The iPad revolutionized mobile computing, and both the iPad 4 and iPad 2 were pivotal devices in that journey. But with newer iPads available, are these older models still worth considering? This comparison dives deep into their features, performance, and overall value to help you decide.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The iPad 4 is the clear winner, offering a significantly faster processor, a better display, and improved camera capabilities. While the iPad 2 remains functional, the iPad 4's performance and features justify its slightly higher price (if you can find one).
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 - A1459/ A1460 | N/A |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 - A1459/ A1460 | - |
| 4G bands | 4, 17 - A1459 | - |
| EDGE | - | No |
| GPRS | - | No |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE, EV-DO Rev.A 3.1 Mbps | - |
| Technology | GSM / CDMA / HSPA / EVDO / LTE | No cellular connectivity |
| | LTE 700 / 850 / 1800 / 1900 / 2100 - A1460 | - |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2012, October. Released 2012, November | 2011, March. Released 2011, March |
| 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 8.8 mm (9.50 x 7.31 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | Micro-SIM | No |
| Weight | 662 g (1.46 lb) | 601 g (1.32 lb) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Scratch-resistant glass, oleophobic coating | Scratch-resistant glass, oleophobic coating |
| Resolution | 1536 x 2048 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~264 ppi density) | 768 x 1024 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~132 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 1.4 GHz | Dual-core 1.0 GHz Cortex-A9 |
| Chipset | Apple A6X (32 nm) | Apple A5 (45 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR SGX554MP4 (quad-core graphics) | PowerVR SGX543MP2 |
| OS | iOS 6, upgradable to iOS 10.3 | iOS 4, upgradable to iOS 9.3.5 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | No | No |
| Internal | 16GB 1GB RAM, 32GB 1GB RAM, 64GB 1GB RAM, 128GB 1GB RAM | 16GB 512MB RAM, 32GB 512MB RAM, 64GB 512MB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP, AF | 0.7 MP |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 720p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | face detection, FaceTime over Wi-Fi or Cellular | - |
| Single | 1.2 MP | VGA |
| Video | 720p@30fps | - |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | - | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.0, A2DP | 2.1, A2DP, EDR |
| NFC | No | - |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS | No |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | Lightning, USB 2.0 | 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, dual-band, hotspot | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, dual-band |
| Features |
|---|
| Browser | - | HTML (Safari) |
| 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 10 h |
| Type | Li-Po 11560 mAh, non-removable (42.5 Wh) | Non-removable Li-Po 6930 mAh battery (25 Wh) |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, White | Black, White |
| Models | A1459, A1460, iPad3,5, iPad3,6 | A1395, iPad2,1, iPad2,4 |
| Price | About 500 EUR | About 200 EUR |
| Tests |
|---|
| Audio quality |
Noise -85.7dB / Crosstalk -85.2dB | - |
| Display |
Contrast ratio: 762:1 (nominal) | - |
| Loudspeaker |
Voice 67dB / Noise 66dB / Ring 75dB
| - |
Apple iPad 4 Wi-Fi + Cellular
- Faster Processor
- Retina Display
- Improved Cameras
- Cellular Connectivity (Wi-Fi + Cellular model)
- Slightly better battery life
- Older Device
- Limited App Support compared to newer iPads
- May be harder to find
Apple iPad 2 Wi-Fi
- Budget-Friendly
- Simple and Easy to Use
- Compact and Lightweight
- Slower Performance
- Lower Resolution Display
- Basic Cameras
- No Cellular Option (Wi-Fi only)
Display Comparison
The iPad 4 boasts a Retina display, offering a significantly sharper and more vibrant visual experience compared to the iPad 2's standard display. The contrast ratio of 762:1 on the iPad 4 is also noticeably better, resulting in deeper blacks and more accurate colors. The iPad 2's display is adequate but lacks the clarity and detail of its successor.
Camera Comparison
The iPad 4 features a significantly improved front and rear camera compared to the iPad 2. The iPad 4's camera allows for better photos and videos, and the front-facing camera is more suitable for video calls. The iPad 2's cameras are basic and produce lower-quality images.
Performance
The iPad 4's A6X chip with a 1.4 GHz dual-core CPU provides a substantial performance boost over the iPad 2's A5 chip with a 1.0 GHz dual-core Cortex-A9. Apps launch faster, multitasking is smoother, and demanding games run more comfortably on the iPad 4. The iPad 2 can feel sluggish at times, especially with modern apps.
Battery Life
Both iPads offer respectable battery life for their time. While the iPad 4 has a slightly larger battery capacity, real-world usage shows similar battery performance for typical tasks. Expect around 10 hours of web browsing or video playback on both devices.
Buying Guide
The iPad 4 Wi-Fi + Cellular is ideal for users who need mobile data connectivity and appreciate a smoother, more responsive experience. The iPad 2 Wi-Fi is a budget-friendly option for basic tasks like web browsing and media consumption, particularly for those on a tight budget or needing a simple tablet for kids.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the iPad 4 still worth buying in [current year]?
If you're on a tight budget and need a basic tablet for web browsing and media consumption, the iPad 4 can still be a decent option. However, consider the limited app support and older technology.
❓ What are the main differences between the iPad 2 and iPad 4?
The key differences are the display (Retina vs. standard), processor speed, camera quality, and the availability of cellular connectivity in the iPad 4 model.
