I recently considered buying an iPad and discovered there are four different ways to buy it that result in a price difference of $330! The iPad is by no means a necessity, according to an Apple-obsessed friend of mine, but if you are going to buy one you might as well get a deal. See below for basic tech terms.
MiFi – A small device that allows you to set up a WiFi hot spot wherever you are.
3G – A high-speed Internet network that the 3G iPad can connect to (the WiFi iPad can only connect to WiFi hotspots, like at McDonalds, Starbucks, or your local library).
This chart assumes you do not break anything and incur replacement costs. Check warranties on all devices before you buy.
Welcome to Bargain Babe! I’m Mara, and I’m so glad you’re here. I am an obsessive bargain hunter and penny pincher, and I am determined to live a full life without EVER paying full price.
I won an iPad and I just connect to my wireless internet at home. No need to sign up with a cell phone provider!
I have the 32mb with 3G. I usually just use the wifi and not pay for the 3G. I travel and commute so for $8 month I suscribe to Boingo. This gives me wifi coverage on Washington State Ferries as well as most airports. It has been worth it to me. You can activate the 3G with AT&T and then suspend it for $15 and a month of service. Great if you need it for a trip where free wifi is not available.
Love this! My son is saving every penny for an IPad, and it’s great to know the additional costs that will come along with it.
I have the WiFi only version of the iPad because truthfully I don’t trust myself taking it out in public lol
This is why I didn’t even bother with the data plans. I simply hooked up my iPad to my house WiFi and don’t have to pay anything 🙂 Yeah, it sucks on the go, but I can still use many of the apps without an internet connection!