Walk into an Apple Store today and the vibe is different. It’s sleek, it's quiet, and it's expensive. If you’re standing there wondering exactly how much for new ipad pro models in 2026, you aren’t just looking at a tablet price tag. You’re looking at a complex matrix of storage tiers, display glass options, and accessories that can easily double your initial "starting at" budget.
The short answer? You’re looking at a baseline of $999 for the 11-inch and $1,299 for the 13-inch. But honestly, almost nobody walks out paying just that.
Apple’s latest M5-powered iPad Pro is a beast. It’s thinner than ever—literally the thinnest product Apple has ever made—but that engineering comes at a steep premium. Let's break down the actual costs you’ll face at the checkout counter.
The Raw Numbers: how much for new ipad pro right now?
Apple hasn't shifted the goalposts much on the base prices, but the ceiling has definitely moved. The M5 chip, which debuted recently, solidified the Pro as a high-end workstation rather than a casual couch device.
Here is the current MSRP landscape for the Wi-Fi models:
11-inch iPad Pro (M5):
- 256GB: $999
- 512GB: $1,199
- 1TB: $1,599
- 2TB: $1,999
13-inch iPad Pro (M5):
- 256GB: $1,299
- 512GB: $1,499
- 1TB: $1,899
- 2TB: $2,299
See the pattern? Every time you double the storage, your wallet takes a $200 to $400 hit. And if you want to stay connected away from home, the "Cellular" tax is an additional $200 across the board. If you're spec-hunting for the absolute top-of-the-line 13-inch model with 2TB of storage and 5G, you are staring down a $2,499 bill before you even mention a keyboard or pencil.
The Nano-Texture Trap
There’s a specific detail most people miss until they are clicking "Add to Bag." Apple offers a Nano-texture glass option. It’s incredible for reducing glare if you work under harsh studio lights or outdoors. However, you can't just buy it for $100. Apple restricts this glass to the 1TB and 2TB models only. This means if you want that matte finish, you are forced to spend at least $1,699 on the 11-inch or $1,999 on the 13-inch just to gain the privilege of paying an extra $100 for the glass itself. It’s a classic Apple up-sell.
Why the M5 Chip Changed the Value Proposition
When we talk about how much for new ipad pro setups, we have to talk about what you're actually getting for that grand. The M5 chip isn't just a minor speed bump. According to recent benchmarks and reviews from outlets like MacRumors and CNET, the M5 focuses heavily on AI processing and thermal efficiency.
It’s fast. Stupid fast.
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But here’s the kicker: iPadOS 26, while much improved with better multitasking, still doesn't fully "unleash" this hardware. You're paying for a Ferrari engine to drive in a 35-mph zone. Unless you are editing 8K ProRes video or working in high-end 3D design apps like Octane X, the M4 model—which is now frequently discounted—might actually be the smarter financial move.
The "Hidden" Costs: Accessories
The iPad Pro is half a computer without the extras. If you want the full experience, your budget needs to account for:
- Apple Pencil Pro: $129. Necessary for artists, though the $79 USB-C version works if you don't care about pressure sensitivity.
- Magic Keyboard: $299 (11-inch) or $349 (13-inch). This is the aluminum-decked version that makes the iPad feel like a MacBook.
If you buy a 13-inch Pro with a Keyboard and Pencil, you’ve spent nearly $1,800. That’s more than a 14-inch MacBook Pro. You’ve got to really love the touch interface to justify that.
Finding a Better Deal
Don't buy from the Apple Store if you want to save money. Seriously.
As of early 2026, retailers like Amazon and Best Buy are consistently slashing $50 to $100 off the base prices. We’ve seen the 11-inch M5 hit $949 frequently. Even better, the "old" M4 models are seeing clearance prices. You can often find a 256GB M4 iPad Pro for around $799 or $849. To 95% of users, the difference between an M4 and M5 is imperceptible in daily use.
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If you are a student, the Education Store is your best friend. Apple usually keeps the 11-inch at $899 and the 13-inch at $1,199 for students and teachers. Sometimes they throw in a gift card during the "Back to School" season, which effectively lowers the cost further.
Final Verdict on Pricing
Pricing is a moving target. While the sticker says $999, the reality is often closer to $1,400 once you add a case, a screen protector, and some basic storage upgrades.
If you’re on a budget, look at the iPad Air. It now uses the M3 chip and starts significantly lower. But if you need that Tandem OLED display—which is, frankly, the best screen on any portable device right now—the Pro is the only way to go.
Next Steps for You:
Check the current inventory on Amazon or B&H Photo rather than the Apple Store first. Look specifically for "Open-Box" deals at Best Buy; since many people buy the Pro and realize it's "too much tablet" for them, they return it within 14 days, allowing you to snag an M5 model for nearly 20% off the retail price. If you decide to go for the 1TB model for the extra RAM and Nano-texture glass, ensure your workflow actually requires 16GB of RAM, or you're just paying for bragging rights.