How to sell your iPad

How-To,

{[['']]}

Want the latest and greatest iPad? Sell your old one to help you buy the new!

Looking to sell your old iPad so you can more easily afford that hotly rumored iPad Air 3? Maybe an iPad Pro or iPad mini 4? iPads aren't usually available with subsidies or leasing programs, especially not the Wi-Fi versions. So, one of the most popular strategies for those who want to reduce the cost of upgrade — especially frequent upgrades — is to sell an old iPad to pay for a new. Here's how!

When should I sell?

The best time to sell your old iPad is typically just before Apple announces a new one. Once the announcement is actually made, more people want the new model and so start selling the old. That leads to a lot of supply, which reduces the potential price you'll get.

Apple originally released new iPad models in the spring. The original iPad, iPad 2, and iPad 3 all went on sale during that time. More recently, Apple has been releasing new iPads at the end of the year. From the iPad mini and iPad 4 to iPad mini 4 and iPad Pro, fall and sometimes almost winter has been the window.

For most people, tablets aren't as necessary as phones. So, if you can sell a bit early, even if you have to do without for a few weeks, you might get a better price.

Anything I should do before I sell?

There are a few things you'll want to do before selling!

1. Back up your iPad

Before you do anything else, make sure you have an up-to-date backup of your iPad. That way all your data is safe and secure and you'll be able to easily restore it to your new iPad when you get it. iCloud automatically makes a backup overnight, as long as you're plugged in, but a manual backup will make sure you're absolutely up to date.

1. Make sure your iPad is connected to Wi-Fi. (If you're low on power, plug in as well.)
2. Launch Settings from the Home screen.
3. Tap on iCloud.
4. Tap on Backup.
5. Tap on Back Up Now.
   

If you prefer to use iTunes, you should also trigger a manual update to make sure you have all of your recent data backed up.

1. Plug your iPad into your Mac or Windows PC.
2. Launch iTunes.
3. Click on the iPad icon in the menu bar when it appears.
4. Click on Back Up Now. (Click on Encrypt Backup and add a password— you want the security.)
5. Back up Apps, if asked.

2. Erase your personal data

Once your data is safely backed up, it's important to wipe it from the iPad you're selling so your personal photos, files, messages, etc. don't end up as a surprise bonus for the new owner.

1. Launch the Settings app from the Home screen of your iPad.
2. Tap on General.
3. Tap on Reset at the bottom.
4. Tap on Erase All Content and Settings.
   
5. Enter your Passcode.
6. Tap on Erase to confirm.
   

You'll need to enter your Apple ID password to turn off Activate Lock and remove the device from Find my iPad, and you may need to enter your iPad passcode again to double-confirm.

That's because once the wipe is done, it's done. If you change your mind, you'll need to restore from an iCloud or iTunes backup.

Cleaning your iPad isn't just about removing data, it's about removing dirt. Even if you've run it hard, you should still take a few minutes to wipe it down and make sure it's free from dust, grime, oil, lint, and even fingerprints. Pay extra attention to the grooves and ports. If it's particularly nasty, a dab of isopropyl alcohol and some elbow grease will do the trick.

This is especially true if you're selling your iPad yourself and need to take pictures to show potential buyers. Of course, it's also the right thing to do — nobody wants to buy a dirty iPad.

4. Collect up the cables and cases

Make sure you include the Lightning or 30-pin Dock cable that came with your iPad, as well as the AC Adapter. If you have all that, and the original box, it can make sure you get the most money possible.

If you're selling your iPad yourself, including any accessories you'll no longer need can also sweeten the deal. Old cases, cables, chargers, and more won't just attract buyers, it will help declutter your collection as well.

Once you have everything, put it all, nicely and cleaning in the box, and set it aside, so it's all safe and ready to ship.