What is the newest ipad. Buyer's guide: what to choose - iPad or iPad mini

Since 2010, 7 generations of iPad, four generations of iPad mini and two generations of iPad Pro have been released:

iPad 1G, released in 2 varieties: Wi-Fi model and 3G model
iPad 2 received 4 varieties at once: a model with Wi-Fi only, a model with support for 3G GSM, a CDMA model, as well as a second revision of the Wi-Fi model
iPad 3 (The new iPad) had three varieties: Wi-Fi, Cellular for GSM networks and Cellular for CDMA networks
iPad 4 (iPad with Retina display) and iPad mini were produced in three other varieties: Wi-Fi, “global” Cellular model and “American” Cellular model
iPad Air, iPad mini 2 (previously sold under the name iPad mini with Retina display), iPad mini 3 and 9.7" iPad Pro are available in three varieties: a Wi-Fi model, a "global" LTE model and an "Asian" model. model with support for additional TD-LTE bands
iPad Air 2, iPad mini 4, iPad 5, 12.9" iPad Pro first generation and both iPad Pro second generation are produced in two varieties: a model with Wi-Fi and a universal LTE model
iPad Pro with Face ID has four hardware models

The first generation iPad did not yet have a streamlined body; on the contrary, it had clearly defined side walls. Wi-Fi and 3G models can be easily distinguished by the absence or presence on the back wall of a large plastic insert for the modem antenna, as well as a tray for a SIM card.

It differs from the iPad 1G in both the thickness and the design of the case, which has no side walls. The speaker has moved to the back wall of the device, where it is located under numerous perforated holes. The two subsequent generations of iPad received a similar design without significant changes, so it is more reliable to distinguish them by the model code printed in small print on the back surface of the gadget:

A1395 - for Wi-Fi models
A1396 - for GSM model
A1397 - for CDMA model

Second revision of iPad 2 (iPad 2 Rev A), which went on sale in the spring of 2012, is equipped with a different type of Apple A5 processor and is less susceptible to jailbreak. It is impossible to distinguish this model externally; you need to connect to a computer and use utilities like redsn0w. Download redsn0w for OS X or Windows, run the utility. Go to the Extras-Even more-Identify menu, in the window that opens, scroll down the text and look at the value in the ProductType line. If there is “iPad2,1”, this is an old version of the iPad 2 Wi-Fi model, and if “iPad2,4” is a new one.

iPad 3, which was originally distributed under the brand "The new iPad", when turned off, can be distinguished from the iPad 2 only by the model code engraved at the bottom of the back of the device:

A1416 - for Wi-Fi models
A1430 - for GSM model
A1403 - for CDMA model

When turned on, the difference between the iPad 2 and iPad 3 is visible to the naked eye thanks to the Retina display with a resolution of 2048x1536 pixels.

iPad 4 is a modified version of the iPad 3, which went on sale just 7 months after the release of The new iPad. Main differences iPad with Retina display- in the filling of the gadget, but there is also a significant external difference between the iPad 4 and iPad 3 - this is a port for connecting to a computer. The iPad 4 uses a small Lightning port.

The iPad 4 is available in 3 varieties, but the principle of their separation differs from the iPad 3. You can also distinguish them by the model code on the back wall:

A1458 - for Wi-Fi models
A1459 - "American" Cellular model
A1460 - "global" Cellular model with CDMA support

The “American” and “global” iPad 4 models differ in the list of supported LTE (4G) communication bands. Unfortunately, none of them can work in Russian LTE networks.

The fifth-generation iPad has received a name and a long-awaited design update. This iPad looks most like a larger version of the iPad mini. The size of the frame around the display has decreased, the thickness of the device has decreased, and paired stereo speakers have appeared in the lower part of the case.

iPad Air is available in 3 varieties, and the principle of their division is again different from previous generations. You can also distinguish them by the model code on the back wall:

A1474 - for Wi-Fi models
A1475 - for LTE models
A1476 - for TD-LTE models aimed at Southeast Asia

The iPad Air LTE model is universal; it supports all regional 3G and LTE bands.

The sixth generation of iPad is called . It differs from the previous iPad Air in reduced thickness, changed speaker design, and the absence of a silent mode switch. But the most noticeable and most useful change is the Touch ID scanner on the Home button.

iPad Air comes in only 2 varieties:

A1566 - for Wi-Fi models
A1567 - for LTE models

The iPad Air 2 LTE model is also universal; it supports almost all LTE bands used in the world.

