14 DAY TRIAL // With the iPad 3 out and into the hands of millions worldwide, many people are left wondering what the Apple tablet experience is like. For some, the best way to dip a toe in the water is by going for the cheaper models.
Say you’re not convinced the iPad 3 has what you need. You’re barely in touch with technology and don’t even know what a Retina display is, let alone 4G LTE wireless, or Apple’s FaceTime video chatting feature. And the thing costs 500 bucks, which is not very cheap.
Say all you want is a clean tablet experience, such as web surfing as you’re commuting, sending and receiving e-mails, an occasional gaming session, and even some social networking (after all, who isn’t on Facebook these days?)
If that’s you, then the iPad 3 is overkill.
To do all of the above, and dozens more tasks, the iPad 1 with its 10-hour battery life and crisp 10-inch display is all you need.
What about the iPad 2, you ask? Apart from the thinner design, the second-generation iPad is basically just an iPad 1 with cameras. Sure, it also has the A5 chip inside, but the aforementioned activities won’t require it.
So let’s look at your options. The Apple online store is currently still stocking refurbished iPad 1 tablets in various configurations, starting at just $299.
If you’re after the web-surfing-on-the-go thing, we suggest you choose a 3G-capable model (this one sells for $399 with 16GB). It’s the only one that will keep you connected to the Internet when there’s no WiFi in range. Keep in mind that you’ll also need to buy a SIM card from your wireless operator to enable the cellular networking functions.
If you don’t necessarily require Internet at all times, the WiFi-only model is perfect for you. Best of all, it’s $100 cheaper.
Then there’s the storage. You might want to get yourself the 32GB model if you’re a movie buff. Perhaps even the 64GB if you plan on filling that iPad with photos, movies, dozens of apps, and all types of stuff that you might have a hard time deleting. If not, the 16GB version is more than enough.
Now that you know all this, head over to Apple’s Special Deals zone and make your pick. Note that these offers are limited by the number of units Apple is currently stocking. In other words, act fast!