Best Buy iPad Pro Deals: Top 5 Must‑Have Models 2024

Finding the best buy iPad Pro that balances performance, price, and your daily needs can feel like navigating a maze. In 2024, Apple’s refreshed lineup keeps the same M2 powerhouse but adds new storage tiers and a slimmer chassis. Let’s break down the smartest ways to shop and what you’ll actually get for your money.

Why 2024 is a Game‑Changer for iPad Pro Buyers

Apple released the 6th‑generation 12.9‑inch and the 5th‑generation 11‑inch Pro models in early 2024. Both ships with the same M2 chip, but the larger display now supports 120 Hz ProMotion refresh rates across the board, a first for the 11‑inch line. This means smoother scrolling and more responsive gaming. The new 12.9‑inch also drops the 5‑W LED backlight in favor of an OLED‑style panel, cutting power draw by roughly 15 %.

120 Hz refresh on both sizes – no more stutter.
15 % less power on the 12.9‑inch – longer battery life in real‑world use.
New 256 GB base price: $799 (11‑inch) & $1,099 (12.9‑inch).

Actionable Insight: Use Price‑Tracking Tools

Set alerts on CamelCamelCamel or Honey for both models. Historically, Apple drops prices by 5‑10 % during Cyber Monday and back‑to‑school periods. In 2023, the 12.9‑inch dipped to $1,049 during a Black Friday sale, saving consumers over $50 on a $1,099 device.

Storage Strategy: Pay Only for What You Need

The newest 12.9‑inch runs from 256 GB to 2 TB. Upgrading from 256 GB to 512 GB costs $200 more; from 512 GB to 1 TB, another $300. If you leverage iCloud+ 2 TB for $9.99/month, you can save $300 annually on storage upgrades. For most students and creatives, 512 GB is a sweet spot.

256 GB: $1,099
512 GB: $1,299
1 TB: $1,599
2 TB: $1,899

Buying From Refurbished Units: A Trusted Path

Apple’s Certified Refurbished program offers devices at 15‑20 % lower than retail, complete with a one‑year warranty. In 2023, refurbished 12.9‑inch units averaged $1,029, a $70 saving. Plus, each unit undergoes a 100‑point inspection, ensuring near‑new quality.

Where to Find the Best Deals in 2024

Retailers compete fiercely during the launch window. The Apple Store, Best Buy, and B&H each offer exclusive bundles. For example, Best Buy’s “Pro Bundle” packs an 11‑inch Pro, Magic Keyboard, and Apple Pencil 2 for $1,199 – a $100 discount over buying each separately.

Apple Store Online – Direct purchase with Apple Trade‑In for a $100 credit.
Best Buy – Free delivery on orders over $150, plus in‑store pickup.
B&H Photo Video – Loyalty program rewards 2 % back on iPad purchases.
Amazon Renewed – 90‑day warranty, often 10 % off refurbished units.

Timing Is Everything: Seasonal Sales Guide

Here’s a quick calendar:

Black Friday (Nov 24)
Cyber Monday (Nov 27)
Back‑to‑School (late July)
Holiday (Dec 1‑24)

Mark these dates on your calendar. DTC sales (direct‑to‑consumer) are usually the best, but don’t miss out on retailer‑specific coupons found on retail‑app sites like RetailMeNot.

Accessories That Amplify Value

The 12.9‑inch’s larger screen makes it ideal for multitasking with dual‑monitor setups using a USB‑C docking station. The new USB‑C Power Delivery 3.0 supports 60 W, enough to drive a 27‑inch 4K monitor. Pairing this with the Magic Keyboard gives you a laptop‑like experience for $499.

Magic Keyboard: $499
Smart Keyboard Folio: $199
Apple Pencil 2: $129
USB‑C Dock (e.g., Belkin 4K): $149

For those on a budget, consider the Logitech Crayon ($39) – it offers 4,096‑level pressure sensitivity for a fraction of the cost.

Closing Thought: Measure Value, Not Just Price

Choosing the best buy iPad Pro means looking beyond the sticker price. Evaluate display quality, thermal performance, and future‑proof storage. By combining price‑tracking alerts, seasonal sales, and smart accessory bundles, you can snag a top‑tier Pro for under $1,200 in 2024.

Best 2024 iPad Pro Models for Power Users

Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th Gen) – The Ultimate Workstation

The 12.9‑inch iPad Pro showcases Apple’s Liquid Retina XDR display, offering a 13.9‑inch effective screen area for precise color grading.

Its M2 chip delivers up to 50% faster CPU performance and 30% faster GPU compared to the previous generation, enabling real‑time 4K video rendering.

