Take a closer look at a few of the differences between the Apple iPad and the iPad 3G.
Donald Bell
Donald Bell has spent more than five years as a CNET senior editor, reviewing everything from MP3 players to the first three generations of the Apple iPad. He currently devotes his time to producing How To content for CNET, as well as weekly episodes of CNET's Top 5 video series.
One of the telltale signs that you're holing a 3G version of the iPad is the matte black plastic strip that runs across the back and wraps up around the top edge. This plastic panel makes it easier for the iPad's internal 3G antenna to grab a signal.
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You're not required to establish a 3G data plan for the iPad 3G to work, but an initial pop-up window will remind you that the option is available.
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The iPad 3G's settings menu includes two additional options not found on the standard iPad. An "Airplane Mode" switch at the top of the menu will temporarily disable the iPad's 3G capabilities. A menu selection for "Cellular Data" allows you to set up and manage your 3G data plan.
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The iPad 3G comes with one little accessory not included with the standard model: a glorified paper clip. This little poker tool can be used to eject the micro-SIM card embedded in the side of the iPad 3G.
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The "Cellular Data" menu option on the iPad 3G allows you to create and manage your 3G data plan. You also have options for blocking data roaming, and viewing APN and SIM information.
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Users can subscribe to a 3G data plan directly on the iPad 3G. Credit card and cardholder information is relayed directly to AT&T, cutting out Apple as a middleman.
During the account set-up process, users can choose between a $14.99 with a monthly cap of 250MB of data, or an unlimited plan for $29.99 per month. The 3G service is offered with no contract and can be canceled at any time, without penalty.
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Another unique feature of the iPad 3G not found on the standard model is an internal assisted GPS chip which allows for a more accurate gauge of your location.
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The iPad 3G includes a barely noticeable micro-SIM card tray midway up the left side. Using the included poker tool, you can eject the tray and access the SIM (shown here).
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You could be barbaric and use a paper clip to eject the iPad 3G's micro-SIM card tray, but the included poker tool is far more elegant.
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As the name suggests, the micro-SIM card used on the iPad 3G (shown right) is considerably smaller than a traditional SIM card (shown left).
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The box containing the iPad 3G is identical to the standard iPad, with the exception of a "3G" designation found on a sticker on the back of the box.
