10 Best Refurbished iPad Pros in 2026

You know the feeling. You need the power of an iPad Pro for drawing, editing 4K video, or running side-by-side pro apps, but the idea of dropping well over a grand on a brand-new tablet makes you wince. The solution is a refurbished model: a device that has been inspected, tested, and cleaned, typically with a battery above 80% of new capacity. The problem is that Apple has released so many iPad Pro generations over the past seven years that choosing the right one feels like decoding a product line family tree. Should you grab an M1 from 2021, or will the older A12X still do the job? Do you need the XDR display, or is Liquid Retina enough?

We have sorted through all ten refurbished models currently available to help you make a clear decision. Our picks range from the latest 2024 13-inch M4 beast to the budget-friendly 2018 11-inch, and we have even included the newest M5 model (brand new, not refurbished) and the standard A16 iPad for those who might not need a Pro at all. Here is a quick look at the best options.

TL;DR: The Apple iPad Pro 2024 (13-inch, M4) is the top performer for creative professionals who need the best display and chip. The 2021 12.9-inch M1 hits the sweet spot of performance and capability for most users. The 2021 11-inch M1 is the pick for those who want a more portable powerhouse. And the 2018 11-inch 256GB is a solid entry-level choice if you can live with a slightly older chip.

Comparison Table

#	Product	Screen & Chip	Storage	Best for
1	Apple iPad Pro 2024 (13-inch, M4)	13" Ultra Retina XDR, Apple M4	256GB	Pro creatives who want the latest display and raw power
2	Apple 2021 12.9-inch iPad Pro (M1)	12.9" Liquid Retina XDR, M1	256GB	Most people who want a big screen and top-tier performance
3	Apple 2021 iPad Pro 11-inch (M1)	11" Liquid Retina, M1	128GB	Those who prioritize portability without sacrificing speed
4	Apple 2020 iPad Pro 12.9-inch (A12Z)	12.9" Liquid Retina, A12Z Bionic	128GB	Budget-minded users who still want a large-screen Pro
5	Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd Gen, A12X)	12.9" Liquid Retina, A12X Bionic	256GB	Heavy note-takers and readers who need lots of storage
6	Apple iPad Pro 2018 11-inch (A12X)	11" Liquid Retina, A12X Bionic	256GB	Those who want a small Pro with plenty of space for apps
7	Apple iPad Pro (12.9-inch, 2018, A12X)	12.9" Liquid Retina, A12X Bionic	256GB	A second large-screen option with identical specs
8	Apple 2018 iPad Pro 12.9-inch (A12X, 64GB)	12.9" Liquid Retina, A12X Bionic	64GB	Entry-level Pro use with limited storage needs
9	Apple iPad 11-inch (A16)	11" Liquid Retina, A16 Bionic	128GB	Basic tasks and media consumption without Pro apps
10	Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M5)	11" Ultra Retina XDR, M5	256GB	Users who want the absolute latest model, brand new

How We Picked

Every refurbished iPad Pro is a compromise between age, storage, and capability. Here is what we weighed when deciding which ones to highlight:

• Chip generation and performance longevity. The M4, M5, M1, and A12Z/A12X chips are separated by years of architecture improvements. A newer chip means you get more headroom for future iPadOS updates and intensive apps like Final Cut Pro or Photoshop.
• Display technology. The 12.9-inch models from 2021 onward use Liquid Retina XDR (mini-LED), which offers far better contrast and brightness for HDR work. The 11-inch models and older 12.9-inch screens use Liquid Retina (LCD) with ProMotion.
• Storage capacity and your workflow. 64GB fills up fast with pro-level files. 128GB is a decent baseline, while 256GB gives real breathing room for video projects and large app libraries.
• Accessory compatibility. All iPad Pros from 2018 on support the second-generation Apple Pencil and the Magic Keyboard (with slightly different fitments). The new M5 Pro uses a different Magic Keyboard, so keep that in mind if you plan to buy used accessories.
• Condition and battery health. Certified refurbished units from Amazon guarantee a battery above 80% capacity and no major cosmetic flaws. Older models naturally may have more cycles, but the certification provides a safety net.
• Physical footprint and weight. The 11-inch models are clearly more portable; the 12.9-inch ones feel like a laptop replacement but are heavier in hand for reading or note-taking.

