OVERALL
ALTERNATIVES
SPECS
VS AVERAGE
REVIEWS
Scored using Tablets Methodology v3.0
Tablets Methodology v3.0
Mathematical & Unbiased Scoring
Products in this category are scored under Frontum Tablets Methodology v3.0: the technical score from the specifications is the base, and independent expert and video reviews (up to ±0.5 points), owner opinions (up to ±0.3) and best-of lists (up to +0.3) move it up or down.
Explore Tablets Methodology v3.0

Apple iPad 3 Cellular (16GB) review: 168 specs compared

Avg. price:~£530RAM capacity:1 GBInternal storage:16 GBScreen size:9.7 inchesChipset:Apple A5X

Apple iPad 3 Cellular (16GB) Review: Compare 168 technical specifications and 34 expert and video reviews to see how this product ranks in the Tablets category and whether it is worth buying.

Apple iPad 3 Cellular (16GB)
7.1/10

Overall score

Score
7.1/ 10
✕
What it is
Our main score for this model, 1–10. It combines specs, best-of lists, expert reviews and owners.
How we count it
Parts: Technical score 35%, List score 30%, Reviews score 25%, Sentiment score 10%
Marks: Each part gets a mark out of 10. For reviews, lists and owners, a typical model in this category gets about 8 and the best one gets 10.
No data yet: A part with no data shows "?". It counts as the mark of a weaker model in this category (4 in 5 models with data score higher). This way, models with reviews, lists and owners usually come out ahead.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–² Better than 55% of models
Score components

35%

5.3

Technical score

30%

?

List scoreNot enough data yet, so we use 7.5, the mark of a weaker model in this category

25%

8.3

Reviews score

10%

8.8

Sentiment score

â–²Better than 55% of tablets
7.3

Value for money

Value for money
7.3/ 10
✕
What it is
An indicator that combines the tablet's overall rating with its cost.
When it matters
When you are looking for a tablet with a good balance between quality and price.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–¼ Worse than 67% of models
Score components

70%

7.1

Overall score

30%

7.7

Price

â–¼Worse than 67%
5.3

Technical score

Technical score
5.3/ 10
✕
What it is
How good the specs are compared with the other models in this category, 1–10.
How we count it
Areas: We rate the specs in each area against the other models in this category.
Weighting: The areas that matter most to buyers count more. The shares are shown under Score components.
Share: The technical score is 35% of the overall score.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–¼ Worse than 76% of models
Score components

22%

4.4

Performance

20%

5.8

Display

16%

5.2

Camera

14%

5.2

Battery

12%

6.5

Connectivity

8%

6.6

Software

5%

4.9

Design

3%

3.9

Audio

â–¼Worse than 76%
8.3

Reviews score

Reviews score
8.3/ 10
✕
What it is
Average grade from independent test sites, magazines and video reviewers, 1–10.
How we count it
Grades: Each review's own score is converted to 1–10; without one, we grade the review ourselves. Big test sites count more, short reviews half as much as full tests. A video review counts half.
Score: The average grade is 80% of the review mark; the number of reviews is the other 20% (1 review = 5, the typical number in this category = 8, the most-reviewed model = 10).
Enough data: With few reviews, the average grade is pulled toward the typical grade of this category. No reviews yet: 7.4 for now.
Share: Reviews count 25% of the overall score.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–² Better than 80% of models

80%

8.2

Average grade

20%

8.9

Popularity

Grades by review (34)
26 reviews: 14 with a printed score, 12 estimated from the review. 8 video reviews, each counting half as much as a written test. Reviews count 25% of the overall score.
User ratings collected online are not part of this score.
â–²Better than 80%
?

List score

List score
7.5/ 10
✕
What it is
How often independent test sites, magazines and video reviewers put this model in their best-of lists for this category.
How we count it
Points: The model in the most lists of this category gets 10; the others get 8 to 10 in proportion. In no list yet: 7.5. Lists count 30% of the overall score.
Enough data: Every list counts, even a single one. With fewer than 5 best-of lists in the category, this part is left out.
Lists with this model (0)
Not in any best-of list yet, so this part counts as 7.5. Models in a list get 8 to 10.
Not in any best-of list yet
  • apple-ipad-3-16gb-cellular
  • apple-ipad-3-16gb-cellular
  • apple-ipad-3-16gb-cellular
  • apple-ipad-3-16gb-cellular
apple-ipad-3-16gb-cellular
apple-ipad-3-16gb-cellular
apple-ipad-3-16gb-cellular
apple-ipad-3-16gb-cellular
Where to buy
*As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Best rankings
Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).All: ranking among all products in the database.
Available versions:
16GB64GBCheck price
Other versions:
32GB

