Apple iPad 2 Cellular (32GB) Review | 168 Data compared

The iMore review highlights the iPad 2 as a significant refinement of the original, emphasizing its 33% thinner, lighter, and more ergonomic design that makes it more comfortable to hold. A key advantage is the dual-core A5 processor, which, combined with increased RAM, delivers faster web browsing, smoother performance, and improved multitasking. However, the review is critical of the "terrible" camera quality and notes the lack of a higher-resolution screen, retaining the 1024x768 display rather than upgrading to "Retina" density. The review praises the robust tablet-optimized app ecosystem and the "magical" magnetic Smart Cover accessory. Ultimately, the iPad 2 is described as a superior, faster device that solidified Apple's market lead despite lacking competitive cameras, ultimately earning it a top recommendation at the time.

The Notebookcheck review of the Apple iPad 2 highlights a 33% thinner (8.8 mm) and lighter (601 grams) design, featuring superior unibody aluminium construction and the convenient Smart Cover. Performance is significantly boosted by the dual-core A5 processor, providing smoother 3D application performance, while maintaining a strong 10-hour battery life for web browsing. Key drawbacks include the aging 1024x768 display resolution lacking a Retina upgrade, low-resolution cameras, and the continued absence of USB or HDMI ports.

Macworld's review characterizes the iPad 2 as a significant, refined evolution of the original, featuring a 33% thinner and lighter design, along with a premium, yet differently tapered, aluminum build. Performance is highlighted as a major pro, with the dual-core A5 processor providing a noticeably faster experience, particularly in web browsing and app responsiveness. While the new cameras and magnetic Smart Cover are added features, the, low-resolution cameras and the lack of a "Retina" display update are noted as cons, with the device seen as a strong, but evolutionary, upgrade.

The iPad 2 is described as a stylish, "wonderfully sleek" upgrade with a faster dual-core A5 processor that enhances performance. Key strengths highlighted include a vast library of optimized applications in the App Store, the addition of dual cameras for video calling, and a reliable 10-hour battery life. 3 However, significant limitations include the lack of Adobe Flash support for browsing and the requirement to use "clunky" iTunes for data transfers. The review concludes that while the device is enjoyable to use, the improvements may not justify an upgrade for current iPad 1 owners.

The Apple iPad 2 (Wi-Fi + 3G) features a 33% thinner, more portable design, powered by a dual-core A5 processor that enhances performance and responsiveness. It introduces dual cameras for FaceTime and 720p recording, along with magnets for the Smart Cover. While offering improved speed, the device maintains the same screen resolution and price point as its predecessor. Key drawbacks noted in the review include poor photo quality from the low-resolution rear camera and VGA-quality front camera. Additionally, it lacks Adobe Flash support, physical ports for expanded storage, and included earphones. Despite these limitations, the tablet is praised for its faster, lighter construction and extensive application ecosystem.

According to TechRadar, the iPad 2 features a significantly improved, slim, and well-balanced design with front and rear cameras enabling FaceTime. Performance is driven by a dual-core A5 chip, providing a fast user experience alongside excellent battery life and a robust application ecosystem. Key drawbacks include high pricing for the 3G model, disappointing camera quality, lack of expandable storage, and a screen that lacks high-resolution Retina quality.

According to TechRadar, the iPad 2 3G offers unmatched convenience for instant internet access, providing a superior, seamless experience for frequent travelers compared to tethering solutions. While the 3G connection is generally reliable with flexible, no-contract data plans, a notable drawback is the inconsistent signal strength in areas like trains or tunnels. Despite the device's improved design and ergonomics, the significant price premium of roughly £100 for 3G capabilities makes it hard to justify, with the reviewer suggesting the added cost may not be worth it for all users. Copy

CNET’s review characterizes the Apple iPad 2 as a refined, "evolutionary" successor that successfully addresses initial hardware complaints through a significantly thinner, 8.8mm design and a fast dual-core A5 processor. Key improvements include superior gaming performance, enhanced graphics, and the addition of a three-axis gyroscope and optional 1080p HDMI video mirroring. However, the device falls short with a stagnant 1024x768 screen resolution, lacking the "Retina" quality found in the iPhone 4. Furthermore, while dual cameras are included, the rear camera provides mediocre, sub-megapixel photo quality, and the device still lacks built-in USB or SD card ports, requiring separate adapters. Despite these limitations and the absence of Adobe Flash support, the iPad 2, with its extensive app ecosystem and 10-hour battery life, is deemed the market leader and a highly recommended "supergadget" for new users. Copy

The PhoneArena review characterizes the iPad 2 as an evolutionary upgrade, highlighting its 33% slimmer, lighter design with tapered edges as a major pro, though the sleek aluminum build is prone to being slippery. Performance is significantly boosted by the dual-core A5 chip, facilitating faster gaming and multitasking, and while the inclusion of front and rear cameras is a pro, their poor, low-resolution quality is deemed a significant con. Furthermore, the 9.7-inch IPS display remains a pro for responsiveness, yet the lack of a resolution increase, absence of Adobe Flash, and limited file management via iTunes are noted as limitations compared to the tablet's overall potential.

The Expert Reviews assessment of the Apple iPad 2 highlights a faster, thinner, and lighter design featuring a dual-core A5 processor, front and rear cameras, and exceptional battery life. Key pros include the premium aluminum construction, the innovative magnetic Smart Cover, and a lower launch price in the UK compared to its predecessor. However, notable cons include a disappointing 1024x768 screen resolution, low-quality cameras, lack of Flash support, and reliance on iTunes.

The iPad 2 introduces a significantly thinner and lighter design, featuring a dual-core A5 processor that offers faster performance and a three-axis gyroscope for enhanced gaming. Key pros include the improved, sleek design and consistent 10-hour battery life. However, a major con is the 9.7-inch display, which retains the original's 1024x768 resolution rather than moving to a higher resolution. New features include front and rear cameras allowing for FaceTime and 720p recording, along with the innovative magnetic Smart Cover, marking clear functional improvements. Despite this, camera quality is a downside, with poor-quality still images, and the continued lack of USB/SD slots limits data management. Overall, the iPad 2 is praised for being a faster, more portable device that retains its "all-day" battery performance. The main criticisms are the lack of camera quality and continued reliance on iTunes, which some find restrictive, say reviews. For more details, visit MobileTechReview.