Thinking about pulling the trigger on a new iPad Pro? To really get the best bang for your buck, you should generally hold off on buying an iPad Pro right now, in September 2025, unless you find an absolutely incredible deal on the current M4 model. Here’s why: Apple is widely expected to release a new M5 iPad Pro model around October or November 2025. If you can wait just a little longer, you’ll either get the absolute latest and greatest, or you’ll see some sweet discounts on the still-amazing M4 models.
The current M4 iPad Pro, which dropped in May 2024, is already a fantastic piece of tech. It features a stunning tandem OLED display, the powerful M4 chip, and an incredibly thin and light design that really stands out. But with new models on the horizon, if you were to buy it today at full price, you might feel a bit of buyer’s remorse when the M5 version arrives. This guide will walk you through Apple’s release cycles, what to expect from the rumored M5, and the best times to score a deal, whether you’re eyeing the newest model or a slightly older, discounted powerhouse. We’ll also touch on essential accessories like the Apple Pencil Pro and Magic Keyboard that truly unlock the iPad Pro’s potential.
Understanding Apple’s Release Cycle: The Rhythm of the Refresh
Apple, like clockwork, refreshes its products, and the iPad Pro is no exception. Typically, we see a new iPad Pro every 1.5 to 2 years. Looking back, the M1 iPad Pro arrived in May 2021, followed by the M2 in October 2022, and most recently, the M4 in May 2024. This pattern gives us a pretty good idea of what to expect.
When a new generation of iPad Pro hits the shelves, a couple of things usually happen. First, the shiny new model often comes with the latest chip and sometimes a few design tweaks or new features. Second, retailers and sometimes even Apple itself, will start to clear out inventory of the previous generation. This is where you can find some of the best deals, especially if you don’t always need the absolute newest tech. It’s all about timing it right – buying too early means you might miss out on those savings or the latest features, and buying too late means you might be paying full price for something that’s about to be superseded.
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The M5 iPad Pro: What We Expect Late 2025
Alright, let’s talk about the next big thing! All signs point to an M5 iPad Pro launching sometime in October or November of 2025. So, what kind of upgrades are we talking about?
The Chip: More Power, More Efficiency
The biggest headline for any new Apple device is usually the chip, and the M5 is expected to bring modest but noticeable improvements. We’re looking at a chip built on an updated manufacturing process, which means better performance and increased power efficiency. Rumors suggest the M5 could be around 25-30% faster in CPU performance and might pack 12 GPU cores, up from 10 in the M4. For most everyday tasks, the M4 is already ridiculously fast – honestly, it’s overkill for many users. But if you’re into intense video editing, complex 3D rendering, or cutting-edge AI workloads, that extra horsepower from the M5 could make a real difference.
Design: Still Sleek and Stunning
Good news if you love the current design: don’t expect a major overhaul with the M5. The M4 iPad Pro, released in May 2024, already brought a significant redesign, making it the thinnest and lightest Apple product ever. It’s truly a marvel to hold. So, it’s pretty unlikely Apple will change things up dramatically just a year later. You can still expect that gorgeous, edge-to-edge Ultra Retina XDR OLED display, which delivers incredible contrast with deep blacks and vibrant colors. When to Buy Your JR Pass: The Ultimate Timing Guide
Key New Features Rumored
While the core design might stay the same, there are some exciting rumored features that could make the M5 stand out:
- Dual Front-Facing Cameras: This is a pretty big one! Imagine an iPad Pro with two front cameras – one perfectly positioned for video calls and another for portrait mode. No more looking off to the side during your video chats! This would be a must for anyone who uses their iPad Pro for FaceTime, online meetings, or streaming.
- Potential Reverse Wireless Charging with MagSafe: We’ve been hearing rumors about this for years, and it might finally be the time. Imagine being able to charge your AirPods Pro or even your iPhone by simply placing them on the back of your iPad Pro. That would be seriously convenient for on-the-go charging.
- Increased RAM: There’s speculation that the base model of the M5 iPad Pro could come with more RAM, possibly 16GB. While more RAM is always nice, it’s worth noting that for most iPad tasks, the current RAM configurations are already very capable. It would primarily benefit those pushing the limits with extremely demanding professional apps.
