The hidden truth about iPad prices
Buying a new iPad. It seems simple. You walk into the store, choose a model, and pay. But then you see the prices. €399 for a Mini. €879 for a Pro. And that's without accessories. You wonder: which model do I really need? How much storage is enough? However, here's what almost no one tells you: the new price is a trap . While everyone else rushes to the Apple Store, savvy buyers are saving hundreds of euros with refurbished iPads that are technically identical. In fact, the true cost of an iPad doesn't depend on the price tag, but on how smartly you buy. In this article, you'll discover exactly which model suits your needs—and how you can save up to 40% without compromise.
Useful links
- iPad Mini refurbished collection - compact and affordable
- iPad Pro refurbished collection - maximum performance
- All refurbished iPads - complete overview
Understanding the Real Cost of an iPad
iPad prices vary enormously, from €399 for an entry-level model to as much as €2,000 for a fully equipped Pro version. But the price tag doesn't tell the whole story. The actual cost depends on three factors: the model you choose, the storage capacity, and, most importantly, where you buy the device.
New models always come at a premium. A standard iPad (10th generation) starts at €389 for 64GB of storage. Want 256GB? Add €170. Want cellular connectivity? Another €170 extra. Before you know it, you'll be spending €729 on what's essentially the base model.
Model comparison: which one suits your needs?
iPad Mini (from €399 new)
The smallest family member, with an 8.3-inch screen, is perfect for on the go. This model fits in almost any bag and is ideal for reading, taking notes, and media consumption. Its compact size makes it less suitable for intensive work like graphic design or video editing.
Standard iPad (from €389 new)
The standard version, with its 10.9-inch display, offers a good balance between portability and usability. For students, families, and casual users, this is often the best choice. It supports the first-generation Apple Pencil, making it suitable for basic drawing and note-taking.
iPad Air (from €669 new)
The Air series sits between the standard and Pro models. With the M1 chip, this device delivers serious performance for creative work, multitasking, and even light video editing. The 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display offers outstanding color for photographers and designers.
iPad Pro (from €879 new)
The top-of-the-line model comes in two sizes: 11-inch and 12.9-inch. With the M2 chip, ProMotion display (120Hz), and support for the latest Apple Pencil, it's a laptop replacement for professionals. The price can reach over €2,000 for a fully equipped model.
Storage Capacity: How Much Do You Need?
The storage you choose significantly impacts the price. Each additional step costs around €120-170. For most users, 128GB is sufficient:
- 64GB : only suitable for basic internet use and streaming
- 128GB : ideal for average use with apps, photos and some movies
- 256GB : Needed for creative work, large app collections, or offline media
- 512GB and higher : especially relevant for professionals with large project files
Refurbished: the smart choice
A refurbished iPad offers the same functionality as a new one, but for 20-40% less. These devices have been professionally inspected, repaired where necessary, and often come with a warranty. For example, a refurbished iPad Air from 2022 costs €450-500, while the new model costs €669.
The benefits of refurbished:
- Instant savings of hundreds of euros
- Fully functional and tested
- Often still warranty available
- More sustainable through reuse
- No difference in performance with new
Where can you buy it most cheaply?
Apple Stores and authorized dealers have fixed prices. Discounts are rare, except during Black Friday or on older models. Online retailers sometimes offer small discounts of 5-10%, but be sure to check the seller's reliability.
Refurbished suppliers like Leapp offer the best value for money. These specialists thoroughly inspect each device and offer a warranty. The price difference can be up to €300 for Pro models.
Hidden costs to consider
The purchase price often includes additional expenses:
- Apple Pencil: €95-149
- Keyboard: €179-399
- Protective cover: €50-150
- AppleCare+: €7.99 per month
- Adapters and dongles: €25-75 each
These accessories can double your total investment. An iPad Pro with Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil easily costs €1,500.
Practical selection aid
For students , the standard iPad with Apple Pencil (total cost around €500 new, €350 refurbished) is usually sufficient. The combination offers everything for notes, research, and presentations.
Creative professionals benefit from an Air or Pro model. The €700-1,200 investment pays for itself through time savings and improved workflow.
Families are best off choosing a refurbished standard model or Mini. For €250-400, you can get a reliable device for entertainment, homework, and video calling.
Business users benefit from the Pro series with a keyboard. As a laptop replacement, it justifies the €1,200-1,800 investment.
Conclusion: choosing wisely saves hundreds of euros
The question "how much does an iPad cost?" doesn't have a simple answer. Prices range from €250 for a refurbished Mini to €2,000 for a new Pro with all the bells and whistles. The key is matching your needs with the right model.
Always consider refurbished options. The price difference is substantial, while the user experience remains identical. With the money saved, you can invest in useful accessories or simply save money.
Consider your storage capacity carefully. Cloud storage and streaming make large internal storage options less necessary. Most users manage with 128GB, which makes a significant difference in price.
Finally, timing is everything. New models usually appear in September and October. Older generations are then discounted, and refurbished inventory increases. This is the ideal time to strike.
Choosing smart means saving smart
An iPad doesn't have to break the bank if you choose wisely. Whether you buy a refurbished standard model for €350 or invest in a Pro version for professional work, you'll find the best deal by matching your actual needs with the right device. Forget the sales pitch about the latest features. Focus on what you actually use , choose sufficient but not excessive storage, and save up to 40% with a refurbished device. This way, you get exactly the iPad you need, without breaking the bank.
