Difference between iPad Wi-Fi model and Wi-Fi + Cellular model | Which one do you recommend?
notebook-laptopThere are two models of iPad called Wi-Fi model and cellular model, and there is a big difference between them.
So, this time, I thoroughly verified what the iPad Wi-Fi model and cellular model are, and which one is recommended.
At the same time, we will touch on the prices and features of the iPad currently on sale, so please refer to it if you are considering purchasing.
Difference between iPad Wi-Fi model and cellular model* All prices in this article are displayed in total.
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Difference between iPad Wi-Fi model and cellular model
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When purchasing an iPad, I think the words "Wi-Fi model" and "cellular model" are of concern.
Some carriers may only sell one, so you may not know which one to choose.
There are five main differences between the Wi-Fi model and the cellular model.
Difference between iPad Wi-Fi model and cellular modelLet's take a closer look below.
Depending on whether you choose a Wi-Fi model or a cellular model, the price of the iPad itself will vary greatly.
Even with the same ROM capacity, the price will change by about 20,000 yen depending on whether it is a Wi-Fi model or a cellular model.
The Wi-Fi model is cheaper to buy, so if you want to buy an iPad as cheaply as possible, the Wi-Fi model is recommended.
However, there are also major differences in functionality, so be sure to check.
The communication method also differs depending on whether it is a Wi-Fi model or a cellular model.
In the case of the Wi-Fi model, as the name suggests, it cannot be used unless it is connected to Wi-Fi.
On the other hand, the cellular model can use the iPad without a Wi-Fi connection by subscribing to a cheap SIM or a communication plan of a major carrier and inserting a SIM card.
In other words, the Wi-Fi model is a model that can not be used without Wi-Fi, and the cellular model can connect to the Internet by itself if you have a contract with a communication company.
Of course, it is also possible to connect to Wi-Fi with a cellular model and continue using it.
As explained above, the cellular model can also be used for internet communication with the iPad alone by contracting with a communication company and inserting a SIM card.
Therefore, the cellular model is equipped with a slot for inserting a SIM card, and you can insert and use a SIM card contracted with a major carrier or a cheap SIM.
On the other hand, the Wi-Fi model does not have a SIM slot, so even if you want to use it as a cellular model later, communication with a SIM card is impossible.
You can change the usage of the cellular model flexibly, such as using it as a Wi-Fi model later, but be aware that the Wi-Fi model cannot use the Internet unless it is connected to Wi-Fi.
If the model is connected to Wi-Fi, can it be tethered like a smartphone? You might think that.
Unfortunately, the Wi-Fi model doesn't have a tethering feature.
Therefore, it is not possible to use the Internet by tethering with a smartphone while on the go.
When buying an iPad, you should mainly consider where you will use it when choosing a model.
The cellular model can use tethering and is also equipped with GPS function.
GPS is now often taken for granted, but it's not available on Wi-Fi models.
Even if you want to check your current location on the map, you can not use it with the Wi-Fi model, so it can be said that it is not suitable for use when going out.
In this way, the number of functions that can be used is overwhelmingly higher in the cellular model, so the price will differ by about 20,000 yen.
Which is recommended, the iPad model?
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Next, I tried to verify which iPad model should be selected.
To be honest, I can't say "this is definitely better!"
The functional aspect is also substantial, and the cellular model that can be used flexibly with Wi-Fi or carrier / cheap SIM lines is more convenient, but as mentioned above, the high price is a bottleneck.
Which is better, the iPad model?In comparison, the cellular model is more expensive, but you can buy a second-hand iPad that is out of shape within your budget.
Therefore, where and how you want to use the iPad is the most important factor in choosing a model.
In the next chapter, we will go into detail about the characteristics of people recommended for each model.
People who recommend the Wi-Fi model iPad
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The features of people who recommend the Wi-Fi model iPad are as follows.
People who often use the iPad in a Wi-Fi environment, such as at home or at work, are suitable for the Wi-Fi model.
People who recommend the Wi-Fi model iPadFor those who basically use the iPad only indoors, the Wi-Fi model will suffice.
Also, since there is a difference of about 20,000 yen, the Wi-Fi model is suitable for those who want to purchase as cheaply as possible.
Not focusing on tethering or GPS features will also be an important factor in choosing a Wi-Fi model.
People who recommend the cellular model iPad
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Next, the characteristics of people who recommend the cellular model iPad are as follows.
The cellular model is safer for people who go out frequently, such as on business trips, and often use the iPad when they go out.
People who recommend the cellular model iPadAlso, if you are in an environment where it is difficult to connect to Wi-Fi, such as when you do not have Wi-Fi at home, you will find it more comfortable to purchase a cellular model.
Those who value tethering and GPS capabilities should also choose the cellular model.
The cellular model can be used as a Wi-Fi model by canceling the communication plan in the future, so if you are worried about either model, you may not regret buying the cellular model. ..
How to operate a Wi-Fi model iPad at a good price
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How should I use the Wi-Fi model iPad?
In this chapter, we will explain how to operate a Wi-Fi model iPad at a reasonable price.
How to operate a Wi-Fi model iPad at a good priceIf you subscribe to a portable pocket Wi-Fi, it will be useful for connecting to the Internet in places where there is no Wi-Fi environment such as when you go out.
You may use fixed Wi-Fi at home, but if you do not have a contract now, it will take time and money for construction, so pocket Wi-Fi that can be used immediately after contracting is more convenient and cost effective. ..