1. Apple iPad Pro 2024 (13-inch, M4, 256GB): Best Latest Generation

Pros

• Ultra Retina XDR display with tandem OLED: stunning brightness and perfect blacks
• M4 chip is a massive leap over M1 for rendering and AI tasks
• Thin and light design (just over a pound)
• Landscape front camera makes video calls look natural
• Wi-Fi 7 ready

Cons

• The most expensive refurbished option on the list
• Battery may be at 80-90% of new depending on previous use
• Does not include charging brick in many refurbished packages

Best for: Creative professionals who edit HDR video, do 3D modeling, or run multiple pro apps simultaneously and want the best possible screen.

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This is the newest iPad Pro you will find on the refurbished market, and it shows. The 13-inch Ultra Retina XDR display uses tandem OLED technology that delivers a thousand nits of full-screen brightness and infinite contrast. It makes photos and HDR movies look almost holographic. The M4 chip handles tasks that would choke an M1, like real-time multi-track video editing or running complex machine learning models. The chassis is remarkably thin: 0.2 inches, which means it slides into a bag as if it were a paper notebook.

But you pay a premium for being near the front of the line. If your work does not depend on extreme brightness or the latest chip efficiency, the M1 models below will serve you just as well for most apps. Also, because this is a refurbished unit, the battery is guaranteed to be above 80 percent, but if you buy from a third-party seller rather than Amazon's own certified program, you might get one closer to that threshold. Still, for the creative who needs the best, this is the tablet to get.

2. Apple 2021 12.9-inch iPad Pro (M1, 256GB): Best Balance of Performance and Value

Pros

• Liquid Retina XDR display with mini-LED: 1,600 nits peak brightness
• M1 chip still feels fast for all current creative apps
• 256GB storage is comfortable for most users
• LiDAR scanner for AR and improved autofocus
• Thunderbolt port for fast external storage

Cons

• Slightly heavier than the 2024 model (0.65 pounds)
• Front camera is in portrait orientation (older design)
• No Wi-Fi 7

Best for: Users who want a large screen with excellent HDR performance but do not need the absolute newest chip.

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The 2021 12.9-inch iPad Pro remains the sweet spot for most people. It has the same mini-LED XDR display that made the big Pro famous, with deep blacks and bright highlights for HDR video. The M1 chip is still powerful enough to run DaVinci Resolve or Procreate with dozens of layers. The 256GB storage is generous for local project files. And the Thunderbolt port lets you connect to a fast SSD or an external monitor without fuss.

The main trade-off is the front camera placement: it is on the short side, so when you use the iPad in landscape mode (as with a keyboard), your face is off-center. The new M4 and M5 models fix this with a landscape camera. Also, the 2021 weighs about 0.65 pounds, which is not heavy but is noticeably more than the 0.5-pound 2024. If you can live with those compromises, you save a considerable amount and still get a pro-level experience.

3. Apple 2021 iPad Pro 11-inch (M1, 128GB): Best Compact Performer

Pros

• M1 chip in a smaller, more portable body
• ProMotion 120Hz display makes everything feel smooth
• Thunderbolt port
• Face ID works in any orientation
• Compatible with Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil 2

Cons

• Only 128GB storage (enough for moderate use)
• LCD display, not mini-LED – less contrast for HDR
• No LiDAR scanner (but still has camera)

Best for: Travelers, students, and anyone who needs a powerful tablet that slips into a small bag.

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If you value portability over screen size, the 11-inch M1 Pro is hard to beat. The chassis is nearly the same footprint as an iPad mini, but you get the M1 processor and 128GB of storage. The Liquid Retina display is still excellent: ProMotion gives you smooth scrolling and fluid Apple Pencil strokes, and True Tone adjusts the white balance to match your room light. The 11-inch form factor is ideal for holding in one hand while reading or taking notes, and it feels much less like a laptop replacement than the 12.9-inch.

The biggest limitation is storage. At 128GB, it will fill up if you edit 4K video regularly or install a large game library. And the LCD screen, while good, cannot compete with the XDR panel for HDR movies. But for a secondary computer or a dedicated creative tool that you carry everywhere, this is a fantastic choice.

4. Apple 2020 iPad Pro 12.9-inch (A12Z, 128GB): Solid All-Rounder

Pros

• Large 12.9-inch Liquid Retina display with ProMotion
• A12Z Bionic chip still handles most creative apps well
• LiDAR Scanner for AR apps and low-light autofocus
• Face ID and four-speaker audio
• Thinner than the 2018 models

Cons

• Only 128GB storage
• Not as future-proof as M1 models
• No mini-LED – standard LCD

Best for: Users who want a large Pro screen on a tighter budget and do not need M1 chip power.

