Black Friday Tablet Deals 2018

The best cheap iPad deals in November 2021

(Image credit: Future)

As we almost reach November we've already seen some excellent iPad deals. We know that the Apple tablet is going to be a very popular product in this year's Black Friday deals so we're expecting some substantial offers across the next month. There's already been some evidence of that in the early Black Friday sales, so we're confident that's a sign of things to come.

If you're looking for an iPad deal we'd urge you to pick one up sooner rather than later as the prices haven't been sticking around for long. In the early Best Buy Black Friday deals, we were given a taster with a reduction on last year's iPad 10.2 to just $279.99. It flew out of stock in a matter of days, so there's clearly a serious appetite for iPad deals as we reach the end of the year.

Those older generation devices are where you're likely to find the biggest discounts as they get reduced as the newer tech becomes available. And with Apple's regular launch cycle that's more often than you would expect. Check them out below and grab yourself a brand new tablet for less.

Does that mean there won't be any offers on the new iPad 10.2 and iPad mini 6 should you be looking to upgrade? Not at all! Some small price cuts were available on the latest models before launch. It just seems more likely that the bigger discounts will be saved for when the Black Friday Apple deals properly get underway in November.

Elsewhere, many of the best iPad deals are on the Pro and Air models. The 11-inch and 12.9 versions of these devices have been reduced at a number of retailers over recent weeks. That's where the biggest price cuts can be found right now if your budget was already going to stretch to the higher-end tablets.

Finding the best iPad deals

iPad deals sales — (Image credit: Apple)

1. iPad 10.2 deals
2. iPad Pro deals
3. iPad Air deals
4. iPad Mini deals

Whatever you're after, we're rounding up all the cheapest iPad deals right here. Join us as we guide you to the lowest costs from around the web but also judge which model will be best for you. We've broken down these iPad deals by their key specs and use-cases, so you don't spend more than you need to – especially when prices for the top-of-the-range iPad Pro can soar over $1,000 / £1,000.

You'll find the full range of iPad, Air, Mini, and Pro deals available just below. If you're after a smaller form factor, however, you can check out the best iPad Mini prices and sales going right now. If you don't need something immediately you might want to hold out for this year's Black Friday iPad deals.

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This week's best iPad deals in the US

This week's best iPad deals in the UK

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Apple iPad 10.2 2021 being using with an Apple Magic Pencil — (Image credit: Apple)

The best 2021 iPad deals

The brand new iPad offers the best value for money

New A13 Bionic chipset

Improved front camera

No USB-C

The new 2021 iPad launches at $329/£319 for the base version – that's around the same price as the previous model. Unless the 2020 version sees a significant price cut, then, your best option is to go for the newer technology. Overall, you're getting plenty of value for money here. We'd generally suggest those shopping on the cheaper end of the spectrum go for this model.

The 2021 upgrades are worth it. You get the brand new A13 Bionic chip, which Apple says will improve performance by up to 20%. The screen is very similar at 10.2-inches, but the TrueTone tech will make the screen easier to see in different lighting conditions.

The biggest upgrade comes in the new 12MP front camera, which also supports Apple's Center Stage feature to keep you in the middle of the frame during video calls. On the back, you'll find the same 8MP camera and it's identical to what you'd find on last year's model.

If you're not ready to make a decision, you can delve into more detail on all the improvements in our iPad (2021) vs iPad (2020) comparison guide.

cheap iPad deals sales — (Image credit: Apple)

The best 2020 iPad deals

Low stock but can offer a saving

Improved processor

Same price as previous model

Still no Face ID

Only supports first generation Apple Pencil

With the launch of the new 2021 iPad, it's become increasingly difficult to find the 2020 model in stock.

Where we have seen it available to buy, the last-gen tablet generally hasn't been much cheaper than its newer sibling. Some of the best iPad deals we've spotted place it at $299/£299. When you can get the latest version for just $30/£20 more, we'd absolutely recommend the new tech instead.

There's a chance it may get cheaper over Black Friday as stores clear out any remaining stock, but we expect most will have cleared any by November and focus on the new tablet. A refurbished model could be an option, though, if you want to save even more money.

iPad Pro deals

The best 2021 11-inch iPad Pro deals

The brand new M1 iPad

Same starting price as 2020 model

Powerful M1 processor

Thunderbolt Port

Bigger configurations are more expensive than 2020 model

The latest iPad Pro offers up the excellent performance of Apple's stunning M1 chip. With that particularly impressive brain at the helm you'll be zipping through games, AR, and more demanding apps with incredible speed. Apple estimates that the 8-core processor will offer up a 50% jump in performance over 2020's model, with a 40% boost in GPU performance as well.

