iPad cellular or wifi

I want to get an iPad but Idk If to get cellular or wifi. I want to get cellular because I’m traveling out for a while, but after that I won’t be needing cellular and I don’t want to pay for something I won’t use for the rest of the year, is it possible to not pay cellular and pay when only needed?

Posted on Nov 13, 2022 8:19 AM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Nov 13, 2022 11:18 AM

In purchasing a WiFi+Cellular model of iPad, you are not committing yourself to needing a Cellular Carrier plan - but are preserving the opportunity and flexibility of doing so at a later time. If you only need occasional cellular use for infrequent travelling, you may be able to configure a short-term plan directly from iPad settings - or obtain a pay-as-you-go plan from your chosen cellular provider.


Set up cellular data service on your Wi-Fi + Cellular model iPad - Apple Support


Also be aware the only WiFi+Cellular models have GPS location functions. WiFi Only models do not have any built-in GPS capabilities - which may be important to you for real-time mapping applications. While GPS is a function of the iPad cellular chipset, GPS is entirely independent of cellular.


The potential need for GPS positioning capabilities is just one of the many reasons that some users choose a WiFi+Cellular model in preference to WiFi Only models - even if having no need or intention of using Cellular.

1 reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Nov 13, 2022 11:18 AM in response to user_2306

In purchasing a WiFi+Cellular model of iPad, you are not committing yourself to needing a Cellular Carrier plan - but are preserving the opportunity and flexibility of doing so at a later time. If you only need occasional cellular use for infrequent travelling, you may be able to configure a short-term plan directly from iPad settings - or obtain a pay-as-you-go plan from your chosen cellular provider.


Set up cellular data service on your Wi-Fi + Cellular model iPad - Apple Support


Also be aware the only WiFi+Cellular models have GPS location functions. WiFi Only models do not have any built-in GPS capabilities - which may be important to you for real-time mapping applications. While GPS is a function of the iPad cellular chipset, GPS is entirely independent of cellular.


The potential need for GPS positioning capabilities is just one of the many reasons that some users choose a WiFi+Cellular model in preference to WiFi Only models - even if having no need or intention of using Cellular.

This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

iPad cellular or wifi

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.