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The 2020 Pro is the generation that brought the LiDAR scanner to the lineup. It is a neat addition for AR enthusiasts and helps the camera focus faster in low light. The A12Z chip is essentially an A12X with an extra GPU core, so it still feels responsive for drawing, editing photos, and everyday multitasking. The 12.9-inch screen is the same LCD as the 2018 model – no mini-LED, but still a great panel with ProMotion.

Where this model shows its age is in raw processing power. If you plan to do heavy video rendering or run multiple pro apps side by side, the M1 models will feel faster. The 128GB storage is borderline for many creative projects; you will want an external SSD for larger files. But if your workflow is lighter and you just want a big screen for split-screen productivity and Netflix, this is a good value.

5. Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd Generation, A12X, 256GB): Best Large Screen with Plenty of Storage

Pros

• 256GB storage gives you room for large projects
• A12X Bionic is still capable for most apps
• Edge-to-edge Liquid Retina display with ProMotion
• Four-speaker audio sounds full and loud
• Supports Apple Pencil 2 and Magic Keyboard

Cons

• Older chip lacks the neural engine power of M1
• LCD, not XDR – blacks look gray in dark rooms
• No LiDAR scanner

Best for: Heavy note-takers and readers who want a big screen and do not push the chip to its limits.

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The 2018 iPad Pro was a design revolution: the first model to ditch the Home button and go edge-to-edge. It introduced the A12X chip, which at the time was faster than most laptops. Today, it is still more than enough for note-taking, reading, web browsing, and even light photo editing. The 256GB storage is a real bonus – you can store a large music library, download a dozen games, and still have space for work files.

The downside is the display technology. The 12.9-inch screen uses standard LCD with local dimming zones that are not very effective; in a dark room, you will see blooming around bright objects on a black background. It is still a good screen, but the XDR panels on later models are noticeably better. If you primarily use the iPad in well-lit environments, this is not a deal breaker. The A12X will likely stop receiving major iPadOS updates sooner than the M1, but for the price, this remains a capable machine.

6. Apple iPad Pro 2018 11-inch (A12X, 256GB): Best Portable with High Storage

Pros

• Compact 11-inch size with 256GB storage (rare combo)
• A12X Bionic handles most tasks briskly
• ProMotion 120Hz display
• Face ID and USB-C
• Four speakers

Cons

• Chip is four generations old
• No LiDAR or ultra-wide camera
• Battery life may be shorter due to age

Best for: Those who want a small tablet but need decent storage for apps and media.

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This is the 11-inch version of the 2018 Pro, but with 256GB of storage – a combination that is hard to find in a small form factor. The 11-inch Liquid Retina display is sharp and bright, and ProMotion makes scrolling feel buttery. The A12X, while old, still opens apps quickly and can handle multiple split-screen windows. It is an excellent secondary device for reading PDFs, taking notes with the Apple Pencil 2, and browsing the web.

Where it shows its age is in sustained performance. Render a complex 4K video in LumaFusion, and you will notice the fans kicking in (yes, the 2018 Pro has a passive heat spreader, not active fans, but it throttles under load). And the battery on a refurbished 2018 unit is likely closer to 80% capacity, so you might not get a full day of heavy use. Still, for the price, you get a well-built Pro that does most of what a modern iPad Pro does, just a little slower.

7. Apple iPad Pro (12.9-inch, 2018, A12X, 256GB): Another Large-Screen 256GB Option

Pros

• Same 12.9-inch Liquid Retina display with ProMotion
• 256GB storage is spacious
• Four speakers
• Face ID
• USB-C port

Cons

• Essentially the same hardware as #5 – not clearly differentiated
• Older chip with limited AI capabilities
• Display not XDR

Best for: Shoppers who find this listing at a better price than the 3rd Gen version, as the specs are identical.

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This listing is almost identical to the 3rd Generation 12.9-inch Pro we covered above. It has the same A12X chip, the same 256GB storage, the same Liquid Retina display, and the same design. The only difference might be the specific batch of refurbished units or the seller. If you see this model offered at a lower price than the other 2018 12.9-inch, it is worth grabbing. Just be aware that you are buying a device that is now eight years old (from its original release). The performance is still fine for typical tablet tasks, but do not expect to run the most demanding pro apps smoothly. It is a solid backup or media consumption machine.

8. Apple 2018 iPad Pro 12.9-inch (A12X, 64GB): Entry-Level Pro Experience

Pros

• Large 12.9-inch screen for reading and split-screen work
• A12X Bionic still usable for basics
• Supports Apple Pencil 2 and Magic Keyboard
• Four speakers

Cons

• Only 64GB storage – fills up very fast
• No LiDAR or ultra-wide camera
• Battery may be degraded
• Chip is old

Best for: Users who need a big screen for note-taking and reading but have minimal app storage needs.

