Apple started selling two new iPads today.
The first is the fourth-generation iPad. It looks nearly identical to the iPad that launched in March, nicknamed the iPad 3, but it has the same new, tiny dock connector that's on the iPhone 5 and a much faster processor.
The second option is the iPad Mini, an iPad with a smaller 7.9-inch display and weaker internal specs than its big brother.
So, which one of the Apple's new miracle devices is for you?
Here's a quick guide to choosing the right iPad:
- If portability is your primary concern, obviously go for the iPad Mini. This is clearly the main feature of the device. With a screen measuring just 7.9 inches on the diagonal, it's small enough to easily fit in a purse or jacket pocket.
- If you want the most affordable Apple tablet, get the iPad Mini. Starting at $329, it's barely more expensive than an iPod Touch.
- If you want to run demanding apps and games, get the iPad 4. With its new A6X processor, it runs twice as fast as the previous generation iPad. The processor in the iPad mini is the same as the one in the older iPad 2.
- If you want to be online all the time, you'd do fine with either. Both the iPad Mini and the fourth-generation iPad offer 4G LTE cellular service plans. However, the iPad Mini with LTE won't ship for a few more weeks.
- If you want a really nice display for watching movies, get the iPad 4. It offers a beautiful Retina display that's packed with pixels. The iPad Mini's resolution is the same as the iPad 2.
By the way, Apple still sells the iPad 2 for $399. We suggest you skip it. Why? Because the iPad mini is a better value. It essentially has the same tech specs, just in a smaller shell. If you want a 10-inch tablet, it's best to bite the bullet and get the best one you can get—the $499 full-sized iPad 4.
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