The cost of buying an iPad stacks up real quick. Over $1,000 is a lot of money to fork out all at once for a device, even one that you’ll use everyday. Luckily most major telcos offer iPads on a plan, making that investment more palatable by breaking it down into smaller monthly payments. But picking the best one isn’t always easy.
When you’re in the market for an iPad even picking between the model types can be complicated. Add in plan prices, and data limits, and there are just too many levels to work through. Below we have done the hard work for you and compiled the cheapest, and the most popular plans for the latest iPad models.
Best iPad plans
Can you believe that we’re up to the 8th generation iPad? They grow up so fast. The latest device comes with two storage options - 32GB or 128GB - and naturally opting for the smaller will save you some cash. Regardless of which storage option you pick, the iPad comes with WiFi and 4G so you can slide a data SIM in and stay connected wherever you go.
Every major telco in Australia is offering the 8th generation iPad on a plan, and they are all structured in the same way. You’ll pay the total RRP of the device in equal monthly instalments over either 24, or 36-months. iPad plans come bundled with a data SIM on your chosen network, and these days every major telco offers unlimited capped speed data after you use your monthly allowance so you won’t have to worry about hidden fees or bill shock.
Best iPad Air plans
Right now the 4th generation iPad Air is available through Telstra, Vodafone and Optus. Just like the OG iPad, iPad Air plans split up the cost of your device into 24 or 36 monthly repayments. Along with this you’ll get your monthly data to play with, but of course you can always just jump on WiFi and squirrel away those GB.
The iPad Air is a step up from the regular ole iPad; it features a newer chipset, larger display, higher storage limits, and a better camera. It also comes in pretty colours, and you can get a WiFi only version but telcos stick with the 4G enabled variants so that you can experience their networks.
Best iPad Pro plans
When only all of the bells, and all of the whistles will sound right to you then go with the iPad Pro. The 5th generation is the newest iteration of the Pro series, and how it got its namesake is clear.
These iPad Pros come with either an 11-inch or 12.9-inch display, the latest and fastest M1 chipset, up to 2TB of storage, a dual rear camera and 5G integration. While 5G networks in Australia are still in their infancy, iPads tend to have a longer shelf life than phones for example, so it’s worth being future ready. You probably won’t want to be sitting on 4G in three years time.
Telcos are yet to start selling the 5th generation iPad Pro, but you can still pick up the 4th gen from major retailers while stocks last. While it doesn’t have 5G, or the super fast M1 processor it is still among the best iPad available right now,
Best iPad mini plans
If you’re looking for something mini, but mighty than the iPad mini is a great option. Although it looks smaller, it is definitely bigger on the inside boasting storage options of 64GB or 256GB. It’s front facing camera is 7MP which is on par with the iPad Air.
While the iPad mini is a viable option for a lot of people, it is unfortunately entirely out of stock with Australian telcos right now. There are rumours of a new iPad mini coming this year, so it is very possible that the providers are holding out for that. Time will tell.
Our Editor's Picks awards are selected by our team of data experts. We may earn a commission if you click on one of the products listed, but a service provider isn't required to have a commercial relationship with us to be eligible for consideration. See here for more information about how we work.
Find a better tablet plan
Thousands of tablet plans unpacked. All the facts. No surprises.