With 2TB of internal storage, users can store entire film projects locally, cutting transfer times by up to 70% versus cloud‑only workflows.

Optional 5G connectivity keeps creative teams connected, allowing instant uploads to cloud services like Adobe Creative Cloud.

The 120Hz ProMotion refresh rate reduces motion blur, benefiting high‑fps gaming and augmented‑reality design tools.

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (5th Gen) – Portable Powerhouse

The 11‑inch model balances size and power, with a 10.9‑inch Liquid Retina panel that still supports P3 wide color gamut for accurate visuals.

Its M2 chip matches the 12.9‑inch counterpart in raw speed, but the smaller form factor keeps the device under 6.5 ounces.

Battery life exceeds 10 hours of mixed usage, allowing a full day of editing or presentation without charging.

The lightweight design fits easily into a backpack, making it the preferred choice for travel‑heavy designers.

Integrated Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil 2 support provide a laptop‑like workstation on the go.

Price and Availability Comparison

Despite sharing the same processor, the 12.9‑inch model carries a premium due to its larger display and XDR capabilities.

Retailers often price the 12.9‑inch at $1,099 for 256GB, while the 11‑inch starts at $799 for the same storage.

To secure the best buy iPad Pro, compare prices across Apple, Best Buy, Amazon, and carrier stores during back‑to‑school or holiday sales.

Use price‑tracking extensions like Honey or CamelCamelCamel to receive alerts when the price drops below the current MSRP.

Apple’s refurbished program can save up to 20% on the 12.9‑inch, with a full one‑year warranty.

Screen Size: 12.9‑inch for immersive work, 11‑inch for portability.
Storage Options: 256GB to 2TB in both models.
Price Range: 12.9‑inch starts at $1,099, 11‑inch starts at $799.

Actionable Buying Checklist for the Best Buy iPad Pro

Define Your Use Case: Choose 12.9‑inch for large‑format editing; choose 11‑inch for on‑the‑go tasks.
Set a Budget: Aim for a 512GB model if you rely on iCloud, or 1TB+ for heavy local storage.
Track Seasonal Deals: Black Friday, Back‑to‑School, and Amazon Prime Day are key periods for discounts.
Leverage Refurbished Units: Certified refurbishments offer 20% savings and a full warranty.
Bundle Accessories: Look for deals that include Magic Keyboard, Apple Pencil 2, or SSD adapters.
Check Carrier Financing: Some carriers offer zero‑interest plans that lower upfront costs.

Real‑World Performance Snapshot

In a benchmark run, the 12.9‑inch M2 achieved 3,700 GFLOPS, while the 11‑inch reached 3,650 GFLOPS, a negligible difference for everyday tasks.

Video rendering times for a 60-second 4K clip dropped from 12 minutes on the M1 to 7 minutes on the M2, saving 41% of workflow time.

Gaming benchmarks show average FPS of 120 on both models, proving the 120Hz refresh rate delivers a smooth experience.

Thermal tests reveal no throttling during 2‑hour continuous use, thanks to advanced silicon cooling.

Performance & Battery Life: Which iPad Pro Stands Out?

Processor Speed and Graphics Performance

The 2024 iPad Pro’s M2 chip delivers up to 50% faster CPU and GPU speed versus the M1, boosting photo‑editing workflows by 1.4× and gaming frame rates by 1.2×.

Independent benchmarks from Geekbench 5 show the 12.9‑inch model scoring 22 k on the single‑core CPU, while the 11‑inch scores 21 k. The difference is a 4.5% advantage for the larger display.

For creatives using Procreate or Adobe Fresco, this translates to 2–3 seconds faster brush rendering on complex canvases.

Heavy‑user reviewers note that sustained performance during 4K video rendering remains stable for both sizes, with only a 0.8‑second latency spike at 80% CPU load.

When it comes to multitasking, 8‑core RAM on both models allows seamless app switching, but the 12.9‑inch model’s extra heat‑sink lets it keep peak speeds for up to 20 minutes longer.

Battery Life and Charging Options

Apple advertises 10 hours of continuous video playback for both the 12.9‑inch and 11‑inch models under standard brightness.

Real‑world tests by iFixit found 9.5 hours on the 11‑inch with a 50% battery at 50% screen brightness, matching the design spec.

USB‑C fast charging supplies 18 W; a 30‑minute session restores roughly 50% battery, reducing downtime during on‑the‑go sessions.

Only the 12.9‑inch model supports wireless MagSafe charging, offering up to 8 W of power and a cable‑free experience for users who prefer a clean workstation.

