So you’re thinking of getting one of those shiny, fancy iPad’s, eh? And there are so many options that you are overwhelmed by which one to get? Well, take a number and join the club because you are not the only one. It’s hard to blame you, especially since there are 18 different models of the new iPad alone, let alone the iPad 2! That number isn’t as daunting as it sounds, and I’ll explain why.

Step One: How much space do you need?

The first decision that needs to be made about the iPad is how much storage you need? This will really help you narrow down the options. The first size is 16 gigabytes, which is available for both the iPad 2, and the new iPad. 16GB is for the individual that just wants to surf the internet, reference information, and have a moderate collection of media on the iPad. One thing to note, apps themselves are generally small, so are music tracks and photos. Once those small collections add together, they could create a collection that is too much for 16 gigs. You really should evaluate your collection of media before you decide if the 16GB option is for you.

The next storage capacity, 32GB, is for a media enthusiast, but not over the top. This size is good if you want to have some movies, plus the rest of your media library. Movies from the iTunes store can be anywhere from 1-3 GB in size. 32 gigs seems to be the compromise for most people, thus making it one of the most popular models of iPad. The 32GB model only comes with the new iPad.

64GB is for your media junkie. This is for people who want almost everything on their iPad, no matter what. It’s for the uncompromising individual. Again this size of iPad is only available in the new iPad.

Once you decide on that initial storage size, you’ve focused your descision by a huge amount.

iPad Buying Guide Step Two: Internet Connection

The next decision that has to be made when you buy an iPad is where and when do you want the internet? Of course, every iPad has WiFi built in. When you decide on a WiFi only iPad, anywhere you have have wireless internet access (home, library, coffee shop, McDonalds) you’ll have internet. Main downside with this is if you are outside of these internet zones you’ll be offline.

That’s where the 3G/4G cellular internet options come into play. Each iPad has this as an option for an extra $129 plus the monthly pre-paid data services.

The main bonus with this option is that you can search the internet anywhere you’d have access to the provider you picked. In most cases that’s almost everywhere. You don’t have to rely on finding hotspots while you travel.

iPad Buyers Guide: The 16GB iPad Decision

If you decide on going with a 16GB iPad you actually have another decision to make. Do you want an iPad 2 or the new iPad?

The price differential is $100 between the two models. The key differences are with the new iPad your screen resolution is double. That means that everything is sharper and easier to see on your iPad. Also the camera on the new iPad is a full 1080p video camera with a 5 megapixel still shot camera. That is a significant upgrade in camera quality. Both those features are things you have to see to understand. The final most crucial feature between the two most people would care about is voice dictation. On the new iPad anywhere you type you can speak, and it will type out what you say. It is very accurate as well, go into a store and try and see these new features.

If these newer upgrades speak to you when you buy the 16GB size option, the new iPad could be worth the extra $100.

iPad Buying Guide: Step Three Color

The easiest decision is the color. All iPad’s come in two colors: white or black.

Hopefully this gives you a better idea of what to look for when deciding on an iPad. When you visit a store ask the associates to show you these differences and hopefully your decision is easier.