iPad prices start at $329 for the base model and go up to $2,199 for the largest Pro version

Apple makes five different iPad lines, and the one you're looking at matters because the price jumps depend on which model, screen size, and storage you choose. The cheapest new iPad you can buy is the standard iPad at $329 for 64GB of storage. The most expensive is the iPad Pro 13-inch at $2,199 for 1TB. Most people fall somewhere in the middle — the iPad Air runs $599 to $1,099, and the iPad mini starts at $499.

The price also changes based on how much storage you pick. Every iPad model offers at least two storage options, usually 64GB or 128GB at the base level, then jumps to 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB as you go up. Each step costs more. A 256GB iPad Air costs $100 more than the 128GB version of the same model.

If you want cellular connectivity (the ability to use mobile data without Wi-Fi), add $130 to $150 on top of the Wi-Fi-only price, depending on the model. This is optional — you can use any iPad on Wi-Fi alone.

Key Takeaways

  • The standard iPad starts at $329, while iPad Pro models reach $2,199, with iPad Air and iPad mini filling the middle range.
  • Storage size affects price significantly — jumping from 64GB to 256GB typically adds $100 or more to the cost.
  • Cellular capability (mobile data without Wi-Fi) costs an extra $130 to $150 but is optional.
  • Prices can vary by retailer and may drop during sales events, though Apple's official prices remain consistent.

The five iPad models and what separates them

Apple sells five distinct iPad lines, each built for different uses and budgets. The standard iPad is the entry point — it has a 10.9-inch screen, works with the Apple Pencil, and handles everyday tasks like browsing, email, and streaming. This is what most people mean when they just say "iPad."

The iPad mini has a 7-inch screen and costs $499 to $699 depending on storage. It's smaller and lighter, designed for people who want portability or prefer a compact device. The iPad Air sits between the standard iPad and the Pro — it has a 11-inch or 13-inch screen and costs $599 to $1,099. It's faster than the standard iPad but cheaper than the Pro.

The iPad Pro is Apple's most powerful tablet. It comes in 11-inch ($999 to $1,499) and 13-inch ($1,299 to $2,199) sizes. It has the fastest processor, the brightest screen, and the most storage options. Most people don't need a Pro unless they do video editing, graphic design, or other demanding work.

How storage size changes the price

Every iPad model offers multiple storage sizes, and each one costs more than the last. The standard iPad starts at $329 for 64GB, then jumps to $429 for 256GB — a $100 difference. The iPad Air starts at $599 for 128GB and goes to $899 for 512GB. The iPad Pro 11-inch starts at $999 for 256GB and reaches $1,499 for 1TB.

Storage matters because it determines how many apps, photos, and files you can keep on the device. If you mostly use cloud storage (like iCloud or Google Drive) and don't read many movies or large files, 64GB or 128GB is usually enough. If you edit video, store lots of photos, or read content to watch offline, you'll want 256GB or more.

Apple does not let you add storage later — you choose the size when you buy, so think about what you actually need rather than what might be nice to have. Most people regret buying too little storage, not too much.

Wi-Fi versus cellular and what it costs

Every iPad comes in a Wi-Fi-only version, which is the price listed above. If you want cellular (the ability to use mobile data from a carrier like Verizon or AT&T), you pay extra. The cellular version costs $130 to $150 more than the Wi-Fi version of the same model.

Cellular is useful if you want to use your iPad away from home without tethering to your phone's hotspot. You'll need a separate data plan from a mobile carrier — this is not included in the iPad price. Most carriers charge $10 to $30 per month for tablet data, though some offer it as an add-on to an existing phone plan.

Most people buy Wi-Fi only and use their phone's hotspot when they need data away from home. Cellular is worth the extra cost only if you use your iPad frequently in places without Wi-Fi and don't want to rely on your phone's battery.

Where prices can vary and when they might drop

Apple's official prices are the same everywhere — you'll pay $329 for a standard iPad whether you buy from Apple's website, Best Buy, or Amazon. However, retailers sometimes run sales or discounts, especially during back-to-school season (July through September) or around major holidays. These discounts are usually $50 to $150 off, not dramatic cuts.

Older iPad models sometimes drop in price when new ones are released. If a new standard iPad comes out, the previous generation may sell for less at retailers trying to clear stock. Apple's own store typically keeps prices at the official level.

Trade-in programs can also reduce your out-of-pocket cost. Apple and some retailers offer credit toward a new iPad if you turn in an old one. The amount depends on the age and condition of your old device — typically $50 to $300.

What's included in the price and what costs extra

The iPad price covers the device itself and a USB-C charging cable. It does not include a power adapter — you need to buy one separately for about $20 to $35, though you may already have one that works. The iPad also does not come with a case, screen protector, or stylus, all of which are optional add-ons.

If you want an Apple Pencil to draw or take notes, that costs $129 for the standard version or $349 for the Pro version. A keyboard case runs $150 to $350 depending on the model. These are not necessary — you can use an iPad with just your fingers — but many people add them.

AppleCare+ is an optional protection plan that costs $99 to $199 depending on the iPad model. It covers accidental damage and extends your warranty, but it's not required and many people skip it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which iPad should I buy if I'm on a budget?

The standard iPad at $329 is the cheapest option and handles email, browsing, streaming, and most everyday tasks. If you want something smaller, the iPad mini starts at $499. Both are solid choices for general use without spending more than necessary.

Do I need cellular, or is Wi-Fi enough?

Wi-Fi is enough for most people. You can use your phone's hotspot to get data away from home, which costs nothing extra. Cellular is worth the $130 to $150 premium only if you frequently use your iPad in places without Wi-Fi and don't want to drain your phone's battery.

Can I use an iPad with an older power adapter I already have?

It depends on the adapter. Newer iPads use USB-C, so you need a USB-C power adapter. If you have a USB-C charger from another device, it will likely work. Older Apple adapters with Lightning connectors will not work with current iPads.

Is 64GB storage enough?

For most people, yes — if you use cloud storage for photos and files and don't read many movies or large apps. If you edit video, store thousands of photos locally, or read content to watch offline, jump to 256GB or more. You cannot add storage later, so choose based on your actual needs.

Will the price drop if I wait?

Apple's official prices stay the same year-round. Retailers occasionally discount older models when new ones release, or run sales during back-to-school and holiday seasons. If you need an iPad now, waiting for a potential $50 to $100 discount is usually not worth the delay.