The iPad 4 was released a mere 7 months after its predecessor, the iPad 3, which begs the question, has Apple developed a tab that is the pinnacle of innovation, or is it a power-play move to test Android? Well, let’s take another bite out of this apple.

Quite surprisingly, the iPad 4 doesn’t have significant upgrades compared to the iPad 3; the display, design and the primary camera are identical.

iPad 4 9.7″

However, it does boast a new, more powerful A6X chipset (2x faster than the iPad 3’s chipset) and a Lightning port, which if you have an iPhone 5, makes this tab the perfect partner, allowing for seamless compatibility.

The screen and resolution (1536 x 2048 pixels) and video capabilities are fantastic, although the same as the iPad 3.

It’s also important to mention that the tab supports 4G/LTE network speed, which is a big plus. So, the question is, is it better than the iPad 3? In the end, even though there aren’t significant upgrades, the iPad 4 does – slightly – edge out its predecessor.

Key specs

  • 9.7” LED-backlit IPS LCD, capacitive touchscreen
  • Resolution:1536 x 2048 pixels
  • Cellular network speed: 4G (Max)
  • Primary camera: 5 MP, autofocus
  • 2 MP, 720p@30fps, face detection, FaceTime over Wi-Fi or Cellular
  • OS: iOS 6, upgradable to iOS 10.0.2
  • Apple A6X chipset
  • CPU: Dual-core 1.4 GHz
  • Video: 1080p (Full HD)
  • Memory card slot: N/A
  • 2 GB RAM
  • Storage capacity: 64 GB
  • Bluetooth: 0, A2DP
  • 0, reversible connector
  • Non-removable Li-Po 11560 mAh battery
  • Up to 9 h talk time

 

Pros: HD front-facing FaceTime camera

Cons: Expensive; iTunes needed to upload majority of content; no stereo speakers; no memory card slot; a lack of basic iOS apps; reflective screen

Verdict: 7/10