What reviewers say about the Apple iPad 3 Cellular (16GB)

Based on 25 · 8

Reviewers love the sharp screen and smooth graphics, but criticise short battery life, a bulky build and limited storage.
Praised
Mixed views
Criticised
Pick a topic to see who said what

What owners say about the Apple iPad 3 Cellular (16GB)

Based on 70 owners sharing their experience in online comments

66%positive7%mixed27%negative

Owners praise the crisp Retina display and enjoyable media use, while later updates bring slow performance and fading app support.

What owners dislike

  • Owners say it became slow, sometimes unusable, after the iOS 9 update, while it ran much better on iOS 7 and 8.38
  • Owners felt annoyed that the iPad 4 arrived only months after they bought it, with a new Lightning connector.25
  • Owners say newer apps stopped installing or signing in once the iPad was stuck on iOS 9 or earlier, so many apps no longer worked.17
  • Owners say it got very hot during use, sometimes after about 15 minutes of gaming or video, and felt worse in a case.8
  • Owners say the glass cracked or shattered after a drop, and one screen needed repairs about five times.7
  • Owners found it took a very long time to charge, and some saw a 'not charging' warning with certain chargers.6
  • Owners found it heavier than the iPad 2, tiring to hold for long sessions and uncomfortable on the wrists and fingers.4
  • Owners say the 16GB model filled up quickly, leaving no room for new apps or iOS updates.3
  • Some owners had a battery swell and wreck the screen, and one found battery life worse than the older iPad 2.3

Points mentioned by at least 3 owners, most mentioned first.

Loading category ranking...

Technical Specifications of tablet Apple iPad 3 Cellular (16GB)

Technical score
Technical score
5.3/ 10
✕
What it is
How good the specs are compared with the other models in this category, 1–10.
How we count it
Areas: We rate the specs in each area against the other models in this category.
Weighting: The areas that matter most to buyers count more. The shares are shown under Score components.
Share: The technical score is 35% of the overall score.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–¼ Worse than 76% of models
Score components:

22%

4.4

Performance

20%

5.8

Display

16%

5.2

Camera

14%

5.2

Battery

12%

6.5

Connectivity

8%

6.6

Software

5%

4.9

Design

3%

3.9

Audio

5.3
Reviews score
8.3
List score
?
Value for money
Value for money
7.3/ 10
✕
What it is
An indicator that combines the tablet's overall rating with its cost.
When it matters
When you are looking for a tablet with a good balance between quality and price.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–¼ Worse than 67% of models
Score components:

