When Steve Jobs ran Apple, you didn’t have a choice on which iPad to get. You just got the latest one as it was the only one they would offer. Apple used to be very good at phasing out older devices and forcing users to get the latest device. Somehow, since Tim Cook widened people’s choices for iOS devices the stock went down even if the devices became more affordable.
But it doesn’t make sense not to take advantage of the cheaper devices and more options. So here’s a little guide on which iPad to get depending on your needs and preferences:
1. Size and dimensions
You really only have the iPad Mini and the standard iPad to choose from when it comes to size. The Mini fits in one hand and is similar to the Kindle and the first Galaxy Tab. This means that it’s lighter and slimmer. However, the standard iPad is bigger and more stable to carry around. It’s still a slim device, thinner than other tablets in the market.
2. Screen area
The size of your touch screen is important to your needs. If you plan to use your iPad to sketch or scribble, then a Mini might not be conducive to that. The iPad 2 and the iPad with Retina display are much better for graphics design and art.
3. Processing speed
If you have certain apps like games or real-time data transfer that require high processing power, an iPad Mini might not be able to keep up with your needs. Why? Although they say it’s a compressed iPad 2, it’s more of an enlarged iPod Touch. Smaller sixe means lesser processing power. The latest iPad rivals the iPhone’s hardware so you can be sure that the device can run whatever you throw at it. Just to be sure, if you’re using apps like Teamviewer, RingCentral,
4. Resolution
The iPad with Retina display still has the sharpest screen. Why is resolution important? Some apps come in Retina display and if you’re using an iPad 2 or a Mini then the display may be a bit distorted. Not to worry, though, the distortion isn’t that bothersome if you aren’t particular.
5. Camera
The iPad 2 has the worst camera of the lot, and is only tolerable in good light. The iPad with Retina display and the Mini have the better cameras and can handle the newest camera apps from Apple. Still, all the models have front and back-facing cameras.
6. Storage
Again, the larger iPad can have up to 128 gigabytes of space, which means more movies and videos can be uploaded onto the device. The iPad Mini still goes up to 64 gigabytes which is hefty already. But if you want your series and shows with you all the time then the large tablet is the way to go.
When it comes down to deciding which device is right for you, you have to know what your needs are. Although the iPad Mini is more mobile and has a better camera, it can’t support high-res apps and games. Graphic artists can’t manipulate their sketches and renditions that much on a Mini. The iPad with Retina display, on the other hand, is quite pricey and much heavier.
Another thing to keep in mind is how new the devices are. First generation gadgets always have room for improvement while later devices have addressed previous bugs and issues.