You can distinguish iPads from all other iPads very simply by their size. In addition, all the buttons on the iPad mini are made not of plastic, but of metal. The first generation iPad mini does not have a Retina display.

There are three varieties of the first generation iPad mini, differing in the code on the back wall:

A1453 - Wi-Fi model
A1454 - "American" Cellular model
A1455 - "global" Cellular model with CDMA support

The “American” and “global” iPad mini models also differ in the list of supported LTE (4G) communication bands.

When turned off, it looks no different from the iPad mini 1G. Once you turn it on, you can't help but notice the Retina display with a pixel density of 326 ppi. Previously, the gadget was sold under the name iPad mini with Retina display, but after the release of iPad mini 3 it was renamed iPad mini 2.

There are two types of iPad mini, differing by the code on the back wall:

A1489 - Wi-Fi model
A1490 - LTE model

As with the iPad Air, the LTE model of the iPad mini 2G is universal, supporting all regional 3G and LTE bands.

In fact, it is a copy of the iPad mini 2, it has the same equipment, it has absolutely the same characteristics. There are only two differences between the third and second generations of iPad mini: a Touch ID scanner and a new body color – gold.

Three hardware models of the iPad mini 3 are available:

A1599 - Wi-Fi model
A1600 - LTE model for sale in most countries around the world
A1601 - LTE model for Southeast Asian markets

LTE models of iPad mini 3 are also universal; they will work in any country with local operators without any restrictions.

It differs from its predecessor not only in its more powerful filling, but also in its dimensions - it is slightly longer and thinner. The most important visual difference is the absence of a hardware silent switch. At the end of the iPad mini 4 you will only find volume control buttons.

There are two hardware models of iPad mini 4:

A1538 - Wi-Fi model
A1550 - LTE model

The iPad line has replaced the iPad Air. First, a 12.9-inch model was introduced with incredibly powerful hardware, which is difficult not to distinguish from other Apple tablets. The iPad Pro debuted a completely new port - the Smart Connector on the side of the device is designed to connect compatible keyboards.

Later, a smaller version of the tablet with a diagonal of 9.7 inches was presented. In terms of dimensions and weight, it fully corresponds to the iPad Air 2, but it is easy to distinguish thanks to the protruding camera lens (like on the iPhone 6/6s/Plus) and the presence of a dual flash.

The 12.9-inch iPad Pro comes in two hardware models:

A1584 - Wi-Fi model (32, 128 or 256 GB capacity)
A1652 - LTE model (available with 128 or 256 GB of memory)

The 9.7-inch iPad Pro comes in three hardware models with 32, 128 or 256 GB of internal memory:

A1673 - Wi-Fi model
A1675 - LTE model (for China)
A1674 - LTE model (for the rest of the world)

iPad 5 (2017 model)

The iPad 5 has completely confused the situation in the iPad line. This is not the fifth generation of iPad at all, but Apple calls it the fifth because it wants to finally abandon the iPad Air line and return to previous numbering principles (and before the iPad Air there was just the iPad 4). But it cannot be recognized as a new iPad either, because even in comparison with the iPad Air 2 it is a step back. In fact, this is a budget iPad model in the body of the first iPad Air, but with updated hardware. The easiest way to distinguish iPad 5 from iPad Air is by the presence of Touch ID and the absence of a hardware volume switch; otherwise the devices are identical in appearance.

iPad 5 comes in just two hardware models:

A1822 - Wi-Fi model
A1823 - model with LTE module

iPad Pro (Generation 2)

The second generation was presented simultaneously in two sizes. The usual 9.7-inch form factor has been replaced by a completely new display size - 10.5 inches. The 12.9-inch iPad Pro model is practically no different in characteristics from the smaller version (unlike the first generation) and has a similar design. These are the first iPads in history to be released with 512 GB of internal memory (in addition to models with 64 and 256 GB).

