So you’re eyeing a new iPad—maybe the sleek iPad Air, the powerhouse iPad Pro, or even the ultra-portable Apple iPad Mini. But let’s be real: dropping hundreds of dollars all at once can seriously set your finances back. The good news? You don’t have to.
With Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) options, you can spread your monthly payments over time, snagging the tech you want without the stress of a big down payment. Whether you’re shopping in-store or planning to buy online, this guide will walk you through how BNPL works and what to watch out for.
Key Takeaways
- Split the Cost: Buy Now, Pay Later lets you break up your iPad purchase into smaller payments, usually in monthly or biweekly installments.
- Low or No Credit OK: Some providers only do a soft credit check, so you may still qualify even without strong credit.
- Multiple Payment Options: Whether you buy online, in store, or through a carrier, you’ve got flexible ways to finance.
- Down Payment May Apply: Many plans require a small upfront payment before the monthly installments kick in.
- Read the Fine Print: Not all plans are interest-free, and some require good standing or a new line for approval.
What Is Buy Now, Pay Later?
Buy Now, Pay Later is a payment option that lets you take home your eligible device—like an iPad—and split the total cost into monthly installments. It’s a great fit if you want flexible payments without racking up credit card debt.
Here’s the basic idea:
- Make a small down payment at checkout
- Pay the rest in scheduled chunks (biweekly or monthly)
- Choose your payment type (debit card, bank account, etc.)
- Get quick credit approval—sometimes without a hard credit check
Some retailers or financing partners may require you to be a customer in good standing or add a new line for cellular-enabled models, especially with carriers.
Where to Get New iPads with BNPL Options
Not every store handles BNPL the same way. Here are a few ways to get an iPad without paying all at once:
Apple’s Installment Plans
Apple lets you finance directly through Apple Card Monthly Installments or via carrier deals. Here’s what you can expect:
- Spread the cost of your new iPad over 12 or 24 months
- No interest with Apple Card if paid on time
- Must qualify through credit approval
- Works both in-store and when you buy online
Some offers are limited-time, especially around new product launches or the back-to-school season.
Carrier Deals (AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile)
If you’re getting an iPad with cellular service, adding a new line can unlock zero-interest financing. These usually require:
- Monthly payments through your phone bill
- A commitment (often 24–36 months)
- Credit approval and account in good standing
Not all devices are eligible, so double-check that your iPad Air or iPad Pro qualifies as an eligible device.
BNPL Apps (Sezzle, Klarna, Affirm, PayPal Pay Later)
Big retailers like Best Buy, Walmart, and Target offer BNPL options like:
- Sezzle – 4 interest-free payments over 6 weeks, soft credit check, no interest if paid on time
- Klarna – Offers 4 interest-free payments or longer-term financing (usually involves soft credit check)
- Affirm – Transparent monthly installment plans, with interest rates based on credit approval
- PayPal Pay Later – Quick checkout, great for people already using PayPal
You can use these apps whether you’re buying an iPad or another device, like an iPhone or Samsung Galaxy Tab.
Speaking of iPhones – see your BNPL options for iPhones here.
What You’ll Need to Apply
Getting approved is usually pretty easy. Most BNPL providers ask for:
- Your name, address, and phone number
- A payment type like a debit card or a linked bank account
- Consent to a soft credit approval process
- Sometimes, proof of good standing with a carrier or bank
Loans or financing offers may be arranged pursuant to agreements with lending partners that are Member FDIC—this just means the loan is backed by a real bank.
Pros of Buying an Apple iPad with BNPL
I’ve used BNPL myself, and when you do it right, it’s honestly a game-changer. Here’s what I love:
- No giant down payment – You can walk out with an iPad for just a fraction of the total cost
- Flexible payments – You pick your monthly payment schedule to match your budget
- No credit card needed – Many BNPL plans only need a debit card
- Buy online or in store – Works for both shopping styles
Things to Watch Out For
BNPL isn’t free money, and it does come with fine print. Keep this stuff in mind:
- Late fees – Miss a payment, and you could get hit with a fee
- Not everyone qualifies – Some plans require credit approval
- Interest charges – Some monthly plans charge interest unless you qualify for 0% offers
- Impulse spending – Just because you can split it up doesn’t mean you should overbuy
If you’re already tight on cash, make sure the monthly installment fits your budget before clicking “Buy.”
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been holding off on getting that iPad Pro, iPad Mini, or iPad Air because of the upfront cost, Buy Now, Pay Later could be the perfect solution. Just choose the payment option that fits your budget, make sure you’re approved, and always read the fine print. That way, you can get your new device now—and pay for it without the stress.
FAQs
Yes, you can finance an iPad through Apple, your mobile carrier, or Buy Now, Pay Later services like Affirm or Klarna. Payment plans vary in length and may include interest.
Some BNPL services like Klarna and PayPal Pay Later only do a soft credit check or none at all. These can be good options if you’re new to credit.
Look for services that don’t require a hard credit check or work with people with lower scores. Affirm may still approve you depending on the amount and payment plan.
You can buy an iPad via buy now, pay later through the Sezzle app (read my review here). You can pay in 4 installments across 6 weeks.
There’s no universal answer, but many BNPL services approve users with fair to good credit (typically 580+). For Apple’s own financing, stronger credit may be required.
