Is the iPad really that different from other tablets? Detailed device analysis. What's the difference between an iPod and an iPad?

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Modern electronic equipment so diverse that only a few users understand the new models. It’s unlikely that anyone will be able to immediately tell how an iPad differs from a tablet. The only thing is that in the first case we're talking about about Apple products, and in the second - about keyboardless mobile devices in general.

When there is no fundamental difference, all tablets are perceived the same. What is so special about the iPad? Why do owners of “Apple products” pointedly ignore the word “tablet”? It’s worth figuring out whether the touchscreen is really that good mobile computer Apple, according to his fans.

iPad Specifications:

Case color - metal, black or white (combination possible)
Maximum possible iOS version - 7.12
Battery life in the GSM network or 3G/4G is about 9 hours, in standby mode - 700-750 hours
Length - within 240-243 mm (mini model is limited to 200 mm)
Width - within 169-190 mm (mini model - 134.7 mm)
Weight - within 469-670 g (mini model - 312-341 g)
RAM - 512-1024 MB
Display diagonal - 9.7 inches (mini model - 7.9 inches)
Availability of Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, rear and front camera, accelerometer, light sensor, gyroscope, two speakers, microphone

If at first glance you can see the difference between a smartphone and a tablet, then the exceptional feature of the iPad seems like some kind of advertising gimmick. However, this device has its own nuances, because it’s not in vain that Apple developers put a lot of effort into creating it.

How does an iPad differ from a tablet in appearance:

The presence of a thin aluminum body. Thanks to this, the iPad is somewhat thinner compared to others tablet computers(the second and third are only 8.6 mm, and the third and fourth are 9.4 mm).

Standard rectangular shape. The second, third and fourth iPads have common feature: length 241 mm and width 186 mm. Standard dimensions are maintained to within a tenth of a millimeter.

Availability Apple logo on the back cover. It's hard not to notice the famous bitten apple, which is used as a logo by only one company in the world.

Black or White color housings. Unlike competing organizations that offer customers all kinds of shades of tablets, Apple sticks only to the declared classic colors.

Tempered glass on the screen for increased protection against scratches and cracks during operation. The durability of every iPad model is beyond doubt. Thin glass allows touch screen respond to touch, but at the same time maintains its integrity even when frequent contact with sharp objects.

Let them often greet you based on their clothes, but sooner or later they begin to greet you based on your mind. It's time to talk about the internal structure of the iPad. If with external design you can reconcile to please functionality, then the shortcomings of the operating system or hardware of the device are more significant. However, the advantages of a mobile PC, combined with practicality, can far outweigh all the disadvantages of its appearance.

Hardware and system differences between a tablet and an iPad

The operating system is rightly called the soul of technology. You can change the “internal organs”, update some details, but without good software none of this will be so important. In general, on tablets you can find one of three OS options:

Windows.
Android.

This is where the main catch lies! On the one side, installed iOS guarantees user-friendly interface and good performance. On the other hand, most mobile devices are designed to work on the Android system, so iPads are somewhat inferior in terms of capabilities. The same mobile applications, which are developed separately Apple Corporation, cost money, which hits the pockets of apple product lovers. For regular tablets, there is a lot of free software and programs on the Internet, including flash players.

The functional difference between the iPad and competing tablets is as follows:

Despite many shortcomings, the iPad has a number of advantages that can attract new fans. Apple products are known all over the world, so the number of developments specifically for these devices is constantly growing. Not only is the number of applications increasing App Store, but also expanding positions in the range of accessories.

Since 2010, 7 generations of iPad have been released, four generations iPad mini and two generations iPad Pro:

iPad 1G, released in 2 varieties: Wi-Fi model and 3G model
iPad 2 received 4 varieties at once: a model with Wi-Fi only, a model with support for 3G GSM, a CDMA model, as well as a second revision of the Wi-Fi model
iPad 3 ( The new iPad) had three varieties: Wi-Fi, Cellular for GSM networks and Cellular for CDMA networks
iPad 4 (iPad with Retina display) and iPad mini were produced in three other varieties: Wi-Fi, the “global” Cellular model and the “American” Cellular model
iPad Air, iPad mini 2 (previously sold under the name iPad mini with Retina display), iPad mini 3 and 9.7" iPad Pro are released in three varieties: a model with Wi-Fi, a “global” LTE model and an “Asian” model with support for additional TD-LTE bands
iPad Air 2, iPad mini 4, iPad 5, 12.9" iPad Pro first generation and both iPad Pro second generation are produced in two varieties: a model with Wi-Fi and a universal LTE model
iPad Pro with Face ID has four hardware models

The first generation iPad did not yet have a streamlined body; on the contrary, it had clearly defined side walls. Wi-Fi and 3G models can be easily distinguished by the absence or presence on the back wall of a large plastic insert for the modem antenna, as well as a tray for a SIM card.