Battery health over time can be preserved by enabling “Optimized Battery Charging” in Settings, which stores 90% of charge until needed.

Thermal Management and Heat Dissipation

Apple’s M2 uses a 7‑nanometer process, cutting heat output by 20% compared to the M1, a claim verified by Cinebench R23 thermal readings.

Both Pro models feature a dedicated vapor‑chamber cooling system, keeping the device under 29 °C during full‑load video rendering.

Users report negligible fan noise; in fact, the M2’s passive cooling allows it to stay silent while editing 4K footage in Photoshop.

Adaptive brightness and night mode reduce power draw during low‑light usage, extending battery life by up to 12% in typical tablet tasks.

For power users aiming to keep the iPad Pro as a primary laptop replacement, these thermal and battery advantages mean fewer interruptions and a more reliable workflow.

Table: 2024 iPad Pro Models – Quick Specs & Pricing

Below is a concise snapshot of the 2024 iPad Pro lineup, highlighting the key specs that influence buying decisions. Use this table as a quick reference before diving into deeper research.

Model	Display	Processor	Storage Options	Price Range
iPad Pro 12.9‑inch (6th Gen)	12.9” Liquid Retina XDR	M2	256GB‑2TB	$1,099‑$1,799
iPad Pro 11‑inch (5th Gen)	11” Liquid Retina	M2	256GB‑2TB	$799‑$1,499

How to Use This Table for Smart Shopping

When deciding between the 12.9‑inch and 11‑inch models, start by asking three core questions:

What screen real‑time work do you need?
How far will you travel with the device?
Do you prefer a bundle that includes accessories?

Answering these will narrow your options quickly and reduce buyer fatigue.

Actionable Pricing Tips for 2024

Apple’s price points are relatively fixed, but timing can unlock savings.

Shop during Back‑to‑School (late July–early August) for up to 10% off.
Leverage Black Friday deals in November for bundled offers.
Use price‑tracking tools like CamelCamelCamel or Honey to monitor dips.

For example, a 1TB 12.9‑inch Pro dropped from $1,299 to $1,199 on a Black Friday sale, saving you $100 instantly.

Storage Upgrade ROI: When to Pay More

Storage upgrades can cost $200–$600 extra depending on capacity.

Creative Professionals: 1TB+ is worth the $400 premium for local editing.
Students: 256GB‑512GB is often sufficient due to cloud storage.
Monitor Apple’s free storage upgrade promotions during holiday sales.

Remember, the M2 chip manages larger drives without throttling, so the performance gap stays minimal.

Accessory Bundles That Boost Value

Apple frequently offers bundled deals that can add up to $300 in savings.

Magic Keyboard + Apple Pencil 2: $350 bundle for the 12.9‑inch Pro.
Smart Keyboard Folio + USB‑C Hub: $150 bundle for the 11‑inch Pro.
Third‑party styluses like Logitech Crayon are $99 and offer a budget alternative.

Adding a keyboard can increase productivity by up to 30%, according to a 2023 IDC study.

Warranty and Refurbished Options

Apple’s standard one‑year warranty covers hardware defects.

Buy AppleCare+ for $199 to add 2‑year coverage and accidental damage protection.
Refurbished units, certified by Apple, come with a full warranty at 10–15% discount.
Check Apple’s refurbished store monthly for new inventory.

Refurbished devices often include the latest OS updates and have the same performance as new units.

Data‑Driven Buying Decision Framework

Combine the table with real‑world metrics for an informed purchase:

CPU benchmarks: 12.9‑inch averages 25% faster GPU scores than the 11‑inch.
Battery life: Both models sustain 10 hours of video, but the 12.9‑inch offers slightly better thermal efficiency.
User reviews: 4.7/5 star rating for the 12.9‑inch Pro on TechRadar.

Use these numbers to align the device’s strengths with your daily workflow.

Final Quick‑Check List Before Checkout

Confirm the display size meets your design or multitasking needs.
Verify the storage capacity against your typical file sizes.
Check for current promotions on Apple’s official site.
Consider adding a keyboard or stylus bundle for added productivity.

By following this structured approach, you can confidently pick the best buy iPad Pro that delivers maximum value for your investment.

Expert Tips for Finding the Best Buy iPad Pro

Shop During Seasonal Sales

Black Friday, Back‑to‑School, and holiday sales frequently drop iPad Pro prices by 10‑25 %. For example, the 12.9‑inch model saw a 20 % markdown in December 2023, pushing the $1,499 price down to $1,199.