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This is the most affordable way to get a 12.9-inch iPad Pro into your hands. The screen is huge, the speakers are excellent, and ProMotion keeps scrolling smooth. The A12X will handle OneNote, PDF annotation, and web browsing without complaint. But 64GB is a real problem. After the operating system and a few apps, you will have almost no space for music, photos, or games. You will rely heavily on cloud storage or an external drive. Also, this is the oldest Pro on the list, so expect the battery to be at the lower end of the certified range. If you just want a large screen for reading and marking up documents, this can work, but we would recommend stretching to one of the 128GB or higher models if your workflow involves file storage.

9. Apple iPad 11-inch (A16, 128GB): A Non-Pro Alternative for Basic Tasks

Pros

• Latest A16 chip (same as iPhone 14 Pro)
• 128GB storage is a generous baseline
• 11-inch Liquid Retina display (non-laminated, but still good)
• Landscape front camera with Center Stage
• Touch ID in the top button
• USB-C

Cons

• Not an iPad Pro – no ProMotion, no ProRes support
• Display is unlaminated (slight air gap, can be distracting with pencil)
• No Face ID
• No Thunderbolt, only USB 3.1
• No LiDAR or ultra-wide camera

Best for: Students and casual users who need an iPad for note-taking, browsing, and video calls, and do not require Pro-level features.

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This is not an iPad Pro, but it deserves a spot in this roundup because many buyers come across it while searching for refurbished iPad Pros. The standard iPad has the A16 chip, which is actually newer than the A12X in older Pros and even faster in single-core tasks. It has a 12MP front camera placed on the long edge, so your video calls look natural in landscape mode. The 128GB storage is a reasonable starting point.

However, the display is the key difference. It is not laminated, meaning there is a small gap between the glass and the LCD that can feel slightly hollow when tapping or drawing. It also lacks ProMotion, so scrolling at 60Hz feels less fluid than on any Pro. And you cannot use the second-generation Apple Pencil – only the USB-C Pencil or the first-gen with an adapter. If you do not need those Pro features, this is a capable tablet at a lower price. But if ProMotion, laminated display, and Apple Pencil 2 support matter to you, stick with an older refurbished Pro.

10. Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M5, 256GB): The Brand-New Flagship

Pros

• M5 chip is the fastest in any iPad, with AI neural accelerators
• Ultra Retina XDR display (OLED) with 1,000 nits full-screen
• Landscape 12MP front camera with Center Stage
• Wi-Fi 7 with Apple N1 chip
• LiDAR scanner
• All-day battery life
• New Magic Keyboard with haptic trackpad (sold separately)

Cons

• Brand new – not refurbished, so it costs more
• Only 256GB base (upgradable, but at a premium)
• No headphone jack

Best for: Early adopters and professionals who need the absolute latest chip and display, and want a brand-new tablet.

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The M5 iPad Pro is the newest model in Apple’s lineup, launched in late 2025. It is not a refurbished unit; it is sold new by Amazon. But we include it because many readers who are looking for the best refurbished iPad Pros may also consider stretching for a brand-new device if the price is right. The M5 chip brings significant improvements in AI performance, and the Ultra Retina XDR display with OLED delivers the same brilliant blacks and brightness as the 13-inch M4. The 11-inch size is highly portable. Wi-Fi 7 ensures you are future-proofed for fast networks.

The obvious catch is that it is not refurbished, so you pay full retail. If your budget allows it, this is the best iPad Pro you can buy in a small size. However, for most users, the refurbished M1 or M4 models offer similar real-world performance at a fraction of the cost. Only go for this if you must have the latest chip and are comfortable paying the premium.

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Buyer's Guide: How to Choose the Best Refurbished iPad Pros

Choosing a refurbished iPad Pro means balancing age, chip power, display quality, and storage against what you actually need. Here are the key factors to consider.

Chip Generation and Performance

The chip defines how long the tablet will remain useful. The M4 and M5 are the current top dogs, with AI accelerators that make tasks like photo masking or real-time language translation instant. The M1 is no slouch; it is still fast enough for 99% of creative apps and will likely get iPadOS updates for several more years. A12X and A12Z are older, but they handle note-taking, email, and even light video editing fine. The main risk is that future iPadOS versions may drop support for A12X sooner. If you plan to keep the iPad for three years or more, aim for M1 or newer.

