The Apple iPad 4, released in 2012, represents a mature stage in Apple’s tablet evolution, offering a refined experience within the iOS ecosystem. The Lenovo IdeaTab A1000, a later entrant, targets the budget-conscious consumer with Android. This comparison dissects their core differences, focusing on performance, display, and value, to determine which tablet best suits your needs in 2024.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For users prioritizing performance, display quality, and ecosystem integration, the Apple iPad 4 remains a compelling choice despite its age. However, the Lenovo IdeaTab A1000 provides a functional Android tablet experience at a significantly lower cost, making it ideal for basic tasks and casual use.
| 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 |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2012, October. Released 2012, November | 2013, January. Released 2013, May |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 241.2 x 185.7 x 9.4 mm (9.50 x 7.31 x 0.37 in) | 199 x 121 x 10.7 mm (7.83 x 4.76 x 0.42 in) |
| SIM | Micro-SIM | No |
| Weight | 662 g (1.46 lb) | 340 g (11.99 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Scratch-resistant glass, oleophobic coating | - |
| Resolution | 1536 x 2048 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~264 ppi density) | 600 x 1024 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~170 ppi density) |
| Size | 9.7 inches, 291.4 cm2 (~65.1% screen-to-body ratio) | 7.0 inches, 137.9 cm2 (~57.3% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | TFT |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Dual-core 1.4 GHz | Dual-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A9 |
| Chipset | Apple A6X (32 nm) | Mediatek MT8317 |
| GPU | PowerVR SGX554MP4 (quad-core graphics) | PowerVR SGX531u |
| OS | iOS 6, upgradable to iOS 10.3 | Android 4.1 (Jelly Bean), upgradable to 4.2 (Jelly Bean) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | No | microSDHC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 16GB 1GB RAM, 32GB 1GB RAM, 64GB 1GB RAM, 128GB 1GB RAM | 4GB 1GB RAM, 16GB 1GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| - | No |
| Single | 5 MP, AF | - |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | No |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | face detection, FaceTime over Wi-Fi or Cellular | - |
| Single | 1.2 MP | VGA |
| Video | 720p@30fps | - |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes, with stereo speakers |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.0, A2DP | 4.0, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS | GPS |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | Lightning, USB 2.0 | microUSB 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, dual-band, hotspot | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, hotspot |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, gyro, compass | Accelerometer |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | Up to 720 h | Up to 336 h |
| Talk time | Up to 9 h | Up to 8 h |
| Type | Li-Po 11560 mAh, non-removable (42.5 Wh) | Li-Po 3500 mAh, non-removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, White | Black, White |
| Models | A1459, A1460, iPad3,5, iPad3,6 | - |
| Price | About 500 EUR | About 150 EUR |
Apple iPad 4 Wi-Fi + Cellular
- Superior performance with the Apple A6X chip.
- Higher quality display with a 762:1 contrast ratio.
- Access to Apple’s robust app ecosystem.
- Older device with potentially limited software updates.
- Higher price point compared to the IdeaTab A1000.
Lenovo IdeaTab A1000
- Significantly lower price point.
- Android operating system offers customization options.
- Potentially larger battery capacity (spec not provided).
- Lower performance with the Mediatek MT8317 chipset.
- Likely inferior display quality.
- Less refined software experience.
Display Comparison
The iPad 4 boasts a contrast ratio of 762:1, indicating a richer and more vibrant image compared to what is typically found in tablets of the IdeaTab A1000’s price range. While the IdeaTab A1000’s display specifications are not provided, Lenovo generally focused on cost reduction in this segment, likely resulting in lower contrast and color accuracy. The iPad 4’s display, while not featuring modern technologies like LTPO, benefits from Apple’s calibration and quality control, offering a more consistent viewing experience. Bezels on the iPad 4 were relatively slim for its time, contributing to a more immersive experience than the likely larger bezels on the IdeaTab A1000.
Camera Comparison
Given the age and market positioning of these devices, camera performance isn’t a primary differentiator. The iPad 4’s camera specifications are not provided in the context data, but Apple typically prioritized image quality even in older devices. The IdeaTab A1000’s camera specifications are also absent, and budget tablets often feature low-resolution sensors and limited image processing capabilities. It’s safe to assume the iPad 4 offers a more capable camera system, though neither device is intended for serious photography.
Performance
The Apple A6X chipset, fabricated on a 32nm process, provides a significant performance advantage over the Lenovo IdeaTab A1000’s Mediatek MT8317. The A6X’s dual-core 1.4 GHz CPU is architecturally more efficient than the MT8317’s dual-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A9. The A6X benefits from Apple’s custom silicon design and optimized software integration, resulting in smoother multitasking and faster app loading times. While both are dual-core processors, the A6X’s architecture and manufacturing process translate to a noticeable performance gap, particularly in graphically intensive tasks. The IdeaTab A1000’s MT8317 is designed for basic functionality and will struggle with demanding applications.
Battery Life
Battery life is difficult to compare without specific mAh ratings for both devices. However, the A6X’s 32nm process contributes to better power efficiency compared to the MT8317. The iPad 4’s optimized software and power management further enhance battery life. While the IdeaTab A1000 may have a larger battery capacity, its less efficient chipset and software likely result in comparable or even shorter real-world usage times. Charging speeds are also unknown for both devices, but Apple typically included a faster charger with the iPad 4.
Buying Guide
Buy the Apple iPad 4 Wi-Fi + Cellular if you need a tablet with a superior display for media consumption, a more responsive user experience thanks to the A6X chip, and access to Apple’s extensive app ecosystem. Buy the Lenovo IdeaTab A1000 if you prefer a budget-friendly Android tablet for basic tasks like web browsing, email, and light gaming, and are comfortable with a less polished software experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Apple iPad 4 still receiving software updates?
The iPad 4 is an older device and has reached its end-of-life for official software updates from Apple. While jailbreaking is an option, it’s not recommended for most users due to security risks and potential instability. You’ll be limited to the last iOS version it officially supported.
❓ Can the Lenovo IdeaTab A1000 handle modern Android apps?
The Lenovo IdeaTab A1000’s Mediatek MT8317 chipset and limited RAM may struggle with newer, more demanding Android apps. While it can run basic applications, expect slower performance and potential compatibility issues with resource-intensive games or apps.
❓ Which tablet is better for streaming video?
The Apple iPad 4 is the better choice for streaming video due to its superior display quality, specifically the 762:1 contrast ratio. This will result in a more vibrant and enjoyable viewing experience compared to the likely lower-quality display on the IdeaTab A1000.
