Which Ipad To Buy.

[Coldicote]

I would like to buy an iPad but there is so much modern technology about it's difficult to know where to start and I would be glad to hear from those with experience of them. Where is the best place to look? What kind do you have? What do the more expensive ones do compared with the cheaper kind? I would lke to send and receive emails, access the internet and have a USB port for memory sticks. Comments appreciated.

[gingejbee]

Presumably, by iPad, you are referring to "tablet" in general.
For lots of useful, unbiased advice...can I suggest this which? link


http://www.which.co.uk/technology/computing/guides/tablet-buyers-guide/should-i-buy-a-tablet/

[rockyracoon]

Your question should really be 'which tablet to buy' as iPad is a brand from Apple and there are many other different one on the market. I've always found John Lewis to be very helpful with stuff like this, all the tablets are on display so you can have a play with them and you might get extra time on a warranty.

[VHG]

>> What do the more expensive ones do compared with the cheaper kind?

Generally the more expensive ones don't "do" anything more than the cheaper ones (unless you buy one of the really cheaper Chinese imports).

But the more expensive ones have better quality screens, bigger screens (10" over say 7"), faster processors, more memory, and are perhaps better made.

[VHG]

Note that many tablets don't have a USB port, or have a "mini" USB port, so make sure any tablet you buy can take your USB memory stick.

[hc4361]

No need at all for a USB memory stick, in my opinion.
My files sync with my pc and external hard drive automatically over wifi

[VHG]

Have you got a smartphone?

The smartphone you have can help you decide which tablet to buy.

If you have an Apple iPhone then it is probably best to get an Apple iPad tablet as they do work together, and if you are used to one you will easily get used to the other.

If you have an Android smartphone then best to get an Android tablet as again, if you are used to Android on the smartphone you will easily be able to use an Android tablet.

Note that "Android" is the software used to run these phones and tablets (rather like Windows runs on most PCs).

But Apple iPads and iPhone don't use Android they use software called iOS to run their phones and tablets.

[hc4361]

All android tablets using recent operation systems from 3.1 can connect a memory stick using a cheap OTG cable.
iPads do not have usb ports.

[ummmm]

What tablet have you got, hc?

[gingejbee]

All the info being given, and much more besides, is in one place...the Which? link I gave at 11.00!

[hc4361]

Nexus 7

[Coldicote]

Thank you all so much. You have given me lots to think about and follow up. Do keep going if anyone has something to add to this thread .....!

[hc4361]

For emails and internet browsing you don't need an expensive machine.
First thing you need to decide is the size. They are usually 7" or 10" (there are a few inbetweenees) and I decided on the 7" because it is much easier to slip in to a pocket or bag and very easy to hold with one hand.

I read all the reviews and decided I wanted an android machine because it would sync easily with the Chrome browser on my desktop and has a huge range of apps.
I didn't want the cheapest of the bunch as the screens aren't so good and the processors aren't so fast.
I settled on the Nexus 7 at £200 and have not been disappointed. I use it as a satnav in my car (much better than my TomTom) as well as browsing the internet, emailing etc. I can download free library books and use it as an eReader (I can also buy books and download free books from other sources), I can listen to the radio, watch tv or films.
The weather and news apps are particularly good.

A tablet is designed to be 'always on', the same as a mobile phone, so it is great for quickly getting information instead of booting up your pc.

[Cloverjo]

My son is very happy with his Kindle Fire. Much cheaper than an iPad. If you do want an iPad, but aren't bothered about getting the latest one, John Lewis are reasonably priced. Cheaper than the Apple site.

[boxtops]

I've just bought a Lenovo Miix tablet through John Lewis. The JL website has loads of choices.

I wouldn't want an iPad - I like Windows, I wouldn't want a system that didn't have it.

[anotheoldgit]

You can get the old model Nexus 7 for £109.

http://www.carphonewarehouse.com/mobiles/mobile-phones/ASUS_NEXUS_7_WIFI_16GB

A very good tablet, with good reviews.

[lozzer50]

ive got a nexus 7 i absolutely love it , much better than my lap top actually

[Coldicote]

Again, lots of thanks. You've given me some good lines to follow up.

[mjwman]

I had a Nexus 7 until we were burgled. About 2 months.
It was superb but I felt just a little too small. I did not wish to cart a full size pad around so I got an iPod mini retina. Just right. A good compromise size.
But my wife's iPad air.....mmm nice...