Getting A Great Deal On An iPad

Looking for a bargain on possibly the second best 10″ tablet? When Apple introduced the third generation iPad, they cunningly kept the prior generation base iPad 2 in play… by dropping its price $100. And, at $399, the iPad 2 is a decent deal. Yet, for many, the new iPad screen is worth the $100 surcharge despite the additional heft and heat. But at $350 or $360 the dynamics may be more compelling, especially for folks on a budget or those anticipating limited tablet usage. MicroCenter is currently blowing out their iPad 2 inventory at $359.99.  As you can see from the pic above, at least one Best Buy is willing to price match – and a friend picked up two on the cheap. Should these supplies run out, Apple is offering refurb iPad 2s for $349. While some may not be entirely comfortable purchasing a refurbished product, having bought several Apple devices this way, I can tell you they’ve all been pristine – including our former iPad 1. Further, refurb Apple iPads carry the same 1 year warranty you’d receive with a new device.

(Thanks, Ricky Tan!)

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  • I purchased a refurbished iPad 2 last November for $449, which was a good deal at the time. It looks and performs exactly like a new one. All refurbished models contain a new battery and have a new outer shell. I think the Apple refurbs are the best way to go for someone looking for a used iPad.

  • I showed this to a co-worker and she went out at lunch to Best Buy with a Micro Center advert. She was told that they wouldn't match Micro Center's prices. YMMV

  • Yeah, I'm sure it depends what clerk you get and what store (plus you probably need a Micro Center within X miles). But if it's been abused, stores could have also received a memo from corporate to deny. Here's their official policy - I suppose they could deny based on limited quantity and presumably clearance, but how would Best Buy determine Micro Center's inventory and intentions?

    Best Buy will match the price if you find a lower price on an identical available product at a local retail competitor's store, a local Best Buy retail store or BestBuy.com. Simply let us know when you are making your purchase or during the return and exchange period.

    The Guarantee does not apply to: Our competitors' website prices, offers that include financing, bundling of items, free items, pricing errors, mail-in offers, competitors' service prices, items that are advertised as limited-quantity, out of stock, open-box, clearance, refurbished/used items, Deal of the Day items, BestBuy.com Midnight Sale and special hour sale events, BestBuy.com Outlet Center and Marketplace items, and items for sale Thanksgiving Day through the Monday after Thanksgiving.

Published by
Dave Zatz