OVERALL
ALTERNATIVES
SPECS
VS AVERAGE
REVIEWS
Scored using Tablets Methodology v3.0
Tablets Methodology v3.0
Mathematical & Unbiased Scoring
Products in this category are scored under Frontum Tablets Methodology v3.0: the technical score from the specifications is the base, and independent expert and video reviews (up to ±0.5 points), owner opinions (up to ±0.3) and best-of lists (up to +0.3) move it up or down.
Explore Tablets Methodology v3.0

Apple iPad Mini 2 Cellular (1GB + 16GB) review: 168 specs compared

Avg. price:~£95RAM capacity:1 GBInternal storage:16 GBScreen size:7.9 inchesChipset:Apple A7

Apple iPad Mini 2 Cellular (1GB + 16GB) Review: Compare 168 technical specifications and 35 expert and video reviews to see how this product ranks in the Tablets category and whether it is worth buying.

6.8/10

Overall score

Score
6.8/ 10
✕
What it is
Our main score for this model, 1–10. It combines specs, best-of lists, expert reviews and owners.
How we count it
Parts: Technical score 35%, List score 30%, Reviews score 25%, Sentiment score 10%
Marks: Each part gets a mark out of 10. For reviews, lists and owners, a typical model in this category gets about 8 and the best one gets 10.
No data yet: A part with no data shows "?". It counts as the mark of a weaker model in this category (4 in 5 models with data score higher). This way, models with reviews, lists and owners usually come out ahead.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–¼ Worse than 58% of models
Score components

35%

5.5

Technical score

30%

?

List scoreNot enough data yet, so we use 7.5, the mark of a weaker model in this category

25%

8.3

Reviews score

10%

5.5

Sentiment score

â–¼Worse than 58% of tablets
7.8

Value for money

Value for money
7.8/ 10
✕
What it is
An indicator that combines the tablet's overall rating with its cost.
When it matters
When you are looking for a tablet with a good balance between quality and price.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–² Better than 64% of models
Score components

70%

6.8

Overall score

30%

10

Price

â–²Better than 64%
5.5

Technical score

Technical score
5.5/ 10
✕
What it is
How good the specs are compared with the other models in this category, 1–10.
How we count it
Areas: We rate the specs in each area against the other models in this category.
Weighting: The areas that matter most to buyers count more. The shares are shown under Score components.
Share: The technical score is 35% of the overall score.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–¼ Worse than 73% of models
Score components

22%

4.7

Performance

20%

5.4

Display

16%

5.8

Camera

14%

4.2

Battery

12%

6.5

Connectivity

8%

7.0

Software

5%

6.6

Design

3%

5.7

Audio

â–¼Worse than 73%
8.3

Reviews score

Reviews score
8.3/ 10
✕
What it is
Average grade from independent test sites, magazines and video reviewers, 1–10.
How we count it
Grades: Each review's own score is converted to 1–10; without one, we grade the review ourselves. Big test sites count more, short reviews half as much as full tests. A video review counts half.
Score: The average grade is 80% of the review mark; the number of reviews is the other 20% (1 review = 5, the typical number in this category = 8, the most-reviewed model = 10).
Enough data: With few reviews, the average grade is pulled toward the typical grade of this category. No reviews yet: 7.4 for now.
Share: Reviews count 25% of the overall score.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–² Better than 80% of models

80%

8.2

Average grade

20%

8.9

Popularity

Grades by review (35)
18 reviews: 14 with a printed score, 4 estimated from the review. 17 video reviews, each counting half as much as a written test. Reviews count 25% of the overall score.
User ratings collected online are not part of this score.
â–²Better than 80%
?

List score

List score
7.5/ 10
✕
What it is
How often independent test sites, magazines and video reviewers put this model in their best-of lists for this category.
How we count it
Points: The model in the most lists of this category gets 10; the others get 8 to 10 in proportion. In no list yet: 7.5. Lists count 30% of the overall score.
Enough data: Every list counts, even a single one. With fewer than 5 best-of lists in the category, this part is left out.
Lists with this model (0)
Not in any best-of list yet, so this part counts as 7.5. Models in a list get 8 to 10.
Not in any best-of list yet
  • No image
No image
Where to buy
    N/A~ £95
Best rankings
Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).All: ranking among all products in the database.
Available versions:
1GB + 128GBCheck price
Other versions:
1GB + 16GB1GB + 32GB1GB + 64GB

What reviewers say about the Apple iPad Mini 2 Cellular (1GB + 16GB)

Based on 18 · 17

Reviewers love the sharp screen and lasting battery, but many complain about limited storage, high price and aging software support.
Praised
Mixed views
Criticised
Pick a topic to see who said what

What owners say about the Apple iPad Mini 2 Cellular (1GB + 16GB)

Based on 211 owners sharing their experience in online comments

38%positive6%mixed56%negative

Owners value clear repair guidance and lasting usefulness, while aging software and fragile repairs cause the most frustration.

