There are now more iPad options that ever, from the $249 entry-level iPad Mini to the $829 version of new iPad Air 2
Apple’s unveiling of the larger iPad Air 2 this week has brought the total variations of the popular tablet to 56, with five models, four memory choices and three colors. The most affordable is the $249 iPad Mini and the top-of-the-line iPad Air 2 costs $829.
Not surprisingly, the costliest iPad carries the most upgrades. Forbes’ Max Rogowsky observes that it comes with Apple’s fastest processor, A8X, slightly more powerful than chips in the iPhone 6 and 6 Plus, better Retina display that improves screen reflections thanks to a new coating and screen design, and a upgraded camera with higher resolution, slow-motion and could very well be “the camera from the iPhone 5S.”
The iPad Mini 3 adds a new function in TouchID and, similar to the 9.7-inch iPad Air 2, is available in gold/white, silver/white or space grey/black colors. The original 7.9-inch iPad Mini comes in only 16GB configuration but can be upgraded to built-in 4G.
Rogowsky suggests that built-in 4G, which costs an extra $130, is not necessary unless the buyer plans to travel extensively in areas without WiFi. Most smartphones can become WiFi hotspots, although the downside is it uses battery life and can sometimes be unreliable.
Meanwhile, the Retina Mini was renamed Mini 2 and is still available along with the original iPad Air – at lower price points and without a 64GB version. “The $150 price cut on the 32GB models is especially appealing for those looking to get a highly functional iPad at a great price,” Rogowsky writes.
Forbes created an infographic to guide iPad buyers. Starting with the preferred size, buyers are advised to choose which year’s model they want. Rogowsky advises “spending the extra $50 or $100 to get a 32GB or 64GB model” over the 16GB variant.
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