The Apple iPad 3 and iPad 4 represent a pivotal era in iPad history, offering a blend of classic design and early tablet technology. Both models boast cellular connectivity, but significant internal upgrades differentiate them. This comparison dives deep into their features to help you decide which one is right for you.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The iPad 4 is the clear winner, offering a faster processor, slightly improved performance, and a better display. While the iPad 3 remains a capable device, the iPad 4's advancements make it a more compelling choice, especially considering their current vintage status.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 - A1459/ A1460 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 - A1459/ A1460 |
| 4G bands | 4, 17 - AT&T | 4, 17 - A1459 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE, EV-DO Rev.A 3.1 Mbps | HSPA, LTE, EV-DO Rev.A 3.1 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / CDMA / HSPA / EVDO / LTE | GSM / CDMA / HSPA / EVDO / LTE |
| | 13 - for Verizon | LTE 700 / 850 / 1800 / 1900 / 2100 - A1460 |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2012, March. Released 2012, March 16 | 2012, October. Released 2012, November |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 241.2 x 185.7 x 9.4 mm (9.50 x 7.31 x 0.37 in) | 241.2 x 185.7 x 9.4 mm (9.50 x 7.31 x 0.37 in) |
| SIM | Micro-SIM | Micro-SIM |
| Weight | 662 g (1.46 lb) | 662 g (1.46 lb) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Scratch-resistant glass, oleophobic coating | Scratch-resistant glass, oleophobic coating |
| Resolution | 1536 x 2048 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~264 ppi density) | 1536 x 2048 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~264 ppi density) |
| Size | 9.7 inches, 291.4 cm2 (~65.1% screen-to-body ratio) | 9.7 inches, 291.4 cm2 (~65.1% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Dual-core 1.0 GHz Cortex-A9 | Dual-core 1.4 GHz |
| Chipset | Apple A5X (45 nm) | Apple A6X (32 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR SGX543MP4 (quad-core graphics) | PowerVR SGX554MP4 (quad-core graphics) |
| OS | iOS 5.1, upgradable to iOS 9.3.5 | iOS 6, upgradable to iOS 10.3 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | No | No |
| Internal | 16GB 1GB RAM, 32GB 1GB RAM, 64GB 1GB RAM | 16GB 1GB RAM, 32GB 1GB RAM, 64GB 1GB RAM, 128GB 1GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP, AF | 5 MP, AF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | face detection, FaceTime over Wi-Fi or Cellular |
| Single | VGA, videocalling over Wi-Fi only | 1.2 MP |
| Video | 480p@30fps | 720p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.0, A2DP | 4.0, A2DP |
| NFC | - | No |
| Positioning | GPS, A-GPS | GPS, GLONASS |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | 2.0 | Lightning, USB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, dual-band, hotspot | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, dual-band, hotspot |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, gyro, compass | Accelerometer, gyro, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | Up to 720 h | Up to 720 h |
| Talk time | Up to 9 h | Up to 9 h |
| Type | Non-removable Li-Po 11560 mAh battery (42.5 Wh) | Li-Po 11560 mAh, non-removable (42.5 Wh) |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, White | Black, White |
| Models | A1430, A1403, iPad3,2, iPad3,3 | A1459, A1460, iPad3,5, iPad3,6 |
| Price | About 400 EUR | About 500 EUR |
| Tests |
|---|
| Audio quality | - |
Noise -85.7dB / Crosstalk -85.2dB |
| Camera |
Photo / Video | - |
| Display | - |
Contrast ratio: 762:1 (nominal) |
| Loudspeaker | - |
Voice 67dB / Noise 66dB / Ring 75dB
|
Apple iPad 3 Wi-Fi + Cellular
- More affordable
- Still functional for basic tasks
- Cellular connectivity
- Slower performance
- Older technology
- Less vibrant display
- Larger 45nm process
Apple iPad 4 Wi-Fi + Cellular
- Faster processor (A6X)
- Better display contrast
- Slightly more modern design
- Smaller 32nm process
- More expensive than iPad 3
- Still a vintage device
- Limited app compatibility compared to newer iPads
Display Comparison
The iPad 4 features a noticeably improved display with a higher contrast ratio (762:1 vs. iPad 3's unspecified ratio). While both have Retina displays, the iPad 4's screen appears sharper and more vibrant. Colors are more accurate, and blacks are deeper, resulting in a more immersive viewing experience. The iPad 3's display is still good, but the iPad 4's is a clear upgrade.
Camera Comparison
Both iPads feature basic photo and video capabilities. Image quality is comparable, with limitations inherent to the older technology. Don't expect flagship-level camera performance from either device. Low-light performance is weak on both.
Performance
The A6X chip in the iPad 4 provides a significant performance boost over the A5X in the iPad 3. The iPad 4's 1.4 GHz dual-core processor is faster than the iPad 3's 1.0 GHz processor. This translates to snappier app loading times, smoother multitasking, and a more responsive overall user experience. While both are dual-core, the A6X's architecture and manufacturing process (32nm vs 45nm) contribute to the performance difference.
Battery Life
Battery life is generally comparable between the two models, offering around 10 hours of web browsing or video playback. However, the iPad 4's more efficient A6X chip *might* offer slightly better battery life under heavy use, but real-world differences are minimal.
Buying Guide
Who should buy the Apple iPad 3 Wi-Fi + Cellular? Those on a very tight budget seeking basic tablet functionality for browsing and light media consumption. Who should buy the Apple iPad 4 Wi-Fi + Cellular? Users wanting a slightly faster experience, better display quality, and a more modern feel, even within the vintage tablet market.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the iPad 3 or 4 better for gaming?
The iPad 4 is better for gaming due to its faster processor and slightly improved graphics performance. However, both are limited by their age and won't handle modern, demanding games well.
❓ Are there any significant differences in design?
The iPad 4 has slightly thinner bezels than the iPad 3, giving it a more modern look. The antenna lines are also different, with the iPad 4 having a cleaner design.