While the 11-inch doesn't offer the XDR display (you'll need to upgrade to the 12.9-inch model for that), you're still getting the larger 2TB storage option which is the largest we've seen on an iPad to date. If you do opt for all the space, it's worth noting that the 1TB and 2TB models also offer double the RAM, up to 16GB.

You're also getting a Thunderbolt port here, which yields the potential for a massive number of connections, and much faster data transfers as well.

The new front facing camera has a 12MP ultra-wide lense, with a 122-degree field of view. That means you'll be able to use a new mode called Centre Stage which will move your camera to keep you in frame when as you move around in your video calls.

The new iPad Pro price does start out at the same position as the previous model, with the 128GB and 256GB models costing $799 / £749 / AU$1,199 and $899 / £849 / AU$1,349 respectively. However, things start straying from last year's iPad prices once you move beyond these entry level devices.

iPad Pro deals price cheap sales — (Image credit: Apple)

The best 2021 12.9-inch iPad Pro deals

A new M1 processor and XDR display

Best display on any iPad

120Hz refresh rate

Larger battery

Bigger configurations are more expensive than 2020 model

If you opt for the larger 12.9-inch iPad Pro you're also opening yourself up to an incredible display. Until we get our hands on it we won't know just how the mini-LEDs, 2732 x 2048 resolution, 1600 nits of peak brightness, million to one contrast ratio, and 120Hz refresh rate will play out in real life, but the spec sheet looks set to rival an OLED panel.

That's the main reason (other than additional screen size) for picking up the 12.9-inch iPad Pro over the 11-inch. However, you are also getting a slightly thicker profile here than the smaller model.

Inside, the 2021 12.9-inch iPad Pro is still offering the powerful M1 chip, plenty of storage options (including the new 2TB configuration), excellent CPU and GPU performance boosts, and Thunderbolt compatibility as well.

We're seeing the same iPad Pro price shift here too, with the smaller 128GB and 256GB models matching last year's release but an increase in costs as you climb up the premium ladder.

best cheap iPad Pro deals — (Image credit: Apple)

The best 2020 11-inch iPad Pro deals

A cheaper previous generation

Mouse and cursor support

Power upgrade

Upgraded support for AR content

No M1 chip

iPad deals on the 2020 iPad Pro were offering some stunning prices when the new model first launched, however those discounts have now slowed. With the newer model offering the same price on the 128GB and 256GB configurations, it's worth keeping your attention on 2021's offerings, but any iPad deals on the 512GB or 1TB 2020 model will still be worthwhile.

This model sports the A12Z Bionic chip, a step down from the M1 processor in the new generation, but still incredibly powerful for everyday and more demanding use.

These iPad Pro deals are better suited to those who need a little more power than the iPad Air can provide, but don't want (or need) to be lugging that 12.9-inch display of the larger model around.

The latest iPad sales are bringing this 2020 model closer to the 2018 in price, so if you see a similarity in storage specs and cost it's worth it to grab the latest release.

Read the full iPad Pro 2020 hands on review here on TechRadar

The best 2020 12.9-inch iPad Pro deals

Big power with a bigger screen

Lower price for a larger display

Reduced price in the larger storage range

No XDR display or M1 processor

While the M1 model may have steamrolled over the 2020 12.9-inch iPad Pro, there's still plenty of power under the hood here, and a massive display to push that tech even further. However, it's worth noting that the 2021 model does offer a lot more for the same MSRP in the 128GB and 256GB ranges. We've seen discounts on this older model slow in recent weeks, though, which means you're best picking up this device if you need 512GB or 1TB of storage and you're looking to spend as little as possible.

12.9-inch iPad Pro prices can get pretty steep pretty fast. However, you are getting an incredibly powerful device for your cash. This is one for the ultra-power users then, those who are running high intensity Adobe apps and multi-tasking between them, for example.

ipad pro deals sales — (Image credit: Apple)

The best 11-inch 2018 iPad Pro deals

Much older, likely refurbished

Cheaper prices available on refurbished units

Still impressively powerful

New (not used) devices aren't on the market anymore

The 2018 iPad Pro marked the biggest change to the display since the original model. The edge to edge LCD screen was been achieved rounding its corners and using a liquid retina display similar to that found in the iPhone XR. Apple also managed to create an 11-inch display, while keeping the chassis-size of the previous 10.5-inch iPad Pro thanks to a dramatic reduction of the surrounding bezel. The 120Hz display was the first to come with Face ID for unlocking too. The iPad Pro also comes with a modern USB-C connection but no longer has a headphone port.

