10 Best iPad Deals (March 2026) Tested & Ranked

I remember the first time I tried to navigate the confusing world of iPad deals. With four different models, constant hardware updates, and prices fluctuating across multiple retailers, finding the right Apple tablet at the best price felt overwhelming. After spending the last three months tracking prices across Amazon, Best Buy, and Costco, I’ve cracked the code on when and where to buy.

Our team has tested all the current models and analyzed the market to bring you the best iPad deals available right now. Whether you’re a nursing student needing a portable note-taking device or a video editor looking for a laptop replacement, we’ve found discounts that can save you up to $350. Apple rarely discounts their own products, so knowing where to look is half the battle.

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through the top discounts on everything from the budget-friendly base models to the powerhouse M5 iPad Pros. If you’re specifically looking for a compact device, be sure to check out our dedicated guide to the Best iPad Mini deals. Let’s explore the iPad best deals in 2026 to ensure you get maximum value for your money.

Top 3 Best iPad Deals (March 2026)

Quick Overview: Best iPad Deals For 2026

1. Apple iPad 11-inch (A16) – Best Value

I’ve used the base model iPads for years, and the 11-inch A16 version is a massive leap forward. The A16 chip provides smooth performance that handles everyday tasks without breaking a sweat. Whether I’m browsing the web, checking emails, or watching streaming services, the 11-inch Liquid Retina display looks fantastic with vibrant colors.

One thing that surprised me was the excellent battery life during normal use. I easily get a full day of use when reading or casually browsing. The transition to the USB-C connector makes charging much more convenient, as I can use the same cables as my other devices.

The 12MP Center Stage front camera is a huge upgrade for video calls, keeping you perfectly framed as you move around. While 128GB of base storage is plenty for most casual users, the 11-inch screen provides ample space for multitasking. The Touch ID integration in the top button is fast and reliable.

Setup is incredibly simple using an existing Apple ID, and the device feels durable with its scratch-resistant surface. I paired this with a compatible Apple Pencil for note-taking, making it an excellent tool for students. It offers incredible value for anyone needing a reliable tablet for everyday tasks.

Who should avoid it

Power users who need to edit heavy 4K video or run intensive 3D modeling software should look at the Air or Pro models. The A16 chip is capable, but it isn’t designed for sustained heavy workloads.

If you prefer using the Apple Pencil Pro or need the absolute best display quality with ProMotion, this model falls short. The standard 60Hz display is good, but it doesn’t offer the buttery smooth scrolling found on premium models.

2. Apple iPad Air 11-inch (M3) – Editor’s Choice

The M3 iPad Air is perhaps the most well-rounded tablet I’ve ever tested. Bringing the M3 chip to the Air lineup bridges the gap between casual use and professional power. I used it as my primary device for a week, and the seamless performance when running multiple apps was deeply impressive.

What really sold me on this model is its integration with Apple Intelligence and support for the Apple Pencil Pro. Drawing and taking notes feels incredibly natural with the magnetic charging and advanced features of the new Pencil. The build quality feels premium and identical to the more expensive Pro models.

The 11-inch Liquid Retina display with P3 wide color produces stunning visuals for photo editing. Wi-Fi 6E connectivity ensures fast downloads and smooth streaming when connected to a compatible router. The 12MP front and rear cameras are excellent for scanning documents and video conferencing.

At this price point, you are getting essentially 90% of the iPad Pro experience for significantly less money. The M3 chip handles everything from graphic design to gaming without stuttering. It strikes the perfect balance of power, portability, and price.

Who should avoid it

If you absolutely must have a 120Hz ProMotion display for the smoothest possible scrolling, the Air’s 60Hz screen might disappoint you. Those sensitive to refresh rates will notice the difference immediately.

Users who need Thunderbolt connectivity for fast data transfer to external drives will need to upgrade to the Pro. The standard USB-C on the Air is fast, but it’s not Thunderbolt speed.

3. Apple iPad Air 13-inch (M3) – Best Large Screen Value

Having a 13-inch display on the iPad Air completely changed how I use the device, and it’s easy to see why it often appears in the best iPad deals available right now. The extra screen real estate is perfect for split-screen multitasking, allowing me to have a document open alongside a web browser comfortably. Despite the large size, it remains impressively lightweight at just 1.36 pounds.

I found it to be the perfect companion for work conferences and family movie nights. The M3 chip built for Apple Intelligence ensures that even with two demanding apps open side-by-side, performance never lags. The battery life is solid, easily lasting a full workday of mixed usage.

