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The holiday season is a great time to pick up a new tablet, but you'll have to act fast to get it before 2024 begins. With a ton of models and configurations to choose from, finding an iPad that suits your needs can be a tricky task. And we love to solve tricky tasks. We've put together a comprehensive guide to the best iPad deals available in December, from budget-friendly last-generation options to the powerhouse iPad Pro.
Best iPad: Expert reviewed and ranked
With an array of iPad models on the market, we break down which version is best for you, based on our testing.Whether you're a student gearing up for a new semester or simply on the hunt for an upgrade headed into the holidays, Pocket-lint will keep you updated on the latest iPad deals in this guide. Bookmark this page and keep checking back as we refresh our deals through the end of the year.
The best iPad deals right now
Most major retailers are now offering $50 off on the latest-generation iPad 10, bringing the price down to $399. If you're on a tighter budget, the 9th generation model of the tablet is still perfectly good at $250.
Apple iPad 10
A14 Bionic, 10.9-inch, 64GB, Wi-Fi, Blue
The 10th generation iPad comes with some sleek new features, bringing it closer in line to the Air and Pro models. It includes a 2360x1640 Liquid Retina display and an A14 Bionic processor for smooth, powerful performance. It's the first base model iPad to switch to USB-C for charging, making it more efficient. Support for the first gen Apple Pencil and the Magic Keyboard Folio is also sweet.
Apple iPad 9th Gen (2021)
This isn't the latest and greatest iPad but being able to take it home for $250 is an amazing deal.Although newer models look a bit slicker, the 9th generaiton iPad still has plenty of processing power for streaming video, surfing the Web and mobile gaming.
The best iPad Air deals right now
A step-up from the 10.2-inch iPad in terms of power, display, and overall sophistication, the iPad Air has a slimmer form factor and lighter weight in exchange for a bit of a higher price. Discounts usually aren't too steep, but we've found one $100 price cut at Best Buy and Amazon.
Apple iPad Air (5th Gen.)
M1, 10.9-inch, 64GB, Wi-Fi 6, Blue
The iPad Air is a fantastic option for those who want a tablet that's a step above the base model. With the powerful M1 processor, impressive display, and support for the Magic Keyboard, this tablet can handle demanding tasks with ease. A $100 discount sweetens the deal, making it an enticing choice for users.
The best iPad Pro deals right now
The iPad Pro is the sports car of Apple's tablet line, with beefier storage, a more powerful M2 processor and support for the Apple Pencil 2. Deals come and go fast on these models, but B&H reliably has a $50 price cut on the 512GB 11-inch model.
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (2022)
M2, 512GB, Wi-Fi / Cellular, Silver
For a slightly more potent portable, this 2022 iPad Pro has the same screen size but some more juice under the hood, including built-in cellular data support and half a terabyte of storage. Save $70 at Amazon.
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (2022)
M2, 128GB, Wi-Fi, Silver
The 11-inch iPad Pro is a powerhouse with the new M2 CPU and stunning ProMotion-enabled Liquid Retina display. I particularly appreciate the addition of Face ID for security and convenience. This model is a great fit for creative professionals and those who need top-notch performance. While the discount is relatively modest, it's still a worthwhile reduction for a premium iPad.
Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2022)
M2, Liquid Retina XDR, 2TB, Wi-Fi 6E / 5G Cellular, Silver
The 12.9-inch iPad Pro is the ultimate tablet for those who demand the best performance and display quality. The Mini LED panel, M2 chip, and support for the second-gen Apple Pencil make it an artist's dream. A $200 price cut is incredible, and investing in this model is a smart choice for professionals who rely heavily on their devices.
These iPad deals offer a range of options for different users and their needs. Whether you're looking for an affordable all-around tablet, a compact option, or a cutting-edge device for demanding professional and creative tasks, there's an iPad for you. And for as much as $100 off, you can't lose.
How did I choose these iPad deals?
My focus was on the latest and greatest iPad models, as deemed by Pocket-lint's experts. I scoured leading retailers, keeping a close eye on Amazon, Best Buy, and other popular storefronts, and I employed price-tracking tools like CamelCamelCamel to track historical price trends and identify the most significant discounts. Apple products are notoriously stingy when it comes to price drops, but I found the best deals available as of press time.
Are iPad deals available year-round?
You can find iPad deals throughout the year, but certain seasons and sale events, such as back to school, Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Amazon Prime Day, tend to offer some of the best discounts.
How do you know if an iPad deal is actually good?
When evaluating an iPad deal, consider the original price, the percentage or dollar amount off, and the specifications of the model. Compare the deal to recent prices and discounts to gauge its value. Additionally, read reviews and check the features that matter to you, such as processor, display, storage, and compatibility with accessories like Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard.
Are deals mainly on the oldest iPad models?
Both older and newer iPad models can receive discounts, but the extent of the discount often depends on factors like the model's age and features. Newer models may have more modest discounts, while older models might see deeper price cuts to make room for newer inventory. Keep an eye out for refurbished or open-box options as well, which can offer substantial savings.
Should you wait for Black Friday or buy an iPad on sale right away?
Deciding whether to wait for bigger sales events or buy an iPad on sale immediately depends on your needs and priorities. If you need a tablet urgently, the current deals might be worth grabbing. However, if you can wait, events like Black Friday or Prime Day tend to offer extensive discounts. Just be aware that popular models might sell out quickly during these events, so it's a good idea to plan ahead and make your purchase as soon as you find a sale that meets your requirements.