70%

7.1

Overall score

30%

7.7

Price

7.3
RAM capacity
1 GB
Market range: <1 GB – >8 GB
This tablet has 1 GB of RAM, which is less than 78% of tablets and equal to 19.1% of tablets.
Process node
45 nm
Market range: <4 nm – >40 nm
This tablet is built on a 45 nm process, which is larger than 94.9% of tablets and equal to 4.4% of tablets.
Internal storage
16 GB
Market range: <16 GB – >256 GB
This tablet has 16 GB of internal storage, which is less than 78.8% of tablets and equal to 14.8% of tablets.
Geekbench 6 single-core score
?
Chipset
Apple A5X
This tablet runs on Apple A5X, which is more advanced than 81.9% of tablets and equal to 0.2% of tablets.
Show more
What reviewers say
Screen resolution
2048×1536
This tablet has a 2048×1536 screen, which is sharper than 68.5% of tablets and equal to 3.8% of tablets.
Refresh rate
60 Hz
Market range: <60 Hz – >120 Hz
This tablet has a 60 Hz screen, which is smoother than 0.1% of tablets and equal to 73.4% of tablets.
Display type
IPS LCD
This tablet uses a IPS LCD display type. 17% of tablets use this display technology.
Pixel density
264 ppi
Market range: <149 ppi – >291 ppi
This tablet has a pixel density of 264 ppi, which is higher than 71% of tablets and equal to 5.8% of tablets.
Display glass type
Aluminosilicate Glass
This tablet protects its screen with Aluminosilicate Glass, which is less durable than 58% of tablets and the same as 7% of tablets.
Show more
What reviewers say
Optical image stabilization
no
This tablet does not support optical stabilisation. 0.4% of tablets offer this.
Main camera megapixels
5 MP
Market range: <3.15 MP – >13 MP
This tablet has a rear camera with 5 MP resolution, which is lower than 63.7% of tablets and equal to 26% of tablets.
Front camera megapixels
0.3 MP
Market range: <1.2 MP – >9 MP
This tablet has a front camera with 0.3 MP resolution, which is lower than 93% of tablets and equal to 7% of tablets.
Main camera aperture
f/2.4
This tablet has a main camera aperture of f/2.4, which is narrower than 70% of tablets and equal to 17.5% of tablets.
Optical zoom
N/A
Show more
What reviewers say
Battery capacity
11,560 mAh
Market range: <4k mAh – >10.1k mAh
This tablet has 11,560 mAh battery capacity, which is larger than 96.9% of tablets and equal to 0.6% of tablets.
Charging speed
12 W
Market range: <10 W – >45 W
This tablet charges at 12 W, which is slower than 58.9% of tablets and equal to 1.5% of tablets.
Battery life
9 hours
Market range: <7 hours – >16 hours
This tablet has a battery life of 9 hours, which is shorter than that of 62.7% of tablets and equal to that of 6.9% of tablets.
Wireless charging
no
This tablet does not support wireless charging. 1.5% of tablets offer this.
Fast charging
no
This tablet does not support fast charging. 56.9% of tablets offer this.
Show more
What reviewers say
LTE support
yes
This tablet has built-in LTE. 57.1% of tablets offer this.
Wi-Fi connectivity
yes
This tablet connects to Wi-Fi. 0.2% of tablets offer this.
GPS
yes
This tablet has built-in GPS. 17.1% of tablets offer this.
5G connectivity
no
This tablet does not support 5G. 8.1% of tablets offer this.
NFC
no
This tablet does not include NFC. 10.8% of tablets offer this.
Show more
What reviewers say
Operating system
iOS 5.1
This tablet uses the iOS 5.1 operating system, which is less advanced than the one used by 98.4%.
Update support duration
long
This tablet offers long update support, which is longer than the support period of 80% of tablets and equal to that of 20% of tablets.
Direct OS updates
yes
This tablet supports direct OS updates. 20.3% of tablets offer this.
On-device AI
no
This tablet does not support on-device AI. 28.3% of tablets support this capability.
App tracking protection
?
Show more
What reviewers say
IP rating
not rated
This tablet's IP rating is not rated, which is less protected than 16.5% of tablets and the same as 83.6% of tablets.
Weight
662 g
Market range: <315 g – >730 g
This tablet weighs 662 g, which is heavier than 84.7% of tablets and equal to 0.2% of tablets.
Backlit keyboard
no
This tablet does not support a backlit keyboard. 9.7% of tablets support backlit keyboards.
Keyboard accessory
yes
This tablet supports a keyboard accessory. 15.8% of tablets support this option.
Pen latency
N/A
Show more
What reviewers say
Number of microphones
1
Market range: <1 – >3
This tablet has a microphone array of 1, which is more than 0.2% of tablets and equal to 54.8% of tablets.
aptX Adaptive
no
This tablet does not support aptX Adaptive. 6.9% of tablets offer this.
Dolby Atmos support
no
This tablet does not support Dolby Atmos. 31.3% of tablets support Dolby Atmos.
N. of speakers
1
Market range: <2 – >4
This tablet includes 1 speakers, which is fewer than in 90.3% of tablets and equal to the number in 9.6% of tablets.
FM radio
no
This tablet does not include an FM radio. 19% of tablets offer this.
Show more

