What are all the differences between the iPad 2 models? Which should I buy?

Please note that on March 7, 2012, Apple discontinued the 32 GB and 64 GB configurations of the iPad 2. Apple continues to sell a 16 GB configuration.

As classified by EveryiPad.com, there are three different iPad 2 models -- the iPad 2 (Wi-Fi), iPad 2 (Wi-Fi/GSM/A-GPS), and iPad 2 (Wi-Fi/CDMA/A-GPS) -- and these models are differentiated by connectivity and battery life as well as price. There are unique identifiers that also are worth noting for future identification as well as minor differences in weight, which most would not consider to be worth noting.

Photo Credit: Apple, Inc.

All iPad 2 models are available with either 16 GB, 32 GB, or 64 GB of capacity and also are available with a white or black front (and an aluminum back). If you prefer, you could consider each capacity and color to be its own model, which would mean that there are a grand total of eighteen models.

All iPad 2 models share the same 9.7-inch (1024x768, 132 ppi) multitouch "glossy" LED-backlit IPS display. All are powered by a custom-designed 1 GHz dual-core Apple A5 "system on a chip" processor, have 802.11a/b/g/n Wi-Fi, an accelerometer, a three-axis gyroscope, an ambient light sensor, digital compass, a speaker and a built-in mic. They also have front and rear mounted cameras. The rear camera supports HD video recording (720p up to 30 FPS with audio), and functions as a still camera as well, although Apple does not specify megapixels. The front mounted camera, designed to be used for video conferencing in conjunction with Apple's provided "FaceTime" software over a Wi-Fi network, takes VGA quality photos and video up to 30 FPS.

The technical differences are that the iPad 2 (Wi-Fi) only supports Wi-Fi, the iPad 2 (Wi-Fi/GSM/A-GPS) provides GSM and A-GPS support as well as Wi-Fi and the iPad 2 (Wi-Fi/CDMA/A-GPS) supports CDMA and A-GPS as well as Wi-Fi. Battery life is estimated to be ten hours over Wi-Fi for all models and nine hours over 3G, whether GSM or CDMA, for the applicable models.

For future identification, the Wi-Fi, GSM, and CDMA models are assigned model numbers A1395, A1396, and A1397, respectively. These numbers are etched in small type on the rear toward the bottom of the case.

Photo Credit: Apple, Inc. (Smart Cover)

The iPad 2 models also support a new magnetic "Smart Cover" -- available at additional cost -- that protects the screen when not in use and automatically wakes up the iPad 2 when the cover is removed and puts it to sleep when the cover is attached.

Both black and white models cost the same amount. Pricing is summarized below:

So, which should I buy?

Capacity clearly is a personal choice and only you know how many songs, movies, photos, ebooks and apps you intend to use on the device. Color, likewise, is a personal choice and only you can decide if you prefer a black or white model. Black may show fingerprints more in the short run, but white may be more likely to show dirt, grime, and scuffmarks in the long run.

For detailed comparison of the black and white color options, including some excellent points about glare and outdoor use, you also may find this video from DetroitBorg helpful to decide for yourself:

Other than capacity and color, on basic terms, if price -- both upfront and ongoing -- is most important and/or you only intend to use the iPad in your wireless internet-equipped home or office (and the occasional coffee shop), the Wi-Fi only model is your best choice.

If you intend to use your iPad on-the-go and would find A-GPS support particularly valuable, and price is not an issue, either a GSM or CDMA equipped model would be ideal. In general, in the US, AT&T's GSM network has the reputation for being less reliable than Verizon's CDMA network, although AT&T's GSM network is faster. Which network is the better choice for you depends on its performance and reliability in your area and this will require personal research on your behalf.

Ultimately, any iPad 2 model would be a solid choice for one interested primarily in consuming content and creating fun content that does not require a great deal of typing (although the iPad does support both a keyboard "dock" and keyboard connectivity via Bluetooth). For one who primarily surfs the web, plays games and does basic photo and video editing and music production, for example, it would be perfect.