So you’ve finally decided to board the iPad train. Congratulations! You’re bound to enjoy your new device. But before you head to the store, you should put some thought into which model you’re going to buy. Not only do storage capacities vary, but also Wi-Fi and 3G options. If you really want to get the most out of your shiny new device, you’ll take all of these factors into consideration before you spend your money.

Regarding storage capacity, what I like to tell people is this: you’re stuck with what you buy. Sure, the 16GB model is the cheapest, but you may well discover that you’d like to carry around more than 16GB worth of data. If you anticipate that your iPad is going to become your primary MP3 player, video player, gaming device, and/or photo editor, then you’ll have to spring for a higher storage capacity.

Regarding 3G and Wi-Fi options, you should simply choose the model that fits your lifestyle. If you’re only going to be using your iPad around the house, then you can easily get away with a Wi-Fi model. If you’d like to use your iPad in the car or away from home, then you’ll have to spring for a 3G model”that, or you may have to spend some time hunting around for unprotected wireless networks.