Apple iPad 3 Cellular (16GB) vs the average tablet

246810TotalPerformanceDisplayCameraBatteryConnectivitySoftwareDesignAudio
  • More advanced chipset
    This tablet has a more advanced chipset than the average tablet (Apple A5X vs MediaTek MT8169A).
    Apple A5X vs MediaTek MT8169A
  • 75.2% larger battery capacity
    This tablet has a larger battery capacity than the average tablet (11,560 mAh vs 6,600 mAh). The average tablet offers 6,600 mAh of battery capacity.
    11,560 mAh vs 6,600 mAh
  • Faster storage type
    This tablet uses SSD storage, while the average tablet uses eMMC. Storage technology still varies widely across tablets.
    SSD vs eMMC
  • Supports LTE
    This tablet supports LTE, while the average tablet does not. 42.9% of tablets support LTE.
  • Longer update support
    This tablet offers longer update support than the average tablet (long vs medium). The average tablet gets medium of update support.
    long vs medium
  • 18.6% higher review score
    Reviews score
    8.3/ 10
    ✕
    What it is
    Average grade from independent test sites, magazines and video reviewers, 1–10.
    How we count it
    Grades: Each review's own score is converted to 1–10; without one, we grade the review ourselves. Big test sites count more, short reviews half as much as full tests. A video review counts half.
    Score: The average grade is 80% of the review mark; the number of reviews is the other 20% (1 review = 5, the typical number in this category = 8, the most-reviewed model = 10).
    Enough data: With few reviews, the average grade is pulled toward the typical grade of this category. No reviews yet: 7.4 for now.
    Share: Reviews count 25% of the overall score.
    Score distribution
    â–¼
    <55-66-77-88-99-10
    â–² Better than 80% of models

    80%

    8.2

    Average grade

    20%

    8.9

    Popularity

    Grades by review (34)
    26 reviews: 14 with a printed score, 12 estimated from the review. 8 video reviews, each counting half as much as a written test. Reviews count 25% of the overall score.
    User ratings collected online are not part of this score.
    8.3 vs 7.0
  • Sharper display
    This tablet has a sharper screen than the average tablet (2048×1536 vs 1920×1200).
    2,048×1,536 vs 1,920×1,200
  • 19.5% sharper screen detail
    This tablet has sharper screen detail than the average tablet (264 ppi vs 221 ppi). The average tablet has a pixel density of 221 ppi.
    264 ppi vs 221 ppi
  • 18.6% higher review score
    Reviews score
    8.3/ 10
    ✕
    What it is
    Average grade from independent test sites, magazines and video reviewers, 1–10.
    How we count it
    Grades: Each review's own score is converted to 1–10; without one, we grade the review ourselves. Big test sites count more, short reviews half as much as full tests. A video review counts half.
    Score: The average grade is 80% of the review mark; the number of reviews is the other 20% (1 review = 5, the typical number in this category = 8, the most-reviewed model = 10).
    Enough data: With few reviews, the average grade is pulled toward the typical grade of this category. No reviews yet: 7.4 for now.
    Share: Reviews count 25% of the overall score.
    Score distribution
    â–¼
    <55-66-77-88-99-10
    â–² Better than 80% of models

