What makes the ipad 2 mini different. Detailed review and testing of Apple iPad mini with Retina display. Information on the type of speakers and audio technology supported by the device

Apple introduced its first iPad in 2010, and since then this name has been the first one that comes to mind of any user from any country in the world when trying to find an association to the concept of a tablet computer. Thinking about a tablet, and the iPad immediately comes to mind, even if we are an ardent fan of Samsung or Microsoft products. In this material - the history of the development of the iPad from 2010 to 2018.

First iPad (2010)

  • Screen- 9.7 inches;
  • CPU- Apple A4;
  • Memory: 16, 32, 64 GB;
  • Colors: silver back panel, black front panel;
  • Model numbers: A1219 (Wi-Fi) and A1337 (Wi-Fi + Cellular).

The idea of ​​creating a tablet originated from Steve Jobs in the middle of the "zero", but the employment of Apple engineers with iPod Touch and iPhone projects made it possible to start its implementation and release the finished device only by 2010. This is how the first iPad appeared - an intermediate link between a laptop and a smartphone, with a multitouch screen with a diagonal of 9.7 inches and a resolution of 1028 × 768 pixels (132 ppi).

The first iPad had a 1GHz single-core Apple A4 processor and 256MB of RAM, which looks pretty sad by today's standards. The tablet did not have cameras at all, although the iOS 4 supported by it already provided the ability to make video calls via FaceTime. Among the archaic elements, we can also mention the full-size SIM card tray.

iPad 2 (2011)

  • Screen- 9.7 inches;
  • CPU- Apple A5;
  • Memory: 16, 32, 64 GB;
  • Colors:
  • Model numbers: A1395 (Wi-Fi), A1396 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), A1397 (Wi-Fi + CDMA).

So, even for the level of technology development at the end of 2010, the first apple tablet did not impress with its characteristics, to put it mildly. But already in March 2011, Apple introduced a new version of the iPad, in the description of which you can find many numbers "2". The iPad 2 processor became a 2-core, 2 times more RAM (512 MB) was installed, 2 cameras with a resolution of 0.3 and 0.7 megapixels appeared at once. In addition, Cellular models now supported the more popular MicroSIM cards instead of the bulky standard ones.

In 2012, Apple also released a modified version of the iPad 2 with increased battery life, which was achieved through an improved Apple A5 processor (manufactured using 32nm process technology) and a larger battery.

iPad 3 (early 2012)

  • Screen- 9.7 inches;
  • CPU- Apple A5X;
  • Memory: 16, 32, 64 GB;
  • Colors: silver back panel, black or white front panel;
  • Model numbers: A1416 (Wi-Fi), A1430 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), A1403 (Wi-Fi + Cellular, Verizon subscribers only)

The main innovation of the iPad 3 was the Retina display with a resolution of 2048 × 1536 pixels, which provided twice the picture quality - 264 dots per square inch versus 132 dots in previous models. In addition, instead of the useless 0.7-megapixel main camera, the iPad 3 was equipped with a competitive iSight optical module with a 5-megapixel matrix. The Apple A5X processor had the same two cores and a clock speed of 1 GHz, but the capacity of the RAM module was doubled again, to 1 GB.

iPad 4 (Late 2012)

  • Screen- 9.7 inches;
  • CPU- Apple A6X;
  • Memory: 16, 32, 64, 128 GB;
  • Colors: silver back panel, black or white front panel;
  • Model numbers: A1458 (Wi-Fi), A1459 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), A1460 (Wi-Fi + Cellular, MM (multi-mode))

Six months later, in October 2012, another update awaited the line of apple tablets. The main thing from the point of view of the evolution of the lineup was the appearance in the new iPad of an 8-pin Lightning port (before that a wide 30-pin port was used), which is used to charge and synchronize iOS devices to this day. In addition, the iPad 4 was equipped with a faster Apple A6X processor and PowerVR SGX554MP4 graphics core, as well as a front-facing FaceTime camera with a 1.2 megapixel matrix. In February 2013, the iPad 4 went on sale with 128 GB of internal memory.

iPad mini (Late 2012)

  • Screen- 7.9 inches;
  • CPU- Apple A5;
  • Memory: 16, 32 and 64 GB;
  • Colors:
  • Model numbers: A1432 (Wi-Fi), A1454 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), A1455 (Wi-Fi + Cellular, (multi-mode)).