The P3 wide color and True Tone on the massive 13-inch Liquid Retina display make media consumption a joy. Connecting it to the Magic Keyboard transforms it into a highly capable laptop alternative. The 12MP Center Stage camera is perfectly positioned for landscape video calls.

If you want the big screen experience without paying the extreme premium for the 13-inch Pro, this is the sweet spot. It provides all the necessary power and space for productivity while remaining relatively affordable in the lineup.

Who should avoid it

Users who prioritize one-handed use or extreme portability will find the 13-inch model cumbersome. It’s difficult to hold for long reading sessions and takes up significant space in a small bag.

If you require Face ID or a LiDAR scanner for augmented reality applications, this model doesn’t have them. It relies on the power button Touch ID, which can be slightly awkward to reach on a device this large.

4. Apple iPad mini (A17 Pro) – Best Portable Option

The iPad mini with the A17 Pro chip is my favorite device for travel and reading. At just 10.4 ounces, it’s incredibly comfortable to hold in one hand for extended periods. The 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display is sharp and vibrant, making it an excellent alternative to a dedicated e-reader.

I absolutely love how this small tablet works with the Apple Pencil Pro. It transforms into the perfect digital notepad that slips easily into any bag or large pocket. The A17 Pro chip brings Apple Intelligence capabilities to this compact form factor, making it shockingly powerful.

Despite its small size, it features Wi-Fi 6E connectivity for blazing-fast downloads. The 12MP Ultra Wide front camera with Center Stage is great for quick FaceTime calls on the go. The build quality is premium, and the addition of USB-C makes it highly versatile.

This is the ultimate consumption device that can also handle serious productivity tasks in a pinch. If you find standard iPads too heavy to hold while reading in bed, the mini is the perfect solution.

Who should avoid it

Anyone who plans to use their iPad as a laptop replacement for heavy multitasking will struggle with the 8.3-inch screen. Split-screen view is cramped and not ideal for prolonged work sessions.

The battery life is noticeably shorter than its larger siblings when pushed with demanding tasks or bright screen settings. Heavy users will likely need to charge it before the day is over.

5. Apple iPad Pro 11-Inch (M4) – Best for Professionals

The 11-inch M4 iPad Pro represents the pinnacle of Apple’s tablet engineering. The first thing I noticed was how incredibly thin and lightweight it is, making it a joy to handle. The M4 chip delivers true desktop-grade performance, handling 4K video editing effortlessly.

The Ultra Retina XDR display with ProMotion 120Hz is simply the best screen I’ve ever seen on a tablet. The contrast ratios and brightness levels make HDR content pop brilliantly. Scrolling is buttery smooth, and the Apple Pencil Pro responsiveness is unmatched.

Having Thunderbolt/USB 4 connectivity allows me to connect high-speed external drives and external monitors easily. Face ID is fast and secure, working perfectly in both portrait and landscape modes. The addition of the LiDAR Scanner enables impressive AR experiences.

This tablet is designed for creative professionals who need uncompromising power in a portable form factor. When paired with the Magic Keyboard, it becomes a formidable machine that rivals many premium laptops.

Who should avoid it

Casual users who only want to browse the web, check email, and watch Netflix are wasting their money here. The M4 chip and Ultra Retina display are massive overkill for basic consumption tasks.

The premium price point makes it a significant investment, especially when you factor in the cost of the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil Pro. Budget-conscious buyers should look at the Air lineup instead.

6. Apple iPad Pro 13-Inch (M4) – Best for Creators

If you’re a digital artist or video editor, the 13-inch M4 iPad Pro is a dream machine. The expansive 13-inch Ultra Retina XDR display provides a massive canvas for creative work. I found the extreme brightness and contrast to be essential for accurate color grading and photo editing.

The M4 chip handles complex tasks with blazing speed, making rendering times surprisingly short. Despite the incredible power, I experienced all-day battery life even during intensive use. The integration with iPadOS 26 features takes productivity to a new level.

ProMotion 120Hz technology ensures that drawing with the Apple Pencil Pro has virtually zero latency. The Thunderbolt port allows for rapid file transfers from SD cards and cameras. The landscape 12MP front camera is perfectly positioned for professional video calls.

This is a serious tool for serious creators. Long-time PC users I’ve spoken with are consistently amazed by the superior user experience and raw power packed into such a thin device.

Who should avoid it

The massive size makes it difficult to use as a casual tablet while lounging on the couch. It’s truly designed to be used on a desk with a keyboard or propped up for drawing.