Use price‑tracking extensions like Honey or CamelCamelCamel to receive alerts when the lowest price appears on major sites.

Apple’s refurbished program is a goldmine: refurbished 12.9‑inch iPad Pros come with a one‑year warranty and are tested to Apple standards, often saving you 15‑30 % versus new units.

Compare Retailer Pricing

Start at Apple.com, then scan competitors such as Best Buy, B&H, and Amazon for price variations.

Check for bundle deals that include the Magic Keyboard ($199) or Apple Pencil 2 ($129); bundles can add up to 10 % more value compared to buying accessories separately.

Utilize price‑comparison sites like PriceGrabber or Google Shopping to see real‑time discounts across all retailers.

Look for “free shipping” or “free gift” promotions; a $0 shipping fee can shift a $2,000 purchase to under $1,980.

Consider Upgrading Storage Wisely

Upgrading from 256 GB to 512 GB adds roughly $170, while moving to 1 TB can cost an extra $330. For most users, 512 GB is the sweet spot.

If you’re a photo editor or videographer, 1 TB+ is recommended; a 1080 p video file averages 10 MB per minute, so a 30‑minute project needs 300 MB.

Watch for “free storage upgrade” offers during Back‑to‑School sales—some retailers add 256 GB for free with a $1,200 purchase.

Leverage iCloud+ 200‑GB or 2‑TB plans if you prefer cloud storage; this can reduce the need for local storage upgrades by 50 %.

Use Loyalty and Membership Programs

Best Buy’s My Best Buy rewards can earn you points that convert to $1 discount per 125 points, useful for high‑value items like the iPad Pro.

Shop through retailers that offer student or educator discounts—some provide up to 5 % off on the iPad Pro line.

Apple’s “Education Store” often includes free accessories, such as a Smart Keyboard Folio, with qualifying purchases.

Check for Limited‑Edition or Refurbished Models

Apple occasionally releases limited‑edition colors (e.g., “Space Gray” or “Silver”) that come pre‑loaded with accessories, providing extra savings.

Refurbished units often include a 12‑month warranty and a full diagnostics check, giving you peace of mind for under $300 less.

Timing Is Everything

Prices tend to dip right after new model releases—Apple typically drops older models a month after the next generation launches.

Monitor Apple’s press releases; following a new iPad Pro announcement usually signals a price adjustment within 2‑3 weeks.

Use price‑watch alerts on sites like PriceWatch to catch those instant changes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the 11‑inch and 12.9‑inch iPad Pro?

The 12.9‑inch model ships with a Liquid Retina XDR screen that delivers 1 billion colors and 1,200 nits peak brightness. This makes it ideal for HDR video editing and color‑critical design work.

Its larger chassis accommodates a more robust cooling system, so it can sustain peak performance for up to 30 % longer during intensive tasks. The 11‑inch version, meanwhile, balances power with portability, weighing only 1.31 lb.

For travelers, the 11‑inch runs at roughly 15 % lower battery consumption over a full day, thanks to its smaller display.

Do I need a keyboard to use the iPad Pro effectively?

Not strictly. The iPadOS multitasking features let you drag and drop files, edit documents, and browse the web without a physical keyboard.

However, for users who type > 90 words per minute, a keyboard can cut typing time by up to 40 %. The Magic Keyboard adds a backlit scissor‑switch keyboard and a trackpad, turning your tablet into a laptop‑like workstation.

If budget is a concern, the lighter Smart Keyboard Folio offers a 25 % price reduction while still providing full keyboard coverage.

Is the Apple Pencil 2 compatible with the latest iPad Pro?

Yes. The 2nd‑generation Pencil pairs via Bluetooth and charges magnetically to the side of the 12.9‑inch or 11‑inch models.

Its low latency (< 7 ms) and 1,000 levels of pressure sensitivity make it perfect for digital painting and note‑taking.

Third‑party styluses that support Apple Pencil 2 can be found for as little as $30, but they typically lack the 0.8 mm tip precision.

Can I use the iPad Pro as my primary laptop?

When combined with the Magic Keyboard, the iPad Pro launches productivity apps such as Microsoft Office, Adobe Photoshop, and Final Cut Pro.

Its M2 chip runs 3.5–4× faster than the last‑generation M1, delivering a desktop‑class experience for most business tasks.

Travelers often report that the iPad Pro’s 10‑hour battery life and ultra‑lightweight design beat a full‑size laptop in both portability and convenience.

What warranty does Apple offer on the iPad Pro?

Apple includes a one‑year limited warranty covering manufacturing defects and accidental damage (with a $29 service fee). Some online retailers add a 90‑day return window.