    80%

    8.2

    Average grade

    20%

    8.9

    Popularity

    Grades by review (34)
    26 reviews: 14 with a printed score, 12 estimated from the review. 8 video reviews, each counting half as much as a written test. Reviews count 25% of the overall score.
    User ratings collected online are not part of this score.
    8.3 vs 7.0
  • 17.3% higher sentiment score
    8.8 vs 7.5
  • More advanced chipset
    This tablet has a more advanced chipset than the average tablet (Apple A5X vs MediaTek MT8169A).
    Apple A5X vs MediaTek MT8169A
  • Faster storage type
    This tablet uses SSD storage, while the average tablet uses eMMC. Storage technology still varies widely across tablets.
    SSD vs eMMC
  • Sharper display
    This tablet has a sharper screen than the average tablet (2048×1536 vs 1920×1200).
    2,048×1,536 vs 1,920×1,200
  • 19.5% sharper screen detail
    This tablet has sharper screen detail than the average tablet (264 ppi vs 221 ppi). The average tablet has a pixel density of 221 ppi.
    264 ppi vs 221 ppi
  • 15 nits higher typical brightness
    This tablet has a higher typical brightness than the average tablet (415 nits vs 400 nits). The average tablet reaches 400 nits typical brightness.
    415 nits vs 400 nits
  • Supports slow-motion video
    This tablet supports slow-motion recording, while the average tablet does not. 37.3% of tablets support slow-motion recording.
  • 75.2% larger battery capacity
    This tablet has a larger battery capacity than the average tablet (11,560 mAh vs 6,600 mAh). The average tablet offers 6,600 mAh of battery capacity.
    11,560 mAh vs 6,600 mAh
  • Supports LTE
    This tablet supports LTE, while the average tablet does not. 42.9% of tablets support LTE.
  • Supports cellular data
    This tablet supports cellular data, while the average tablet does not. 47.4% of tablets offer this.
  • Supports AirPlay streaming
    This tablet supports AirPlay streaming, while the average tablet does not. 7.5% of tablets offer this.
  • Supports HDMI output
    This tablet supports HDMI output, while the average tablet does not. 49.8% of tablets offer this.
  • Longer update support
    This tablet offers longer update support than the average tablet (long vs medium). The average tablet gets medium of update support.
    long vs medium
  • Supports extra dim mode
    This tablet supports extra dim mode, while the average tablet does not. 35.9% of tablets offer this.
    Reduce White Point accessibility dimming
  • 4.7 MP lower front resolution
    This tablet has a lower-resolution front camera than the average tablet (0.3 MP vs 5 MP). The average tablet has a front camera of 5 MP.
    0.3 MP vs 5 MP
  • 6 fewer CPU threads
    This tablet has fewer CPU threads than the average tablet (2 vs 8). The average tablet has 8 CPU threads.
    2 vs 8
  • No USB-C port
    This tablet does not have a USB Type-C port, while the average tablet does. 54% of tablets have one.
  • 3 GB less RAM
    This tablet has less RAM than the average tablet (1 GB vs 4 GB). The average tablet has 4 GB of RAM.
    1 GB vs 4 GB
  • 50% lower CPU speed
    This tablet has a lower CPU speed than the average tablet (1 GHz vs 2 GHz). The average tablet has CPU speed of 2 GHz.
    1 GHz vs 2 GHz
  • Less advanced operating system
    This tablet runs on a less advanced operating system than the average tablet (iOS 5.1 vs Android). Operating system choice shapes app support, updates, and ecosystem features.
    iOS 5.1 vs Android
  • No fast charging
    This tablet does not support fast charging, while the average tablet does. 56.8% of tablets support fast charging.
  • 3.21x larger process node
    This tablet has a larger process node than the average tablet (45 nm vs 14 nm). The average tablet is built on 14 nm.
    45 nm vs 14 nm
  • 2.04x more expensive
    Apple iPad 3 Cellular (16GB) is more expensive than the average tablet (£530 vs £260).
    £530 vs £260
  • 3.8% worse value for money
    Apple iPad 3 Cellular (16GB) has worse value for money than the average tablet (7.28 vs 7.6).
    7.28 vs 7.55
  • 6 fewer CPU threads
    This tablet has fewer CPU threads than the average tablet (2 vs 8). The average tablet has 8 CPU threads.
    2 vs 8
  • 3 GB less RAM
    This tablet has less RAM than the average tablet (1 GB vs 4 GB). The average tablet has 4 GB of RAM.
    1 GB vs 4 GB
  • 50% lower CPU speed
    This tablet has a lower CPU speed than the average tablet (1 GHz vs 2 GHz). The average tablet has CPU speed of 2 GHz.
    1 GHz vs 2 GHz
  • 3.21x larger process node
    This tablet has a larger process node than the average tablet (45 nm vs 14 nm). The average tablet is built on 14 nm.
    45 nm vs 14 nm
  • More basic graphics
    This tablet has less advanced graphics than the average tablet (PowerVR SGX543MP4 vs Mali-G51).
    PowerVR SGX543MP4 vs Mali-G51
  • 75% less internal storage
    This tablet has less internal storage than the average tablet (16 GB vs 64 GB). The average tablet has 64 GB of internal storage.
    16 GB vs 64 GB
  • 1,066 MHz slower RAM speed
    This tablet has a lower RAM speed than the average tablet (800 MHz vs 1,866 MHz). The average tablet has RAM speed of 1,866 MHz.
    800 MHz vs 1,866 MHz
  • No big.LITTLE architecture
    This tablet does not support big.LITTLE architecture, while the average tablet does. 51.7% of tablets support big.LITTLE architecture.
  • 7 years older
    This tablet was released earlier than the average tablet (2012 vs 2019). The average tablet was released in 2019.
    March 2012
    2012 vs 2019
  • More basic memory type
    This tablet uses less advanced memory than the average tablet (LPDDR2 vs LPDDR3).
    LPDDR2 vs LPDDR3
  • 14.1% less memory bandwidth
