by Bruce Tyson

Created on: April 03, 2010   Last Updated: April 04, 2010

Many Apple followers loyally stood in line in early April to purchase their Apple iPad, but some were surprised at what they got: an iPad Wi-Fi, not an iPad 3G. Apparently many users were expecting their iPad to be the full-featured product complete with 3G capability, but that version of iPad won’t be available until later in the month.

Difference between iPad 3G and iPad Wi-Fi

Apple’s iPad 3G will connect to mobile data networks such as AT&T’s 9 and presumabley Verizon’s at a later date), so if you were expecting to have fully mobile data the way you have with your iPhone or iPhone HD, you are going to be let down. The Apple iPad Wi-Fi version that you have will only connect to local area networks and hotspots. If you use your iPad at home, at the office, in the library, etc. you will not have any problems accessing the iPad store and other network resources. If there’s no hotspot available, you are out of luck.

Users who were dismayed at the iPad’s $499 price tag will be even more disappointed should they choose to hold out until the iPad 3G is available: it’s cost is expected to be $629 and that is still before purchasing a service subscription or any Apple iPad accessories.

Two data plans are expected to be available for the iPad 3G: a 150 megabyte monthy plan that will cost about $14.99 plus taxes and fees or an unlimited plan that will cost $29.99 per month plus taxes and fees.

Another difference between the Apple iPad 3G and the Wi-Fi version released at the beginning of the month is its weight. The 3G version will weigh 1.6 pounds (.73 kg) while the Wi-Fi version weighs only 1.5 pound (.68 kg).

iPad in the Box

Both models of the iPad will come with the iPad itself (3G or Wi-Fi), a connector for USB hookup to a computer, a power adapter (10 watts) that connects to USB, and user documentation.

iPad accessories

All the accessories that work with the Apple iPad 3G will work with the Wi-Fi version. This includes the Apple iPad 3G keyboard dock, the camera connection kit, the iPad dock, and the iPad case.

No more surprises

Now that you know that you are limited to Wi-Fi connections only, you should take comfort in the fact that there are no more surprises that await you (except the high price of Apple iPad apps, or course). 

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