The first "mini" has become another intermediate link between a smartphone and a full-size tablet PC. iPad mini with a screen diagonal of 7.9 inches received a resolution of 1024 × 768 pixels (which corresponds to 163 ppi), as well as an outdated Apple A5 processor at that time. The compactness of the device was ensured by narrowed side frames, and the volume rocker was divided into two autonomous buttons.

iPad Air (late 2013)

  • Screen- 9.7 inches;
  • CPU- Apple A7;
  • Memory: 16, 32, 64 and 128 GB;
  • Colors: silver back panel or space gray, black or white front panel;
  • Model numbers: A1474 (Wi-Fi), A1475 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), A1476 (Wi-Fi + Cellular, TD-LTE).

The "airy" name of the iPad Air, presented in October 2013, was explained by the compactness and lightness of the device - it became 2 mm thinner, by as much as 16 mm narrower and almost 30% lighter than the previous model. Following the iPhone 5s, the new flagship of the tablet line became the second Apple mobile gadget with a 64-bit A7 processor of its own production (in comparison with the “smartphone” analog, it was even overclocked by 0.1 GHz).

iPad mini 2 (Late 2013)

  • Screen- 7.9 inches;
  • CPU- Apple A5;
  • Memory: 16, 32, 64 and 128 GB;
  • Colors: silver or gray back panel, black or white front panel;
  • Model numbers: A1489 (Wi-Fi), A1490 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), A1491 (Wi-Fi + Cellular, TD-LTE)).

iPad mini 2, aka iPad mini with Retina display, was introduced alongside the iPad Air on October 22, 2013. It's easy to guess that the main difference from the first mini-model was the high-resolution Retina display (2048 × 1536 pixels, 326 dpi). The compact version of the tablet was also equipped with a 62-bit Apple A7 chip and an M7 motion coprocessor, thus placing it on the same shelf as the top gadgets of its time.

iPad Air 2 (Late 2014)

  • Screen- 9.7 inches;
  • CPU- Apple A8X;
  • Memory: 16, 32, 64 GB and 128 GB;
  • Colors:
  • Model numbers: A1566 (Wi-Fi), A1567 Wi-Fi + Cellular).

In the iPad Air 2, Apple for the first time for mobile devices used the 3-core Apple A8X processor, which had a decent clock speed of 1.8 GHz, and also increased the amount of RAM to 2 GB. In addition, it was decided to abandon the specification with 32 GB of internal memory (it was later added) and to implement the Touch ID fingerprint scanner expected by many users, which has passed the annual test on the iPhone 5s. Another long-awaited improvement is the upgrade of the matrix of the main iSight camera to 8 megapixels.

iPad mini 3 (Late 2014)

  • Screen- 7.9 inches;
  • CPU- Apple A7;
  • Memory: 16, 64 and 128 GB;
  • Colors:
  • Model numbers: A1599 (Wi-Fi), A1600 (Wi-Fi + Cellular).

iPad mini 3 did not receive three processor cores; in general, its filling and design practically does not differ from the previous model. Of the notable innovations, only the appearance of the Touch ID fingerprint sensor and the gold color of the case can be noted.

iPad Pro 12.9-inch (Late 2015)

  • Screen- 12.9 inches;
  • CPU- Apple A9X;
  • Memory: 32, 128 GB and 256 GB;
  • Colors: silver, gold back, or space gray, black or white front;
  • Model numbers: A1584 (Wi-Fi), A1652 (Wi-Fi + Cellular).

In September 2015, Apple introduced the first device in a line of professional tablets that can handle many of the tasks previously performed exclusively on laptops and desktops. The gadget received a large 12.9-inch screen with a resolution of 2732 × 2048 pixels, a 2-core Apple A9X chip with PowerVR Series 7XT graphics and an M9 co-processor, as much as 4 GB of RAM, a smart connector for connecting an equally smart keyboard, support for a stylus Apple Pencil and four speakers for better sound.

iPad mini 4 (late 2015)

  • Screen- 7.9 inches;
  • CPU- Apple A8;
  • Memory: 16, 32, 64 and 128 GB;
  • Colors: silver, gold back panel or space gray, black or white front panel;
  • Model numbers: A1538 (Wi-Fi), A1550 (Wi-Fi + Cellular).

At the same time, in September 2015, the public was shown the latest iPad mini 4th generation model. The gadget has pulled up to the iPad Air 2 in terms of technical characteristics, having received an Apple A8 processor, 2 GB of RAM, an 8-megapixel camera. In addition, for the first time, the chassis parameters were changed (for example, it became thinner), which made a difference when buying accessories for iPad mini 4 and earlier models of the line.

iPad Pro 9.7-inch (2016)

  • Screen- 9.7 inches;
  • CPU- Apple A9X;
  • Memory: 32, 128 and 256 GB;
  • Colors:
  • Model numbers: A1673 (Wi-Fi), A1674 / A1675 (Wi-Fi + Cellular).