    This tablet has less memory bandwidth than the average tablet (12.8 GB/s vs 14.9 GB/s). The average tablet has 14.9 GB/s of memory bandwidth.
    12.8 GB/s vs 14.9 GB/s
  • Less durable glass
    This tablet has less durable glass than the average tablet (Aluminosilicate Glass vs Corning Gorilla Glass). The average tablet uses Corning Gorilla Glass.
    Aluminosilicate Glass vs Corning Gorilla Glass
  • Less vivid contrast
    This tablet has less contrast than the average tablet (941:1 vs 1015:1). The average tablet has a contrast ratio of 1015:1.
    941:1 vs 1,015:1
  • 0.4 inches smaller screen
    This tablet has a smaller screen than the average tablet (9.7 inches vs 10.1 inches). The average tablet measures 10.1 inches.
    9.7 inches vs 10.1 inches
  • 50% slower touch response
    This tablet samples touch more slowly than the average tablet (60 Hz vs 120 Hz). The average tablet samples touch at 120 Hz.
    60 Hz vs 120 Hz
  • 4.7 MP lower front resolution
    This tablet has a lower-resolution front camera than the average tablet (0.3 MP vs 5 MP). The average tablet has a front camera of 5 MP.
    0.3 MP vs 5 MP
  • No continuous video AF
    This tablet does not support continuous video AF, the average tablet does. 57.7% of tablets support continuous video autofocus.
  • 3 MP lower rear resolution
    This tablet has a lower-resolution rear camera than the average tablet (5 MP vs 8 MP). The average tablet has a rear camera of 8 MP.
    5 MP vs 8 MP
  • Narrower front camera aperture
    This tablet has a narrower front camera aperture than the average tablet (f/2.4 vs f/2.2). The average tablet's front camera aperture is f/2.2.
    f/2.4 vs f/2.2
  • No manual white balance
    This tablet does not support manual white balance, while the average tablet does. 51.5% of tablets support manual white balance.
  • No burst mode
    This tablet does not support burst mode, the average tablet does. 60.6% of tablets support burst mode.
  • No timelapse video
    This tablet does not support timelapse video, while the average tablet does. 57.5% of tablets support timelapse video.
  • Narrower main camera aperture
    This tablet has a narrower main camera aperture than the average tablet (f/2.4 vs f/2.2). The average tablet's main camera aperture is f/2.2.
    f/2.4 vs f/2.2
  • No fast charging
    This tablet does not support fast charging, while the average tablet does. 56.8% of tablets support fast charging.
  • 1 hours shorter battery life
    This tablet offers shorter battery life than the average tablet (9 hours vs 10 hours). The average tablet offers 10 hours of battery life.
    9 hours vs 10 hours
  • 33.3% slower charging
    This tablet charges slower than the average tablet (12 W vs 18 W). The average tablet charges at 18 W.
    12 W vs 18 W
  • No USB-C port
    This tablet does not have a USB Type-C port, while the average tablet does. 54% of tablets have one.
  • Older Wi-Fi standard
    This tablet has an older Wi-Fi standard than the average tablet (Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n) vs Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac)).
    Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n) vs Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac)
  • Older Bluetooth version
    This tablet has an older Bluetooth version than the average tablet (4 vs 5).
    4 vs 5
  • No face recognition
    This tablet does not have face recognition, the average tablet does. 56.4% of tablets support face recognition.
  • Less advanced operating system
    This tablet runs on a less advanced operating system than the average tablet (iOS 5.1 vs Android). Operating system choice shapes app support, updates, and ecosystem features.
    iOS 5.1 vs Android
  • No split-screen
    This tablet does not support split-screen, the average tablet does. 72.8% of tablets support split-screen.
  • No picture-in-picture mode
    This tablet does not support picture-in-picture, the average tablet does. 61.4% of tablets support picture-in-picture.
  • No camera and mic privacy
    This tablet does not support camera and mic privacy, while the average tablet does. 56.6% of tablets offer this.
  • No multi-user mode
    User score
    7.2/ 10
    ✕
    What it is
    Average of independent expert reviews and videos, graded by us; missing reviews count as 7/10.
    When it matters
    When you want to know how independent test sites and video reviewers rate the product in real use.
    Score distribution
    ▼▼
    <55-66-77-88-99-10
    Apple iPad 3 Cellular
    the average tablet
    Apple iPad 3 Cellular (16GB) does not support multi-user mode, while the average tablet does. 73.8% of tablets offer this.
  • No full-page screenshots
    This tablet does not support full-page screenshots, the average tablet does. 53% of tablets support full-page screenshots.
  • No widgets
    This tablet does not support widgets, the average tablet does. 93.6% of tablets support widgets.
  • No dark mode
    This tablet does not support dark mode, while the average tablet does. 57.7% of tablets offer this.
  • No offline voice recognition
    This tablet does not support offline voice recognition, the average tablet does. 76.4% of tablets support offline voice recognition.
  • 35.1% heavier
    This tablet is heavier than the average tablet (662 g vs 490 g). The average tablet weighs 490 g.
    662 g vs 490 g
  • 1.4 mm thicker
    This tablet is thicker than the average tablet (9.4 mm vs 8 mm). The average tablet is 8 mm thick.
    9.4 mm vs 8 mm
  • 41.2 mm taller
    This tablet is taller than the average tablet (241.2 mm vs 200 mm). The average tablet is 200 mm tall.
    241.2 mm vs 200 mm
  • 1 fewer speakers
    This tablet has less speakers than the average tablet (1 vs 2). The average tablet has 2 speakers.
    1 vs 2