The frustrating limitation is that the anti-glare nano-texture glass option is only available if you purchase the significantly more expensive 1TB or 2TB models. This forces a huge price jump for users who need that specific display type.

7. Apple iPad Pro 13-inch (M5) – Ultimate Performance

The M5 iPad Pro is, without exaggeration, the most advanced tablet on the planet. Testing the M5 chip with Neural Accelerators was mind-blowing; it handles advanced AI tasks locally with unprecedented speed. The 13-inch Ultra Retina XDR display remains breathtaking with its incredible resolution and ProMotion smoothness. This is easily one of the best tablets for video editing.

One of the biggest upgrades is the inclusion of Wi-Fi 7 with the Apple N1 chip. My download speeds and network stability saw a massive improvement on compatible networks. What shocked me most was the battery life; some users report getting 2-3 days without a charge under normal use.

The sleek, lightweight design is a marvel of engineering, feeling more like a premium notebook than a traditional tablet. Face ID authentication is lightning fast, and the LiDAR Scanner provides incredible accuracy for 3D mapping and AR applications.

If you demand the absolute bleeding edge of technology and want a device that will easily last 5-7 years without feeling slow, this is it. It’s an insane piece of technology that redefines what a tablet can do.

Who should avoid it

The staggering price point puts this device out of reach for many consumers. Unless you are using it to generate income through creative work, it’s very hard to justify the cost.

Like the M4 13-inch model, holding it one-handed causes fatigue quickly due to the size. Also, you must buy the 1TB or 2TB model to get 16GB of RAM and the nano-texture glass option, adding to the already premium price.

8. Apple iPad Air (Renewed) – Best Budget Alternative

Buying renewed is an excellent way to save money, and this older iPad Air model provides fantastic value. The A14 Bionic chip still handles everyday tasks, web browsing, and streaming smoothly. I was impressed that the 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display looks just as good as some newer models.

Getting 256GB of storage at this price point is a huge advantage for storing photos, videos, and large apps. The device is light and portable, and the setup process is identical to a brand new iPad. Touch ID is reliable and fast.

Most renewed units I’ve seen arrive in like-new or excellent condition. It supports the Magic Keyboard and the 2nd Generation Apple Pencil, making it a viable productivity tool on a budget. The battery life is generally good for standard use.

This is perfect for someone who wants the modern iPad Air design (no home button, USB-C) but doesn’t want to pay new prices. It’s a great choice for casual users and students.

Who should avoid it

If you are a perfectionist, buying renewed carries the risk of minor cosmetic imperfections like small scratches. Additionally, the included chargers are often generic and vary in quality.

Power users needing the latest Apple Intelligence features or M-series chip performance will find the A14 Bionic lacking. Some users also report faster battery drain on older renewed models compared to new units.

9. Apple iPad 2021 (Renewed) – Best Student Value

If you need the absolute cheapest entry into the iPad ecosystem, this renewed 9th generation model is one of the best iPad deals available right now. The A13 chip still performs admirably for streaming, basic gaming, and everyday apps. The 10.2-inch Retina display is clear and bright enough for comfortable reading.

I recommend this model frequently to parents buying a tablet for their children or students on a tight budget. Most units arrive in excellent condition, and the classic design with the home button is familiar and easy to use. The 12MP front camera is surprisingly good for Zoom classes.

It supports the first-generation Apple Pencil, making it useful for digital art and note-taking. The battery life usually holds up well for a full day of school or work. For under $200 on sale, it’s hard to beat this level of functionality.

This is the workhorse iPad that gets the job done without any fancy extras. It runs current iPadOS smoothly and provides access to the massive App Store ecosystem.

Who should avoid it

The 64GB base storage fills up very quickly if you download a lot of games or movies. You will need to rely heavily on iCloud storage or stream most of your content.

Some renewed units have been reported to arrive with battery health slightly below the advertised 80%, meaning it might need charging more frequently. It also uses the older Lightning connector rather than USB-C.

10. Apple iPad Mini 6 (Renewed) – Best Compact Budget

The renewed iPad Mini 6 is a fantastic way to get a premium compact tablet without paying full retail. The A15 Bionic chip delivers snappy performance that handles intensive games and multitasking well. The 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display has excellent color depth and True Tone.

I love how easy it is to hold this device with one hand while reading or browsing the web. The build quality feels premium, and most renewed units arrive looking virtually brand new. The USB-C port is a welcome upgrade from older Mini models.