The professional iPad in the usual 9.7-inch form factor is somewhat inferior to its older brother in terms of technical characteristics. It was equipped with a slightly less productive specification of the Apple A9X processor (2.16 GHz versus 2.26 GHz for the 12.9-inch model) and a halved RAM module - two gigabytes versus four. But iPad Pro 9.7 inches was the first among all Apple gadgets to receive True Tone technology, which allows the display to change the temperature of colors depending on the level of ambient light.

iPad 5 (2017)

  • Screen- 9.7 inches;
  • CPU- Apple A9;
  • Memory: 32 and 128 GB;
  • Colors: silver, gold back panel or space gray, black or white front panel;
  • Model numbers: A1822 (Wi-Fi), A1823 (Wi-Fi + Cellular).

In March 2017, Apple diversified its tablet line again, offering a more budget-friendly option for users who don't need iPad Pro features. The 9.7-inch gadget received a rather modest display matrix with a resolution of 2048 × 1536 (like the first generation iPad Air), an Apple A9 processor (without the "X"), and an 8-megapixel main camera. At the same time, the device added in size and weight when compared with the iPad Air 2.

iPad Pro 10.5-inch (2017)

  • Screen- 10.5 inches;
  • CPU- Apple A9X;
  • Memory: 64, 256 and 512 GB;
  • Colors: silver, gold back, or space gray, rose gold, black or white front;
  • Model numbers: A1701 (Wi-Fi), A1709 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), A1852 (Wi-Fi + Cellular, Chinese market).

Apple engineers managed to fit the 10.5-inch iPad Pro into a body comparable in size to the iPad Pro 9.7, while equipping the device with the top-end 6-core Apple A9X processor, manufactured using a 10-nanometer process technology. In addition, ProMotion technology was introduced into the tablet, which allows to achieve a display refresh rate of 120 Hz.

iPad Pro 12.9-inch 2nd generation (2017)

  • Screen- 10.5 inches;
  • CPU- A10X Fusion;
  • Memory: 64, 256 and 512 GB;
  • Colors: silver, gold back, or space gray, black or white front;
  • Model numbers: A1670 (Wi-Fi), A1671 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), A1821 (Wi-Fi + Cellular, Chinese market).

Like the 10.5-inch model, the second-generation 12.9-inch iPad Pro was introduced in June 2017 and was mainly distinguished from its predecessor by the presence of a productive Apple A10X Fusion chip, as well as a display with support for ProMotion technology. In addition, a new 512GB storage option has been added.

iPad 6 (2018)

  • Screen- 9.7 inches;
  • CPU- Apple A10 Fusion;
  • Memory: 32 and 128 GB;
  • Colors: silver, gold back panel or space gray, black or white front panel;
  • Model numbers: A1893 (Wi-Fi), A1954 (Wi-Fi + Cellular).

A year after the fifth-generation iPad was released, Apple made a minor update to the device, mainly related to performance. Visually, the tablet has not changed at all, but it received a new Apple A10 Fusion processor, an M19 Motion co-processor and updated graphics.

iPad Pro 11-inch (2018)

  • Screen- 11 inches;
  • CPU- Apple A12X Bionic;
  • Memory: 64, 256, 512 GB and 1 TB;
  • Colors:
  • Model numbers: A1980 (Wi-Fi), A2013 and A1934 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), A1979 (Wi-Fi + Cellular, Chinese market).

Once again, Apple engineers demonstrated their ability to save space - with an 11-inch Liquid Retina display with a resolution of 2388 × 1688 pixels, the new tablet fits into the body of the previous 10.5-inch model, and even becomes a little thinner and lighter.

At the same time, the gadget was equipped with the top-end 8-core Apple A12X Bionic processor, Face ID face recognition technology (TrueDepth, Portrait Mode, Animoji and Memoji) and a USB-C port for charging. Separately, it is worth noting the appearance of a version with a 1 TB drive.

iPad Pro 12.9-inch 3rd generation (2018)

  • Screen- 12.9 inches;
  • CPU- Apple A12X Bionic;
  • Memory: 64, 256, 512 GB and 1 TB;
  • Colors: silver or dark gray back panel, black front panel;
  • Model numbers: A1876 (Wi-Fi), A2014 and A1895 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), A1983 (Wi-Fi + Cellular, Chinese market).

The larger model has the same distinctive features as the 11-inch model. There is also no 3.5 mm jack for connecting a headset, Lightning is replaced by USB-C, the Home button along with Touch ID gave way to Face ID technology. The latter, by the way, implies the presence of another patented Apple development TrueDepth, which allows you to take pictures in the "Portrait" mode, create Animoji and Memoji.

Based on materials from yablyk

Alternative namesiPad mini with Retina displayiPad mini (2019)

Design

Information about the dimensions and weight of the device, presented in different units of measurement. Used materials, offered colors, certificates.

SIM card

A SIM card is used in mobile devices to store data that certifies the authenticity of mobile service subscribers.

Mobile networks

A mobile network is a radio system that allows multiple mobile devices to communicate with each other.

GsmGSM 850 MHz
GSM 900 MHz
GSM 1800 MHz
GSM 1900 MHz		GSM 850 MHz
GSM 900 MHz
GSM 1800 MHz
GSM 1900 MHz
CDMACDMA 800 MHz
CDMA 1900 MHz		-
CDMA20001xEV-DO Rev. A
1xEV-DO Rev. B		-
UMTSUMTS 850 MHz
UMTS 900 MHz
UMTS 1900 MHz
UMTS 2100 MHz		UMTS 850 MHz
UMTS 900 MHz
UMTS 1700/2100 MHz
UMTS 1900 MHz
UMTS 2100 MHz
LTELTE 700 MHz Class 13
LTE 700 MHz Class 17
LTE 800 MHz
LTE 850 MHz
LTE 900 MHz
LTE 1700/2100 MHz
LTE 1800 MHz
LTE 1900 MHz
LTE 2100 MHz
LTE 2600 MHz		LTE-TDD 1900 MHz (B39)
LTE-TDD 2000 MHz (B34)
LTE-TDD 2300 MHz (B40)
LTE-TDD 2500 MHz (B41)
LTE-TDD 2600 MHz (B38)
LTE 700 MHz Class 13
LTE 700 MHz Class 17
LTE 800 MHz
LTE 850 MHz
LTE 900 MHz
LTE 1700/2100 MHz
LTE 1800 MHz
LTE 1900 MHz
LTE 2100 MHz
LTE 2600 MHz
LTE 1500 (B11)
LTE 700 MHz (B12)
LTE 700 MHz (B14)
LTE 800 MHz (B18)
LTE 800 MHz (B19)
LTE 1500 (B21)
LTE 1900+ MHz (B25)
LTE 800 MHz (B26)
LTE 700 MHz de (B29)
LTE 2300 MHz (B30)
LTE 1700/2100 MHz (B66)
LTE 600 MHz (B71)

Mobile technology and data rates

Communication between devices in mobile networks is carried out using technologies that provide different data transfer rates.

Operating system

An operating system is the system software that controls and coordinates the operation of hardware components in a device.

Operating system (OS)iOS 7.0.3
iOS 9		iOS 12

SoC (System on Chip)

A system on a chip (SoC) integrates all the major hardware components of a mobile device into a single chip.

SoC (System on Chip)Apple A7 APL0698Apple A12 Bionic APL1W81
Technological process28 nm7 nm
Processor (CPU)Apple Cyclone ARMv82x 2.5 GHz Vortex, 4x 1.59 GHz Tempest
Processor size64 bit64 bit
Instruction set architectureARMv8-AARMv8-A
Level 1 cache (L1)64 kB + 64 kB128 kB + 128 kB
L2 cache1024 kB
1 MB		8192 KB
8 MB
L3 cache4096 KB
4 MB		-
Number of processor cores2 6
CPU clock speed1300 MHz2500 MHz
Graphics processing unit (GPU)PowerVR G6430-
Number of GPU cores4 4
GPU clock speed200 MHz1100 MHz
The amount of random access memory (RAM)1 GB3 GB
Memory type (RAM)LPDDR3LPDDR4X
Number of RAM channels- Two-channel
M7 motion coprocessorM12 motion coprocessor
Neural engine (8-core design)

Built-in memory

Each mobile device has built-in (non-removable) fixed memory.

Built-in memory16 GB
32 GB
64 GB
128 GB		64 GB
256 GB

Screen

The screen of a mobile device is characterized by its technology, resolution, pixel density, diagonal length, color depth, etc.

Type / technologyIPSIPS
Diagonal7.9 in
200.66 mm
20.07 cm		7.9 in
200.66 mm
20.07 cm
Width6.32 in
160.53 mm
16.05 cm		6.32 in
160.53 mm
16.05 cm
Height4.74 in
120.4 mm
12.04 cm		4.74 in
120.4 mm
12.04 cm
Aspect ratio1.333:1
4:3 		1.333:1
4:3
Permission2048 x 1536 pixels2048 x 1536 pixels
Pixel density324 ppi
127 ppcm		324 ppi
127 ppcm
Color depth24 bit
16777216 flowers		24 bit
16777216 flowers
Screen footprint71.97 % 70.79 %
Other characteristicsCapacitive
Multitouch		Capacitive
Multitouch
Scratch resistant

LED-backlit
Retina display		Retina display
True Tone display
500 cd / m²
Antireflective coating
Oleophobic (lipophobic) coating
Wide Color display (P3)

Sensors

Different sensors perform different quantitative measurements and convert physical metrics into signals that can be recognized by the mobile device.

Rear camera

The main camera of a mobile device is usually located on its rear panel and can be combined with one or more additional cameras.

Sensor typeCMOS BSICMOS BSI
Light-strengthf / 2.4f / 2.4
Number of optical elements (lenses)- 5
Image Resolution2592 x 1936 pixels
5.02 megapixels		3264 x 2448 pixels
7.99 megapixels
Video resolution1920 x 1080 pixels
2.07 megapixels		1920 x 1080 pixels
2.07 megapixels
Video recording rate (frame rate)30 frames / sec30 frames / sec
SpecificationsAutofocus
Digital image stabilization
Geographic tags
HDR shooting
Touch focus
Face recognition		Autofocus
Burst shooting
Digital zoom
Geographic tags
Panoramic shooting
HDR shooting
Touch focus
Face recognition
Adjusting the white balance
ISO setting
Exposure compensation
Self-timer
Scene selection mode
Macro mode
RAW
- Hybrid IR filter
Noise reduction
Sapphire crystal glass lens cover
1080p @ 120 fps

Front-camera

Smartphones have one or more front cameras of different designs - pop-up camera, PTZ camera, notch or hole in the display, camera under the display.

Audio

Information about the type of speakers and audio technology supported by the device.

Radio

The radio of the mobile device is a built-in FM receiver.

Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is a technology that enables wireless communication for transferring data over short distances between various devices.

USB

USB (Universal Serial Bus) is an industry standard that allows different electronic devices to exchange data.

Headphone jack

This is an audio connector, which is also called an audio connector. The most widely used standard in mobile devices is the 3.5mm headphone jack.

Connecting devices

Information about other important connection technologies supported by the device.

Browser

A web browser is a software application for accessing and viewing information on the Internet.

Video file formats / codecs

Mobile devices support different video file formats and codecs, which respectively store and encode / decode digital video data.

To distinguish between iPad Mini, Pro or Air models, you need to know the external features of each version. The number printed on the back cover will also help you determine which model you are holding. For example, if you see a number, you can be sure you're holding iPad mini. You can check this information on the Apple website.

iPad

The first Apple tablet went on sale in 2010. Visually, they are the most angular - the streamlined shape came only in the second generation. The front panel of iPad 1 is exclusively black. The back cover can have one of two numbers:

  • A1219 - with Wi-Fi.
  • A1337 - with Wi-Fi and 3G.

The first tablet model has no cameras, but the 3G-enabled model has a tray for a SIM-card and an antenna insert.

  • A1395 - Wi-Fi.
  • A1396 - GSM.
  • A1397 - CDMA.

The GSM version has a SIM card tray on the right side. The developers moved the speaker to the back of the device. Two subsequent generations of the iPad received such a design, so when the question arises, how to find out the model, you will have to focus on the number.

iPad 3 externally cannot be disconnected from iPad 2 until you turn on the device - the updated version is given by the Retina display. In order not to be mistaken, see the numbers on the back cover:

  • A1416 - Wi-Fi.
  • A1430 - GSM.
  • A1403 - CDMA.

iPad 4 continues the design traditions of the second and third versions, but pretends to be a modified port for connecting to a PC or laptop. The 4th model uses a small Lightning connector.

The fifth iPad, released in 2017, has almost nothing to do with the previous four, because it comes in the body of the first iPad Air. The fifth model can be distinguished from Air only by the presence of TouchID and the absence of hardware buttons for volume control.

Mini series

The first iPad mini can be distinguished from other models by its size. In addition, all the buttons on it are made of metal, which is also a noticeable sign. There are three versions:

  • A1453 - Wi-Fi.
  • A1454 - Cellular for the USA.
  • A1455 is a global Cellular with CDMA support.

The second generation of the iPad mini tablet model looks no different from the first, so you have to focus on the screen (for the first time in the series, a Retina screen is used) and the numbers on the back:

  • A1489 - Wi-Fi.
  • A1490 - LTE.

The difference between the second and third generation is the addition of Touch ID and the new gold color scheme. Plus numbers:

  • A1599 - Wi-Fi.
  • A1600 - LTE, sold in most countries of the world.
  • A1601 - LTE, Southeast Asia sales.

iPad mini 4 received a slightly longer and thinner body than its predecessors. Plus, the device does not have a hardware button for turning on the silent mode - only the volume control keys. There are two models - A1538 with Wi-Fi and A1550 with LTE.

Air Series

In the iPad Air, users have seen a long-awaited design update, boring during the release of the iPad 2, 3 and 4. It looks a bit like an enlarged version of the mini: the bezels around the display have become smaller, as well as the thickness of the device itself. Paired speakers appeared at the bottom.

There are three varieties:

  • A1474 - Wi-Fi.
  • A1475 - LTE.
  • A1476 - TD-LTE targeting Southeast Asia.

The latest tablet in the series, called Air 2, has a Touch ID scanner on the Home button, the silent mode switch has disappeared, the speaker design has changed, and the thickness has decreased. Apple has ditched further production of the Air series, using the same design in the iPad 5, as we discussed above.

Pro Series

The Air line has been chronologically replaced by the Pro series. The first model with a diagonal of 12.9 inches and incredible performance for a tablet is noticeably different from anything Apple has done before. Differences are added by the appearance of a new Smart Connector port for connecting a compatible keyboard.

A little later, a smaller version with a diagonal of 9.7 inches appeared. Outwardly, it is indistinguishable from the iPad Air 2, but the bulging lens and dual flash give away a representative of a different line.

In 2017, two more versions appeared - 10.5 inches and the second generation 12.9 inches. To distinguish between the entire range of tablets, look at the numbers. First generation 12.9 inches:

  • A1584 - Wi-Fi (32, 128 or 256 GB storage).
  • A1652 - LTE (128 or 256 GB storage).

Second generation 12.9 inches:

  • A1670.
  • A1671 - Wi-Fi + Cellular.

Pro 10.5 inches will have numbers А1701 and А1709 (Wi-Fi + Cellular). If you see the numbers А1673, А1674 or А1675 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), then you should know that this is a 9.7-inch iPad Pro.

At the moment, we can distinguish as many as 10 different iPads (iPad 1, iPad 2, iPad 2 new, iPad 3, iPad 4, iPad Air, iPad Air 2, iPad Mini, iPad Mini 2 and iPad Mini 3). On the market for used tablets, you can accordingly find any of these models. How can you tell them apart? This is what will be discussed now.

How to distinguish an iPad from a fake?

The first question that arises before a beginner. Now the Chinese have learned to copy any technique so accurately that a scenario is quite likely in which an ignorant person can buy an alleged iPad, but in reality it will turn out to be some kind of aPad on Android.

A sealed iPad can be identified by its branded box, which looks something like this. Naturally, the box of a completely new device will be sealed in film.

Either iPad or iPad mini will be written on one of the faces. On the other, there is a branded bitten apple or a cloud icon - iCloud.

If you hold the tablet in your hands, then it is even easier to distinguish. Turn it over to the back. There must also be a bull's-eye in the very center. And below is engraved information about the iPad. Below is the serial number of the device.

Turn on your tablet. You won't confuse the iOS operating system with anything.

Here's how (note the outdated icon design):

How to distinguish the first iPad (1st generation)

The first iPad is very easy to distinguish externally, even by feeling in comparison with the iPad of other generations. It looks more massive and the edges are straighter. But what if there are no other models at hand? Turn the iPad back side. Only the first iPad lacks a camera. Only on iPad 1, the speakers are located on the bottom, not on the back.

Also of special mention is the black plastic insert on the back of the iPad. If it is at the top, then you have an iPad with 3G, if it is not, then you have a regular iPad with Wi-Fi in your hands.

How to distinguish iPad 2

The iPad has more rounded edges on the case. It becomes thinner and lighter. The dynamics below is now gone. The speaker is located on the back of the tablet.

The different variations can be distinguished from each other by the model code. This code can be found on the back of the iPad at the very bottom, where all the letters are engraved in small print. Find lines like “Model A1396”:

A1395 - iPad 2 Wi-Fi Model
A1396 - GSM-model iPad 2
A1397 - iPad 2 CDMA Model

But the problem with the iPad 2 is different. In the spring of 2012, another version of the iPad 2 was released, which has a newer processor and slightly more economical power consumption. And it should be remembered that this new version of iPad 2 needs its own firmware. In the firmware article, I mark it as iPad 2 New.

How to tell the old iPad 2 (2011) from the new iPad 2 (2012)

Visually, they are no different.

You can tell the difference - go to Settings-> General-> About this device-> Diagnostics and usage-> Data .
Open any report from there - look at the top for the line Hardware Model... If iPad 2.4 - then you have exactly the same iPad of 2012, that is, New.

How to distinguish iPad 3 (The New iPad)

It is very difficult to visually distinguish iPad 2 from iPad 3 by photography. Try:

If you've turned on the iPad 3, you can immediately feel the difference from previous generations of iPad when you look up close at the gorgeous Retina display. Take a look at the system fonts. If you don't see pixels, then this is the same Retina screen.

How to identify the iPad model? Likewise - according to the model code. This code can be found on the back of the iPad at the very bottom, where all the letters are engraved in small print. Find lines like “Model A1416”:

A1416 - iPad 3 Wi-Fi Model
A1430 - GSM-model iPad 3
A1403 - iPad 3 CDMA Model

How to tell the difference between iPad 4 (iPad with Retina display, latest iPad)

If you've turned on iPad 4, you can immediately feel the difference between iPad 1 and iPad 2 when you gaze up close at the gorgeous Retina display. Take a look at the system fonts. If you don't see pixels, then this is the same Retina screen. Despite the fact that iPad 4 is called iPad with Retina display - Retina appeared in iPad 3. It is believed that iPad 4 is just a polished version of iPad 3.

iPad 4 and iPad 3 are visually similar as two drops of water. The most important visual difference is the shallow Lightning charging port. It was with the iPad 4 that Lightning input became the standard for all subsequent models.

How do I know which iPad model? Yes, all according to the same model code. This code can be found on the back of the iPad at the very bottom, where all the letters are engraved in small print. Find lines like “Model A1458”

A1458 - iPad 4 Wi-Fi Model
A1459 - Cellular iPad 4
A1460 - iPad 4 CDMA Model

How to distinguish iPad Air

iPad Air has a slim side bezel and a 9.7-inch screen size.

Also noteworthy is the split volume buttons on the side of the iPad.

Well, the weight of the device in comparison with iPad 4 has decreased by 200 grams.

How do I know which iPad model? This code can be found on the back of the iPad at the very bottom, where all the letters are engraved in small print. Find lines like “Model A1474”

A1474 - iPad Air Wi-Fi Model
A1475 - iPad Air LTE Model

A1476 - LTE - Asia-oriented model.

A1460 - iPad Air CDMA model

How to distinguish iPad Air 2

The iPad Air 2 is very similar to the first Air, but there are still differences. The tablet has become even thinner and lighter. But you will not weigh the device. Let's try to consider the differences that are more noticeable to the naked eye.

Look at the side of the tablet. The screen lock button has disappeared. Now there are only volume buttons. Also, characteristic holes appeared on the side surface and near the camera's eye.

Well, the gold color (in addition to "space gray" and "silver") is a clear sign of the iPad Air 2.

The iPad Air 2 also has a fingerprint scanner. Visually, it features a steel outline around the Home button. Also in the iOS settings the “Password” item was renamed “Touch iD and Password”.

How do I know which model is the iPad Air 2? This code can be found on the back of the iPad at the very bottom, where all the letters are engraved in small print. Find lines like “Model A1566”. The iPad Air 2 has only two modifications.

A1566 - iPad Air 2 Wi-Fi Model
A1567 - iPad Air LTE Model

How to distinguish iPad Mini

iPad Mini is easy to distinguish from other iPads due to its small size (screen only 7 inches) and a weight of 308 grams.

Below is the photo of the iPad Mini compared to the iPad 4.

Also, the iPad Mini speakers have moved down. Something like the iPad 1. The volume control buttons in the iPad Mini are separated from each other (in ordinary iPads, the “+” and “-” buttons are merged together). The iPad Mini of all generations, like the iPad 4, has a narrow Lightning charging port.

The different variations of the iPad Mini can be distinguished from each other by the model code. This code can be found on the back of the iPad Mini at the very bottom, where all the letters are engraved in small print. Find lines like “Model A1432”:

A1432 - iPad Mini Wi-Fi Model
A1454 - Cellular iPad Mini
A1455 - iPad Mini CDMA Model

How to tell the difference between iPad Mini with Retina Display (iPad Mini 2)

In the fall of 2013, Apple fulfilled the dream of millions of fans and made the iPad Mini with a retina screen. Externally, iPad Mini 2 is no different from iPad Mini. You can only distinguish it visually on the screen. The iPad Mini 2's screen looks much sharper, and it is almost impossible to notice pixels in the picture with the naked eye.

The surest way to spot an iPad Mini 2 is to look at the model code.