Pricing Expectations
While we don’t have official confirmation, it’s generally expected that the M5 iPad Pro will launch at similar price points to the current M4 models. This means an 11-inch OLED iPad Pro would likely start around $999, and the 13-inch OLED iPad Pro around $1,299. Accessories like the Apple Pencil Pro $129 and the Magic Keyboard $299 for 11-inch, $349 for 13-inch would be additional purchases.
Should You Buy the M4 iPad Pro Now September 2025?
This is the big question, right? With a new model just around the corner, here’s how to think about buying the M4 iPad Pro in September 2025.
Reasons to Wait
- Imminent M5 Release: As we’ve discussed, the M5 iPad Pro is likely weeks away. If you want the absolute latest performance, potential camera improvements the dual front-facing cameras sound pretty cool!, or reverse wireless charging, waiting is your best bet.
- Future-Proofing: While iPads get long software support, buying the newest model ensures you’re at the forefront of Apple’s ecosystem for longer.
- Potential for M4 Discounts: Once the M5 is announced, retailers will often start discounting the M4 models to clear stock. This is a classic move, and patience could save you some serious cash.
Reasons to Buy with caution!
- You Need It Now: If your current tablet just gave up the ghost, or you have an urgent project that demands an iPad Pro’s power immediately, then you might not have the luxury of waiting.
- Incredible Deals: This is the only major reason to consider buying the M4 right now. If you stumble upon a substantial discount that makes the price difference too good to pass up – like hundreds of dollars off a new unit or a fantastic price on a Certified Refurbished iPad Pro – then it could be worth it. The M4 is still an incredibly capable device, and for most people, its power is already more than enough. It boasts that amazing OLED display and powerful M4 chip.
- M4 is Already Overkill: Let’s be real, the M4 chip is a beast. For many users, even professionals, it handles demanding tasks with ease. Unless your workflow involves extremely specialized or bleeding-edge applications, the performance jump from M4 to M5 might not be dramatically noticeable in daily use.
Ultimately, for most people, waiting a month or two for the M5 release is the smarter move. You either get the latest tech or a better deal on the M4.
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The “Sweet Spot” for Deals: Timing Your Purchase
If you’re like me, you love a good deal! Thankfully, Apple products, including the iPad Pro, do go on sale. Knowing when to look can save you a significant amount.
Immediately After New Model Releases
This is arguably one of the best times to snag a deal on the previous generation. When the M5 iPad Pro is officially announced, retailers will often drop prices on the M4 models to clear their inventory. Keep a close eye on major electronics retailers and even Apple’s own refurbished store right after an announcement. You could find a current-generation model for significantly less.
Seasonal Sales Events
These are the tried-and-true periods for discounts on all sorts of electronics, including iPads:
- Black Friday / Cyber Monday Late November: This is a huge one for tech deals. You can expect to see discounts on current and older iPad Pro models, often from retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and others. Sometimes, instead of a direct price drop, you might get a gift card with your purchase, which is still a great way to save on future Apple accessories.
- New Year’s Sales January: After the busy holiday shopping season, retailers often try to offload leftover inventory. This can be a good time to find deals, especially on older models that didn’t sell out during the holiday rush.
- Back-to-School Promotions August: While this period for 2025 has just passed, it’s worth keeping in mind for next year. Apple and other retailers frequently offer special deals for students, which can include student discounts, free gift cards, or bundles with accessories like Apple AirPods. If you or someone you know is a student, always check out these promotions, often available through Apple’s Education Store.
- Amazon Prime Day July: This massive sale event, typically in July, is another prime opportunity for discounted tablets. While it’s passed for this year, mark your calendar for next summer if you’re not in a hurry.
Refurbished Market
Don’t shy away from refurbished! Apple Certified Refurbished products are practically new, come with a full one-year warranty, and are often significantly cheaper. Third-party retailers also offer refurbished options, but always ensure they are reputable and offer a good warranty. This can be a smart way to get a high-end device like the iPad Pro without paying the premium price for a brand-new unit.
Assessing Your Needs: Do You Even Need a Pro?
Before you even think about when to buy, it’s crucial to consider if you truly need an iPad Pro. These are powerful, premium devices, and for many users, an iPad Air or even the base iPad might be a better fit and a more budget-friendly option.
What’s Your Use Case?