It differs from the iPad 1G in both the thickness and the design of the case, which has no side walls. The speaker has moved to the back wall of the device, where it is located under numerous perforated holes. The two subsequent generations of iPad received a similar design without significant changes, so it is more reliable to distinguish them by the model code printed on small print on the back surface of the gadget:

A1395 - for Wi-Fi models
A1396 - for GSM model
A1397 - for CDMA model

Second revision of iPad 2 (iPad 2 Rev A), which went on sale in the spring of 2012, is equipped with a different variety Apple processor A5 is less susceptible to jailbreak. It is impossible to distinguish this model externally; you need to connect to a computer and use utilities like redsn0w. Download redsn0w for OS X or Windows, run the utility. Go to the Extras-Even more-Identify menu, in the window that opens, scroll down the text and look at the value in the ProductType line. If there is “iPad2,1”, this is an old version of the iPad 2 Wi-Fi model, and if “iPad2,4” is a new one.

iPad 3, which was originally distributed under the brand "The new iPad", when turned off, can be distinguished from the iPad 2 only by the model code engraved at the bottom of the back of the device:

A1416 - for Wi-Fi models
A1430 - for GSM model
A1403 - for CDMA model

When turned on, the difference between the iPad 2 and iPad 3 is visible to the naked eye thanks to the Retina display with a resolution of 2048x1536 pixels.

iPad 4 - modified iPad version 3, which went on sale just 7 months after the release of The new iPad. Main differences iPad with Retina display- in the filling of the gadget, but there is also an essential external difference between iPad 4 and iPad 3 is a port for connecting to a computer. The iPad 4 uses a small Lightning port.

The iPad 4 is available in 3 varieties, but the principle of their separation differs from the iPad 3. You can also distinguish them by the model code on the back wall:

A1458 - for Wi-Fi models
A1459 - "American" Cellular model
A1460 - "global" Cellular model with CDMA support

The “American” and “global” iPad 4 models differ in the list of supported LTE (4G) communication bands. Unfortunately, none of them can work in Russian LTE networks.

The fifth-generation iPad has received a name and a long-awaited design update. This iPad looks most like a larger version of the iPad mini. The size of the frame around the display has decreased, the thickness of the device has decreased, and paired stereo speakers have appeared in the lower part of the case.

iPad Air is available in 3 varieties, and the principle of their division is again different from previous generations. You can also distinguish them by the model code on the back wall:

A1474 - for Wi-Fi models
A1475 - for LTE models
A1476 - for TD-LTE models aimed at Southeast Asia

LTE- iPad model Air is universal, it supports all regional 3G and LTE bands.

Sixth in a row iPad generation got the name. It differs from the previous iPad Air in reduced thickness, changed speaker design, and missing switch. silent mode. But the most noticeable and most useful change is the Touch ID scanner on the Home button.

iPad Air comes in only 2 varieties:

A1566 - for Wi-Fi models
A1567 - for LTE models

The iPad Air 2 LTE model is also universal; it supports almost all LTE bands used in the world.

You can distinguish iPads from all other iPads very simply by their size. In addition, all the buttons on the iPad mini are made not of plastic, but of metal. The first generation iPad mini does not have a Retina display.

There are three varieties of the first generation iPad mini, differing in the code on the back wall:

A1453 - Wi-Fi model
A1454 - "American" Cellular model
A1455 - "global" Cellular model with CDMA support

The “American” and “global” iPad mini models also differ in the list of supported LTE (4G) communication bands.

When turned off, it looks no different from the iPad mini 1G. Once you turn it on, you can't help but notice the Retina display with a pixel density of 326 ppi. Previously, the gadget was sold under the name iPad mini with Retina display, but after the release of iPad mini 3 it was renamed iPad mini 2.

There are two types of iPad mini, differing by the code on the back wall:

A1489 - Wi-Fi model
A1490 - LTE model

As with the iPad Air, the LTE model of the iPad mini 2G is universal, supporting all regional 3G and LTE bands.