Cheap iPad Pro deals are, unfortunately, a mere memory when looking at these 2018 models, however. Lower spec versions are rarely available these days, however if you're after more storage we are seeing more iPad deals hitting those 512GB and 1TB versions.

Should you upgrade to the new iPad Pro?

The new iPad Pro is now comfortably sitting on the shelves, and at a similar price point to existing iPad Pro prices, it might be worth waiting around for these new models.

The new iPad Pro offers Apple's lightning fast M1 chip and 5G capabilities in its LTE models as well. With a gorgeous new Liquid Retina XDR display capable of 1600 nit of peak brightness, a 120Hz refresh rate, and 2732 x 2048 resolution in the 12.9-inch model and the 8-core CPU offering a 50% jump in performance over the 2020 model, there's certainly plenty of power packed in here.

The 2021 iPad Pro price also starts the same as the current generation. The 128GB, 256GB and 512GB 11-inch devices will still cost you $799, $899 or $1,099 respectively. However, things are getting more expensive in the premium end, with 12.9-inch models and 1TB / 2TB 11-inch models seeing an uplift in price.

If you don't feel like you'll make the most of that additional computing power (for example, you're just after a fast tablet to stream entertainment, take a few notes, browse the web and play some lighter games), we'd recommend grabbing one of the cheaper iPad deals available now.

However, especially if you're after a lower spec 11-inch model, there is plenty more value up for grabs in the new device.

iPad Air deals

The best iPad Air 2020 deals

A halfway point between the Air and the Pro

Larger display

New fingerprint sensor placement

USB-C

$100 more expensive than previous model

The 2020 iPad Air has already seen some excellent discounts since launching last year, and if you're on the fence about the iPad Pro deals above it may serve your needs perfectly. Apple has muddied its line a little with this one - offering specs worthy of the Pro's price point with enhancements in screen and processing, while reducing the feature set slightly to keep the price cheap.

There's no FaceID here, and the screen only jumps up to 10.9-inch so you'll notice a few differences between the next-gen Air and the current iPad Pro deals on offer. However, you're paying substantially less for this (starting at $599 / £579 / AU$899), which makes it excellent value for money for anyone looking to get a bit more juice out of their tablet.

We've seen iPad deals dropping as low as $549 / £549 on the latest Air as well, which means the offers are starting to roll in.

The best 2019 iPad Air deals

Very powerful and far cheaper the the Pro

More powerful than regular iPads

Great screen

Compatible with Apple Pencil and smart Keyboard

The 2019 iPad Air received a considerable performance boost over its predecessors, but today can't compete with the likes of the iPad Air 4. However, iPad deals on this older model are dropping those prices considerably. This version also released at a lower MSRP - coming in at $499 / £479 / AU$779 / AED 1999 for the standard 64GB of storage.

The pixel density on the retina display was very close to that found on the 2018 iPad Pro 11 and you're getting the same True Tone technology which will adjust the screen's brightness to the optimal levels for your environment. However, you're dropping down in power here, with the A12 processor and losing a little screen and camera resolution as well.

iPad Mini deals

The front and back of the iPad mini 6 — (Image credit: Apple)

The best 2021 iPad Mini deals

A smaller just as powerful iPad Air

New A15 Bionic chip

Improved 12MP camera

Expensive compared to 2019 model

The new 2021 iPad mini was the highlight of the recent Apple Showcase. It's been two years since a refresh of this model and it seems like it was well worth the wait.

When looking at pure improvements over the 2019 mini the numbers really speak for themselves. Thanks to the A15 Bionic chip, you'll see a 40% CPU and 80% GPU performance upgrade. The front and rear cameras have been massively improved up to 12MP, while the new tablet will support Touch ID and sport a USB-C port.

Many consider it to be in line with the iPad Air but in a smaller form factor. Of course, all those upgrades come at a price. The 2021 iPad mini is priced at $499/£479, so it's clearly an expensive bit of kit. We've spotted a few pre-order deals that have taken around $40 off the price, but it's likely going to be Black Friday when we see the best iPad mini deals next.

cheap iPad Mini deals sales price — (Image credit: Apple)

The best 2019 iPad Mini deals

A much cheaper older model

A bright and detailed screen

Upgraded spec inside

Thick bezels remain

The 2015 iPad Mini 4 finally received a brand new update in 2019, simply called the iPad Mini.

