Apple's recent price increases on iPads and Macs have sent a shockwave through the consumer electronics market, prompting a flurry of deal-seeking from shoppers eager to lock in pre-hike prices. According to multiple reports, the price hikes—which affected a wide range of Apple products—have made deals from retailers like Amazon and Best Buy more valuable than ever, with some offers selling out within hours.
The Price Hike: What Changed?
In early 2026, Apple quietly raised prices on several iPad and Mac models, with some increases reaching up to $500. The move, attributed to ongoing memory shortages and rising component costs, has made previously affordable devices significantly more expensive. As noted by PCMag, "MacBooks are the latest victim of the memory shortage," and laptop prices continue to climb across the industry. The Verge summed it up bluntly: "It's a bad time to want a new computer."
Deals and Discounts: A Silver Lining
Despite the hikes, retailers are offering notable discounts on remaining pre-hike stock. The Verge reports that the 13-inch iPad Pro M5 with 512GB of storage is $150 off at Amazon, bringing it to $1,549.99, and $100 off at Best Buy. Similarly, the 11-inch iPad Air M3 with 1TB of storage and 5G is discounted to $749—a $500 saving—available in all four colors. MacRumors highlights that both Amazon and Best Buy are still offering pre-hike prices on iPads and Macs, urging consumers to act quickly.
Mashable's Prime Day coverage notes that iPad deals start as low as $299, while WIRED lists 17 ongoing Apple deals from Prime Day. Inc.com reports that the best MacBook Air deal ever sold out on Amazon after the price hike was announced, underscoring the urgency. The New York Post advises shoppers to "take advantage of these Prime Day deals while you can," warning that prices could rise further.
Consumer Impact: Affordability Under Pressure
The price increases have sparked debate about Apple's affordability. AppleWorld.Today asks, "Will the 'Affordable' become 'Unaffordable'?" as consumers face steeper prices for entry-level devices. Tom's Guide and iMore offer guidance on choosing the right iPad and storage size, emphasizing the need to balance cost with features. Meanwhile, Tech.co and MoneySavingExpert provide updated buying guides to help consumers navigate the changing landscape.
Expert Analysis: Memory Shortage and Market Trends
Industry experts point to a global memory shortage as the primary driver of price hikes. PCMag explains that DRAM and NAND flash prices have surged, affecting not just Apple but the entire laptop market. Talking Tech and Audio suggests that Apple's MacBook Neo strategy may have backfired, though the article is behind a paywall. The Verge's analysis warns that the situation may worsen before it improves, as supply constraints persist.
What Should Consumers Do?
For those in the market for a new iPad or Mac, the consensus is clear: buy now before prices rise further. The Verge's best iPad deals roundup and MacBook deal guide provide current options, while WIRED and PCMag offer broader tablet recommendations. However, with some deals already selling out, speed is essential. As one source put it, "It's a bad time to want a new computer—unless you can find a deal."
In the long term, the price hikes may push some consumers toward competitors like Samsung, which has been aggressively marketing its tablets, as noted by The Telegraph. But for Apple loyalists, the current window of pre-hike pricing may be the last chance to buy without paying a premium.