In fact is a copy of the iPad mini 2, it contains the same equipment, it has absolutely the same characteristics. There are only two differences between the third and second generations of iPad mini: the Touch ID scanner and new color cases - gold.

Three hardware models of the iPad mini 3 are available:

A1599 - Wi-Fi model
A1600 - LTE model for sale in most countries around the world
A1601 - LTE model for Southeast Asian markets

LTE models of iPad mini 3 are also universal; they will work in any country with local operators without any restrictions.

It differs from its predecessor not only in more powerful filling, but also in dimensions - it is a little longer and thinner. The most important visual difference is the absence of a hardware silent switch. At the end of the iPad mini 4 you will only find volume control buttons.

There are two hardware models of iPad mini 4:

A1538 - Wi-Fi model
A1550 - LTE model

The iPad line has replaced the iPad Air. First, a 12.9-inch model was introduced with incredibly powerful hardware, which is difficult not to distinguish from the rest Apple tablets. The iPad Pro debuted completely new port – Smart Connector on the side of the device is designed to connect compatible keyboards.

Later, a smaller version of the tablet with a diagonal of 9.7 inches was presented. In terms of dimensions and weight, it fully corresponds to the iPad Air 2, but it is easy to distinguish thanks to the protruding camera lens (like on the iPhone 6/6s/Plus) and the presence of a dual flash.

The 12.9-inch iPad Pro comes in two hardware models:

A1584 - Wi-Fi model (32, 128 or 256 GB capacity)
A1652 - LTE model (available with 128 or 256 GB of memory)

The 9.7-inch iPad Pro comes in three hardware models with 32, 128 or 256 GB of internal memory:

A1673 - Wi-Fi model
A1675 - LTE model (for China)
A1674 - LTE model (for the rest of the world)

iPad 5 (2017 model)

The iPad 5 has completely confused the situation in the iPad line. This is not the fifth generation of iPad at all, but Apple calls it the fifth because it wants to finally abandon iPad lines Air and return to previous numbering principles (and before the iPad Air there was just the iPad 4). But also new iPad it cannot be recognized, because even in comparison with the iPad Air 2 it is a step back. In fact it's budget model iPad in a case from first iPad Air, but with updated filling. The easiest way to distinguish iPad 5 from iPad Air is by availability of Touch ID and lack of hardware volume switch; otherwise the devices are identical in appearance.

iPad 5 comes in just two hardware models:

A1822 - Wi-Fi model
A1823 - model with LTE module

iPad Pro (Generation 2)

The second generation was presented simultaneously in two sizes. The usual 9.7-inch form factor has been replaced by a completely new display size - 10.5 inches. The 12.9-inch iPad Pro model is practically no different in characteristics from the smaller version (unlike the first generation) and has a similar design. These are the first in iPad stories, which began to be released with 512 GB of internal memory (in addition to models with 64 and 256 GB).

The second-generation 12.9-inch iPad Pro comes in two hardware models:

A1670 - Wi-Fi model
A1821 - LTE model

The 10.5-inch iPad Pro also comes in two hardware models:

A1701 - Wi-Fi model
A1709 - LTE model

iPad 6 (2018 model)

The sixth iPad is the successor to the fifth budget generation Apple tablets. The iPad Air form factor is still used, but the sixth model differs from the fifth, firstly, more powerful processor A10 Fusion (similar to iPhone 7), secondly, support for the Apple Pencil stylus.

iPad 6 comes in two hardware models:

A1893 - Wi-Fi model
A1954 - model with LTE module

iPad Pro (3rd generation)

The third generation is the most radical redesign in the history of all iPads. Firstly, this is an iPad with Face ID, and the scanner works in both portrait and landscape orientation, which even the iPhone cannot do. Secondly, this is the first iOS device to use USB-C connector. Like previous iPad Pros, the tablets came in two variants, this time 11- and 12.9-inch. In addition, it doubled and maximum volume memory, it has now reached 1 terabyte.

The third generation 12.9-inch iPad Pro comes in 4 hardware models:

A1876 - Wi-Fi model
A1983 - LTE model for China
A2014 - LTE model for America
A1895 - LTE model for the rest of the world

The 11-inch iPad Pro also comes in 4 hardware models:

A1980 - Wi-Fi model
A1979 - LTE model for China
A2013 - LTE model for America
A1934 - LTE model for the rest of the world

The era of new technologies has firmly penetrated everyday life. Just recently, cell phones Cell phones And personal computers were a curiosity, but today almost everyone has them. Science and technology development do not stand still. But not everyone is still well versed in the latest trends. For example, few people can say how a tablet differs from an iPad. This issue needs to be addressed. For this, for example, you can use company tablets based on the Android platform.

