We are just past halfway through the 60 day waiting period that Apple announced for the release of the WiFi iPad. While we don’t know everything about the device, we do know there are six different models split in half by a single feature: a GSM 3G cellular radio for data only. In the last 30 days, the first question many people have asked is “Are you going to get an iPad?” But if the answer is yes, the second question is almost always “Are you going to get the 3G?”
3G …
The choice to get 3G is tough. First off, the 3G radio will cost you an additional $130. It will also cost you some time if you have already decided to buy an iPad as soon as it is available; the 3G iPad is expected to be available about 30 days after the WiFi only version. This will likely mean you will have to wait until the end of April. It’s not a big deal, but it is something to consider if you aren’t the patient type.
But for that $130 you will get the ability to purchase a micro-SIM card you can use to connect to a 3G or Edge network much like an iPhone does today, but you can only use it for a data connection. One big advantage is that it is currently being offered contract free in the U.S. on AT&T’s network. Apple has also leveraged their relationship with AT&T to get some pretty good rates. They are offering a $14.99/month for up to 250MB of usage and $29.99/month for unlimited usage. Again, this is contract free so you can buy it for a month and then skip several if you want to before you turn it back on.
At this point, it is assumed that since you are buying the device contract free, that it will also be an unlocked device. This would mean that as other companies all over the world announce their plans, you should be able to also purchase micro-SIMs for networks all over the world, and hopefully they will also have monthly plans. This is potentially a great asset for those who travel a lot in the states or globally. In fact, if you only travel internationally once or twice a year, it could still pay off quickly. Currently, international data roaming plans on the iPhone are very expensive. AT&T’s highest available global roaming package for data will only get you 200MB/month and that amount will cost you $199.99. We will have to see what other service providers are going to offer around the world, but Apple and AT&T are off to a great start for the iPad.
Data is not the only advantage you will get for your $130. The GSM radio also comes equipped with a GPS chip. This GPS chip will work much like the GPS in the iPhone, and will be able to use the cell towers as well as satellites so it can more quickly pinpoint your location. This means that the myriad navigation and location apps for the iPhone would also work just as well on the 3G version of the iPad. With the right kind of car mount, the iPad could become the ultimate car navigation system. It would have a nice big screen, and you wouldn’t have to worry about being interrupted by a phone call while you are at a critical intersection. But other location aware social apps or even augmented reality systems would all be able to work well on the 3G iPad. All of this should work just fine without needing to purchase any kind of a monthly package from a service provider.
… or not 3G?
But what do you get if you choose WiFi only? First off, you can save yourself $130. But beyond that, you will still get a WiFi radio that is 802.11 a/b/g/n capable, a step up from the 802.11 b/g radio that come in today’s iPhones and iPod touches. Adding 802.11 a/n means the iPad will be able to connect at faster speeds to a newer WiFi router. This will be especially useful if you are streaming video or moving large files on your local network. The WiFi radio will also allow you to use basic location services based on nearby networks. It’s not always the most accurate way to use location services, but it can be good enough for some social networking apps or to help with finding out what your local weather is. However, it is nowhere nearly good enough to allow you to use navigation apps.
That is the question.
So which should you get? This will depend on several things. The first question is when and how do you plan to use an iPad? If it will be a device that you use mostly at home or work where you have an accessible WiFi network, and if you don’t plan to travel with it a lot, then maybe the WiFi is enough for you. Even if you travel a lot, if you already have an iPhone or some other smartphone with a data plan, you may still want to save yourself $130 and opt out of the 3G. However, if you travel a lot without a smartphone data plan, especially internationally, the 3G data option could actually save you a lot of money and frustration. Plus, the 3G option gives you the ability to use some of the iPhone’s great navigation applications.
The next question is whether you can afford it? If $130 is no big deal, then you may want to go for it. It will make the iPad a very flexible device without locking you into anything that might cost you more money. It will also add a similar amount of resale value to the iPad when you are ready to move on someday. But if money is tight, the WiFi iPad is very usable without that 3G option that many will not use much anyway.