The second-generation 12.9-inch iPad Pro comes in two hardware models:

A1670 - Wi-Fi model
A1821 - LTE model

The 10.5-inch iPad Pro also comes in two hardware models:

A1701 - Wi-Fi model
A1709 - LTE model

iPad 6 (2018 model)

The sixth iPad is a follower of the fifth budget generation of Apple tablets. The iPad Air form factor is still used, but the sixth model differs from the fifth, firstly, a more powerful A10 Fusion processor (similar to the iPhone 7), and secondly, support for the Apple Pencil stylus.

iPad 6 comes in two hardware models:

A1893 - Wi-Fi model
A1954 - model with LTE module

iPad Pro (3rd generation)

The third generation is the most radical redesign in the history of all iPads. Firstly, this is an iPad with Face ID, and the scanner works in both portrait and landscape orientation, which even the iPhone cannot do. Secondly, this is the first iOS device to use a USB-C connector. Like previous iPad Pros, the tablets came in two variants, this time 11- and 12.9-inch. In addition, the maximum memory capacity has doubled, now reaching 1 terabyte.

The third generation 12.9-inch iPad Pro comes in 4 hardware models:

A1876 - Wi-Fi model
A1983 - LTE model for China
A2014 - LTE model for America
A1895 - LTE model for the rest of the world

The 11-inch iPad Pro also comes in 4 hardware models:

A1980 - Wi-Fi model
A1979 - LTE model for China
A2013 - LTE model for America
A1934 - LTE model for the rest of the world

Apple, alas, rarely gives its models catchy names, limiting itself, as a rule, to a number indicating the generation of the gadget, and a letter, the presence of which indicates that the product has been improved - for iPhone models this letter was S for a long time.

We have already told you which iPhone is best to buy in 2018. Understanding an iPad is more difficult than understanding an iPhone. The first few devices released before 2012 were marked with numbers, like mobile devices, then Apple, for an unknown reason (most likely, in order to expand the model range) decided to move away from this principle - and Air, Retina, Pro and even tablets appeared on the shelves just an iPad, without indicating the model.

In 2018, Apple officially sells 4 iPad models. We will introduce each one and tell you which ones deserve the most attention.

The most compact

iPad Mini 4

Display: 7.9 inches, resolution 2048×1536, PPI 326
CPU: A8 with 64-bit architecture + M8 coprocessor
8 Mpix – 1.2 Mpix
2 GB – 128 GB
Battery: 5 124 mAh
Colors

An Apple fan who wants to buy a compact tablet in 2018 has a choice: either “surf the vastness” of the Avito catalog in search of a 7-8 inch device, which has already been discontinued by the manufacturer, or buy an iPad Mini 4 – a device with a 7.9-inch screen, characterized by minimal weight (only 300 grams).

Another obvious advantage of the iPad Mini 4, in addition to its light weight, is its screen - it’s fantastically clear! While the iPad mini's display is smaller, its resolution is the same as that of the 9.7-inch iPad 2017, and only slightly lower than that of the 10.5-inch iPad Pro. As a result, the pixel density per inch (PPI) of the iPad Mini 4 is higher than that of other current Apple tablets.

The display of the “small” iPad does not fade in the sun (thanks to the anti-glare coating) and does not become covered with fingerprints (thanks to the grease-repellent coating).

Despite these advantages, there are many arguments in favor of not purchasing the Mini 4 model. First of all, the buyer must understand that this model is deprecated: Apple introduced the tablet back in 2015 - that is, at the same time when the iPhone 6S came out. The gadget is equipped with an A8 processor (like, say, the iPhone 6), which belongs to the 2nd generation - more modern tablets, for comparison, are equipped with 4th generation chipsets, which, according to official Apple data, are 2.5 times faster. Therefore, performance is definitely not the strong point of the Apple iPad Mini 4.

It is worth noting that by 2018, Apple left only Mini 4 models with 128 GB of user memory on sale. The cost of such a device with 3G support is almost 35,000 rubles. Users who believe that such an amount can be spent more rationally are perhaps not far from the truth.

Best in terms of price/quality ratio

iPad 2017

Display: 9.7 inches, resolution 2048×1536, PPI 264
CPU: A9 with 64-bit architecture + M9 coprocessor
Camera (rear - front): 8 Mpix – 1.2 Mpix
Memory (RAM – user): 2 GB – 32 GB / 128 GB
Battery: 8,827 mAh
Colors: silver / gold / space gray

iPad 2017 appeared in March last year. This device, as conceived by Apple, was designed to take a place in the mid-price segment, where previously devices from the Air line were represented. The 2017 iPad is thicker than the Air 2 and has a less impressive screen, but it boasts a more powerful A9 processor and a lower price. In terms of cost, the 2017 gadget is quite comparable to the iPad Mini 4 in both Wi-Fi and Cellular versions.

iPad 2017 prices:

The iPad 2017 is best bought by an inexperienced user whose plans do not include tormenting the device with demanding toys and applications, or expanding its functionality with gadgets such as the Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard (since the tablet does not support them). For performing routine tasks (like watching movies, surfing the Internet), the iPad 2017 is the most suitable option.

