IPad Price: 4G LTE Will Cost You Extra On Apple's New Tablet

Apple finally announced the release of the "new iPad" at its March 7 event in San Francisco, Calif., and, thankfully, it won't break the bank -- if you're willing to go without 4G LTE network connectivity.

Apple's website shows a WiFi only version of the new iPad will set you back $499 for 16GB, $599 for 32GB, and $699 for 64GB. These prices were identical to configurations of the iPad 2 when it launched in 2010. Apple also announced on March 7 that it will slash down the iPad 2 price to $399.

If you really do want a 4G-equipped iPad, it'll definitely cost you. The first-of-its-kind Apple device with LTE connectivity is priced at $629 for 16GB, $729 for 32GB, and $829 for 64GB, according to Apple's website. [EDITOR'S NOTE: When the iPad 2 launched, 3G-capable configurations were available at the same price points as the 4G iPad models are now.]

All models of the new iPad will hit shelves on March 16, so eager consumers will have until then to decide whether or not to splurge on 4G LTE connectivity (unless they want to preorder a new iPad now). According to the Wall Street Journal, the stronger network connection will allow new iPad users to "connect at speeds roughly 10 times faster than current 3G data networks" -- so if speed's your thing, then the higher price tag may be worth it.

Would you splurge on a new iPad with 4G LTE network connectivity? Let us know below!

Click through our slideshow to see some lovely photos of the new iPad from its unveiling on March 7. Read on for everything you need to know about the new device, plus all the rest of Apple's announcements on Wednesday.