The 12MP Ultra Wide front camera with Center Stage is perfect for video calls on the go. It supports the 2nd Generation Apple Pencil, making it an incredible digital moleskin notebook. The battery life reliably lasts through 10 hours of use.

If you want a highly capable tablet that fits in a small bag or large pocket, this is an excellent choice. It offers a modern design and great performance at a reduced price.

Who should avoid it

Strangely, this renewed Mini is sometimes priced higher than older full-size iPad Air models, which might deter budget shoppers who just want the biggest screen for their money.

Like all renewed products, there is a risk of minor cosmetic imperfections or receiving a generic charger. A few users reported minor hardware quirks, so purchasing from a seller with a strong return policy is essential.

Complete Buying Guide for iPads

Finding the best iPad deals requires understanding the market and timing your purchase correctly. Understanding the iPad vs computer debate is crucial before investing. To get the most out of your device once you buy, check out our roundup of the best tablet accessories to complement your new iPad. We’ve compiled the most important factors to consider when shopping for an Apple tablet.

When to Buy for the Best Price

Timing is everything when looking for iPad deals. The deepest discounts typically occur during major retail events like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Amazon Prime Day, where you can often save 15-25% off retail prices. Back-to-school season in August and September is another excellent time, especially for students who can take advantage of Apple Education pricing and gift card bundles.

Another strategic time to buy is immediately after Apple announces new models. Retailers rush to clear out inventory of the previous generation, often dropping prices by $100-$200. If you don’t need the absolute newest M-series chip or Apple Intelligence features, buying the previous generation during these clearance events is the smartest way to save.

Storage Options Explained

Choosing the right storage capacity is critical because iPads do not have expandable storage. The base 64GB option (found on older models) is only suitable if you strictly stream content and use cloud storage. For most users, 128GB or 256GB is the sweet spot, allowing plenty of room for apps, best productivity apps for iPad, photos, and downloaded media.

Creative professionals and gamers should look at 512GB or 1TB models. If you plan to edit 4K video or store large design files, the 1TB option on the Pro models is essential. Remember that on Pro models, choosing 1TB or higher also unlocks 16GB of RAM and the option for nano-texture glass.

Costco vs Apple Store Pricing

Many shoppers wonder if a Costco membership is worth it for iPad purchases. In our experience, Costco consistently offers lower regular pricing than the Apple Store, typically discounting models by $30 to $50 right out of the gate. They also frequently bundle iPads with AppleCare+ at a reduced rate, adding significant value.

The Apple Store rarely offers direct monetary discounts, instead opting for gift card promotions during major holidays. However, Apple offers the best trade-in program for your old devices, which can instantly reduce the upfront cost of a new iPad. Always compare the Costco discount against the Apple Store trade-in value.

Lifespan and Longevity Considerations

An iPad is an investment, and longevity should factor into your buying decision. iPads generally receive iPadOS updates for 5 to 7 years after their release date. Buying an M-series iPad (like the Air M3 or Pro M4/M5) ensures you will receive updates and support for Apple Intelligence features for many years to come.

Older A-series models (like the base iPad A16) are cheaper now but will lose software support sooner. If you want a device that will still feel fast in 2030, spending slightly more upfront for an M-series chip is a wise long-term financial decision.

Wi-Fi vs Cellular

Deciding between Wi-Fi only and Wi-Fi + Cellular models comes down to how you travel. Cellular models cost $130-$150 more upfront and require a monthly data plan. However, cellular models also include a dedicated GPS chip, which the Wi-Fi models lack, making them valuable for navigation or specific field-work applications.

For most users, tethering to a smartphone’s hotspot is a perfectly viable and cheaper alternative to buying a cellular iPad. Unless you are constantly working in areas without secure Wi-Fi, the Wi-Fi-only models offer the best value.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict

Navigating the best iPad deals in 2026 comes down to identifying your specific needs and setting a budget. If you want the absolute best value for everyday tasks, the base iPad 11-inch (A16) is impossible to beat when on sale. For professionals and creatives who need desktop-level power, the M4 and M5 iPad Pro models are worth the investment, provided you can find them at a discount.

My personal recommendation for most users is the iPad Air 11-inch (M3). It strikes the perfect balance, offering the power of Apple Intelligence and a premium Liquid Retina display without the extreme cost of the Pro lineup. Be sure to track prices across Amazon, Best Buy, and Costco, and don’t hesitate to purchase when you see a discount of 15% or more.