Before you take advantage of Apple's new 36-month financing on cellular iPads, you should check to see if there are better deals first, since there are no discounts through Apple's programs.
The new 36-month option appears at checkout when someone buys a Wi-Fi + Cellular iPad from Apple, alongside paying in full or using Apple Card Monthly Installments. It's available for the iPad, iPad mini, iPad Air and iPad Pro, subject to carrier approval.
Apple's own interest-free financing still runs for 12 months through Apple Card. Apple Card Monthly Installments includes 3% Daily Cash up front and isn't tied to a carrier installment plan.
The 36-month option lowers the monthly payment, not the price. It spreads the same total over three years instead of one.
For a $1,399 cellular 11-inch iPad Pro with M5, that works out to about $116.58 per month for 12 months through Apple Card.
The same iPad is about $39 per month over 36 months through AT&T or Verizon, before cellular service.
Customers who choose carrier financing must activate the iPad with AT&T or Verizon and pay separately for a data plan. The plan adds to the real monthly cost even though it isn't included in the device payment.
The iPad stays unlocked after activation, and Apple says the AT&T and Verizon models use the same hardware. Customers can switch to another compatible carrier, but changing service doesn't erase the unpaid device balance.
AT&T and Verizon already offer 36-month, 0% APR tablet financing through their own stores. As of July 15, Verizon listed the iPad with A16 at $16.66 per month and the 11-inch iPad Pro with M5 at $38.88 per month over 36 months.
Qualified AT&T customers can get similar 36-month installment plans. Some iPads also come with monthly bill credits that lower the effective device price, though the discount depends on the model, storage, service plan and promotion.
Buying from a carrier can cost less when one of those promotions applies. The savings usually arrive as bill credits spread across the full 36-month payment term instead of an immediate price cut.
AT&T and Verizon promotions may require a new line or continued eligible service. Customers who cancel service early or lose eligibility can forfeit the remaining bill credits and still owe the unpaid device balance.
Apple's option will probably appeal most to buyers who already plan to activate an iPad with AT&T or Verizon and would rather buy directly from Apple. The company also includes complimentary Personal Setup for direct purchases.
A lower device payment doesn't necessarily make carrier financing the cheaper option.
Buyers should compare the full three-year cost, including data service, activation fees, promotional credits and cancellation terms. A Wi-Fi iPad used with an iPhone hotspot may cost less overall, depending on the phone plan's limits and performance.
Apple's 36-month financing lowers the monthly device payment, but it doesn't reduce the price. Buyers who can handle a larger payment may save more by purchasing a discounted iPad from another retailer.
Amazon is offering up to $200 off select Wi-Fi and cellular iPads. Approved Amazon Visa cardholders can also get 12-month, 0% promotional financing on eligible purchases.
The shorter term means a higher monthly payment than Apple's 36-month option.
B&H shoppers in qualifying states can use the Payboo Card for an instant discount equal to the sales tax on an eligible purchase. The savings can approach 10% in areas with higher tax rates, but cardholders must choose between the discount and special financing.
Prices and financing offers are subject to change, require approval and may carry additional terms.
