How to Buy an iPad in Nigeria

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The iPad is no doubt the most desired tablet. So, if you are considering buying a high-end tablet, you are likely to consider the iPad at some point in the buy decision making process. However, with multiple generations of the iPad now available the decision is no longer as easy as it used to be. This article will enable you buy the right iPad for you.

Buy Original iPads Online

For the records there are five major iPads out there, namely the first generation iPad, iPad 2, iPad 3, iPad 4, and iPad Mini. This article will help you choose one of these tablets.

Forget the first generation iPad

The first generation iPad was innovative when it was first launched. It completely turned the computing industry on its head. However, compared to the Apple iPad 2 and more recent iPad generations, it does not measure up.

It is a good idea to avoid the first generation iPad because of its outdated hardware. In addition, you are more likely to find refurbished first generation iPads than brand new ones. Most reputable stores in Nigeria do not sell first generation iPad, which means you may end-up buying a Chinese clone, rather than an original iPad.

Buy Cellular Models

iPads are available in Wi-Fi only and cellular models. Although the Wi-Fi-only models are cheaper, they are not advisable because of the scarcity of Wi-Fi hotspots in Nigeria. Apple iPad like most other computing gadgets is nothing but a useless brick without internet access. If you buy a Wi-Fi only model, you cannot connect to the internet except you are in a Wi-Fi hotspot.

Cellular models support 3G or 4G internet (as well as Wi-Fi), so you can access internet anywhere there is GSM coverage, which means you can use the cellular-enabled Apple iPad to access internet on Glo, MTN, Airtel, and Etisalat networks (will require a micro SIM or Nano SIM). Hence, the cellular models should be your preferred choice no matter the generation you eventually end up with. Buy Wi-Fi only models only if you have your own wireless router for creating your own wireless hotspot or you are sure Wi-Fi will always be available.

What Display do you Prefer?

If you want a bright crisp display, check off the iPad 2 and iPad Mini from your list. Apple introduced Retina display in iPad 3. So, if you love the retina display on your iPhone, you should aim for the iPad 3 or iPad 4. iPad 2 and iPad Mini both feature HD displays (1024 x 768px), though because iPad Mini has a smaller display the view will be superior.

If you prefer a larger display, the 9.7-inch models should be your choice. This eliminates the Apple iPad Mini.

Are you big on Cameras & FaceTime?

Apple introduced full HD video recording in iPad 3. The Apple iPad 2 only offer half HD video recording. In, addition, if you want to use Apple's popular video calling service, (FaceTime) on cellular network, you should aim for Apple iPad Mini or iPad 4. Prior to these two models FaceTime was only available over Wi-Fi.

However, if you already have a latest generation iPhone like the iPhone 5 or a similar high-end Smartphone, having a great quality camera, may not be much of a big deal for you.

Do you want Superfast 4G LTE?

LTE is not yet available in Nigeria, but I can bet that within one year it is highly likely that at least one network will launch LTE in Nigeria. If you plan using your iPad for up to 2 years and would want to access the internet at the fastest speed available it may be a good idea to invest in an LTE enabled iPad. LTE offers up to 100Mbps download speed.

Although the Apple iPad 3 claims to be 4G ready, it is likely that its LTE will not work in Nigeria whenever, LTE becomes available in the country. This is because the LTE bands on the iPad 3 are only accessible in the United States and a few other countries and most likely will not be supported in Nigeria. For truely global 4G LTE support, buy the iPad Mini or the iPad 4. iPad 3 is not that bad, it is capable of delivering 42Mbps over HSPA+.

Do you want a portable iPad?

iPad Mini is the portable iPad offering a 7.9-inch display. One advantage of portable tablets is that they are cheaper. They are also easier to handle. You can type and navigate them while standing or even walking. This is difficult if not impossible with larger tablets. The iPad Mini is now available in Nigeria.

Do you Need lots of storage

The iPad offer built-in storage with no memory card support. If you plan buying the iPad, buy one with enough storage to support your needs. Currently, iPad offers 16GB, 32GB, and 64GB storage.

You can also use your computer (if you have one), external hard drive (if you can afford it) or cloud storage (if you have unlimited data plan) to support the storage on your iPad.

I just want the latest iPad?

If all you want is the latest generation iPad, buy the Apple iPad 4 or the iPad Mini. The iPad Mini and the iPad 4 are now available in Nigeria.

There you have it. We have just gone through the key decisions for buying the right iPad. Did I miss any important consideration? Share with me as a comment. Thanks. Hope you find what you are looking for in your iPad.