- Creative Professionals: If you’re a digital artist, video editor, graphic designer, or podcastian, the iPad Pro’s power, stunning ProMotion OLED display, and compatibility with the Apple Pencil Pro are designed for you. Apps like Procreate, LumaFusion, and Affinity Photo truly shine on the Pro.
- Heavy Multitaskers & Power Users: If you often run multiple demanding apps simultaneously, use Stage Manager extensively, or connect to external displays for a more desktop-like experience, the M-series chip in the Pro will keep things smooth.
- Casual User / Student / Media Consumption: For web browsing, email, streaming videos, light note-taking, or casual gaming, the iPad Air with an M3 chip or even the base iPad 10th Gen offers fantastic performance and experience for a lower price. The Air, in particular, is a great middle-ground with a powerful M-series chip and broader accessory support.
The “Overkill” Factor
Let’s be honest, the M4 chip in the current iPad Pro is incredibly powerful – so powerful that for many users, it’s actually overkill. You might not even tap into its full potential. If your needs don’t involve the most demanding professional workflows, you could save a lot of money by opting for an iPad Air or an older generation iPad Pro, and you’d still get a fantastic experience. For example, the M2 iPad Pro from 2022 is still a powerhouse in 2025 and offers great value, especially if you find it refurbished.
Accessories Matter
The iPad Pro experience is often completed by its accessories. Make sure you budget for them, as they can significantly add to the total cost. When to Buy Ethereum: Smart Strategies for Savvy Investors
- Apple Pencil Pro: Essential for artists and note-takers, offering advanced features like barrel roll, squeeze, and haptic feedback.
- Magic Keyboard: Transforms your iPad Pro into a laptop-like device with a great typing experience and trackpad. The redesigned version for the M4 models also includes a function row.
- Smart Folio: A lighter, more basic cover that offers protection and viewing angles without the keyboard.
Consider what you’ll realistically use. If you only need occasional typing, a Bluetooth keyboard and a cheaper case might suffice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it a good time to buy an iPad Pro right now September 2025?
Generally, no, it’s not the best time to buy an iPad Pro in September 2025. Apple is widely expected to release a new M5 iPad Pro model around October or November. Waiting a few weeks will allow you to either purchase the very latest model or find significant discounts on the current M4 iPad Pro as retailers clear stock.
When did the latest iPad Pro M4 come out?
The current generation M4 iPad Pro models were released in May 2024. They introduced the M4 chip, a stunning Ultra Retina XDR OLED display, and an incredibly thin and light design.
What new features are expected in the M5 iPad Pro?
The M5 iPad Pro, rumored for late 2025, is expected to feature a more powerful and efficient M5 chip, though not a major design overhaul as the M4 models were recently redesigned. Key rumored features include a new dual front-facing camera system one for , one for portrait orientation for improved video calls and potentially reverse wireless charging with MagSafe.
How long do iPad Pros usually get software updates?
Apple is known for providing excellent long-term software support for its devices. Historically, iPads receive major iPadOS updates for five to seven years, sometimes even longer. For example, even older iPad Pro models from 2018 or 2020 are still fully supported with the latest iPadOS versions. This means an M4 or M5 iPad Pro purchased today will be future-proofed for many years to come. When to Buy Dahlia Tubers for a Stunning Bloom Season
Is the iPad Pro M4 still good in late 2025?
Absolutely! The iPad Pro M4 is an exceptionally powerful device and will remain fantastic throughout late 2025 and beyond. Its M4 chip is already overkill for many professional tasks, and its Ultra Retina XDR OLED display is cutting-edge. If you find a good deal on an M4 model after the M5 is released, it’s still a highly recommended purchase, offering premium performance and features that will last for years.
What are the best alternatives to the iPad Pro if I don’t need all that power?
If the iPad Pro’s immense power or price tag isn’t quite right for your needs, great alternatives include:
- iPad Air M3: A fantastic middle-ground, offering a powerful M3 chip, a Liquid Retina display, and compatibility with the Apple Pencil Pro and Magic Keyboard. It’s more than capable for most users, including many creative tasks.
- Base iPad 10th Gen: Perfect for casual use, media consumption, light productivity, and students on a budget. It’s affordable, supports the Apple Pencil USB-C, and offers a great all-around tablet experience.
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