Geeks who are crazy about new technologies should pay attention to the next model.

Most functional

iPad Pro 10.5

Display: 10.5 inches, resolution 2224×1668, PPI 264
CPU:
Camera (rear - front): 12 megapixels – 7 megapixels
Memory (RAM – user):
Battery: 8,134 mAh
Colors: silver / gold / space gray / rose gold

Even the cheapest 3G tablet iPad Pro 10.5 costs 10 thousand rubles more than the most expensive iPad 2017. And this is justified - despite the fact that the 2 models are similar in size, in technological terms there is a gap between them.

iPad Pro 10.5 is equipped with the most powerful hardware that Apple can install in its gadget - it’s not for nothing that the manufacturer repeatedly boasts on the official website that the new tablet is faster than most laptops. “On board” is a 6-core A10X Fusion processor, which allows for processing and editing 4K video, rendering 3D models (the built-in uMake application is intended for the latter). It is clear that there is no talk of freezing in games - on the iPad Pro 10.5 you can run any game, and at maximum settings.

The iPad Pro 10.5 screen is a source of pride for Apple. Although the PPI of the display is quite average, the picture is bright, rich and quite natural. It's all about the new ProMotion technology, thanks to which the display supports a refresh rate of 120 Hz. For comparison, a conventional LCD display has half this figure.

The Pro 10.5 model is the best iPad for a representative of a creative profession: sound engineer, film editor, artist or designer. The gadget can handle Photoshop and other “heavy” graphics programs without any problems. In addition, the device is compatible with such a convenient drawing tool as the Apple Pencil.

iPad Pro 10.5 prices:

The biggest

iPad Pro 12.9

Display: 12.9 inches, resolution 2732×2048, PPI 264
CPU: A10X with 64-bit architecture + M10 coprocessor
Camera (rear - front): 12 megapixels – 7 megapixels
Memory (RAM – user): 4 GB – 64 GB / 256 GB / 512 GB
Battery: 10,875 mAh
Colors: silver / gold / space gray

iPad Pro 12.9 is a tablet comparable to a MacBook Air laptop both in size and price (if you include accessories in the price of the iPad). In terms of functionality and characteristics, the 12.9-inch model is identical to the 10.5-inch model, with the only exception that it has a higher screen resolution (with the same PPI). The “giant” costs more.

iPad Pro 12.9 price:

iPad Pro 12.9 is considered a highly specialized device, not for ordinary users. The problem is his lack of mobility. The gadget can only be called transportable with a fair amount of skepticism: its weight is almost 700 grams - and that’s 2 and a half iPad Mini 4. The device will not fit into a regular shoulder bag, and will take up the lion’s share of space in a backpack.

The 12.9-inch tablet can be used as a stationary device - Smart Keyboard support also allows for this. The gadget will have a place in any office - with its help you can make very effective presentations.

Unlike the 10.5-inch model, the iPad Pro 12.9 comes in only three color options. You won’t find a “large” tablet in the “rose gold” color option.

Which iPad is better to buy in 2018: table

To make it easier for the user to decide which iPad to choose in 2018, we will collect the most important characteristics of current devices in one table:

Parameter/Model	iPad Mini 4	iPad 2017	iPad Pro 10.5	iPad Pro 12.9
Display diagonal
CPU
Battery life	10 hours 43 minutes of video viewing	10 hours of video viewing	8 hours of watching videos, surfing the Internet	10 hours of video viewing
	304 grams	478 grams	477 grams	692 grams
Compatible with Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard?
Number of speakers
Key Feature	Compact device	Budget device	High tech device	Large device

It is clear from the table that Apple managed to avoid the so-called cannibalism– situations when several models are interchangeable, occupy the same niche, as a result of which sales of one model negatively affect the sales volume of another. Each of the current iPad devices is aimed at a specific category of consumers.

