Are you wondering whether to get an iPhone or an iPad for your next big investment? (Or maybe just blowing an extra paycheck on something fun?) Maybe you’re wondering whether to buy an iPad or an iPhone. Most users will focus on the physical differences; i.e. the iPad is obviously designed as a tablet system, and the iPhone has a much smaller screen, hence the Smartphone label. However, there are more technical differences to consider before making your decision.
What the iPad Doesn’t Have
Let’s first focus on the limitations of the iPad system. For one thing there is a noticeable difference in video quality when using the iPad, since the aspect ratio is not widescreen and video output is supported at 480p, and nothing higher. Other missing features that you might mistakenly assume the system has include a GPS system as well a PC-friendly USB port. Thus, you will quickly realize that while the iPhone was clearly designed to be a mobile unit, the iPad is more conducive to interior use—as in a home, or even a hotel room.
The good news is that there are many business apps and hardware devices (not to mention accessories like the new keyboard plus docking center) that can make the iPad seem more home-friendly. You also have to consider the alarming fact that while the iPad does have a built-in microphone it does not have a built in camera.
Advantages to the iPhone
The iPhone, while a smaller unit, does boast some significant advantages over the iPad. The iPhone has 3G and sometimes 4G mobility, which is based on a cellular network not WI-FI. The iPad systems do offer 3G but these are more expensive units than the moderately priced WI-FI only iPad. On the other hand, the iPhone boasts 3G and 3GS with WI-FI and cellular compatibility. The 3G technology also provides the iPhone with a GPS system (built in as a chip), which will not work on the moderately priced iPad units. The iPhone also has a camera built in, (whether a 3 or 2 megapixel level) which it can use to capture video and photos.
Battery Power and Weight
What about battery power? The iPad battery can last up to 10 hours, and can be used for surfing, watching video or listening to MP3s. On the other hand, the iPhone can last up to six hours of web browsing time—significantly lower than the larger iPad. Weight and size are still significant issues, as the iPhone weighs 4.8 ounces (for the standard unit, with a 3.5 inch screen) versus the iPad which weighs 1.5 pounds and has a 9.7 inch screen. This will obviously make the iPad difficult to use as a phone.
Hardware Specifications
The iPad has a 2048-by-1536-pixel resolution at 264 pixels per inch. This dwarfs the iPhone’s 1136-by-640 resolution. However, the newest Apple iPhone has an A6 dual core high performance chip which does provide faster performance than the iPad’s A5 chip, a generation behind.
When to Choose an iPad Over an iPhone
Why should you choose an iPad over an iPhone? One option may very well be price, since iPad WI-FI units are less expensive, and don’t have to involve a monthly fee like the iPhone. Of course, with iPads, you could use the system to surf the web, play games online, watch TV or cable, organize photos and enjoy a full entertainment center within the palm of your hand. (You could even perform these tasks while on the road if you have a 3G system)
An iPhone, however, might be the better choice if you are planning to do a lot of business on the road and take advantage of video conferencing features, and fast telephone communications. The only question left is, can the small screen suffice for your business agenda?
Helene Lazarenco is a dedicated writer at Kepard.com. She is passionate by Technology, Security software and Blogging. Don’t forget to try out a VPN service when need a reliable US VPN (warning: totally different.)
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