"Optimal Times to Purchase New iPads Annually"

Apple's iPad is widely regarded as the premier tablet on the market, offering a plethora of uses and features that cater to a wide audience. Whether you're a budding artist, a student taking notes in class, or someone looking to use it as a laptop substitute with the right accessories, the iPad's versatility is unmatched. Given its extensive utility, it's no surprise that iPads come with a premium price tag. However, there are several strategic times throughout the year when you can snag an iPad at a significant discount.

If you time your purchase around major holidays and sales events, you could potentially save up to 50% off the price of a brand-new iPad. Deciding when to make such a substantial investment can be challenging, so we've outlined the best times to buy an iPad to help simplify your decision-making process. As we approach the upcoming sales events in 2025, keep an eye out for Apple deals on the best iPad models!

Best Times to Buy an iPad

When New Models Release

The most opportune moment to purchase a new iPad is just before or after the release of new models. Retailers typically stock two generations of iPads at a time and tend to discount the older generation to make room for the new ones. This strategy can lead to substantial savings on models like the iPad, iPad Air, and iPad Pro. However, timing is crucial as different iPad models have varied release schedules. For instance, don't expect a discount on an iPad Pro when new iPad Air models are launched.

With the recent release of new iPad and iPad Air models, expect prices on the previous generations to drop soon.

Black Friday and Cyber Monday

Black Friday is another prime time to buy an iPad. Online retailers such as Amazon offer deals on iPads, including discounts on the latest models. These deals can vary from limited-time offers to discounts that last throughout the sale period. Early Black Friday deals have already been spotted on the 2021 9th Gen iPad, and as Cyber Monday approaches, expect Apple to sweeten the deal with bonuses like free Apple gift cards.

New Year's

The start of the new year, particularly around New Year's, is another excellent time to purchase an iPad. Retailers and Apple often clear out leftover holiday inventory, making it easier to find significant discounts. While deep discounts on the latest models might be rare, older models can see reductions of up to 60%. If you miss out on holiday sales, this is your next best chance for a good deal without a long wait.

Amazon Prime Day

Although not as robust as Black Friday, Amazon Prime Day remains a solid opportunity to buy an iPad. Amazon consistently offers discounts on various iPad models during this two-day event, providing a reliable window for finding deals. Last year, even the newest iPad models were discounted, though the savings were modest.

Prime Day typically occurs in mid-July on a Tuesday and Wednesday, with another event likely in mid-October for 2025.

Back to School Promotions

August, right before the school year starts, is a great time to buy an iPad due to back-to-school promotions. Apple and other retailers often offer substantial discounts on select iPad models during this period, catering to students who frequently use iPads. Students can also take advantage of exclusive discounts, enhancing the savings. Last year, Apple even included a free $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 released new iPad models in 2025, including the M3 iPad Air starting at $599 and the 11th-generation baseline iPad starting at $349. These updates are more about performance enhancements than major redesigns, but they represent the latest and most powerful options available for those in the market for a new Apple tablet.