Since 3G cellular network connections can give you Internet access practically anywhere you can get cellular phone coverage, you may prefer using 3G networks to access the Internet. However, the 3G version of the iPad costs more, weighs more, and offers approximately one hour less battery life when accessing the Internet through a 3G network.

If you prefer to use a different cellular telephone network provider, you can often buy special Wi-Fi devices that you can carry around. These portable Wi-Fi routers connect to the 3G cellular telephone network (for a monthly fee, of course), but give you a Wi-Fi hotspot so you can access the Internet through your iPad's Wi-Fi connection. By using a portable Wi-Fi device, you can buy the less expensive iPad model (the one without 3G) and also use your favorite and most reliable 3G cellular telephone network.