However, the communication speed is slower than fixed Wi-Fi, so those who want to emphasize speed may need to consider installing fixed Wi-Fi.
One option is to use Wi-Fi, which can be used in public facilities such as restaurants and cafes, but there are often concerns about poor security, so avoid handling important information.
How to operate a cellular model iPad at a good price
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Next, I summarized how to use the cellular model iPad at a good price.
The cellular model is more expensive than the Wi-Fi model, so you want to operate it as profitably as possible.
How to operate a cellular model iPad at a good priceBy purchasing the cellular model as a single unit and subscribing to a SIM dedicated to data communication, which is a cheap SIM that can be used later on the iPad, you can reduce monthly communication costs.
Data communication SIM is considerably cheaper than voice call SIM, so if you want to use iPad with cheap SIM, choose data communication SIM.
You can choose to have SMS or not, so if you want to use LINE, please subscribe to a SIM with SMS.
On the other hand, you can also purchase an iPad handled by DoCoMo, au, or Softbank and subscribe to a communication plan together.
In this case, there are two plans, one is a plan for the iPad alone and the other is a plan that allows you to share the data capacity of your smartphone, but the plan that shares the data capacity of your smartphone is cheaper and more profitable.
iPad prices and features
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Next, I examined the prices and features of the four iPad models released as of 2021.
If you are considering purchasing an iPad, please check it out.
iPad (8th generation) iPad Air (4th generation) iPad Pro iPad mini (5th generation)Image source:
The iPad (8th generation) is the latest model released in September 2020.
The overall performance and specifications, such as the design and support for Apple Pencil, are inherited from the previous model, but the CPU has been dramatically powered up by installing the A12 Bionic chip, and it has become crispy and comfortable to use.
You can draw notes and illustrations, enjoy games on the smoother screen with the A12 Bionic chip, and do research while making online calls, which is useful for both work and private life.
The prices are as follows.
iPad (8th Generation) Price
| item | 32GB | 128GB |
|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi model | 38,280 yen | 49,280 yen |
| Cellular model | 54,780 yen | 65,780 yen |
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iPad Air (4th generation) is the latest iPad Air model released in October 2020.
Equipped with the same A14 Bionic chip as the iPhone 12, the chip's performance is one of the best among the four iPads currently on the market.
Since it is a high-quality all-screen specification without a home button, you can enjoy videos and games without being interrupted by anything.
It supports fingerprint biometric authentication and can be unlocked by touching the power button on the upper right. Of course you can also use the Apple Pencil.
The prices are as follows.
Price of iPad Air (4th generation)
| item | 64GB | 256GB |
|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi model | 69,080 yen | 87,780 yen |
| Cellular model | 85,580 yen | 104,280 yen |
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iPad Pro 11 / 12.9 inch is iPad Pro which is a high-end model of iPad released in March 2020.
It is equipped with the A12Z Bionic chip, which is said to be faster than most laptop computers, and many people tend to use it as a laptop computer by using it as a set with an optional keyboard.
Since the ROM, which is the capacity to store data and applications, is up to 1TB, it can be said that it is a model that can satisfy even those who want a larger capacity iPad.
Like the iPad Air, it is an all-screen specification without a home button, but biometric authentication is Face ID.
With dual cameras, a studio-quality microphone, and four speakers, it's also handy for video recording and editing.
The prices are as follows.
iPad Pro Price
| item | 128GB | 256GB | 512GB | 1TB |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi model (11 inches) | 93,280 yen | 105,380 yen | 129,580 yen | 153,780 yen |
| Cellular model (11 inches) | 111,980 yen | 124,080 yen | 148,280 yen | 172,480 yen |
| Wi-Fi model (12.9 inches) | 125,760 yen | 127,380 yen | 151,580 yen | 175,780 yen |
| Cellular model (12.9 inches) | 133,980 yen | 146,080 yen | 170,280 yen | 194,480 yen |
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The iPad mini (5th generation) is the latest iPad mini model released in March 2019.
With a 7.9-inch display and a weight of about 300g, it is extremely compact and lightweight, making it convenient to carry.
With the A12 Bionic chip installed, the processing speed is also three times faster than the 4th generation.
You can freely edit videos and images with the front and back cameras, and you can also use Apple Pencil.
The prices are as follows.
Price of iPad mini (5th generation)
| item | 64GB | 256GB |
|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi model | 50,380 yen | 66,880 yen |
| Cellular model | 69,080 yen | 85,580 yen |
Choose between a Wi-Fi model and a cellular model to suit your needs
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Finally, I will summarize the differences between the Wi-Fi model and the cellular model of the iPad.
Difference between iPad Wi-Fi model and cellular modelThere are five differences between the Wi-Fi model and the cellular model, and you will often regret it if you don't think carefully when purchasing.
The Wi-Fi model is recommended if you place importance on low price, but if you are worried about the cellular model even a little and want to use it comfortably when you go out, we recommend you to choose the cellular model.
If you use the Wi-Fi model together with pocket Wi-Fi, you can use it even in places where there is no Wi-Fi environment, but it also costs maintenance costs for pocket Wi-Fi, so it makes sense to choose the one with the cheaper main unit price. is not.
If you're thinking about buying a Wi-Fi model with pocket Wi-Fi, why not consider buying a cellular model as well?
How to make the maintenance cost of doCoMo iPad / iPad Pro the lowest?Explanation of prices and plans
