The iPad reigns supreme in the tablet world, boasting unmatched versatility and a plethora of features. It's a creative powerhouse for artists, a note-taking champion for students, and even a capable laptop replacement with the right accessories. The possibilities are truly limitless. This impressive functionality naturally comes with a premium price tag, but thankfully, there are several prime opportunities throughout the year to snag an iPad at a significantly reduced cost.
Waiting for major holidays and sales events can yield savings of up to 50% on a brand-new iPad. Knowing when to strike can be challenging, so we've compiled the best times to buy, making your decision easier. As we approach the 2025 sales season, keep an eye out for incredible Apple deals on top iPad models!
Best Times to Buy an iPad
When New Models Launch
The absolute best time to buy is around the release of new iPad models. Retailers typically stock two generations simultaneously, offloading older models to make room for the latest releases. This means substantial savings on iPads, iPad Airs, and even iPad Pros shortly before or after new models arrive.
Timing is crucial, however. Different iPad models have staggered release dates, so pay close attention to the launch dates of the specific model you desire. Don't expect a discounted iPad Pro when a new iPad Air is released. The recent launches of the new iPad and iPad Air suggest that previous generations will soon see price drops.
Black Friday and Cyber Monday
Black Friday is another excellent time to purchase an iPad. Online retailers like Amazon offer competitive iPad deals, often including discounts on even the newest models. Some deals are flash sales, while others last the duration of the event. Early Black Friday deals on the 2021 9th Gen iPad have already surfaced. As Cyber Monday approaches, expect Apple to sweeten the pot with bonuses like free Apple gift cards with new iPad purchases.
New Year's
The start of the year, around New Year's, presents another fantastic opportunity. Retailers often clear out leftover holiday inventory, leading to significant discounts on iPads. While deep discounts on current-generation models are less likely, older models frequently see reductions of up to 60%. This is a strong alternative if you miss the holiday sales.
Amazon Prime Day
While not as lucrative as Black Friday for iPad deals, Prime Day remains a reliable option. Amazon consistently discounts various iPad models during its two-day sale, making it a consistently good time to find a bargain. This year, even the newest iPad models saw discounts, albeit modest ones.
Prime Day typically falls mid-July on a Tuesday and Wednesday, a pattern likely to continue in 2025. Amazon may also host another Prime Day event in October.
Back to School Promotions
Retailers often offer substantial iPad discounts in August, just before the school year begins. Given the popularity of iPads among students, Apple frequently discounts select models for several weeks leading up to the school year. Students can also benefit from exclusive student discounts, maximizing their savings.
Although the end of summer might not be ideal for everyone, it's a surefire way to save. Last year's Back to School promotion included a $100 gift card with iPad Pro purchases, and similar offers are expected in 2025, possibly alongside Labor Day sales.
New iPads Available in 2025
Apple recently released new iPad models in 2024 and 2025. The latest updates include the M3 iPad Air (starting at $599) and the 11th-generation iPad (starting at $349). These are iterative updates rather than complete overhauls, but they offer improved performance compared to their predecessors, making them attractive options for prospective buyers.
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