Apple iPad 2

Metascore

TechSpot Metascore

Based on 106 expert reviews

Excellent:

54
Good:

48
Average:

4
Bad:

0

The iPad 2 improves on the original in many ways, including a significantly faster dual-core CPU, improved graphics and a thinner footprint. The iPad 2 also manages to shave off 0.2 pounds for a total weight of 1.33 pounds on the Wi-Fi only model. Apple has included two cameras on the iPad 2 – a VGA-quality front facing lens for FaceTime and a rear-facing camera capable of recording 720p video.

Last revision on February 20, 2014

Editors Liked

Performance
3G connectivity
Battery life
Exceptional Usability
Graphical Powerhouse
Beautiful Screen
Superior App Support
Enhanced feature set including two new cameras
Blazing fast processor
Intuitive interface
Thousands of tablet specific apps
Superb IPS Based Display
Very Easy To Use OS
Incredibly sleek look and feel, video calling, tons of apps optimised for iPad, particularly magazines and new media
Support for FaceTime
Superb media-sharing
Browsing improvements in new iOS
Same battery life as previous Ipad but better performance
Dual core processor
Bright 9.7inch IPS LCD screen
Front and rear cameras
Thinner design and new internal hardware compared to the original iPad makes an already good experience better
Much faster in some areas

Editors Didn't Like

Micro SIM
Camera Takes Poor Photos
Limited Video Format Support
No Telephony Features
Still no Flash video support
Charging still slow, still can't be performed via connection to computer
Higher resolution display would be nice
Limited Multitasking Capabilities
Difficult to transfer media without iTunes
Still lacking USB port
HDMI, SD-card adapters cost extra
Won't run on 4G network
Cameras are subpar by Apple standards, Android sometimes more powerful and open
Smart Cover doesn't guard the back
Still the same 1024x768 display
"Real" GPS only comes with the 3G models
Glass is thinner than before; be cautious of easier breakage
Highly reflective screen
No expandable memory
Poor visibility outdoors

Expert reviews and ratings

By TechSpot on March 25, 2011

Apple has brought a lot to the table with the iPad 2, though they have left themselves a bit vulnerable by excluding some features many expected would arrive with this revision. After all we expect several, if not dozens of potential competitors to...

By laptops.co.uk on February 20, 2012 80

The iPad 2 is nearing the 12 month mark and also more than likely replacement. However, it's still the top tablet around thanks to the longevity of the A5 processor, its great looks and lovely, smooth, intuitive operating...

By tech.uk.msn.com on December 19, 2011 100

The iPad 2 is a joy to use. Its fast processor means it's slick and butter-smooth, its range of apps means you'll never be stuck for something to do and the video playback quality is just great. Review There were tablet PCs before the iPad but...

By DigitalVersus on October 27, 2011 80

On iOS 5 the Apple iPad 2 gains speed, as well as a selection of new services that change the way users interact the product and consume content on a large-screen portable device. Compared with the original iPad, the tablet's design and handling has...

By Channel Pro on October 19, 2011 80

and pricingRight now, as an all-round proposition, there’s nothing to touch the iPad 2. That might change in time: the Motorola Xoom, Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1, LG Optimus Pad, RIM BlackBerry PlayBook and HP TouchPad are all gearing up to challenge...

By PC Authority on July 20, 2011 83

Our review of the iPad 2 shows it is thinner, lighter and more powerful than the first iPad, with better battery life to boot - but the cameras are a letdown...

By Government Computer News on July 01, 2011 80

The device itself is quite fragile, but Apple sells a Smart Cover case that can compensate. Ease of use is a bit of a mixed bag for...

By InfoWorld on June 17, 2011 79

For a good year now, we've been hearing about devices that would give the iPad a real run for its money, only to find the claims hollow. The closest contender thus far has been the Motorola Xoom, but it suffered too many shortcomings to give Steve...

By ITP.net on June 09, 2011 80

If you already own the original iPad there’s little reason to splurge on the latest. While the cameras bring new functionality, the results as far as the rear camera is concerned, are basic. If you own another first generation tablet however and...

By Whathifi.com on June 02, 2011 100

Key to the iPad’s success was the attention to style and design, the ease of use of the interface and the wealth of content available. The iPad 2 looks to improve on these points.This iPad is around a third slimmer than its predecessor and it...

By 5FWD on May 30, 2011 100

Despite its failings, we love the Apple iPad 2. The sheer quality and usability of Apples tablet makes it the choice of the field, with other products still lagging when it comes to apps, battery life or even build quality. Best offers for the Apple...

By PCWorld India on May 13, 2011 87

We review the Apple iPad 2- a tablet with a 9.7-inch display and dual cameras that runs on iOS 4.3....

By NotebookCheck on May 06, 2011 90

The first generation iPad started a technological revolution. Apples iPad 2 takes all that was good in the first iPad and makes it better, leaving behind the flaws and installing new hardware and software, to give the second generation iPad user a...

By Big Picture Big Sound on May 03, 2011 88

In some ways, this new edition of the iPad is a subtle refinement, in other ways a drastic expansion of its functionality and its very intent, allowing us to create and communicate with technology which simply was not available in the initial effort....

By PCWorld New Zealand on April 29, 2011 90

With much fanfare and the usual lengthy queues, the Apple iPad 2 was launched mid-March. New in this version are the cameras at front and rear, a more slimline and lightweight design, and the choice of black or white front surround. Apart from those...

By Business Computing World on April 27, 2011 100

Of all the personal technology advances over the past five years, the tablet PC has to rank among one of the most significant. And thanks to marketing clout behind Apple’s iPad , the form factor is starting to receive a lot of recognition. With...

By Smarthouse on April 18, 2011 80

Say what you like about the original iPad, you'd have to be deluded not to admit that Apple's equally lauded and derided tablet has changed a market more dramatically than we've seen in a long time. Apple may not be the only company making a...

By JusTech'n on April 18, 2011 74

So what do we take away from this review? The iPad has a lot of positive features (screen brightness, viewing angles, audio quality, fast processor) but it also has a lot of flaws (low quality cameras, battery, software, button angles, slippery back,...

By Channel News Australia on April 18, 2011 80

The iPad 2 is suppose to be the benchmark for tablets. But is it? We take a look at the device that is already on backorder in Australia.Say what you like about the original iPad, you'd have to be deluded not to admit that Apple's equally lauded...

By Computeractive on April 13, 2011 80

A great tablet computer, but not enough to tempt an upgrade from the earlier model...

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