Apple has created one of the best devices, which has ever gone on sale. However, this also set the wheel of competition in motion. Literally immediately after the release of the iPad, certain competitions began all over the world between various manufacturers, whose goal was to gain this market segment. However, the extremely highly rated products of Apple itself remained out of reach for ordinary people. Today, fortunately, there is great amount various tablets based on the Android platform. And these products are absolutely not inferior in their parameters to the famous iPad.

What is the difference between a tablet and an iPad? The first item should be the cost. Enough low price Android tablets have always been one of the main reasons for consumer attention to them. The iPad is made with the elite in mind. In fact, during the era of the iPad, only very wealthy people could afford to buy one. Naturally, the company has now sufficiently reduced the price, but it is still much higher than the cost of other tablet devices.

What is the difference between a tablet and an iPad? The second position can be called the degree of freedom. This is a factor that prevents customers from choosing Apple products and inclines them in favor of tablets with the Android operating system. When purchasing an iPad, users become tied to a certain system. This means that the user is doomed to use the app store exclusively. iTunes store to purchase software. On the other hand, Android is somewhat dependent on Google. However, the number of various applications for the Android OS is much larger, new ones are constantly being developed, and old ones are being transformed.

What is the difference between a tablet and an iPad? As a third point, we must mention the multitasking mode, which has always been weak side iPad. iOS ( operating system, installed on the iPad) works well for phones, but not for tablets. But tablets with the Android system are often equipped multi-core processors, which helps improve multitasking. Latest versions This operating system is focused specifically on this mode.

And finally, to tell everything about tablets and iPads, the properties of batteries can be called a point of comparison. They are much stronger and more durable on tablets with Android OS than on iPads. iPads have a non-replaceable battery and are quite expensive, unlike Android tablets, in which the battery can be replaced very cheaply and easily. That is why this system Best suited for devices such as internet tablets.

All of us have probably heard at least once about such a high-tech gadget as the iPad from Apple. Another thing is that if you are far from the world of high-tech, you can hardly tell much about this device, since you have been asking a question for a long time - what is the difference between an ordinary Android tablet and a branded iPad? In a nutshell, by and large there is no difference, because the iPad is the same tablet. But if you just go a little deeper into the details (and that’s what we’ll do now), you can discover a decent number of features that quite allow the iPad to be considered a unique device.

Appearance

Let's start with the appearance. Thanks to the thoughtful decisions of designers working for the giant of the modern industry - Apple, today a real iPad can be seen from afar. All thanks to the fact that this tablet It is equipped with a thin silver aluminum body, which not only looks elegant, but also provides the device with very good durability. The back wall of the case is decorated with the legendary company logo – a bitten apple. This laptop computer is available in colors: white, black, and gold. If the main thing for you in a tablet is bright and catchy colors, and in general you are for a variety of cases, then you can easily choose a gadget from another manufacturer.

operating system

Next, let's look at the very heart of any laptop computer, namely its operating system. As you know, today only two operating systems have achieved relative distribution and popularity: Android and iOS. Each of them has its own characteristics, but specifically we will focus on iOS system, and also compare its capabilities with those of other operating systems, since the main difference between the iPad and any other tablet lies precisely in it.

As you know, iOS is a development by Apple. One of the advantages of iOS is its fairly simple and intuitive controls, which even a person who has never dealt with before can easily get used to. laptop computers, as well as a huge list of opportunities that open up to iPad owners. Take for example a store AppStore applications, created for those who use i-devices. In this application store, you can easily download any game or program you like, without worrying that it will probably not run on your device. With gadgets running Android OS, things are a little different. It may well turn out that, even if you have one of the most powerful tablets, you still won’t be able to run some game just because it conflicts with the OS architecture of your particular model (or an entire line of models). Of all operating systems, iOS stands out for its convenient functionality, a large list of supported programs and games for installation, and, of course, ease of use.

Display

The display parameters (resolution and brightness) of the iPad are at the same level as those of flagship Android devices. Although many people believe that only a brand new iPad can produce such a bright and clear picture. I repeat that we are talking specifically about flagships, and not about Chinese tablets for $100.

