The Apple iPad stands out as a top-tier tablet, offering versatility that caters to artists, students, and professionals alike. Whether you're sketching your next masterpiece, jotting down notes in class, or transforming it into a makeshift laptop with the right accessories, the iPad's potential is boundless. As a premium device, it comes with a premium price tag, but savvy shoppers can snag discounts throughout the year.
Timing your purchase around major holidays or sales events can lead to savings of up to 50% on a brand-new iPad. To help you make an informed decision, we've outlined the best times to buy an iPad in 2025. Keep an eye out for these opportunities to score deals on the best iPad models.
Best Times to Buy an iPad
When New Models Release
The launch of new iPad models is a prime opportunity to buy. Retailers typically stock two generations at once, pushing discounts on the older models as new ones hit the market. This strategy applies to the iPad, iPad Air, and iPad Pro, allowing significant savings if you time your purchase correctly around these releases.
However, timing can be tricky. Each model has its own release schedule, so it's crucial to track when specific models are updated. For instance, a discount on the iPad Pro won't coincide with the iPad Air's release. With the recent release of the new iPad and iPad Air, expect price drops on the previous generations soon.
Black Friday and Cyber Monday
Black Friday offers another excellent window for iPad deals. Online giants like Amazon often feature discounts on both current and older models. These deals can range from limited-time offers to extended promotions. Early Black Friday deals have already appeared, like those on the 2021 9th Gen iPad. As Cyber Monday approaches, expect Apple to sweeten the deal with bonuses such as free Apple gift cards.
New Year's
The New Year period is another great time to buy an iPad. Retailers, including Apple, aim to clear out holiday inventory, leading to substantial discounts. While current models might not see deep cuts, older models can often be found at up to 60% off. If you missed holiday sales, this is your next best chance, and you won't have to wait long.
Amazon Prime Day
Though not as lucrative as Black Friday, Amazon Prime Day still offers solid opportunities for iPad purchases. Amazon consistently discounts various iPad models during its mid-July two-day event. Last year's Prime Day included deals on the latest models, though discounts were modest. Expect Prime Day to occur on a Tuesday and Wednesday in July 2025, with another event likely in mid-October.
Back to School Promotions
August brings back-to-school promotions, making it an ideal time to buy an iPad. With many students relying on iPads, Apple often discounts select models in the weeks leading up to the new school year. Students can also benefit from exclusive discounts. While late summer might not be the most convenient time, it's a reliable way to save. Last year, Apple offered a $100 gift card with iPad Pro purchases, so expect similar promotions alongside Labor Day sales.
New iPads Available in 2025
Apple recently refreshed the iPad lineup in 2025, introducing the M3 iPad Air starting at $599 and the 11th-generation baseline iPad starting at $349. These updates enhance performance without major design changes, making them strong contenders for anyone looking to buy a new Apple tablet.