Video reviews

Hands-on testing, unboxing, and real-world video evaluations

9.0
Jonathan Morrison
≈ estimated
22/03/2012
Hands-on review · display, 4G and battery tests
Verdict
Apple iPad 3 Cellular is still the best tablet on the market, but iPad 2 owners have little reason to upgrade.
9.0
PhoneArena
≈ estimated
17/03/2012
Hands-on review · display, camera, connectivity and battery
Verdict
Apple iPad 3 Cellular is a clear step up with a sharp display and better camera, though gains over iPad 2 are limited.
9.0
MobileTechReview
≈ estimated
17/03/2012
Hands-on review · display, camera, speed and battery tests
Verdict
Apple iPad 3 Cellular has a sharp display and a much better camera, but it gets warm under gaming load.
8.0
Andru Edwards
≈ estimated
30/03/2012
Speed test · LTE vs Wi-Fi, plus a 3G fault
Verdict
Apple iPad 3 Cellular delivers excellent cellular speeds outdoors, but its 3G radio failed and may need replacing.
8.0
IGN
≈ estimated
21/03/2012
Video review · quick overview of display, camera and 4G
Verdict
Apple iPad 3 Cellular is better than the iPad 2 in every way, but a modest update for existing owners.
Overview video

Expert reviews

In-depth analysis and verdict from leading tech publications

9.0
macworld.com
✓ explicit
14/03/2012
Editor's opinion · Screen upgrade
Verdict
The Apple iPad 3 suits first-time iPad buyers and anyone wanting a sharper screen and better camera, though it is no smaller or lighter.
8.0
arstechnica.com
≈ estimated
19/03/2012
Camera test · Photo and video
Verdict
The Apple iPad 3 is an excellent camera for stills, with sharp, printable photos, though its size makes it awkward and conspicuous to shoot with.
8.7
cnet.com
✓ explicit
16/03/2012
Full review · Screen and 4G
Verdict
The Apple iPad 3 leads the tablet field with a much sharper screen, better camera and optional 4G, though it is heavier and needs adapters for other ports.
8.9
notebookcheck.net
✓ explicit
18/03/2012
Lab test · Benchmarks and heat
Verdict
The Apple iPad 3 performs much like the iPad 2 with a sharper screen, but it runs warm and struggles with 1080p video, so 720p is the practical limit.
9.0
theguardian.com
≈ estimated
15/03/2012
Hands-on review · Screen and games
Verdict
The Apple iPad 3's Retina screen is a visible but subtle step up, best for HD video and games, while voice dictation and USB hub support disappoint.
8.6
infoworld.com
✓ explicit
19/03/2012
Upgrade advice · Business view
Verdict
The Apple iPad 3 suits people with aging eyes or those who work with images and photos, but iPad 2 owners gain too little to justify upgrading.
9.0
tomshardware.com
≈ estimated
15/04/2012
Full review · Color and camera
Verdict
The Apple iPad 3 keeps the iPad 2's size with richer colors and a better camera, but its HDMI output disappoints and it is about 10% heavier.
9.0
pocket-lint.com
✓ explicit
16/04/2013
Hands-on review · Retina screen
Verdict
The Apple iPad 3 has the best screen yet, with four times the pixels of the iPad 2, but it is more evolution than revolution.
8.0
reviewed.com
≈ estimated
16/03/2012
Lab test · Screen and battery
Verdict
The Apple iPad 3 has a very accurate screen, but its battery trails rival Android tablets and it overheats quickly, so endurance-minded buyers should look elsewhere.
10
t3.com
✓ explicit
14/03/2012
Full review · Screen and gaming
Verdict
The Apple iPad 3 is an evolution, not a redesign, with the best tablet screen so far and better games, but it charges very slowly.
8.0
techradar.com
✓ explicit
20/12/2012
Full review · Retina display
Verdict
The Apple iPad 3 is Apple's best tablet yet, with a superb screen and simple interface, but it is thicker and heavier than the iPad 2.
