Apple's iPad created demand for an entirely new category of computing device, a tablet that let users intimately interact with their content, whether it's photos, videos, games or the Web.

Breaking its very own sacred routine of releasing a new iPad model every year, Apple undeniably took everyone by surprise as they not only announced one new iPad, but two at its most recent San Francisco event.

Premium construction; Impressively detailed and accurate Retina Display; High caliber performance; Above average battery life

Not much of a serious upgrade to the iPad 3

Now in its fourth iteration in two years, the Apple iPad continues its reign as king. The best large tablet you can buy today, the Apple iPad (4th Generation) has it all: top performance, a stellar screen, a surprisingly good camera, speedy Wi-Fi, and a breathtaking library of spectacular apps.

Incredibly fast; Gorgeous screen; Unbeatable app selection

New Lightning connector means some old accessories won't work here

Apple has only made minor changes on the outside of the iPad 4 . The device uses the new Lightning interface . This interface is far more compact and easier to use than the 30 pin dock interface previously used by Apple.

Exemplary workmanship and choice of material; Fast WLAN module; High CPU and GPU performance; Good display with stable viewing angles; Very long battery life; Extensive list of optional accessories; The good performance and the front camera; which now offers better image quality for video chats

Not very slim and light for a high-end tablet, Buyer will need to pay extra for LTE and 3G modules, Meager connectivity, Increasing the storage space is not possible, A slimmer and lighter case; In addition, the screen should be brighter

Three Apple tablets in a single year. This is more than anyone asked for and yet, by some weird logic - or lack thereof, not too many for Apple to successfully sell. All fine and dandy, unless you got the iPad 3 - better luck next time if you were unfortunate enough to buy it in September...

The sneaky iPad 4 takes our tablet top spot almost by default. There are no cosmetic changes to swoon over but this is a seriously slick, turbo-charged version of our favourite slate, and all for the same price as the outgoing iPad 3.

This fourth-generation iPad has so much in common with the third generation released in March 2012 that we decided to forego many of the features here because we already discussed them in detail last March.

Retina display; Small text is easy to read; iOS 6 has tons of features; Battery life; Lots of apps; A6X processor

Non-expandable memory; Proprietary port / Closed "world" that may turn some off; Maps still behind the competition; Will the tiny Lightning connector be sturdy enough for docking stations

Apple's latest iPad is the best iPad yet, even if its no longer the smallest, or the cheapest. As such, this model now becomes the height of tablet luxury, and the one to investigate if you care about having the best screen, and the best compatibility with cutting-edge apps.

A6X chip delivers even more speed; 4G-compatible in the UK; Best-in-class app selection

Still feels heavy to hold in one hand; Lightning port means older chargers and accessories won't work

lasted before Apple decided to refresh the range. The all-new iPad (with retina display) features a new A6X processor, a 720p FaceTime camera (for video calls) and dual-band wi-fi for improved wireless performance.

Stunning screen; Excellent audio; Fantastic selection of apps; movies and music; Impressive build quality; Large battery

Charging takes time; Price; Weight

The iPad 4, or iPad with Retina display, is Apple's latest and most powerful tablet. How does it stack up against the competition? Read our iPad 4 review to find out.