AppleCare+ extends coverage to two years, adding accidental damage protection for a flat $199 fee.

Pro users often opt for AppleCare+ because the cost is less than 10 % of the device’s price for high‑storage models.

How do I transfer my data from an old iPad to the new iPad Pro?

Use the iPadOS Quick Start feature: place both devices next to each other, and the new iPad will mirror the old one’s settings.

Alternatively, restore from an iCloud backup made within the last 7 days for a near‑instant migration of apps, photos, and documents.

For large media libraries, consider using a wired transfer via a USB‑C adapter to move files directly to the new iPad’s internal storage.

Are there any discounts for students or teachers?

Apple’s Education Store offers a 10 % discount on eligible devices, including the iPad Pro, for students, teachers, and faculty.

Apple also partners with major retailers to provide “Back‑to‑School” bundles that include an iPad Pro, a case, and an Apple Pencil for an additional $100 off.

Remember to verify your institution’s eligibility by logging into Apple’s education portal before applying a discount.

Can I use the iPad Pro for gaming?

Absolutely. The M2 chip delivers up to 50 % higher GPU performance than the previous generation, supporting 4K gaming at 60 fps.

Titles such as “Cyberpunk 2077” (iPad‑optimized) and “Call of Duty: Mobile” run smoothly on the 12.9‑inch model, thanks to the ProMotion 120 Hz refresh rate.

Gamers also appreciate the 10‑hour battery, allowing for uninterrupted play sessions on the go.

Conclusion: How to Nail the Best Buy iPad Pro for Your Workflow

Choosing the best buy iPad Pro starts with a clear picture of what you’ll use it for. Are you a graphic designer needing HDR color accuracy, a student juggling notes, or a business traveler who needs a lightweight workstation? Pinpointing your priorities will streamline the decision process.

1. Match the Right Size to Your Lifestyle

• 12.9‑inch model – Ideal for full‑screen video editing, immersive presentations, and multitasking with side‑by‑side apps.
• 11‑inch model – Perfect for on‑the‑go use, fitting comfortably in a backpack while still delivering the power of an M2 chip.

Stat: 78% of iPad Pro users say screen size significantly impacts their daily productivity (Source: 2024 iPadOS Survey).

2. Evaluate Storage Needs Before You Buy

• The base 256 GB is usually enough for casual users or those who rely on iCloud.
• Professionals who shoot 4K video or manage large design files benefit from 1 TB or higher.

Tip: If you think storage might be an issue, add 512 GB at checkout for roughly $200 extra—often cheaper than buying a higher tier outright.

3. Time Your Purchase for Maximum Savings

Black Friday & Cyber Monday – Historically, iPad Pros drop 10‑15% from MSRP during these events.
Back‑to‑School – Apple and major retailers offer up to $100 off for students and teachers.
Refurbished Apple Store – Certified units come with a 1‑year warranty and can save up to 25%.

Use price‑tracking tools like CamelCamelCamel or Honey to receive alerts when the price hits your target.

4. Bundle for Full Value

Apple’s typical bundle includes an iPad Pro, Magic Keyboard, and Apple Pencil 2 for a combined discount of up to $200.
Retailers like Best Buy often add a free USB‑C hub with a Pro bundle.

When you buy accessories together, you’ll save more than you think—especially when the keyboard’s backlit keys boost typing speed by 20% in low light.

5. Read Trusted Reviews Before Finalizing

Top review sites such as TechRadar, CNET, and The Verge regularly publish side‑by‑side performance benchmarks.
Check the latest M2 performance test results—most experts agree the 12.9‑inch model tops the charts in sustained GPU throughput.

Remember: a well‑researched purchase reduces the risk of regretting a costly upgrade.

6. Protect Your Investment with AppleCare+

AppleCare+ extends coverage to two years and includes accidental damage protection for just $99 per year.
For frequent travelers or students prone to spills, this can save you up to $300 over the life of the device.

Statistics show that 65% of iPad users who purchase AppleCare+ avoid costly repairs during the first year.

Final Action Steps

Clarify your main use case (design, note‑taking, gaming).
Decide between 11‑inch and 12.9‑inch based on mobility vs. display.
Choose storage wisely—don’t overpay for space you won’t use.
Set a budget and add a price‑tracking alert.
Look for bundle deals and AppleCare+ offers.
Read current performance reviews to confirm the model meets your needs.
Purchase from a reputable retailer or the Apple Store for warranty benefits.
By following these steps, you’ll secure the best buy iPad Pro that delivers lasting value and high performance for all your tasks.