Apple - Refurbished Excellent - 10.2-inch iPad 9th Generation (2021) \Wi-Fi Only 64GB - Space Gray

9nth Gen

I think you are a little bit confused about the meaning of "unlocked" iPad. To understand this, first we must divide this iPad model into its two sub-models: the ones with Wi-Fi only and the ones with Wi-Fi + Cellular. Now, the Wi-Fi + Cellular models are the only ones that are defined as "unlocked", as it means that it does not have a Cellular Carrier (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, etc.), but you can come into any of these carriers to "activate" your iPad. By doing this, you will have access to the carrier's 4G LTE network, which then allows you to use you iPad with internet connection on places where there is no Wi-Fi available. Essentially, just like a smartphone. And, just as a smartphone, again, you will have to pay a monthly fee for this cellular connection. Depending on the carrier and the plan you choose, the monthly fee charge varies. I would say that you are looking at around $50 a month for an unlimited cellular plan. But let's say you buy this Wi-Fi + Cellular model and do not activate it. Well, you won't have the cellular connection, but you would have GPS which is a hidden feature that this model has. But the price increase is not worth it.

There are two variants of iPad, the wifi model, and the LTE model, for most customers the wifi is sufficient because you're using it at home. If you plan to use your iPad out and about, the LTE model would be the way to go.

I believe that a Best Buy employee can help you with that at the front desk without any fee. I would recommend that you have your Apple ID and password ready because you are most likely to use it for a backup which will then will be transferred to the new device.

The new 9th gen is far superior in every way. It has a larger and better display (10.2 vs. 9.7), faster processor (A13 vs. A10), starts with double the storage (64 GB vs. 32 GB), as well as other things like better cameras on the front and back as well as features like Truetone and Center Stage. I wouldn't purchase a 6th gen iPad unless it was incredibly cheap or given as a hand-me-down.