iPad 2 Pricing Foreshadows NGP Launch

Apple has announced European pricing for the iPad 2 ahead of its launch in most territories this Friday. We've already had a look at the likely hardware comparison, but pricing looks very much in the NGP's favour.

Apple's press release says:

a suggested retail price of $499 (US) for the 16GB model, $599 (US) for the 32GB model, $699 (US) the 64GB model. iPad 2 with Wi-Fi + 3G will be available for a suggested retail price of $629 (US) for the 16GB model, $729 (US) for the 32GB model and $829 (US) for the 64GB model.

That equates to around: £399 for the WiFi only 16GB model, £479 for the WiFi only 32GB model, £559 for the WiFi 64GB model

Then there's the 3G equipped models at £499 for 16GB model, £579 for the 32GB model and £659 for the 64GB model.

So, with the NGP likely to kick off from around $250 to $350 it has a big pricing advantage (as far as gamers are concerned) and NGP is a lot more powerful than the iPad 2. Assuming a equal $/£ conversion, British gamers will still get gouged, especially at the rate the pound is falling, but if you're a gamer, I think I know which way you're leaning.

Of course, if the NGP price does come out higher than everyone hopes, then it puts itself at risks from iPad 2s and other devices, something Sony really can't afford to happen.