Looking to buy an iPad on a budget? Consider the “new” iPad 2
Apple released the iPad 3 a few months back, adding a higher resolution retina screen, an improved camera and a 4G internet data option. While these are all nice improvements to an already great tablet, they’re not essential for pilots using the iPad as an electronic flight bag. In fact to support the retina screen and 4G internet data, the iPad 3 contains a larger battery making it a bit thicker and heavier than the iPad 2.
The good news is that Apple is still selling the 16GBiPad 2, with a lowered price of $399 (the iPad 3 starts at $499). And a recent report from Anandtech reveals that the iPad 2 contains an improved processor, offering up to 30% more battery life than what the original iPad 2 did. This is a good option for anyone looking to get a brand new iPad at a great price.
Read more about the improved iPad 2 here: The iPad 2 boasts bigger battery, says report.
I bought my first iPad refurbished from Apple and I love it. Now I see they have refurbed iPad 2’s for only $319. That’s a pretty great deal.
http://store.apple.com/us/browse/home/specialdeals/ipad
I brought a IPad 3 for 367.99 from http://kamon–s-discounts.mybigcommerce.com/
Came with 1 apple care +
What price do you put on your own safety and the pax safety? Get a 32gb memory with built-in GPS iPad, whatever the best price you can find, keep it plugged in charging, and have a backup unit charged with current charts. That will still be less cost than paper charts and peace of mind. There is not a good reason to do this any lesser way.