And this is the my answer.
In the end, the 3G decision is a lot like the iPhone vs. iPod touch decision. This time, there is no monthly contract to make the cost difference as big, but the comparison is very similar. To answer this question myself, I will buy an iPad but I am currently planning to do the WiFi only version. I plan to use the iPad primarily at home, or, when I travel, it will be used in hotel rooms or other places that I might use my MacBook Pro today. I already have an iPhone for my domestic travel, and although I do travel internationally, I have found that WiFi is usually available. But the 3G option is still tempting, and it’s possible I could change my mind. I will almost certainly get the 3G version if I upgrade to a newer iPad someday. I especially like the idea of being able to use the 3G without a contract and on any provider available.
March is here and the first iPads should roll out this month. Hopefully we will find out more about it in the coming weeks. I suspect the we will read some reviews from folks like Walt Mossberg and David Pogue as we get closer.
Are you planning to buy an iPad and, if so, will you add the 3G to it? Feel free to discuss your thoughts in the comments below.
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I would have to say I feel the same way as well. Wifi version for me. I just can't wait to get my hands on one of these puppies.
Wifi 64 GB … same reasoning PLUS I am not in a primary AT&T coverage area (although I may be on trips). The 3G doesn't gain me much (except for the apps that may need 3G). Yes, I am vacillating but I am leaning to the Wifi. At this point I think I will await for the new 4(?)G iPhones to arrive and purchase the iPad in the meantime.
I too have debated this issue. However, I can tether my iPhone with my Macbook right now, although officially unsupported.
I would think that in the future, you should be able to tether your iPhone/smartphone to your iPad also, via USB cable/dock. Possibility or just a pipe dream?
I agree. I too travel a lot and I'm planning on getting the wifi version.
Tons of hotels have wifi and more have free Internet, so I'll use my Apple
airport express. Instant free wifi. Gps I have on iPhone, don't need it on ipad.
As a frequent car traveler through the western states where Verizon has far better coverage, I intend to go with WiFi only iPad plus a Novatel MiFi hotspot unit, which also allows MBP connection if the hotel wifi sucks. With my iPhone on ATT, all the bases should be covered.
@3G alternative
When AT&T finally allows tethering on the iPhone you can either tether it via the usb/dock cable or bluetooth. Currently the iPhone OS does not allow network connections over either of those so it is unlikely that the iPad will be able tether to the iPhone the way it currently works. However, we have seen both Android and WebOS phone both have the ability to allow tethering through WiFi. This essentially turns the phone into a limited WiFi hotspot. Maybe the pressure of competition will push Apple and AT&T to allow the same with the iPhone someday and then your dream may come true.
@normanj
Sounds like you have all of your bases covered. How do you like using the MiFi unit? It may be a great option for those wanting the flexibility or maybe even just the freedom from AT&T.
@Ed
I haven't purchased the MiFi yet … waiting for the iPad and don't really need the MiFi until May. I intend to buy it on Amazon for one cent, then begin a contract with Verizon, when I know what usage level I need.
Definitely won't be going for the 3G.
But my decision to buy may depend on the tethering options. O2 in the UK allow tethering in the iPhone (for a price), and I would hope this could be achieved over bluetooth.
16Gb should be more than enough for my likely needs.
I'm leaning towards the 64MB 3G model, and ditching my ISP – which is increasing their rates soon. Being able to roam most anywhere and have internet access via wifi or 3G (using the $30/month unlimited data plan) would save me around $20/month, and after six months would pay for the 3G. I'm sure the 3G speeds won't be the same as my ISP, but access anywhere to the internet is very seductive (not to mention the technolust I've developed for the iPad itself).
I've been going back & forth as well. Right now, I have a MB with an ATT USB modem and am considering either a MiFi or a CradlePoint 3G Router. I'd have to pay $110 or so in April to go with the MiFi. Anybody have any experience with CradlePoint Routers? I'm hesitant to move away from ATT with the upgrades to 7.2 speeds that are in the works for this year. Thoughts?
