Best Times to Buy a New iPad Annually

Apple's iPad is widely recognized as the premier tablet on the market, offering a multitude of uses and features that cater to a diverse range of needs. It's an ideal choice for budding artists looking to hone their craft, students seeking an efficient note-taking tool, and even those who need a laptop substitute with the right accessories. The versatility of the iPad is unmatched, making it a valuable investment, albeit at a premium price. Fortunately, there are several opportunities throughout the year to purchase an iPad at a discounted rate.

By waiting for major holidays or sales events, you could potentially save up to 50% on a brand-new iPad. Timing such a significant purchase can be challenging, so we've outlined the best times to buy an iPad to simplify your decision-making process. As we approach the upcoming sales events in 2025, keep an eye out for special Apple deals on the latest iPad models!

Best Times to Buy an iPad

When New Models Release

The optimal time to purchase a new iPad is around the release of new models. Retailers typically stock two generations at once, which prompts them to discount the older models when new ones hit the market. This strategy allows significant savings on models like the iPad, iPad Air, and iPad Pro if you time your purchase just before or after the new releases.

However, timing can be tricky. Each iPad model has its own release schedule throughout the year, so it's crucial to stay informed about when specific new generations are launched. For instance, waiting for a new iPad Air release won't necessarily mean a discount on the iPad Pro. With the recent unveiling of new iPad and iPad Air models, expect prices on the previous generations to drop soon.

Black Friday and Cyber Monday

Another prime opportunity to buy an iPad is during Black Friday. Online giants like Amazon offer iPad deals, with discounts available even on the latest models. Some promotions are limited-time offers, while others span the entire sales period. We've already witnessed an early Black Friday deal on the 2021 9th Gen iPad. As Cyber Monday approaches, anticipate Apple throwing in bonuses like free Apple gift cards with new iPad purchases.

New Year's

The beginning of the year, particularly around New Year's, presents another excellent window for snagging a new iPad. Retailers and Apple alike aim to clear out remaining stock after the holiday rush, making it easier to find substantial discounts. While you might not see major price cuts on the newest models, older iPads often see discounts up to 60%. If you miss the holiday sales, this is your next best chance to save, and you won't have to wait long.

Amazon Prime Day

Although not as lucrative as Black Friday, Amazon Prime Day remains a stellar time to purchase an iPad. Amazon consistently offers discounts on various iPad models during this two-day shopping event, making it a reliable opportunity to find a good deal on an Apple tablet. This year, even the newest models saw discounts, albeit modest ones.

Prime Day typically occurs in mid-July, spanning a Tuesday and Wednesday, and is expected to follow the same schedule in 2025. Additionally, Amazon is likely to host another Prime Day event in October, starting mid-month.

Back to School Promotions

August is another opportune time to buy an iPad, thanks to back-to-school promotions. Retailers offer significant discounts just before the school year starts, catering to students who rely on iPads for their studies. Apple often discounts select iPad models for a few weeks in August. Students can also benefit from exclusive discounts, further reducing the cost of a new iPad.

While the end of summer might not be the most convenient time to buy, it's a reliable way to save money. Last year, Apple included a $100 gift card with iPad Pro purchases, and similar offers can be expected in 2025, alongside additional Labor Day sales discounts.

New iPads Available in 2025

Apple recently released new iPad models in 2025, including a refresh of the iPad Air and the new 11th generation iPad. The M3 iPad Air starts at $599, while the new 11th-generation baseline iPad begins at $349. These updates are more about enhancing specifications than major redesigns, but they offer improved performance over their predecessors, making them excellent choices for those in the market for a new Apple tablet.