While folks are lining up for iPad 2s today, my wife will be surfing the web from her “new” refurbished iPad 1. $350 was too good a deal to pass up. The fact is, Apple’s prior generation iPad is superior to current generation Android tablets in many regards – namely polish and app ecosystem. For the sort of casual usage I anticipate, she’s going to really enjoy v1 and wouldn’t necessarily appreciate the improvements of the iPad 2.
The last time we possessed an iPad, I found a decent stand for in-home use… but never came across a slim, functional case that I was willing to invest in. Fortunately, due to Apple swiping an InCase design and resultant publicity we learned of the Convertible Magazine Jacket ($50). And now have a winner.
As to refurb quality, the iPad looks brand new. I have no idea how Apple does it, but this seems to be their SOP. Not to mention, the iPad was ordered on a Thursday and the FedEx guy showed up on Friday. And that’s the free shipping tier. Lastly, thanks to those of you who suggested I check out TrackThis. I opted for their iPhone app and it’s well worth the 99 cents for keeping tabs on packages in various states of delivery.