While you'd be forgiven for thinking the design hasn't changed an awful lot over the years, you can spot the new version over older iterations via the improved spec. The stunning new retina screen has a 2048 x 1536 resolution, which is seriously intense for a 7.9-inch screen. The battery will keep you going for a superb 10 hours of web surfing and media playback. You're getting most up-to-date OS and brand new A12 Bionic Chip that even outstrips the most recent regular 9.7-inch iPad.

If the standard-sized iPads are a bit too big for you to handle casually or take up too much space in your bag, but you really want something bigger than your phone for long reads, browsing the net or watching video content, the latest iPad Mini is going to take some beating as one of the best devices you can get.

The prices are the main giveaway though and start off typically high, even more so than the nesest 9.7-inch standard iPad. The new iPad Mini (2019) has a starting price of $399 / £399 / AU$599 / AED 1599, however the latest iPad sales are seeing those figures tick down to $349 / £349 in some cases.

Where to find the best iPad deals

Still on the hunt for that perfect cheap iPad deal? Check out the retailers below for the latest price cuts, or head direct to Apple to scope out more features or take advantage of their trade-in scheme.

US:

Best Buy - full range available, including previous 2018 models
Amazon - all the latest models and cheap older versions renewed
B&H Photo - iPad deals regularly include bundles on powerful iPad Pros
Adorama - frequent 10.2-inch iPad and iPad Pro deals
Newegg - great prices on older and renewed models

UK:

Currys - all the latest stock as well as 2018 iPad Pros
Very - competitive pricing on a range of iPad deals
Amazon - recent models as well as cheaper prices on older tablets
John Lewis - an excellent free warranty guarantee included
AO - iPad deals on the latest models
Argos - regional stock but bundles often include accessories

Which iPad should I buy?

If you're looking for a cheap iPad, the 10.2-inch 2019 flagship model is likely your best bet. This everyday tablet comes with super fast tech under the hood, compatibility with a range of accessories to enhance the experience for work or play, as well as a competitive price tag that stands toe to toe with even the iPad Mini.

However, if you're going to be using your tablet for anything other than light everyday browsing, streaming and the odd game you might want to scale up to the Air. That's because the entry level 2019 iPad only offers 32GB of storage space, and for the price of the 128GB version you can easily score a compromise on 64GB and a more powerful Air model.

If you're after more storage space and a boost in spec, then - say if you're looking to play a few more games or run a couple of Adobe programs, the iPad Air is your best bet. iPad deals on this model are also a little more stable, with most retailers offering permanent sales prices.

If you're going heavy on creativity, gaming, media editing, or more multi-tasking oriented workflows, however, you'll want to put up the cash for the iPad Pro. While the 2020 model only offers a few minor improvements, iPad deals sometimes position it at the same price as the previous model. When this is the case it's worth grabbing the latest version, but otherwise you're not missing out if you save your cash with a cheap iPad Pro 2018 offer.

When are the best cheap iPad sales?

Cheap iPad sales typically hit when a new model is released, or in the months leading up to a big launch as retailers look to clear their inventory of older products. Keep an eye on the latest iPad news to pounce at the right time, but if you spot an offer in our price comparison charts that sits cheaper than the usual sales prices we've outlined above you're likely already getting a great deal.

Aside from Apple's own calendar, you'll also find plenty of cheap iPad deals around the holiday sales and Black Friday. These are hot products at that time of year, so if you're shopping in November or December and spot a good price, don't hesitate as someone else will likely snap up your new tablet first.

If you're a big fan of the Apple brand and operating system, we've got you covered for the latest cheap MacBook deals too.

Plus, if you're looking to splash out on your new tablet, why not take a look at the best cheap Apple Pencil prices or the latest Magic Keyboard deals going right now.

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James Pickard is a Deals Editor at TechRadar. After many years of scouring the net for the cheapest games and tech for his own personal use, he decided to make it his job to share those bargains with you. James also has over five years of experience covering some of the biggest sales events of the year at Eurogamer and VG247, including Black Friday, Cyber Monday and Amazon Prime Day. When not deals hunting, James can be found on the PS5, watching a classic film noir or cheering on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.