The Apple iPad reigns supreme in the tablet world, boasting unparalleled versatility and a feature-rich experience. It's a creative powerhouse for artists, a note-taking champion for students, and even a surprisingly capable laptop replacement with the right accessories. The possibilities are truly limitless. This premium device, however, comes with a premium price tag. Fortunately, significant discounts appear throughout the year, allowing you to snag an iPad at a fraction of its usual cost.
Waiting for major holidays and sales events can yield savings of up to 50% on a brand-new iPad. Navigating these sales 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 iPad deals!
Best Times to Buy an iPad

When New Models Launch
The optimal time to purchase an iPad is typically around the release of new models. Retailers often stock two iPad generations simultaneously, prompting them to heavily discount older models to make room for the latest releases. This translates into substantial savings on iPads, iPad Airs, and even iPad Pros, particularly just before or after a new generation is announced.
Timing is crucial, however. Different iPad models have staggered release dates. A new iPad Air release won't necessarily trigger discounts on iPad Pros. The recent releases of the new iPad and iPad Air mean that previous generations should see price drops soon.
Black Friday and Cyber Monday
Black Friday is another prime opportunity to score an iPad deal. Online retailers like Amazon frequently offer significant discounts, sometimes even on the current year's models. Expect a mix of limited-time flash sales and longer-running promotions. Early Black Friday deals on the 2021 9th Gen iPad have already emerged. As Cyber Monday approaches, anticipate bonus offers from Apple, such as free gift cards with new iPad purchases.
New Year's
The New Year period presents another excellent chance to acquire an iPad at a reduced price. Retailers often clear out remaining inventory from the holiday season, resulting in attractive discounts. While significant discounts on the latest models are less common, older generations frequently see price cuts of up to 60%. If you miss the holiday sales, this is a strong alternative.
Amazon Prime Day
While not as lucrative as Black Friday for iPad deals, Amazon Prime Day remains a consistently reliable time to find a bargain. Amazon consistently discounts various iPad models during its two-day event, making it a dependable window for securing a good deal on an Apple tablet. Even the newest models have seen discounts in the past, although the savings might be less substantial. Prime Day typically falls in mid-July (Tuesday and Wednesday), and a second event in October is also likely in 2025.
Back to School Promotions
August, the back-to-school season, often brings substantial iPad discounts. Given the popularity of iPads among students, Apple and retailers frequently offer promotions during this period. Student-exclusive discounts can further enhance your savings.
While the timing might not be ideal for everyone, the savings are significant. Past promotions have included free gift cards with iPad Pro purchases, suggesting similar offers are likely in 2025, potentially alongside Labor Day sales.
New iPads Available in 2025

Apple recently unveiled new iPad models. The updated iPad Air (M3) starts at $599, and the 11th-generation iPad starts at $349. These are iterative updates rather than complete overhauls, but they offer enhanced performance compared to their predecessors.
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