Apple tablet prices range from $329 to $1,099 depending on the model, storage size, and whether you choose Wi-Fi or cellular connectivity

Apple makes four main tablet lines: the iPad (the entry-level model), iPad Air, iPad Pro, and iPad mini. Each starts at a different price point. The standard iPad begins at $329 for the Wi-Fi version with 64GB of storage. The iPad Air starts at $599. The iPad Pro begins at $999 for the 11-inch model. The iPad mini starts at $499. These are the manufacturer's suggested prices, though retailers sometimes discount them.

Adding cellular connectivity (the ability to use mobile data without Wi-Fi) costs an extra $130 to $150 depending on the model. Upgrading to larger storage — 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB — also raises the price. A standard iPad with 256GB costs $429, for example. Storage upgrades typically cost $100 to $200 more than the base model.

Key Takeaways

  • The cheapest Apple tablet is the standard iPad at $329 for Wi-Fi with 64GB storage; the most expensive is the iPad Pro at $1,099 or higher with larger storage.
  • Adding cellular data capability costs $130 to $150 extra on top of the Wi-Fi price.
  • Each storage tier (64GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB) increases the price by $100 to $200 depending on the model.
  • Prices listed here are Apple's official retail prices; actual prices at retailers like Best Buy, Amazon, or Costco may be lower.
  • Older iPad models sometimes remain available at lower prices once new versions release, though Apple's website typically shows current models only.

Price breakdown by iPad model

The standard iPad is Apple's most affordable tablet. It starts at $329 for 64GB Wi-Fi only. The 256GB Wi-Fi model costs $429. Adding cellular raises the base price to $459 (64GB) or $559 (256GB). This model is designed for everyday tasks like browsing, email, video, and light creative work.

The iPad Air sits in the middle. The 11-inch model starts at $599 for 64GB Wi-Fi. The 256GB Wi-Fi version costs $699. Cellular versions start at $749 (64GB) or $849 (256GB). The iPad Air has a faster processor and better display than the standard iPad, making it suitable for more demanding apps and multitasking.

The iPad Pro is Apple's most powerful tablet and the most expensive. The 11-inch model starts at $999 for 128GB Wi-Fi. The 256GB Wi-Fi version costs $1,099. A 13-inch larger model also exists with higher starting prices. Cellular versions add $150 to the Wi-Fi price. The iPad Pro is built for professional work like video editing, graphic design, and 3D modeling.

The iPad mini is the smallest tablet Apple makes. It starts at $499 for 64GB Wi-Fi. The 256GB Wi-Fi model costs $599. Cellular versions begin at $649 (64GB) or $749 (256GB). The iPad mini has the same power as the iPad Air but in a smaller 8.3-inch screen, making it portable for reading and note-taking.

What affects the final price you pay

Storage size is the most common price variable. Every iPad model offers at least two storage options, and larger sizes cost more. A 64GB iPad Air costs $599, but jumping to 256GB adds $100. On the iPad Pro, storage jumps are larger — the difference between 128GB and 256GB is $100, and between 256GB and 512GB is another $200.

Cellular connectivity is the second major cost factor. If you want to use mobile data (through a carrier like Verizon, AT&T, or T-Mobile) without relying on Wi-Fi, you pay extra. This option costs $130 to $150 more than the Wi-Fi-only version, depending on the model. You will need to sign up for a data plan with a carrier separately — the tablet itself just has the hardware to accept a SIM card.

Where you buy the tablet can change the price. Apple's official website shows the full retail price, but Best Buy, Amazon, Costco, and other retailers sometimes offer discounts, especially during sales events or when new models launch. Older iPad models may also be discounted once newer versions become available, though Apple's own store typically carries only current models.

Storage size explained

Storage is the amount of space on the tablet for apps, photos, videos, and files. Apple offers 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB (1,000GB) depending on the model. Most people starting out choose 64GB or 128GB. If you plan to store many photos, videos, or large apps, or if you work with video or design files, consider 256GB or larger.

You cannot add storage later by inserting a memory card — Apple tablets do not have that option. You can store files in iCloud (Apple's cloud storage service), which costs extra per month for plans beyond the free tier, but this is not the same as having storage on the device itself. Think carefully about storage size before purchasing, since you cannot upgrade it afterward.

Wi-Fi versus cellular: what you are paying for

A Wi-Fi-only tablet connects to the internet through wireless networks you find at home, work, coffee shops, or other locations. It cannot connect to mobile data networks. This is the cheaper option and works fine if you always have Wi-Fi nearby or do not mind waiting until you do.

A cellular tablet has a built-in modem that lets it connect to mobile data networks (4G LTE or 5G, depending on the model). You pay the extra $130 to $150 upfront for the hardware, then you pay a carrier separately for a data plan — usually $10 to $30 per month depending on how much data you use. Cellular is useful if you need internet on the go, like during travel or commuting, or if you work in places without reliable Wi-Fi.

Refurbished and older iPad models

Apple sells refurbished tablets on its official website at discounts of 15% to 20% off the new price. These are returned or display models that Apple has inspected, cleaned, and repackaged. They come with the same one-year warranty as new tablets. If you are comfortable buying refurbished, this is a way to save money while buying directly from Apple.

Older iPad models sometimes remain available through retailers after new versions launch, usually at lower prices. However, Apple's own website typically shows only the current generation. If you are willing to buy an older model, check Best Buy, Amazon, or other retailers, but be aware that older models may not receive the latest software updates as long as newer ones do.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to buy AppleCare or a case separately?

No, AppleCare and cases are optional add-ons. AppleCare+ extends your warranty and covers accidental damage for an additional cost (typically $99 to $199 depending on the model). Cases and screen protectors are sold separately by Apple and third-party makers, ranging from $20 to $100. The tablet itself comes with no case or protection.

Is the price the same at every retailer?

Apple sets the official retail price, but retailers like Best Buy, Amazon, Costco, and Walmart may offer discounts. Prices are often lower during holiday sales or when new models launch. Check multiple retailers before buying to find the best current price for the model you want.

Can I trade in my old tablet to lower the cost?

Apple offers trade-in credit on its website when you buy a new tablet. The amount depends on the model, age, and condition of your old device. Other retailers like Best Buy also accept trade-ins. The credit is applied as a discount on your purchase, not paid as cash.

What is the difference between iPad and iPad Air in terms of price?

The iPad Air costs $270 more than the standard iPad at the base level ($599 versus $329). You get a faster processor, better display, and more features for that extra cost. The standard iPad is fine for basic tasks; the iPad Air is better if you use demanding apps or want a longer-lasting device.

Do prices ever drop after a new model launches?

Yes. When Apple releases a new iPad model, the previous generation often drops in price at retailers. Apple's own website typically removes the older model, but Best Buy and Amazon may keep selling it at a discount. This is a common way to save money if you do not need the absolute latest version.