Conclusion

The best option for a fan of Apple products in 2018 is, perhaps, the iPad Pro 10.5, one of the latest models equipped with top-end hardware, supporting the manufacturer’s branded accessories and having standard dimensions. If you don’t have enough money for Pro 10.5, you should take a closer look at the iPad 2017, but you need to understand that this device is significantly inferior both in terms of functionality and design. Those who want to save money can also take a wait-and-see approach - insiders are loudly trumpeting that in 2018 Apple will introduce a budget 9.7-inch iPad, which will cost about $250 (15.5 thousand rubles).

It is still better for the average user to refrain from purchasing the iPad Pro 12.9 - the “giant” is no better than the Pro 10.5, but it is also more expensive and less convenient. Buying an iPad Mini 4 is also impractical - the hardware of this device is long outdated, because it dates back to 2015 and is on sale only because Apple decided not to release a replacement product. It looks like 7-8-inch tablets will soon completely “leave the scene” - they will be replaced by smartphones with a “6+” screen diagonal, of which more and more are appearing on sale.

Having studied all the iPad models and their characteristics, you can understand how the technologies for creating Tablet PCs have developed and progressed from 2010 to the present day.

After all, these famous gadgets, both a few years ago and now, are equipped with the most modern parts. And you can see development from them.

Moreover, some analysts suggest that iPads will eventually be the first to displace a significant part of desktop computers from the market, surpassing them, if not in power, then at least in mobility and ease of use.

iPad 1

The first iPad went on sale in 2010 and became a truly revolutionary gadget that received many technologies that other tablet PCs did not have at that time - an IPS display and a powerful gigahertz Apple A4 processor.

High operating speed, a screen with a diagonal of almost 10 inches and a capacious 6667 mAh battery made the iPad 1 popular.

However, it was still just an experimental model, with a number of shortcomings and shortcomings.

Among the disadvantages of the device were the relatively short operation time on a single charge - even such a battery was not enough for the large display and the resource-intensive iOS operating system.

In addition, the iPad was quite thick by the standards of other tablets and did not come with a camera, which is why it could not be used for video chatting.

But its body has rounded edges and stylish volume control buttons on the right side.

The developers’ original solution was the button for switching lock modes and screen orientation, which lights up green when turned on.

Another impressive characteristic is the tablet’s built-in memory, the maximum capacity of which was 64 GB.

Although the rather modest RAM parameters did not allow installing more modern versions on the tablet.

Technical specifications:

Screen size: 9.7 inches;
resolution: 768 x 1024;
processor: single-core, 1000 MHz;
cameras: none;
memory capacity: 256 MB RAM and from 16 to 64 GB built-in;
Battery capacity: 6667 mAh.

iPad 2

The next generation of iPad, which appeared in 2011, was more advanced and had many fewer shortcomings.

First of all, this concerned the amount of RAM that had increased to 512 MB - quite enough to run modern applications and install new operating systems.

In addition, the model received two cameras at once - the main one with 0.69 megapixels. and frontal with resolution (640 x 480), gyroscope and dual-core processor.

Most other characteristics, except for a more powerful processor, remained at the same level. Visually, the gadget was distinguished by the edging of the Home button, which matched the color of the body.

Tablet parameters:

screen: 1536x2048 pixels, 7.9 inches;
chipset: 2 cores, 1300 MHz;
cameras: 5 and 1.2 megapixels;
memory: RAM – 1 GB, ROM – 16, 64 and 128 GB;
Battery capacity: 6471 mAh.

The slightly crazy pre-New Year shopping season has arrived again. Many people are eyeing products with a well-recognized bitten apple, but choosing an iPad is now more difficult than before. The publication offered several tips to help you make the right choice.

Outline the scope of tasks

Perhaps the most important way to avoid disappointment in a purchase is to clearly understand how you are going to use the purchase. The first step is to understand which device is right for you.

Thanks to a huge range of advanced programs from Apple itself and third-party developers, the iPad is now capable of very, very much. This is not only a “watch a movie - read the Internet” device, but also a completely adequate (although, of course, not without its limitations) working tool for a journalist, photo editor, designer, artist, DJ or musician.

If a year ago the iPad 4 with a Retina screen and the most powerful processor at that time gave a huge head start to the iPad mini in literally everything except size, weight and convenience, then this year the iPad Air and iPad mini with a Retina display have almost identical hardware ( The iPad mini's processor runs at a slightly lower frequency and slows down faster under load to avoid overheating). The display resolution is also the same (2048 by 1536); the mini has a pixel density equal to that of the iPhone 5 – 326 ppi. The mini screen has a slightly smaller color gamut, but this will only be noticeable to professionals. Does this mean that you can take anyone? Or mini - because it's cheaper?