8.0
trustedreviews.com
✓ explicit
07/03/2012
Full review · Connections and battery
Verdict
The Apple iPad 3 has a stunning screen and solid build, but its limited ports, heavy frame and battery life hold it back against Android rivals.
K
krisabel.com
15/03/2012
≈ estimated
8.0
Summary of the review
The In-Depth Review: Apple 3rd Generation iPad
8.9
notebookcheck.com
✓ explicit
15/03/2012
Lab test · 4G iPad
Verdict
The Apple iPad 3 is a Retina-screen upgrade for Wi-Fi users, but its 4G skips German LTE bands and it is 60 grams heavier than the iPad 2.
9.0
tariftip.de
≈ estimated
05/04/2012
Hands-on test · Retina iPad
Verdict
The Apple iPad 3 has a sharp Retina display and a better camera, but its battery now lasts about two hours less than before and it has no card slot.
7.4
computerbild.de
✓ explicit
20/03/2012
Lab test · Display and LTE
Verdict
The Apple iPad 3 has the most impressive tablet screen available, but its LTE is unusable in Germany and its battery drains sooner than the iPad 2.
8.0
quechoisir.org
≈ estimated
20/03/2012
Consumer test · Everyday use
Verdict
The Apple iPad 3 looks identical to its predecessor, with good photos, battery and touch screen, but glare and no memory card slot hold it back.
9.0
mac4ever.com
≈ estimated
21/03/2012
Week-long test · Battery and camera
Verdict
The Apple iPad 3 is a clear photo and video upgrade over the iPad 2, but games drain the battery fast, it heats up, and charging takes almost six hours.
8.0
igen.fr
≈ estimated
23/03/2012
Network guide · Carrier plans
Verdict
The Apple iPad 3 Wi-Fi + 4G won't work on European 4G networks, and French carrier plans limit its fast 3G, so the cellular model suits few buyers.
8.2
01net.com
✓ explicit
16/03/2012
Full review · Screen and performance
Verdict
The Apple iPad 3 is the best tablet screen yet, but it gets heavier and loses battery life, so it suits fans of games, photos and reading.

Third-party reviews

What customers like about Apple iPad 3 Cellular (16GB)

  • High-resolution Retina display provides exceptional clarity and sharpness
  • Premium build quality with a robust aluminum and glass design
  • Vibrant and extensive app ecosystem specifically optimized for tablets
  • Reliable cellular connectivity including 4G LTE support for mobile data
  • Decent 5-megapixel rear camera capable of 1080p HD video recording
  • Solid sound quality from built-in speakers

What customers don't like about Apple iPad 3 Cellular (16GB)

  • Significantly heavier and thicker than the previous iPad 2
  • Slow charging times due to the large battery capacity
  • Tendency to run noticeably warm or overheat under heavy use
  • Performance lag reported after updating to newer iOS versions (e.g., iOS 7)
  • No expandable storage via microSD or integrated USB/HDMI ports
  • Battery drains quickly when using 3G/4G cellular data

Verdict

The Apple iPad 3 Cellular (16GB) features a high-resolution 9.7-inch Retina display with 2048x1536 pixels, powered by a dual-core A5X chip with quad-core graphics and 1GB of RAM. It includes a 5-megapixel iSight rear camera capable of 1080p HD video recording, a VGA front-facing camera, and support for 4G LTE cellular data alongside Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.0. Main pros include its exceptionally sharp screen for its era, solid battery life of up to 9 hours on cellular, and a premium aluminum build. However, notable cons include its limited 16GB non-expandable storage that fills quickly with Retina-optimized apps, a tendency to run warm during heavy use, and its increased weight and thickness compared to its predecessor.

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