The Best Summer Deals You’ll Find on iPads

Who doesn’t love a bargain? When it comes to Apple products, bargains are extra sweet because they’re not easy to find. Summer can be a great time to shop for gadgets as retailers clear out inventory in anticipation of the back-to-school season.

The iPad Air is a very cool tablet. It has Apple’s top-of-the-line A7 processor, a 9.7-inch “Retina” display, speedy 802.11n with NIMO Wi-Fi, a thin — just over one-quarter of an inch — aluminum body, and it only weighs one pound. It also carries a hefty price tag: $499 at the Apple Store. The device isn’t brand new, so it’s possible to find deals and discounts. DealNews discovered this bargain on eBay: The 16GB, Wi-Fi-only version is available for $399 plus shipping. If you’re interested, hurry up. There aren’t many units available.

Apple

If you don’t need the latest and greatest model, another company that sells on eBay is offering the first-generation iPad Mini (64GB with Wi-Fi and 4G) for $350. Apple no longer sells that specific model, but Apple charges $429 for the 16GB version with Wi-Fi and 4G, so the eBay price is a good one. Shipping is free. Groupon is also currently offering the 32GB mini with Wi-Fi for $329.99.

Another way to find iPad bargains is to check Apple’s list of refurbished products. Refurbished units were often returned soon after their purchase, sometimes unopened. The devices may have been repaired and exchanged. In any case, Apple says: “We test and certify all Apple refurbished products and include a 1-year warranty. All refurbished iPad models also include a brand new battery and outer shell.”

Apple’s refurb prices aren’t as good as what you find on eBay, but you do have the security of Apple’s warranty. That’s certainly worth something. The following four refurbished systems are for sale this week:

• 16GB iPad Air, Wi-Fi only: $419.
• 64GB iPad Air, Wi-Fi only: $589
• 16GB iPad mini with Retina display, Wi-Fi only: $339
• 16GB iPad 2, Wi-Fi and 3G: $289