The most important differences are size (including screen size) and weight. Accordingly, you should choose Air or mini based on the intended use cases. Are you going to read a lot of books? iPad mini gives the same clear picture, but weighs less - it’s easier to read when holding it with one hand, for example in transport. But for magazines formatted for the iPad, the larger screen size of the Air will be more convenient - the font size in magazine applications, as a rule, cannot be changed, so reading on the small mini screen will strain your eyes more.

For games, perhaps, both tablets are “equally useful,” so no one bothers you to take a more compact option; if you wish, using Apple TV you can “mirror” the screen on a large TV and actually play like on a console. For a “single” movie viewing, there is also not much difference, but if you are going to watch a movie on the iPad together (on a trip, for example), then it is better to take the Air - placing the mini at a distance that is comfortable for both viewers is difficult.

If you plan to actively use the iPad for creative purposes and use it comfortably, there is no alternative to the iPad Air. Drawing, serious music software, typing texts - all this requires a large screen and the ability to most comfortably touch often small interface elements with your finger. If nothing like this is planned, and the tablet is purchased as an entertainment and communication (mail, Skype, FaceTime) device for use “on the go”, which you constantly carry with you while doing work on a laptop or PC, it is better to take a closer look at the iPad mini with Retina display.

Select volume

Apple charges customers 4,000 rubles for each “step” in memory capacity (32 – 64 – 128 GB) from the base 16 GB model, which, at current prices for flash memory, increasingly resembles a robbery, especially for the 32 GB model models. Some assumed (forgetting how capitalism works) that 16 GB of built-in storage in i-devices this fall would remain the lot of old budget models, and the capacity of new iPads starts from 32 GB at the price of the “old” 16. It did not happen.

At the same time, applications are becoming more and more “heavier” (including due to the need to use “retina” graphics), and space-consuming HD or Full HD video is becoming easier to download on the Internet. Because of all this, 16 gigabytes will fill up for a user who actively uses the tablet for media consumption very, very quickly. It makes sense to take the least capacious iPad Air or mini model only for savings purposes and if you plan to store at least music (video is more difficult) on cloud services such as iTunes Match or Google Play Music.

You can, of course, experiment with storing media on standalone wireless media that connect to the tablet via Wi-Fi, but you should remember that manufacturers have not yet offered a truly comfortable software solution for them, and the user experience is not yet up to par. In general, from our point of view, spending 4,000 rubles on a more capacious iPad model (32 GB) definitely makes sense - at least you can download a whole season of the series (or even a couple or three, if in standard quality) before your vacation.

At the same time, the 128 GB model is still the lot of the most fanatical content consumers or simply wealthy people who want to have the “best” everything. For most buyers, it makes the most sense to choose between a 32-gigabyte (in practice, this is enough for most users) and a 64-gigabyte (if you definitely store a lot of videos and music) models.

LTE or Wi-Fi only?

New iPads with a cellular communication module (without it a tablet of the same capacity will be 5,000 rubles cheaper) now support LTE. LTE-compatible SIM cards (nano-SIM format required) from leading cellular operators work; speeds (provided there is good coverage at a given point and an uncongested network) of several tens of megabits for downloading are quite achievable. True, judging by the reviews, there are not very many such points yet; fourth-generation networks in Russia are far from perfect.

In fact, if you use an iPad primarily at home, in an office, or in a cafe with Wi-Fi to access the Internet, then there is not much point in a cellular module. When the need nevertheless arises to access the Internet from your tablet, as they say, “in the open field,” you can always distribute the Internet from your smartphone. In addition, it is always easier to use and pay for one SIM card than two.

So an iPad with LTE makes sense only for those who regularly (say, at least a couple of hours a day) need Internet access that does not depend on the presence of Wi-Fi networks. By the way, in “access point” mode, such a tablet can work continuously, distributing the Internet to a laptop, smartphone and other devices, for almost a day. If you find frequent use of this use case, then you should also take a closer look at the LTE version.

Save wisely

The official Apple online store sells not only the latest tablet models. If your goal is to spend as little as possible, but at the same time buy Apple equipment officially, your choice will be from the year before last iPad 2 from 14,990 rubles and last year’s iPad mini from 11,990 rubles. Both are available only with a storage capacity of 16 gigabytes, and by adding another 5,000 rubles to the price, you can purchase a device with a 3G module that has access to the Network anywhere within the coverage of your cellular operator, and not just where there is Wi-Fi.