What owners dislike

  • Stuck on iOS 9.x, the iPad cannot update, so popular apps refuse to download or say they need a newer system.26
  • After a replacement, some owners get no backlight, white or striped lines, or a black screen, often from a faulty part or a cracked LCD.21
  • After a digitizer swap, touch often stops working or only works in part of the screen, sometimes because the digitizer cable tears during reconnection.15
  • After a year or more owners see lag, slow page loads, freezes, sudden restarts and games closing, especially with heavy games.13
  • Owners buying used units get stuck on an Apple ID or iCloud lock, or a company-managed message, and cannot set up the device without the old password.11
  • After a factory reset or update, owners get stuck on a white screen or the Apple logo, or the iPad restarts and stays unresponsive.8
  • Owners say the corners and edges crack after drops, and the screen breaks easily, even from a single fall.7
  • Owners find the tiny screws hard to handle; one was stripped, some differ in length, and a magnetised screwdriver helps.7
  • After a repair some owners find the iPad will not turn on, sometimes after the screws went back in, even though the charging sound works.7
  • The new screen may not sit flush, as a folded cable hits the frame, or the adhesive fails and the screen feels loose.4

Points mentioned by at least 3 owners, most mentioned first.

Loading category ranking...

Technical Specifications of tablet Apple iPad Mini 2 Cellular (1GB + 16GB)

Technical score
Technical score
5.5/ 10
✕
What it is
How good the specs are compared with the other models in this category, 1–10.
How we count it
Areas: We rate the specs in each area against the other models in this category.
Weighting: The areas that matter most to buyers count more. The shares are shown under Score components.
Share: The technical score is 35% of the overall score.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–¼ Worse than 73% of models
Score components:

22%

4.7

Performance

20%

5.4

Display

16%

5.8

Camera

14%

4.2

Battery

12%

6.5

Connectivity

8%

7.0

Software

5%

6.6

Design

3%

5.7

Audio

5.5
Reviews score
8.3
List score
?
Value for money
Value for money
7.8/ 10
✕
What it is
An indicator that combines the tablet's overall rating with its cost.
When it matters
When you are looking for a tablet with a good balance between quality and price.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–² Better than 64% of models
Score components:

