sure that any pre-owned tablet you're getting isn't utilizing obsolete technology. For instance, many tablets still use the older micro-USB standard for charging and data transfer.

While this isn't a deal breaker, it's certainly something to be aware of. The newer USB-C standard is much faster and more convenient, so you may want to look for a tablet that uses it.

Ultimately, the decision of which pre-owned tablet to buy comes down to your needs and budget. Be sure to do your research and ask any questions you have before making a purchase. And if you're ever unsure, our team here at the store will be more than happy to help you out. Thanks for reading!

For more on this, or to learn about any of our phone and device repair services or pre-owned devices for sale, speak to our team at FixIT Mobile at your nearest convenience for more information.