Apple iPad 4

Quick Facts

Specification	Details
Official model name	iPad with Retina display (4th generation)
Launch year	2012
Display	9.7-inch Retina IPS display
Resolution	2048 × 1536 pixels at 264 ppi
Processor	Apple A6X chip
Memory	1GB RAM
Storage	16GB, 32GB, 64GB or 128GB
Rear camera	5MP iSight camera
Front camera	1.2MP FaceTime HD
Battery	42.5Wh; up to 10 hours of web browsing or video playback
Connectivity	Wi-Fi 4, Bluetooth 4.0 and optional 4G LTE
Charging port	Lightning
Security	Passcode; no Touch ID
Weight	652g for Wi-Fi; 662g for Wi-Fi + Cellular
Colours	Black or White

Overview

The Apple iPad 4 is a full-size tablet designed for reading, downloaded media, basic web browsing and other simple activities. Its 9.7-inch Retina display offers sharp text and images, while its Lightning connector makes it easier to find compatible charging cables than earlier 30-pin iPads.

Its A6X processor and 1GB of RAM are severely dated by current standards. The tablet is limited to iOS 10, meaning many current applications, websites, security features and online services may no longer work correctly.

When buying a used iPad 4, inspect the screen, battery, cameras, speakers, microphones, Lightning port and physical buttons. Confirm that the tablet has been removed from the previous owner’s Apple Account and does not have an Activation Lock.

Key Highlights

9.7-inch Retina display

The iPad 4 has a 2048 × 1536 Retina display that produces considerably sharper text and images than non-Retina iPads. Its full-size panel provides comfortable viewing space for documents, photographs and downloaded videos.

Why it matters:

Sharp text for ebooks and documents
Comfortable size for watching videos
More screen space than an iPad mini
Suitable for viewing stored photographs
IPS technology provides consistent viewing angles

Lightning connectivity

The iPad 4 was the first full-size iPad generation to replace Apple’s older 30-pin connector with Lightning. This port supports charging, data transfer and compatible wired accessories.

Why it matters:

Lightning cables remain widely available
Connector is smaller than the older 30-pin design
Cable can be inserted in either orientation
Supports compatible adapters and accessories
Simplifies charging alongside older Lightning devices

Optional cellular access

Wi-Fi + Cellular versions support compatible 4G LTE networks, allowing mobile data access where supported. The tablet also includes Bluetooth 4.0 and a 3.5mm headphone jack for compatible accessories.

Why it matters:

Cellular versions can connect away from Wi-Fi
Wired headphones work without an adapter
Bluetooth supports compatible wireless accessories
Nano-SIM is used on compatible cellular models
GPS is available on cellular versions

Key Features Explained

Feature	What it means for buyers
Apple A6X chip	Handles simple offline activities but is extremely slow by current standards
1GB RAM	Provides very limited multitasking and modern website performance
9.7-inch Retina display	Produces sharp visuals with a practical amount of viewing space
5MP rear camera	Suitable for basic photographs and document captures in good lighting
1.2MP front camera	Supports basic FaceTime video calls at up to 720p
Optional 4G LTE	Allows compatible cellular models to use supported mobile networks
Lightning connector	Supports charging, data transfer and compatible accessories
3.5mm headphone jack	Supports standard wired headphones without an adapter
No Touch ID	Unlocking and authentication require a passcode or Apple Account password
No Apple Pencil support	The model does not support any Apple Pencil generation
iOS 10 limit	Most current applications require a later, unsupported operating system
No expandable storage	The built-in storage cannot be increased with a memory card

Compare Related Models

Model	Launch year	Display	Processor	Rear/front camera	Battery	Storage	Network	Weight
iPad 3	2012	9.7-inch Retina, 2048 × 1536	A5X	5MP / VGA	42.5Wh	16GB–64GB	Wi-Fi 4, optional LTE	652g / 662g
iPad 4	2012	9.7-inch Retina, 2048 × 1536	A6X	5MP / 1.2MP	42.5Wh	16GB–128GB	Wi-Fi 4, optional LTE	652g / 662g
iPad Air	2013	9.7-inch Retina, 2048 × 1536	A7	5MP / 1.2MP	32.4Wh	16GB–128GB	Wi-Fi 4, optional LTE	469g / 478g
iPad 5th Gen	2017	9.7-inch Retina, 2048 × 1536	A9	8MP / 1.2MP	32.4Wh	32GB or 128GB	Wi-Fi 5, optional LTE	469g / 478g

Weights show Wi-Fi / Wi-Fi + Cellular models.

Which Model Should You Choose?

Choose this model	Best suited for
iPad 3	Buyers who need an extremely inexpensive Retina iPad for basic offline content
iPad 4	Buyers wanting Lightning connectivity for simple offline tasks
iPad Air	Buyers wanting a much lighter body and slightly newer hardware
iPad 5th Gen	Buyers wanting better performance, newer software and improved cameras
iPad 6th Gen	Buyers wanting Apple Pencil support and a faster processor

Alternatives

If you are comparing before buying, you may also want to check these related SellUp Marketplace pages:

Common Questions

Is the iPad 4 suitable for everyday use?

It may handle downloaded videos, stored photographs, ebooks and basic tasks through compatible applications. However, its A6X processor, 1GB of RAM and iOS 10 software limit make it unsuitable for modern apps, demanding websites, intensive multitasking or buyers who require current security support.

Does the iPad 4 support 5G?

No. Wi-Fi + Cellular versions support selected 4G LTE networks but not 5G. Compatibility depends on the exact model, supported LTE bands, your Singapore telco, SIM card, plan and local coverage.

Is the iPad 4 better than the iPad Air?

No. The iPad Air has a faster A7 processor, a dramatically lighter design and support for newer software. Both have similarly sized Retina displays, but the iPad 4 may appeal only when it is considerably cheaper and intended for simple offline use.

Does the iPad 4 support wireless charging?

No. The iPad 4 charges through its Lightning connector and does not support Qi or MagSafe wireless charging.

Is the iPad 4 water resistant?

Apple does not provide the iPad 4 with an official IP water- or dust-resistance rating. Keep it away from rain, spills and high-moisture environments.

Is the iPad 4 worth buying?

It is difficult to recommend for general use because of its age, weight, limited performance and outdated software. It may still suit simple offline tasks at a very low price. Check the battery, screen, cameras, speakers, microphones, charging port, buttons and Activation Lock status before buying.

Why Buy a Used iPad 4?

A used iPad 4 can provide an inexpensive full-size Retina display for reading stored content, showing photographs and playing downloaded media. Its Lightning connector and headphone jack remain convenient when compatible software and accessories are available.

Condition and price are especially important because of the tablet’s age. Compare storage capacity, cosmetic condition, battery performance and cellular compatibility carefully, and choose a professionally inspected unit whenever possible.

Compare Apple iPad 4 listings on SellUp Marketplace to find the condition, storage size, and price that suits your budget.