Free AirPods With iPad Purchase: What You Need To Know

Consumers planning on picking up a new iPad from Apple soon can also net themselves a free pair of AirPods, although the free earbuds are only available to those buying through Apple’s education program. Still, if eligible, and in the market for a new tablet anyway, this is a good way to secure a free set of true wireless earbuds that are designed to work seamlessly with an iPad.

Apple’s AirPods continue to be a big seller for the company and a major player within the true wireless earbuds market in general. Apple currently offers two different sets of earbuds, with the option of buying either the standard or Pro models. While the two do share a lot of common features, the Pro earbuds come with some additional premium perks. For those in the market for an even richer listening experience, Apple also sells the newer AirPods Max over-ear headphones.

As is the case each year, Apple offers a back to school promotion, which includes a free set of AirPods for buyers of an iPad. Technically, the same deal is also available for anyone picking up a MacBook as well, although an iPad purchase is likely to be the cheapest option overall, depending on the model and any customizations. Provided the buyer goes through the education section of Apple’s web store, they’ll see the discounted iPad price when choosing the size and storage options. Following which, they’ll be able to select their free AirPods before checking out.

Free AirPods Deal Explained

The first thing to note, the free deal only applies to the standard second-generation AirPods. Apple does offer the option to upgrade, but doing so adds to the price. For example, if opting for the standard AirPods with a wireless charging case, the price is $40, down from $199. Likewise, if opting for the AirPods Pro, the buyer can expect to pay $90 for the AirPods, instead of the usual $249. Therefore, those buying an iPad through the education program can either get the $159 AirPods for free or a discounted set of AirPods Pro.

Officially, Apple lists the free AirPods promotion as applicable to eligible Mac and iPad devices with the company actively advertising the freebie for those who purchase either an iPad Air or an iPad Pro. Of the two, the iPad Air is the cheaper option priced at $599 in the U.S. and that price is reduced down even further with the student discount applied, to $549. Alternatively, the iPad Pro starts at $799 (or $749 when purchased with education pricing).

Other than the requirement to be eligible for Apple’s education pricing and purchasing an eligible iPad model, the only other major caveat to be aware of is that the promotion only allows one free pair per purchase and purchaser. That is, in addition to stock levels remaining available, considering Apple notes the free AirPods with an iPad purchase is while supplies last.

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• Diana (2021)