Which New iPad Are You?

The new iPad is now available in stores for purchase. This meant that Friday was a day of long lines and waits at Apple stores across the country, North America, and parts of Europe and Asia. Most buyers gather in line, after they may have sold their previous model, and are looking to the new iPad as a reasonable upgrade. However, from new users out there to those just looking for something new, they may be presented with the age old question, “which model is right for me?” From WIFI only to WIFI and 4G, from 16GB to 64 GB, AT&T or Verizon. The choices are just endless and we will clear them up today.

Storage Size

You are presented with three size choices. There is a 16GB, 32GB, and 64GB choice. Most average users will find that 16GB would be enough, with 32GB being more than enough. However, there are individuals out there that will find 64GB to be the right amount. Then again, there are other individuals who purchase a much larger gigabyte size just because, wasting hundreds of dollars of unnecessary storage. 16GB would be a good size for the average user who will use their iPad mostly for the screen real estate that comes with internet browsing and a couple of fun games. 32GB will be the size of choice for most app enthusiast and the more tech savvy users who seem to have an app for everything. 64GB is a safe choice for the power users, those who will have a huge amount of their iTunes library in their iPad, who may use their iPad as their sole mobile device, and those who already know they will use large apps (games etc).

AT&T or Verizon?

You may want to get the WIFI + 4G if you will use your device a lot outside of the home. This can be the case for individuals who may use it in an office or location where WIFI will not always be available, or where internet may be a bit slower. However, we should remember that half the time, WIFI may be a bit faster than 4G in may cases because it all depends on the network and it’s strength, where as WIFI is more contained. If you do choose 4G, you now have the choice of AT&T and Verizon. This is when it’s all about your coverage and then how much you can pay. You should look at coverage first because, while you may want to choose the cheapest or with more options (spoiler alert: is Verizon), it will be a waste if you pay any price if you can’t even enjoy it. We should also remember that the Verizon iPad can also run AT&T.

…or Neither?

You shouldn’t get the 4G version if you don’t have good coverage in your area. In addition, you are paying close to $200 more for the 4G version. However, if you can afford the 4G version but worried about the monthly payments, you should remember that you aren’t tied down to a contract. So if payment is something you are worried about making, it shouldn’t be a decision maker. In addition, if the iPad will be an at-home only device, or if you are using it as a web surfing replacement for your laptop, then WIFI only would be enough for you.

Some Compromises

In this economic time, compromises may be necessary. Let’s first look at compromises you can make regarding size. If you feel 32GB or 64GB are something more in your ballpark, but you just can’t afford the cost. There are many other options. Apple iCloud can be a great solution for allowing you to keep your information readily available without having it take up any space. In addition, this can also be the case for services with services like Dropbox, where you can save documents and photos and other files without crowding your iPad. In the case of WIFI+4G, the compromise can be to keep your iPad’s WIFI on at all times. This will allow your iPad to automatically connect. If you are on a road trip, you can also download a WIFI hotspot app to know where there can be a safe signal at a public place. With more and more locations offering WIFI, including McDonalds, Starbucks, hotels, banks, and more, finding WIFI is a lot easier than say a couple of years ago.