From our point of view, there is no point in buying an iPad 2 for that kind of money - the device, let us remind you, was released in 2011 and is already hopelessly outdated. But the iPad mini for 11,990 (and a little cheaper from “gray” sellers) is a good option for an “almost pocket” tablet for money that is ridiculous by Apple standards. Note that it is also available in the “space gray” color, new to Apple, which is indistinguishable from the Retina version.

Buy a case

Carrying your iPad with you all the time without at least protecting its screen is a sure-fire way to end up looking at a scratch-damaged screen every day after just a couple of months. Apple offers branded polyurethane magnetic Smart Covers for iPad Air and iPad mini (RUB 1,599) and leather protective cases Smart Case (RUB 3,399). Yes, Smart Case costs the same as a budget Chinese Android tablet, very expensive for a case. In addition, the accessory adds quite a lot to the weight (145 grams for the iPad Air) and thickness (4 mm) of the device - it turns out that the iPad Air in the Smart Case weighs almost as much as last year’s massive and heavy iPad 4 without it. Personally, we prefer the Smart Cover - it’s lighter, thinner and doesn’t use killed animals (That is, leather. Or is it artificial for 3,400? Apple doesn’t specify).

If you care about charity or the color red, check out the PRODUCT(RED) series cases. The i-device manufacturer has long been collaborating with the charity project (RED), organized by U2 lead singer Bono. As part of (RED), Apple releases products in its signature red design. A percentage of proceeds goes to the Global Fund to fund AIDS programs in Africa.

Since November, residents of Russia can also participate in the program by ordering a gadget from the (PRODUCT) RED series from the Apple online store: iPod shuffle/nano/touch players, Smart Cover and Smart Case for iPad, as well as Bumber cover for iPhone.

If you don't limit yourself to Apple products, the range of security solutions for iPad is amazing. True, not all manufacturers have yet managed to prepare solutions for the new iPad Air form factor.

Take care of your ears

The new iPads have best-in-class built-in speakers, and the iPad Air is generally able to replace pocket Bluetooth speakers like the Jambox mini. However, Apple does not put standard headphones in boxes with tablets (unlike players and smartphones). There are different options here - you can go the route of fanatics and buy branded “ears” EarPods. But from our point of view, their price tag is greatly inflated. For 1,200 rubles you can buy a much more decent headset with insulating earplugs - at least you can listen to music on the subway. With EarPods on the subway, you can only hear hard rock music, and then only at maximum volume, and this is harmful to your hearing. There are a lot of options, off the top of my head: JBL J22i, Sennheiser CX 275s, Skullcandy 50/50, AKG K 328.

The audio path of the iPad is unlikely to make lovers of “warm tube sound” reconsider their disdain for compact music gadgets, but you will certainly hear the difference between headphones for 3,000 rubles and 15,000 and may even be pleasantly surprised. If you view the iPad as a media player and are picky about sound quality, it makes sense to shell out for good (or even “smart”) “ears.”

Choose the right tools

If you are going to constantly download new music and (especially) videos obtained from the Internet onto your tablet, you need to remember: the implementation of this process on the iPad leaves much to be desired. The standard solution - adding media to the iTunes library (video - only in mp4/m4v or mov) on the computer, then synchronizing the tablet - will seem long and inconvenient for many.

You can make your life easier with the help of special programs. For example, to watch videos at home, if you have a PC and a home Wi-Fi network, “streaming” using the Air Video application is perfect. And the free VLC video player allows you to upload movies in a variety of formats, including over Wi-Fi and bypassing iTunes. For quick “uploading” via cable, there’s still no escape from Apple’s proprietary “media combiner,” but at least you don’t need to add anything to the library in advance.

Want to turn your iPad into a typing tool? It's more real than you think. Do you want to draw? The Paper app is here to help, and its developers recently even released a special stylus to help you unlock the full potential of the iPad as a platform for professional image creation. The App Store has over a million applications and about 480,000 are written specifically for tablets. There will be no shortage.

Apple's product line includes various electronic devices. However, the youngest segment can be called tablets, which are rapidly gaining the love of consumers. The Apple brand has always been famous for its originality, and therefore came up with a special name for its devices - iPad. And now all consumers have the opportunity to determine by the name or logo alone who is the author of the innovation and decide whether to buy it or not. And before you make a purchase, you should learn more about these modern devices. We are confident that this information will be useful to consumers and thanks to it, anyone will be able to purchase the best iPad for themselves.

