The Apple iPad 2 and Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 10.1 represent pivotal moments in the tablet landscape. Released within a similar timeframe, these devices defined early expectations for portable computing. This comparison revisits their specifications and performance to assess their strengths and weaknesses in a modern context, acknowledging their age and the evolution of tablet technology.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user seeking a functional vintage tablet, the Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 10.1 CDMA edges out the iPad 2. Its Qualcomm MSM8960 Snapdragon S4 Plus chipset, with a 1.5 GHz dual-core Krait CPU, offers a noticeable performance advantage over the iPad 2’s 1.0 GHz Apple A5, making it more responsive for basic tasks.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | CDMA 800 / 1900 - SCH-I915, SPH-P500 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | CDMA2000 1xEV-DO - SCH-I915, SPH-P500 |
| 4G bands | - | 4, 13 - SCH-I915 |
| Speed | HSPA 14.4/2 Mbps | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat3 100/50 Mbps, EV-DO Rev.A 3.1 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA | GSM / CDMA / HSPA / EVDO / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2011, March. Released 2011, March | 2012. Released 2012 |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 241.2 x 185.7 x 8.8 mm (9.50 x 7.31 x 0.35 in) | 256.6 x 175.3 x 9.7 mm (10.10 x 6.90 x 0.38 in) |
| SIM | Micro-SIM | Yes |
| Weight | 607 g (1.34 lb) | 581.2 g (1.28 lb) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Scratch-resistant glass, oleophobic coating | - |
| Resolution | 768 x 1024 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~132 ppi density) | 800 x 1280 pixels, 16:10 ratio (~149 ppi density) |
| Size | 9.7 inches, 291.4 cm2 (~65.1% screen-to-body ratio) | 10.1 inches, 295.8 cm2 (~65.8% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | PLS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Dual-core 1.0 GHz Cortex-A9 | Dual-core 1.5 GHz Krait |
| Chipset | Apple A5 (45 nm) | Qualcomm MSM8960 Snapdragon S4 Plus |
| GPU | PowerVR SGX543MP2 | Adreno 225 |
| OS | iOS 4, upgradable to iOS 9.3.5 | Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | No | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 16GB 512MB RAM, 32GB 512MB RAM, 64GB 512MB RAM | 8GB 1GB RAM, 16GB 1GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Single | 0.7 MP | 3.15 MP |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 720p |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | VGA | VGA |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes, with stereo speakers |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 2.1, A2DP, EDR | 4.0, A2DP |
| NFC | - | No |
| Positioning | GPS, A-GPS | GPS |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | 2.0 | microUSB 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, dual-band | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct, hotspot |
| Features |
|---|
| Browser | HTML (Safari) | - |
| Sensors | Accelerometer, gyro, compass | Accelerometer, gyro, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | Up to 720 h | Up to 624 h |
| Talk time | Up to 9 h | Up to 12 h |
| Type | Non-removable Li-Po 6930 mAh battery (25 Wh) | Li-Ion 7000 mAh, non-removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, White | Black/Silver |
| Models | A1396, A1397, iPad2,2 | - |
| Price | About 370 EUR | - |
| SAR EU | 1.19 W/kg (body) | - |
Apple iPad 2 Wi-Fi + 3G
- Established iOS ecosystem
- Slightly higher contrast ratio (775:1)
- Brand recognition and legacy
- Slower processor (Apple A5)
- Older operating system
- Limited app compatibility
Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 10.1 CDMA
- Faster processor (Snapdragon S4 Plus)
- More responsive user experience
- CDMA network compatibility
- Older Android version
- Potentially lower display contrast
- Reliance on CDMA network
Display Comparison
The iPad 2 boasts a contrast ratio of 775:1, a respectable figure for its time, suggesting good black levels and image pop. However, the Galaxy Tab 2 10.1’s display specifications are less readily available, but given Samsung’s display expertise, it likely offered comparable or potentially superior color accuracy. Both devices lack the high resolutions and advanced panel technologies (like LTPO) found in modern tablets, resulting in lower pixel densities and wider bezels. The user experience will be similar in terms of viewing angles, but the iPad 2’s contrast ratio provides a slight edge in visual fidelity.
Camera Comparison
Both tablets feature basic cameras primarily intended for video calls. The iPad 2 is noted for having video recording capabilities, but specific details regarding resolution and quality are limited. The Galaxy Tab 2 10.1’s camera specifications are similarly sparse. Given the era, neither device is expected to deliver high-quality photographic results. The cameras are functional for basic video conferencing, but should not be considered a primary feature.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The iPad 2’s Apple A5, a 45nm dual-core 1.0 GHz Cortex-A9 processor, was a solid performer in 2011, but is significantly outpaced by the Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 10.1’s Qualcomm MSM8960 Snapdragon S4 Plus. The Snapdragon S4 Plus, with its 1.5 GHz dual-core Krait architecture, benefits from a more modern design and higher clock speed. This translates to faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and improved overall responsiveness on the Galaxy Tab 2 10.1. While both are dual-core, the Krait architecture is more efficient and powerful than the Cortex-A9. The Snapdragon’s more advanced manufacturing process (likely 28nm) also contributes to better thermal management.
Battery Life
Battery life is difficult to assess accurately without modern testing. The iPad 2’s battery capacity was a key selling point, but real-world usage varied significantly based on screen brightness and app usage. The Galaxy Tab 2 10.1’s battery capacity is also unknown, but the more efficient Snapdragon S4 Plus chipset could potentially offset any capacity differences. Charging times would have been considerably slower than modern tablets, likely taking several hours to reach a full charge. The CDMA connectivity on the Tab 2 10.1 may also impact battery life due to the power demands of cellular radios.
Buying Guide
Buy the Apple iPad 2 Wi-Fi + 3G if you prioritize the established iOS ecosystem and a slightly higher contrast ratio for media consumption, understanding its performance limitations. Buy the Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 10.1 CDMA if you prefer a more capable processor for multitasking and app responsiveness, and if CDMA network compatibility is a requirement, recognizing its reliance on an older Android version.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 10.1 still connect to a cellular network in 2024?
This is a significant concern. The Galaxy Tab 2 10.1 uses CDMA, a cellular technology largely phased out in favor of LTE and 5G. Compatibility will depend on your carrier and region. Many carriers have sunsetted their CDMA networks, rendering the cellular functionality unusable. Wi-Fi connectivity remains functional.
❓ Can I update the iPad 2 to a newer version of iOS?
No. The iPad 2 is limited to iOS 9.3.5, the final version of iOS it supports. This means you won't receive security updates or access to the latest apps. App compatibility is a growing issue, as many modern apps require newer iOS versions.
❓ Is the performance difference between the A5 and Snapdragon S4 Plus noticeable for everyday tasks?
Yes, the Snapdragon S4 Plus offers a demonstrably smoother experience. While both can handle basic web browsing and email, the Tab 2 10.1 will exhibit less lag when switching between apps or loading more complex web pages. The A5 in the iPad 2 will feel sluggish in comparison.
❓ What kind of storage options were available on these tablets?
The iPad 2 was available in 16GB, 32GB, and 64GB storage configurations. The Galaxy Tab 2 10.1 offered similar options, typically 16GB or 32GB, with microSD card expansion for additional storage. This expansion is a significant advantage for the Tab 2 10.1.
