iPad 2 vs. iPad: The Buying Guide
Apple launched the iPad 2 in March 2011. Some of the most important features and the changes in the iPad and its successor are below:
The Processor – The single core 1GHz A4 chip processor on the iPad makes way for the dual core 1GHz A5 chip on the iPad 2. According to Apple, the new dual core 1GHz A5 processor beating inside the iPad 2 is about twice as fast as the earlier single core 1GHz A4 chip. The graphic performance of the iPad 2 is also around 9 times faster thanks to the A5 chip; this will make a difference in the responsiveness and overall speed, particularly when playing games or working with heavy duty media editing apps. The new A5 and earlier A4 chips are low power processors, so there hasn’t been any change in battery life.
The Dimensions - Although the overall footprint of the new iPad 2 remains the same, its thickness has gone down from the original 13.4mm on the iPad to 8.8mm, which makes the iPad 2 33% thinner. The iPad 2 models have lost weight too, with the Wi-Fi model decreasing from 680 grams to 601 grams and the Wi-Fi+3G model going down from 730 grams to 613 grams.
What’s Unchanged - The screen remains unchanged on the iPad 2, which features a 9.7 inch LED backlit screen with a resolution of 1024 x 768. The ambient light sensor, accelerometer, and storage options all remain the same on both the iPad and iPad 2.
New Features - Here are the new features incorporated into the iPad 2:
-VGA camera on the front which captures video at 30 fps
-720p camera on the rear which captures HD video
-New three axis gyroscope
-HDMI output dongle
iPad 2 vs. iPad: What Other Factors to Consider?
Storage – Both versions of the iPads are available with three storage options – 16GB, 32GB and 64GB. Take your usage into consideration when deciding on the memory capacity. If you plan to use the iPad primarily for browsing the web, emailing, and watching videos on the internet (such as YouTube), the 16GB version might be the right choice. However, if you are going to watch a lot of movies while on the go or are into gaming, consider getting the 32GB or 64GB models for more storage.
Wi-Fi or 3G + Wi-Fi Connectivity - Both versions of the iPad are available in two versions when it comes to connectivity: Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi + 3G. Here again, you will have make your choice based on how you plan to use your iPad. If you’re going to use your iPad around places with Wi-Fi access (such as your home, workplace or school), the Wi-Fi version should suit your needs. Also, if you’re using a smartphone capable of tethering (sharing its web connection), you can get your iPad online using the Wi-Fi version. Another way to get a Wi-Fi iPad online is through a Mi-Fi modem, which can create a Wi-Fi hotspot by connecting to a mobile network. The 3G version of the iPad would be a better option if you want to go online anywhere – it allows you to go online wherever there’s a mobile network signal available.
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