Buyer's guide: what to choose - iPad or iPad mini?

When Apple introduced the 4th generation iPad, many were outraged by how quickly the Cupertino decided to update its tablet computer. Previous version lasted only six months on the market - it's a real anti-record for the length of stay in the market of the product. Buyers all over the world faced a choice: to update its "troika" bought for 5-6 hundred dollars on a little different "four" or not. It was a very difficult dilemma.

But along with the iPad 4, Apple introduced the iPad mini - a product which, on the one hand, has given us more choice, and on the other - it has become more difficult to do this is the choice.

We have prepared a guide to help you decide on buying a tablet. What to bring - big iPad 4 with Retina-screen or mobile iPad mini? Ultimately, it all comes down to what it is you want from your device. And we will help you understand what you really want.

similarities

To begin, you must understand that you will get both the iPad Retina, and on the iPad mini. As for the space on the disk drive, you can buy versions with 16, 32 or 64 GB of internal memory. Recently, you can buy the iPad Retina and 128 GB of internal memory.

Although the iPad mini and a relatively small device, it is not without a good opportunity to take pictures. in iSight camera, for iPad and iPad mini boasts a 5-megapixel, autofocus, face detection, backlit, hybrid IR filter and iris f/2.4. FaceTime HD camera lets you capture 1.2 Megapixel photos and video from the HD-resolution. iPad and iPad mini main camera shoots video in Full HD 1080p.

Both devices are available from mobile operators AT & T, Sprint and Verizon and have the same wireless interfaces and mobile capabilities, including Bluetooth 4.0 technology. iPad and iPad min work up to 10 hours on a single full charge Internet surfing mode, video viewing and listening music.

Each device is equipped with a Lightning-connector, through which you can connect your tablet to a computer or power adapter. Siri is also available on both devices.

Finally, on the iPad and iPad mini, you can run any application from the App Store - but because of the size of the screen and the iron fillings, the user experience may vary.

Screen

The biggest difference between the iPad and iPad mini is the pixel density. Display iPad mini - is 7.9 inches with a resolution of 1024 × 768 pixels. Its density is 163 pixels per inch. iPad with Retina-screen comes with 9.7 inch screen, a resolution of 2048 × 1536 pixels and a density of 264 pixels per inch.

For everyday use, the difference between 2-inch screen is not important, but the experience of the use of some of the things may be different. So, if you're using the tablet as a media player - watch movies, edit photos, the iPad Retina is the best choice. The reason is simple: on the big screen, you will see more content. In addition, it is the best choice in terms of performance, and to navigate this tablet will suit better.

However, iPad mini screen displays the content, too bad, and it may be the best option if you'll be more likely to use it on the go. iPad mini is better suited for gaming, because more like a mobile game console than the relatively bulky iPad Retina.

Keep in mind that according to some sources, at the end of this year, Apple may release iPad mini with a Retina-screen, so it might make sense to wait for the tablet version. But most likely, in Cupertino do not do.

Power and speed

On the iPad Retina uses dual-core A6X with quad-core graphics and a iron equipment is undoubtedly stronger than in the iPad mini with its A5. But this should not surprise you too, on the iPad mini and «mini». If the speed and performance of most important for you, then choose the iPad Retina.

Nevertheless, it is worth saying that the mini has the same features as its big brother, but some of the operations it performs are not as fast as Retina.

physical dimensions

Naturally, the iPad mini is much smaller than its older brother. His more shares can be called "mobile" device than the iPad Retina. It fits easily in your pocket, purse or backpack. If you are concerned about a smaller screen than the Retina, you can always connect the mini to a TV via AirPlay and Apple TV.

The physical size - is a very interesting aspect, which contains a lot of interesting points. Someone, for example, even compared with the mini iPhone - iPad can do the same as the iPhone, can not only make calls. And if you compare with the iPad mini Samsung Galaxy Note, it turns out that the difference is only 2 inches between them. It's amazing and it shows how much more logical to built an ecosystem of Apple products.

the Retina iPad has the classic dimensions of the iPad and the main difference between it and the mini, as already mentioned, is the screen.

Price

For many buyers, the price difference will be the most important argument for choosing a tablet. The price of iPad mini starts at $ 329 for the Wi-Fi model with 16 GB of memory and ends with $ 659 for the model with Wi-Fi and 4G 64 GB of memory on board. The price of iPad Retina varies from 499 to 929 $.

You need to ask ourselves whether these are 170 and 270 dollars of the sacrifice which you bring in return for performance and display? In many cases, the answer to this question will help you make the right choice, but again, it all depends on how you plan to use your iPad.

Ultimately, iPad mini is Apple product for those customers who are already familiar with the iOS ecosystem, but is considered too large iPad Retina device. iPad Retina is designed for those who want to get a good experience of working with a tablet computer with a big screen and peak performance.

The third option

Though Apple and ceased to produce third-generation iPad, you can still buy the iPad 2. Many say that the iPad 2 is not suitable for serious problems, and in principle, they are right. But it would be enough to solve common tasks. I was at the iPad 2 itself, and you can not worry - for viewing email, web surfing and simple games it is enough.

iPad 2 is supplied to processor A5 - same as on iPad mini. It is available only in the version of 16 GB, it's a little thinner and lighter iPad Retina, but deprived of many opportunities to take pictures. But you must admit, it's not the most important thing for a tablet.

The price of the new iPad 2 is 399 and 529 dollars for the Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi + 3G version respectively. In the secondary market, you can find the iPad 2 and for far less money.

Total

We hope that this guide will help you make the right purchase and you will get all what you expect from the device. Share your thoughts in the comments about what a tablet should still choose which use themselves and why.