Display: LCD vs. XDR vs. OLED

The 12.9-inch Pro models from 2021 onward have mini-LED XDR displays with 1,600 nits peak brightness and 2,596 local dimming zones. They are excellent for HDR video and photo editing. The 11-inch Pros (all years) and pre-2021 12.9-inch models use standard LCD with ProMotion (120Hz). These are still good, but blacks look gray in dark rooms. The 2024 13-inch and M5 11-inch use tandem OLED, which has perfect blacks and even higher brightness – the best display on any iPad. For most people, the LCD screen is fine; only buy XDR or OLED if you need HDR accuracy.

Storage: How Much Do You Really Need?

iPadOS and apps take about 15GB. A 64GB model leaves you with around 30GB for files, which is tight if you want to download a few games or store music offline. 128GB is comfortable for average use. 256GB is ideal for creative workflows with large files. If you are on a tight budget, you can rely on cloud storage and external drives, but internal space is always more convenient.

Accessory Compatibility

All iPad Pros from 2018 onward support the second-generation Apple Pencil (wireless charging) and the Magic Keyboard (with the 2020+ models having the floating design). The 2018 Pro uses a slightly different Magic Keyboard (the earlier version with a lower angle). The M5 Pro uses a new Magic Keyboard with a larger trackpad and function keys. If you plan to buy used accessories, confirm compatibility. The standard iPad (A16) only supports the USB-C Pencil or first-gen with adapter.

Condition and Warranty

Certified refurbished units from Amazon come with a 90-day return policy and a guaranteed battery above 80%. Some third-party sellers may offer similar terms, but check the fine print. Cosmetic imperfections should be minimal (no scratches visible at arm’s length). Older units may have more scuffs despite certification. If battery life is critical for you, consider the newer models.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is it worth buying a refurbished iPad Pro in 2026?

Yes. Refurbished iPad Pros offer the same performance as new ones at a fraction of the price. The M1 models are still very capable, and the 2024 M4 models are also available refurbished. Just make sure to buy from a reputable seller that guarantees battery health and function.

How much storage do I need for a refurbished iPad Pro?

For basic use like browsing and note-taking, 64GB is enough if you use cloud storage. For casual gaming and some media, 128GB is a good minimum. If you edit video or work with large files, 256GB or more is recommended.

Can I use the latest Apple Pencil with older refurbished iPad Pros?

The second-generation Apple Pencil works with all iPad Pro models from 2018 onward. The new Apple Pencil Pro is compatible with the M4 and M5 iPad Pros only. The standard iPad (2025) works with the USB-C Pencil or first-gen Pencil with an adapter.

Does a refurbished iPad Pro come with a charger and cable?

Most certified refurbished units come with a charging brick and cable, but they may be generic (not Apple-branded). Some sellers include original accessories, but it varies. Check the product listing details.

Will an older iPad Pro still get iPadOS updates?

Apple typically supports devices for 5–6 years after launch. The 2018 iPad Pro (A12X) is likely on its last major update cycle. The 2020 (A12Z) may get one more. M1 models and newer will receive updates for several more years. If long-term software support matters, choose M1 or later.

Are refurbished iPad Pros safe to buy?

Yes, from trusted sellers like Amazon’s Certified Resellers. They test and clean each unit, replace batteries if below 80%, and offer a 90-day warranty. Avoid unknown third-party sellers on marketplaces.

How does the iPad Pro compare to the standard iPad for school?

The iPad Pro has ProMotion, a laminated display, better speakers, and more processing power. It is better for drawing and multitasking. The standard iPad with A16 chip is lighter and has a landscape camera, making it great for video calls and basic note-taking. Choose the Pro if you need performance; choose the standard iPad for budget and simplicity.

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Final Verdict

The best refurbished iPad Pro for most people is the 2021 12.9-inch M1 model. It combines the excellent XDR display with a chip that will remain relevant for years, and it is available at a reasonable markup over older models. If you need portability, the 2021 11-inch M1 is the way to go. For creative professionals who want the best screen and latest chip, the 2024 13-inch M4 is the ultimate pick, while the 2018 11-inch 256GB is a solid budget option if you can live with an older processor. The M5 11-inch is for those who insist on a brand-new tablet, but it is not a refurbished deal.

Still unsure? If you are not doing heavy video editing or 3D work, the M1 models will handle everything you throw at them and save you hundreds. The Best Refurbished iPad Pros are the ones that match your actual workload, not the absolute newest hardware.

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