Best Times to Buy a New iPad Annually

Apple's iPad stands out as one of the premier tablets on the market, offering a plethora of uses and features that cater to a wide range of needs. Whether you're an aspiring artist looking to create digital masterpieces, a student needing a robust note-taking device, or someone who wants a versatile laptop alternative with the right accessories, the iPad excels in all these areas. With such versatility comes a premium price tag, but fear not—multiple opportunities arise throughout the year to snag an iPad at a significant discount.

By keeping an eye out for major holidays and sales events, you can potentially save up to 50% on a brand-new iPad. Deciding when to make 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, stay tuned for lucrative 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 just before or after the release of new models. Retailers typically stock two generations of iPads simultaneously, and they often slash prices on the older generation to clear inventory when a new model hits the market. This strategy applies to the iPad, iPad Air, and iPad Pro, allowing you to score substantial savings if you time your purchase correctly.

However, timing can be tricky as different iPad models have varied release schedules throughout the year. It's crucial to stay informed about the release dates of specific models. For instance, a discount on an iPad Pro won't be available during the launch of a new iPad Air. With the recent unveiling of the new iPad and iPad Air, expect prices on previous generations to drop soon.

Black Friday and Cyber Monday

Black Friday presents another excellent opportunity to buy an iPad. Online giants like Amazon offer enticing iPad deals, including discounts on the latest models. These deals can be either limited-time offers or span the entire sales period. We've already spotted an early Black Friday deal on the 2021 9th Gen iPad. As Cyber Monday approaches, look out for Apple's promotions, which often include a complimentary Apple gift card with new iPad purchases.

New Year's

The beginning of the year, around New Year's, is another prime time to snag a new iPad. Retailers, including Apple, aim to clear out remaining stock from the holiday season, leading to significant discounts. While current generation models might not see major price cuts, older models often enjoy discounts of up to 60%. If you miss out on holiday sales, this period offers a great alternative without a long wait.

Amazon Prime Day

Although not as robust 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 window for finding a good deal. This year, even the newest iPad models saw discounts, though they were modest. Prime Day typically occurs in mid-July on a Tuesday and Wednesday, a pattern likely to continue in 2025. Additionally, Amazon may hold another Prime Day event in October.

Back to School Promotions

August, just before the school year begins, is another prime period for iPad deals. Retailers often provide substantial discounts to capitalize on back-to-school shopping. Apple typically offers reduced prices on select iPad models during this time, especially appealing to students. If you're a student or know one, you can also benefit from exclusive student discounts. Although the end of summer might not be the most convenient time, it's a reliable way to save money. Last year, Apple included a $100 gift card with iPad Pro purchases, a trend likely to continue alongside additional Labor Day sales discounts.

New iPads Available in 2025

Apple recently launched 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 baseline 11th-generation iPad begins at $349. These updates are more about incremental improvements than major redesigns, yet they offer enhanced performance over their predecessors, making them top picks for anyone looking to buy a new Apple tablet.