How to Buy an iPad

So you’ve decided you want to purchase iPad. You’ve deliberated on what type of device you want, and the iPad is your device of choice. So, you think you’re done. Right? Think again! Apple hasn’t simply released just one iPad device, they’ve got a whole range of options to consider. How much memory do I need, will Wi-Fi suffice, or do I need a 3G subscription? And if so, how much data will I be using? This guide will help you decide between the many options available, and help you find the iPad that matches your needs and budget.

On April 3 2010, the WiFi versions of the iPad were released, with the 3G+WiFi versions later in April. The device was sold out as of the launch date, with pre-orders available.http://www.khabrein.info/news/iPad_sold_out__enthusiasm_builds_up_as_apple_ipad_tablet_release_date_nears__features___specs_1269885788/ Big store chains like Best Buy reported they were in limited supply of the device. Many customers had to wait until the second and third shipments of iPads before getting their hands on one.http://www.theipadguide.com/content/best-buy-release-limited-ipad-inventory-april-3-9-am/7171000

The Apple iPad is available with three different amounts of memory:

1. Option 1: 16 GB and costs $499
2. Option 2: 32 GB and costs $599
3. Option 3: 64 GB and costs $699

3G cellular data coverage is available at an additional cost of $130. With these price differences in mind, it is important to consider whether the added convenience of more memory is worth the premium.http://www.apple.com/ipad/pricing/

iPad memory and storage considerations:

1. Even though iPad Apps are generally small, some Apps may use up to 2 GB. You may quickly fill up your available memory with these applications and the data they create.http://www.appletell.com/apple/comment/is-8gb-enough-for-the-iphone-3g
2. The iPad is positioned as a Digital Media Player. If you want to use it to store your audio, and have some videos at hand to play while on the road, you can quickly consume memory. An average movie of 1 to 2 hours will easily consume at least 500 MB.
3. The iPad does not support (Micro) SD slots, or other external memory to expand your initial memory. Once you’ve filled up your memory, the only way to free up memory is by deleting media files, or removing Apps.

In conclusion: If you plan to install a few Apps, store a large selection of music and video on your device and you want to read the odd book, you’re going to quickly surpass the 16 GB limit. Very heavy memory users, (or those who simply want to carry around all their media all the time) will want to go for 64 GB. If your main purpose is reading books, surfing the Internet, and listening to the odd song, 16 GB will suffice.

So, you know how much memory your iPad should have. Next, you need to decide whether you are going to need a 3G subscription or not. Adding 3G Wireless connectivity will cost $130 for each model. The iPad models with 3G cost:

1. Option 1: 16 GB with 3G: $629,
2. Option 2: 32 GB with 3G: $729,
3. Option 3: 64 GB with 3G: $829
   
   

Next to the added initial cost, you’re going to need a 3G subscription, but we’ll talk about that in a bit. Again, there are some considerations whether you are going to want this or not.

- What is the primary location where you are going to use your iPad? If the answer is in and around your own home, you should seriously consider setting up your own Wi-Fi hotspot. This will provide you with fast Internet access in and around your home using Wi-Fi, completely eliminating the need for 3G on your iPad.

- In case you plan to regularly use your iPad away from home, especially while traveling, a wireless connection might be preferable. What type of usage will you be making of your device? Will you merely read preloaded documents or books, audio and video, or will you also be wanting to check the latest news, blogs, and your favorite Internet pages?

Please be aware that once you decide you don’t need 3G access, you can’t add it later on.

If you’ve decided to add Wireless 3G, you also need to take a subscription. Currently, only AT&T is allowed to offer iPad subscriptions. AT&T has two subscription plans:

1. The basic subscription plan is $14,99. This plan is limited to a maximum data transfer of 250 MB per month.
2. The unlimited subscription plan will cost $29 per month, and has no data limit.
   
   

- If you are an extensive Internet user, you will easily reach 250 MB of data usage per month. Internet pages often contain pictures or small videos, which may take up several MB of data per page-load. If you enjoy watching video online, bandwidth usage is even higher.

• If you exceed your bandwidth limit, additional MB usage will be expensive.
  
  
• Downloading Apps, iBooks and music from the iTunes store are also included in the same bandwidth limit, unless you use your home Wi-Fi connection.
  
  
• The iPad is positioned as a Digital Media player, Digital media often uses lots of data. Without a full, unlimited subscription, your iPad experience might feel limited.
  
  

Which bandwidth?Unless you are very sure you will have very limited need for Internet bandwidth, the unlimited subscription plan is highly advisable. The $14,99 plan has a low data limit, and therefore a high risk of exceeding that limit, which results in either limited Internet access, or excessive cost.

As this guide has shown, the broader your wishes, the higher the cost of your iPad. As the iPad isn’t easily expandable, making the right choice the first time is very important.

While the cheapest iPad model costs only $499, its limited memory of 16 GB and lack of 3G Internet connectivity may soon feel like limiting your iPad experience.

However, adding functionality will quickly increase the price of the iPad, up to $829 plus 3G subscription plan.

Using this guide had helped you define the balance between extra functionality and extra cost, ensuring you can make an informed decision on what iPad to choose.