What's the appeal of the iPad?

In general terms, the iPad cannot be called a fully functional computer. For most consumers, it's much easier to describe it as a tablet. Accordingly, they have all the technical potential to meet the requirements of users not only in Ukraine and Russia, but also in the world . With the well-known bitten fruit logo on the back, this device is perfect for people who want a reliable and functional device with excellent design and build quality. It will allow you to surf the web or spend your free time as efficiently as possible. In addition, you can choose it for work, for games, for study, for entertainment or any other use. Traditionally, when purchasing such a technical device, there is a certain uncertainty about which model to choose. It’s the same with the iPad, so let’s look at the main nuances that it is advisable to pay attention to when buying it.

Defining the scope of iPad

You shouldn’t buy the first iPad you come across in a store; it’s better to analyze the scope of its application before doing so, because it may happen that the money spent on a more powerful device will be wasted. This unit is very versatile in use and for each user its value will lie in different aspects. Some will need it simply for fun and educational leisure time, while others will need it for study, communication, and reading. But it is possible that the iPad will become a reliable companion at work, because it has all the technical capabilities for this. Depending on its use, you need to select a model.

The most affordable version of the device, which is suitable for performing the simplest and least labor-intensive tasks, will be the iPad mini; its small dimensions and good design make it a good option. This model can safely be considered as a “charged” version of the iPhone, increased in size. The technical characteristics are not impressive, but this is compared with more powerful versions released in 2014-2015, and for such options as watching videos or photos, listening to music, visiting Internet sites and many others, it is quite enough.

Main characteristics:

Processor - 2-core Apple A5 1.4 GHz;
RAM - 2 GB;
Video accelerator - Apple M7;
Display - 7.9" inch display with resolution (1024x768);

Pros:

Spectacular appearance;
A good combination of internal components;
Good price/quality ratio.

Minuses:

Constant care.

iPad mini with Retina display

If you still prefer the mini format, but you need a more powerful and productive iPad, then it is better to pay attention to the Apple iPad mini 3 16Gb Wi-Fi + Cellular model, one of the main features of which is the Retina screen. This, one might say, is a copy of the brand’s flagship called iPadAir, only slightly smaller. A good processor, excellent color reproduction and a convenient format will allow the user to enjoy the right choice.

Without minimalism

However, there are a large number of those who want to get everything in one device, namely: power, performance, style in a relatively large size. In this case, you can opt for one of the following models - iPad 4, iPadAir or iPadAir 2. It is in this order that the technical capabilities of the company’s devices are ranked. For those who need a reliable and affordable (if we take into account Apple's pricing policy) iPad, it's worth choosing the iPad 4. Compared to it, the iPadAir offers greater technical capabilities and is superior in performance. But if you want more functionality and style, then the iPadAir 2 has no competitors.

iPad 4 Retina

One of the best options, having a screen diagonal of 9.7 inches with a very high working resolution, however, the distinctive side of the screen is the Retina technology with which it is made. It also has a good 2-core processor made according to Apple architecture, so it obviously won’t freeze or slow down. It has from 16 to 64 GB of memory, which is enough for any occasion, so you don’t have to worry about the capacity of this gadget. So this is an excellent tablet option with good characteristics.

Main characteristics:

Processor - 2-core Apple A6X 1.4 GHz;
RAM - 1 GB;
Video accelerator - Apple M7;
Operating system - Apple iOS 6.0.1;
Camera - front: 2 megapixels, rear: 5 megapixels;

Pros:

Very large display viewing angles;
High level performance;
Powerful battery for a budget tablet in 2017.

Minuses:

Stained laptop surfaces.

iPad Air 2

An even more powerful device from Apple is the iPad Air 2. It has an even more powerful display. Its diagonal is the same as the iPad 4 9.7 inches, but it is made using IPS technology with a fairly high maximum resolution and LED backlighting. Depending on the amount of memory, its cost also increases, and it comes in 16, 64 and 128 GB. It has a newer generation processor with 64-bit architecture, as well as a motion coprocessor, which has also progressed over a long period of use. In short, a powerful device for good money. However, if you don't mind the money and want a stylish tablet with good performance, then this option is for you.

Main characteristics: