The Complete iPad Buying Guide

Steve Jobs famously introduced the Apple iPad at an Apple event in 2010, where he asked if there was room for something in-between an iPhone and a MacBook or Mac. People weren't sure at the time, but since its launch, the iPad has become a tablet staple in many homes across the world.

An iPad is an Apple tablet device, usually with a touch screen, Wi-Fi capabilities, and access to the Apple App Store. In some cases, an iPad has cellular capability and can be added to your cell phone plan with your carrier, allowing it to use 4G or LTE networks to connect to apps and services. iPads are generally more compact and lightweight than a traditional laptop, making it great for working professionals who travel a lot, or families who find themselves constantly on-the-go.

Whether you're looking to improve your connected home services, want to work more efficiently, or just want a small device to make your life a little simpler, Sam's Club has an iPad that can fit your needs.

What Different Types of iPads Are There?

There are several different types of iPad to choose from. Generally, the differences come down to processing power, storage capabilities, and some accessories. For example, the iPad Pro connects to the Apple Pencil for sketching, drawing, and notetaking. However, not all iPad devices have Apple Pencil capabilities. They come in a few colors, with the most recent generations available in space gray or silver.

The different iPad models are:

• iPad
• iPad Air
• iPad Mini
• iPad Pro

What Sizes of iPad Can I Choose?

iPad size is determined by screen size, a measurement that goes diagonally across the surface of the device. Depending on what you plan on using your iPad for, you may benefit from different screen sizes. If you're hoping to illustrate or work on your iPad, a larger screen size could be beneficial. If you want something small, compact, and easily portable, then you may want to consider an iPad mini. It's worth noting that an increase in screen size can affect the price of your iPad.

The sizes of iPad available at Sam's Club are:

• 7.9"
• 9.7"
• 10.5"
• 11"
• 12.9"

What Features Should I Consider When Buying an iPad?

iPads have some features shared across each type of device - the iOS operating system, access to the App Store, and a signature seamless user experience. Many new iPads have Touch ID, Face ID, retina display, and all-day battery life. However, there are some different specifications you may want for your smart device as you shop. For example:

Storage space

Every app, service, and piece of media you add to your iPad takes up storage space. You should consider the main use for your iPad before buying to ensure you pick a storage capacity that makes sense. For example, if you primarily want to download large gaming apps and use your iPad for entertainment purposes, then you may want more storage. If you plan on using your iPad mostly for email and messaging, you'll need less storage. You can also sync your iPad to an existing iCloud account to store files and photos in the cloud.

Wi-Fi-only or Wi-Fi-plus-cellular connectivity

Whether you use Wi-Fi-only to connect your iPad to the internet or you want to use cellular towers will change which iPad you need to purchase. Most iPads sold at Sam's Club are Wi-Fi-only, so if you're using your device primarily in the home or office, then you'll be set. If you feel you'll be using the device with no or limited access to Wi-Fi, then you'll need to pursue an iPad with cellular connectivity.

AppleCare

AppleCare is Apple's repair and support plan for every device they make. By purchasing AppleCare, you can help to offset the cost of any damages or replacements you have to make with your iPad, as well as have access to online or phone support for your troubleshooting needs.

What Are the Different Uses for Ipads?

You can use your iPad and iPad apps for just about anything you would use a tablet, smartphone or computer.

Everyday use

Some everyday uses for iPads include following recipes while cooking in the kitchen, keeping up with social media, and setting reminders or to-do notes for the week ahead. It can be used as a smart planner or assistant, depending on how your household needs help.

Laptop replacement

With a smart keyboard, maybe iPads can function as a laptop replacement, allowing you to use word processors and send emails as needed. Many iPads use the A12 bionic chip, which gives them some of the highest processing speeds of any tablets on the market.

Gaming

The App Store has some of the world's greatest games available for download, ranging from match-3 to RPGs to mystery and adventure puzzles. Many popular titles from console games are making mobile versions as mobile gaming rises in popularity.

Reading

You can read the news, borrow books from your local library, or use the Kindle or iBooks app to read a variety of titles.

Music

Many popular music apps are available on most iPads, including Spotify, SoundCloud, and iTunes. iPads have Bluetooth capabilities, so you can connect them to your favorite speaker or sound system to listen to music. You can also connect your favorite headphones for private listening.

TV

With Netflix, Hulu, Vudu or any other streaming apps, you can watch TV right on your iPad.

Editing Photography

Most of Apple's smart mobile devices have built-in editing tools via the iPhoto and Camera app. However, with access to the App store, you can find any number of photo-editing apps, making your iPad an all-in-one camera and creative device.

Business

With fast processing, easy connectivity, and apps like Gmail, Google Docs, and Files, you can store, save, and send all the documents you need to keep your business running smooth. iPads with Apple pencil capabilities add an extra layer of ease for taking notes or signing contracts on the go.

FAQ - iPad

Can I use an iPad as a phone?

You can't use your iPad as a traditional phone to make voice calls directly, but you can use apps to make calls depending on your connectivity or data network. You can either FaceTime from your iPad, which allows you to video call people using a Wi-Fi connection, or you can use a service like Google Voice or Skype to make voice calls over the internet.

What is the latest version of the iPad?

The latest version of the iPad is the iPad Air released in 2019.

Are iPads worth it?

Depending on what you need to use your iPad for, it can be a worthwhile investment. They come at variable costs with different features, so it's all about knowing your budget, needs, and use-cases before purchasing.

How much storage do I need for my iPad?

Depending on how you use your iPad, you'll need different storage. Consider higher storage capacity for an iPad that will be heavy in media usage like for photos and videos, or for games.

Does the iPad have GPS?

Wi-Fi-only iPads do not have a GPS chip. iPads with wireless/cellular capabilities do have GPS chips. Regardless, you can use apps like iMaps or Google Maps to access map capabilities within the iPad, so long as you have an internet connection.

How can I reset my iPad?

Go to Settings > General > Reset. Then select how much you want to reset your iPad. You'll be prompted for confirmation a few times, allowing you to decide if you truly want to factory reset your iPad or not.

Does Sam's Club sell AppleCare?

Sam's Club is pleased to offer our members AppleCare plans for their new iPads.

How can I backup my iPad?

You'll need to be connected to Wi-Fi, but then you'll simply go to Settings, tap your name, then tap iCloud. Then you'll tap iCloud backup, then "backup now." This is the simplest way to back up your iPad.