I would wait and would go for 3G .. although I have wifi at home and at office too.. but still .. if you need 3G later and device has no option then what you will do…because i think in future it will be so useful that it wil become part of your very necessary thing… then at that time may be you will think to go for 3G.
it is very nice that i go outside and need to see some urgent work.. can check that….I would prefer to wait.. but looks difficult.. i want to get it as soon as possible…. may be i would change my mind… ipad is comming on april -2..
Ordered mine first thing this morning. 64gb WiFi + 3G. Why not just go all the way if you're gonna go. Can't wait to receive the iPad.
Ordered the WIFI + 3G…..Think that all who ordered the WIFI only versions will enjoy their IPAD's for 25 days or so but they will then be wishing they had waited for the 3G. Time is going to pass anyway. What's another 3-4 weeks to get the top of line version. Good things come to those who wait! Hope all enjoy their new toy!
As an educator who is not allowed to use personal tech on the school system's network, I would have to get the 3G iPad.
I looked at all sorts of solutions to tether my personal computer at school to cell phones and what not … just not feasible $$-wise.
The iPad seems to be just the thing in a 3G flavor. This would allow me to access streaming content without eating up the system's precious bandwidth. Easier flexibilty with iTunes. It is a win-win.
The no contract 3G is a plus as well. If I have trouble connecting in the building, I am only out $30 … not a two year contract like the tethering idea I was toying with.
Quote from this article:
"Data is not the only advantage you will get for your $130. The GSM radio also comes equipped with a GPS chip."
======WRONG=======
http://store.apple.com/us/browse/home/shop_ipad/family/ipad?mco=OTY2ODA0NQ
"Assisted GPS (Wi-Fi + 3G model)"
Get your facts straight.
Sorry, I was mistaken…that "+" sign on Apples website is retarded.
*Shoots Apple Marketing Team with AK-47*
"Update: Looking closer at the “Wireless and cellular” category in Apple’s iPad tech specs. “Wi-Fi model” is one configuration and “Wi-Fi + 3G model” is the other. From the Location section it could be interpreted that Assisted GPS is included in the Wi-Fi and 3G models (meaning both) but Apple actually uses the plus-sign in “Wi-Fi + 3G model” to mean the high-end, 3G model). Apple’s marketing took some liberties with the plus-sign. So, to clarify, the 3G model has GPS and the Wi-Fi model doesn’t have GPS."
You are right, the Wifi only model will not have any kind of internal GPS.
My apologies.
You could *probably* use a bluetooth GPS device though (they're very cheap).
There is a custom BT stack available right now for jailbroken iphones, and it will work with bluetooth GPS receivers.
I hope my ? isn't stupid. Will i need a WI-FI connection in my house, if i get the 3G? i was thinking of saving the extra money in getting the WI-FI if the 3G covers the inside of my house.
@samzrule,
It's not a stupid question at all and if the iPad is the only thing in your house that you need internet for and you get good 3G coverage where you live, than a 3G iPad may very well be the cheapest and easiest solution for you. The big advantage of a DSL or cable modem with WIFI attached is that you will have more speed for doing things like downloading multimedia plus you can share that connection with multiple devices. So an iPad with 3G could be a good solution if you aren't consuming a lot of media online or you don't need internet access for other devices in your house. Plus, you could start off with that and if you do choose to get a landline internet connection someday, you can always turn off the 3G when you don't need it for a few months since it is a no contract service from AT&T.
See, I have the Wifi model now, and I wouldnt never pay AT&T more money than I already do for my iphone. I just jailbroke my phone and tether that way. Works great! And that way I can have my cake and eat it to!
Same here, I would stick with the WiFi version and pick up a MiFi, so I can get my MBP online when I'm traveling, which lately has been a lot more often than ever. I'm tired of ATT's excuses, so I wouldn't give them anymore of my cash.
Anyone know if my USB Mobile internet ket will work with the iPad USB connector?