In an era of rising tech costs, the allure of a genuine Apple iPad for under £60 seems almost too good to be true. Yet, that's the eye-catching offer presented by deals retailer Wowcher, selling a refurbished 16GB iPad Air for just £59. Tech editor Harriet Morphy-Morris decided to put this bargain to the test, investigating whether such a deeply discounted pre-loved device could possibly be worth the money.
First Impressions: Packaging and Condition
Upon delivery, the first notable point was the minimal protective packaging. The iPad arrived with little effort made to ensure its safety during transit, a clear initial downside. More notably, the package contained no charging cable or power block, a frustration familiar to buyers of newer Apple products but more keenly felt with a second-hand purchase.
However, the condition of the tablet itself was a pleasant surprise. The model supplied was a 'Grade A' device, which Wowcher describes as being in 'near pristine condition with minor blemishes'. The screen was immaculate, without a single crack. The only visible imperfection was a tiny, barely noticeable scratch on the back, near the Apple logo. For shoppers seeking a perfect screen, this grade is essential, though Wowcher does offer a cheaper 'Grade B' option with more signs of wear.
Performance Testing: A Device of Its Time
The core question for any refurbished tech is how it performs. This iPad Air model launched in 2013, and its capabilities are naturally limited by its age. It runs on an outdated iOS 12.5.7 and cannot support the latest apps or operating system. Therefore, expectations must be managed: this is not a device for modern apps like TikTok or demanding software.
Where it did excel was in its primary tested function: streaming video content. Harriet successfully downloaded older versions of Netflix and Amazon Prime Video. While the app layouts were dated and lacked real-time recommendations, the content played flawlessly. The 7.9-inch screen delivered a clear, focused picture, and the stereo speakers provided sound that was crisp and without distortion, perfectly adequate for film viewing.
General performance for basic tasks like web browsing, email, and note-taking was acceptable for a 2013 model. Switching between apps involved a small amount of lag, and internet searches took a few seconds to load even on a fast Wi-Fi connection, a limitation of the older hardware and low RAM.
Battery Life and Better Alternatives
A common worry with older devices is poor battery health, but this refurbished iPad performed well. Harriet reported being able to watch six episodes of a series back-to-back without needing to recharge, which is impressive for a device of this vintage.
For users needing more speed and modern compatibility, Harriet highlighted a superior Wowcher alternative: the 9th Generation iPad (2021). With 64GB of storage and compatibility with the latest iPadOS, it's reduced from £275 to £169. This model would support contemporary apps and offer a significantly smoother experience. She also noted a similar refurbished 2021 iPad on Amazon for £179.99 and a 2024 Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ on a rival platform for £189.
Final Verdict: Is the Wowcher iPad Worth It?
In summary, buying this specific £59 iPad Air is a resounding 'yes' for a very specific user. If you are seeking a dedicated, budget-friendly streaming device for travel, the kitchen, or to entertain children with films and simple games, it represents remarkable value. The screen and core streaming function are excellent.
However, shoppers must do their homework. It is crucial to research the model's launch year and iOS compatibility before purchasing any refurbished tech to ensure it aligns with your needs. For a general-use tablet, a newer refurbished model, even at a higher price, would be a wiser investment. For its intended purpose as a stripped-back media player, this Wowcher deal proves that the refurbished tech market can offer genuine, jaw-dropping bargains.