Functionality

In terms of functionality and performance, although the iPad shows excellent results, but still loses a little to Android devices. Here, for example, you cannot connect an SD card to expand the device’s memory, as owners of Android devices often do, but you have to be content with the original amount of memory. In addition, it is not possible to directly transfer information from a computer to an iPad - you need to use iTunes program. Yes, and just transfer files from one mobile device It won't work on another one.

Another disadvantage is the lack of support for a flash player, which makes watching movies online a serious problem. But the iPad also has enough advantages. The most significant of them are complete absence viruses that are simply not supported, frequent updates operating system and, of course, stable work applications, which not every Android device can guarantee you.

Price

The last and for many decisive difference between the iPad and regular tablet- this is its cost. If you are ready to pay from 12 to 30 thousand rubles for all the above-mentioned delights, then the iPad will become your faithful assistant. If not, then devices on Android based, average price which starts from 3 thousand rubles.

Video iOS comparison and Android tablets

The confrontation between Android and iOS exists not only in the smartphone market, but also in the tablet market. The only representative from Apple is the iPad, and it deals with several different models available on Android. We've found several reasons why buying an Android tablet makes more sense. We hope they will help you decide.

A large assortment

It's no secret that there are simply an unrealistic number of Android tablet manufacturers, which gives users huge selection, while models from Apple can be counted on one hand. When purchasing an Android tablet, there are many more options to choose from, such as body materials, design, various characteristics, a set of pre-installed software, etc. In addition, we have a considerable variation in terms of dimensions. On the market you can find models from 7 to 12 inches.

Thus, a large assortment is one of the reasons why you should take a closer look at an Android tablet, since everyone can find a model to their liking. With an iPad, you won't be able to appreciate the variety of tablets that are certainly available in Google OS products.

Wide price range

As for the cost, there are models on Android for almost any wallet, starting from 2000-3000 rubles. and ending with 30,000 rubles. and higher. Thus, anyone can afford a tablet, which cannot be said about the adherents of the Apple company. Although the prices for the iPad correspond to the quality, not everyone can afford it. Considering that the saving factor is always important, you are guaranteed to be able to find suitable model on Android.

It is also worth noting that when choosing an Android tablet, you only pay for those functions that you will actually use. That is, if you are not going to perform complex tasks that require large resources, or play demanding games, but only use the device to navigate the Internet, then there is no need to overpay for the latest hardware. You can choose a tablet from the average price category, which will fully meet your expectations and meet your requirements. iPad users are required to pay for everything at once, even for functionality that they may never use.

Freedom in terms of software

Speaking of the large assortment and price range, one cannot ignore this important aspect operating room Android systems in general, as freedom in terms of software. You can easily expand your usage experience, for example, change appearance desktop using launcher () , add useful widgets, change icons, animations, menus and much more that is not available iOS users. Thus, we are once again faced with restrictions from the Cupertino company.

Among other things, many manufacturing companies create their own software that expands the capabilities of the tablet and brings new features to it. In other words, there are not only some differences in cosmetic terms, but also more significant changes. Typically, many companies add their own energy saving modes, multitasking, for example, or various gestures.

Overall, for users who like to personalize and customize everything, an Android tablet is a great option. Add to this full control over the system as root rights (yes, iOS has a jailbreak, but even that has its limitations) and even access performance-related options. You can increase the processor power in resource-intensive applications or, conversely, limit its operation in case of saving battery power. Of course, this kind of feature is not available on the iPad.

Android is a tablet for everyone

The final argument may be the audience. For example, for the youngest users it will be preferable to purchase some inexpensive tablet on Android. The Play Store has specially designed apps for children (coloring books, puzzles, drawing programs, games and much more), which can perform for both educational and entertainment purposes.

In addition, a filter was announced for searching the store depending on the user's age, as well as a special section for children, so that adults do not worry about what content is available to their child and allow him to search and install applications himself.

Conclusion

What can we say in the end? If you're happy with a closed operating system where you can only do what the company allows; if it's not a problem for you that the majority good apps will be paid; If you don’t see the benefits of freedom of choice between models and prices, then it’s better to stick with the iPad.

If you want a tablet that will not limit you in anything and will give you complete freedom of action; which will correspond to your financial capabilities; which children can easily use without your concerns about safety, then you should choose the Android option.