A1489 - iPad Mini 2 Wi-Fi Model
A1490 - iPad Mini 2 LTE Model

How to distinguish iPad Mini 3

iPad Mini 3 is a slightly improved version of iPad Mini 2. It is difficult to distinguish them, but it is possible. The biggest difference is the Touch ID fingerprint scanner. Visually, it features a steel outline around the Home button. Also in the iOS settings the “Password” item was renamed “Touch iD and Password”.

Well, the gold color in the “minic” is a clear ghost of the iPad Mini 3.

The surest way to spot an iPad Mini 3 is to look at the model code.

A1599 - iPad Mini 3 Wi-Fi Model
A1600 - iPad Mini 3 LTE Model

A1601 - LTE model for the Southeast Asian markets (sometimes called the iPad Mini 3 China)

How to distinguish iPad by the number of gigabytes

1. We look at the back surface of the iPad. At the bottom, where the information is engraved, you can find the capacity of the iPad (16, 32, 64, 128 gigabytes).

2. This information is also contained in the system. We open Settings -> General -> About this device ... See paragraph Capacity.

It is worth remembering that a number slightly less than 16,32,64,128 is displayed there. For example, an iPad with 32 gigabytes will have 28.5 written. Why it happens? 32 gigabytes means 32,000,000,000 bytes. We divide by 1024 three times to get the actual number of gigabytes. It comes out about 29.8 gigabytes. Subtract 1.3 gigabytes somewhere for the system and the file system table. We get 28.5 gigabytes available to the user.

Today we're going to talk about the most interesting characteristic that can be found in the iPad - its screen size, which is the most impressive in these tablets.

For all the time Apple has released a lot of gadgets and now it's time to take stock. I will tell you about the diagonal of the screen of each of the iPads.

What is the screen size of the iPad?

Tablets are where display size really matters. Let's take a look, starting with the first iPad, what happened to Apple's gadgets.

Screen size iPad, iPad 2,3,4

The very first iPad started selling back in 2010. As soon as the first tablet appeared, it immediately became clear who would be the favorite in the coming years.

The design of these four models has remained almost unchanged and you will not find the chips that made the tablets stand out in them. Almost everyone wanted them.

  • iPad:
  • iPad 2: 9.7 inches, IPS LCD, resolution 1024 × 768, 132 ppi;
  • iPad 3:
  • iPad 4:

Regardless of the model, the picture quality has always been quite gorgeous. But technology does not stand still and the long-awaited Retina has appeared in the last two generations of this series.

Screen size iPad Air, iPad Air 2

The continuation was very interesting, because the body was radically changed and new colors appeared. The bezels have been drastically reduced, but the display size has remained the same.


The more compact size of the devices has made these iPads more attractive and modern. New IGZO technology has taken screens to a new level.

  • iPad Air: 9.7 inches, Retina, 2048 x 1536 resolution, 264 ppi;
  • iPad Air 2: 9.7 inches, Retina, 2048x1536 resolution, 264 ppi.

Everything else remains the same, and the aforementioned technology has reduced click response times and power consumption.

Screen diagonal iPad mini, iPad mini 2,3,4

It's time to talk about tablets that are very close to today's top smartphone standards. Manufacturers have already paused a bit with screen sizes and this is for the best.


The mini version of the iPad is very popular today and it is very convenient for many to carry such a baby absolutely everywhere. Its capabilities are almost not inferior to other models.

  • iPad mini: 7.9 inches, IPS, resolution 1024 × 768, 163 ppi;
  • iPad mini 2:
  • iPad mini 3: 7.9 inches, Retina, 2048x1536 resolution, 326 ppi;
  • iPad mini 4: 7.9 inches, Retina, 2048x1536 resolution, 326 ppi.

Despite the smaller display size, the quality is in no way inferior to the large models. The resolution is exactly the same, but the number of dots per inch is higher.

IPad Pro screen diagonal

The last two models were simply excellent and one of them stood out in particular. The dimensions of one of the iPads are impressive.


Outwardly, the two representatives of the Pro series are very identical. Therefore, here people are already taking it for their intended purpose, because a whole mini TV in their hands may not always come in handy.

  • iPad Pro: 9.7 inches, Retina, 2732 x 2048 resolution, 264 ppi;
  • iPad Pro: 12.9 inches, Retina, 2732 x 2048 resolution, 264 ppi ;.

So far, these two models have become the most impressive, both in terms of performance and picture quality. New anti-reflective coating makes working in the sun even more comfortable.

Outcomes

That's basically all I wanted to tell you about the screen sizes of all iPads and their diagonals. For a long time Apple has not released anything new, it is interesting to see the next generations.

Although judging by the performance, probably in another year or two, they will be able to cope with all the tasks and more.