Difference Between iPad 2 Wi-Fi and iPad 2 3G (Wi-Fi + 3G)

iPad 2 Wi-Fi vs iPad 2 3G (Wi-Fi + 3G)

iPad 2 Wi-Fi and iPad 2 Wi-Fi + 3G are the variations of the iPad 2, the second generation iPad released by Apple on 2nd march 2011. iPad 2 Wi-Fi + 3G is sold in US by AT&T and Verizon. It again has two models, one is a GSM model for AT&T and the other is CDMA model for Verizon. All three models are available in US from 11 March 2011. The iPad 2 Wi-Fi model is available globally from 25 March 2011. However, all iPad 2 models come with built in Wi-Fi that support 802.11b/g/n. The main difference between iPad 2 Wi-Fi and iPad 2 Wi-Fi + 3G is the 3G connectivity. iPad 2 Wi-Fi + 3G uses the 3G network to connect to the internet in addition to Wi-Fi connectivity.

The new iPad 2 is amazingly slim and light, it’s just 8.8 mm thin and weighs 1.33 pounds, that is 33% thinner and 15% lighter than first generation iPad. And its faster and better in multitasking with the new 1 GHz Dual core A5 processor, 512 MB RAM (double that of iPad) and new release iOS 4.3. The A5 processor clock speed is twice faster than A4 and 9 times better on graphics while the power consumption remains same.

Apple has added some new features to the new iPad 2 like camera with the capability for 720p HD video recording, 3 axis gyro and an illumination sensor which produce good shots even at low light without flash. And a new software PhotoBooth also comes with it for you to create your own artsy. You have a front facing camera to use with FaceTime for video conferencing. iPad 2 is also HDMI compatible. Though you don’t have a port direct in the device, you can connect to your HDTV through Apple digital AV adapter and share your media content on large screen, it supports up to 1080p HD video. It also carry some feature improvements, with the improved AirPlay you also can stream your media content wirelessly to HDTV via Apple TV by just tapping on the AirPlay. It also introduce two applications, an improved iMovie and GarageBand that turn your iPad in to a small musical instrument.

iPad 2 is available in black and white colors and the Apple introduces a new bendable magnetic case for iPad 2, named as Smart Cover.

iPad 2 Wi-Fi

iPad 2 Wi-Fi model supports 802.11b/g/n standards and suitable for you if you are using the pad only in Wi-Fi enabled area or near wireless hotspot. You can connect to internet through the high speed internet router at home or you can use your mobile as router and connect to internet using your mobile data plan. The gadget is slightly lighter and does not have a SIM card slot. The price is also low compared to other models. And it three stroage option, 16 GB, 32 GB and 64 GB. The 16 GB model will cost $499, 32 GB model is priced at $599 and the 64 GB model will cost you $699. The advantage in Wi-Fi model is the FaceTime, you can face to face chat with your family and friends using the dual camera or make video calling to them.

iPad 2 Wi-Fi +3G

iPad 2 Wi-Fi +3G also has the Wi-Fi connectivity that supports 802.11b/g/n, and in addition to that it supports the 3G networks. It has two models, one is configured to work with AT&T HSPA network, known as GSM model and the other is configured to work with Verizon CDMA network. The GSM model does not support Verizon’s CDMA network, while CDMA model does not support AT&T’s HSPA network. So you have to be careful when the purchasing the gadget. Once you purchase, you cannot change your carrier. The gadget carry just 10grams additional weight and has a a SIM card slot. It cost little more than the Wi-Fi only model. It also offers three storage option. The 16 GB model costs $629, 32 GB model costs $729 and the 64 GB model is priced at $829. You have to go for iPad 2 Wi-Fi +3G if you intend to use your iPad in more places, where you won’t have Wi-Fi hotspots and still you need to access internet from all those places.

When you buy a Wi-Fi+3G model, and if you decide to use 3G network you also have to choose a monthly data package from your carrier. Alternatively, you don’t have to activate 3G service immediately, since there is no contract as such for iPad. You can buy the data package according to your requirement and whenever you need only.

To know about data plan, price read here.

(1) Difference Between Verizon and AT&T iPad 2 Data Plans Prices

(2) Difference Between iPad and iPad 2