Is it Worth the Upgrade to the New iPad?

If you have an iPad, you may be wondering if it is worth upgrading to the new iPad.  Since the release of the iPad 2, the second generation iPad, many may want to know what are the significant differences?  Are the changes worth upgrading if you already own an iPad?  Here are some of the most important points to ponder before you decide on upgrading.

Just like the release of any new product, especially in the world of technology, when a new generation model comes out, the old generation model's price will drop. 

As soon as the release of the new iPad 2 was announced, Apple dropped the price of the first iPad by $100. The next generation iPad sells at the same price the original iPad was sold.

For those looking to sell their old iPad, don't expect to get much for it.  Expect a depreciation of a couple of hundred dollars, even If your iPad is in good condition. if you want to go that route, decide if the new features are worth a couple of hundred dollars to you.

One of the most notable changes between the original iPad and the next generation iPad device is the upgraded processor. The iPad 2 has a new dual-core processor means that it can handle many of the functions much quicker. 

This speed is also boosted with the recent improvements from iOS 4.3. Depending on what you want to use iPad for will help you determine if the upgrade is worth the money or not.

Maybe you are just a casual user who uses your iPad to check email and browse the web. Or you may want to use the device for more high-end tasks, such as playing some of the most advanced iPad games.  If you're in the former group, an upgrade will probably not be worth it. If you're in the latter category if users, however, it could greatly improve your productivity.

The new operating system, the iOS 4.3, is also available for use on the original iPad, so it's important to distinguish between improvements that are available to all iPad owners, and those that are specific to the iPad next generation device.

For example, if you upgrade to the new iOS, you will see faster Safari Speeds, iTunes Home Sharing and improvements to Airplay without the need to buy the new iPad.

However, if you are looking for the camera features, a new processor, video editing, these are only available to iPad 2 users.

Some of the improvements with the new iPad lead to certain apps working far better on the newer model. For example, the gyroscope featured on the iPad 2 brings far more precision to motion based games and apps.

Apps such as iMovie are also available to iPad 2 users only. This could make a big difference if these apps directly relate to the functions you need for your iPad.

Another significant brand new feature is the camera. The new iPad model has a front facing camera for FaceTime, and a backward camera to take photographs or even shoot movies. This may be a feature that many users wanted in the original iPad, which could make the upgrade more than worthwhile.

Just like any new technology, some people want the latest and greatest, while others are content with what they have and don't need to chase the technology.  Ultimately, if you are an iPad owner, you have to compare the new features and decide if an upgrade to the next generation iPad is worth it, based on the upgrades mentioned here.