70%

6.8

Overall score

30%

10

Price

7.8
RAM capacity
1 GB
Market range: <1 GB – >8 GB
This tablet has 1 GB of RAM, which is less than 78% of tablets and equal to 19.1% of tablets.
Process node
28 nm
Market range: <4 nm – >40 nm
This tablet is built on a 28 nm process, which is larger than 65.1% of tablets and equal to 17.6% of tablets.
Internal storage
16 GB
Market range: <16 GB – >256 GB
This tablet has 16 GB of internal storage, which is less than 78.8% of tablets and equal to 14.8% of tablets.
Geekbench 6 single-core score
?
Chipset
Apple A7
This tablet runs on Apple A7, which is more advanced than 83.6% of tablets and equal to 0.5% of tablets.
Show more
What reviewers say
Screen resolution
2048×1536
This tablet has a 2048×1536 screen, which is sharper than 68.5% of tablets and equal to 3.8% of tablets.
Refresh rate
60 Hz
Market range: <60 Hz – >120 Hz
This tablet has a 60 Hz screen, which is smoother than 0.1% of tablets and equal to 73.4% of tablets.
Display type
IPS LCD
This tablet uses a IPS LCD display type. 17% of tablets use this display technology.
Pixel density
326 ppi
Market range: <149 ppi – >291 ppi
This tablet has a pixel density of 326 ppi, which is higher than 94.9% of tablets and equal to 2.1% of tablets.
Display glass type
Aluminosilicate Glass
This tablet protects its screen with Aluminosilicate Glass, which is less durable than 58% of tablets and the same as 7% of tablets.
Show more
What reviewers say
Optical image stabilization
no
This tablet does not support optical stabilisation. 0.4% of tablets offer this.
Main camera megapixels
5 MP
Market range: <3.15 MP – >13 MP
This tablet has a rear camera with 5 MP resolution, which is lower than 63.7% of tablets and equal to 26% of tablets.
Front camera megapixels
1.2 MP
Market range: <1.2 MP – >9 MP
This tablet has a front camera with 1.2 MP resolution, which is lower than 86.3% of tablets and equal to 4.8% of tablets.
Main camera aperture
f/2.4
This tablet has a main camera aperture of f/2.4, which is narrower than 70% of tablets and equal to 17.5% of tablets.
Optical zoom
1xxx
This tablet has 1xx optical zoom, which is stronger than 18.2% of tablets and equal to 80.9% of tablets.
Show more
What reviewers say
Battery capacity
6,471 mAh
Market range: <4k mAh – >10.1k mAh
This tablet has 6,471 mAh battery capacity, which is smaller than 51.6% of tablets and equal to 0.3% of tablets.
Charging speed
12 W
Market range: <10 W – >45 W
This tablet charges at 12 W, which is slower than 58.9% of tablets and equal to 1.5% of tablets.
Battery life
9 hours
Market range: <7 hours – >16 hours
This tablet has a battery life of 9 hours, which is shorter than that of 62.7% of tablets and equal to that of 6.9% of tablets.
Wireless charging
no
This tablet does not support wireless charging. 1.5% of tablets offer this.
Fast charging
no
This tablet does not support fast charging. 56.9% of tablets offer this.
Show more
What reviewers say
LTE support
yes
This tablet has built-in LTE. 57.1% of tablets offer this.
Wi-Fi connectivity
yes
This tablet connects to Wi-Fi. 0.2% of tablets offer this.
GPS
yes
This tablet has built-in GPS. 17.1% of tablets offer this.
5G connectivity
no
This tablet does not support 5G. 8.1% of tablets offer this.
NFC
no
This tablet does not include NFC. 10.8% of tablets offer this.
Show more
What reviewers say
Operating system
iOS
This tablet uses the iOS operating system, which is less advanced than the one used by 98.5%.
Update support duration
long
This tablet offers long update support, which is longer than the support period of 80% of tablets and equal to that of 20% of tablets.
Direct OS updates
yes
This tablet supports direct OS updates. 20.3% of tablets offer this.
On-device AI
no
This tablet does not support on-device AI. 28.3% of tablets support this capability.
App tracking protection
?
Show more
What reviewers say
IP rating
not rated
This tablet's IP rating is not rated, which is less protected than 16.5% of tablets and the same as 83.6% of tablets.
Weight
341 g
Market range: <315 g – >730 g
This tablet weighs 341 g, which is lighter than 83.6% of tablets and equal to 0.3% of tablets.
Backlit keyboard
no
This tablet does not support a backlit keyboard. 9.7% of tablets support backlit keyboards.
Keyboard accessory
?
Pen latency
N/A
Show more
What reviewers say
Number of microphones
2
Market range: <1 – >3
This tablet has a microphone array of 2, which is more than 55.1% of tablets and equal to 32.7% of tablets.
aptX Adaptive
no
This tablet does not support aptX Adaptive. 6.9% of tablets offer this.
Dolby Atmos support
no
This tablet does not support Dolby Atmos. 31.3% of tablets support Dolby Atmos.
N. of speakers
2
Market range: <2 – >4
This tablet includes 2 speakers, which is more than in 9.8% of tablets and equal to the number in 60.8% of tablets.
FM radio
no
This tablet does not include an FM radio. 19% of tablets offer this.
Show more

Apple iPad Mini 2 Cellular (1GB + 16GB) vs the average tablet

246810TotalPerformanceDisplayCameraBatteryConnectivitySoftwareDesignAudio
  • More advanced chipset
    This tablet has a more advanced chipset than the average tablet (Apple A7 vs MediaTek MT8169A).
    Apple A7 vs MediaTek MT8169A
  • 47.5% sharper screen detail
    This tablet has sharper screen detail than the average tablet (326 ppi vs 221 ppi). The average tablet has a pixel density of 221 ppi.
    326 ppi vs 221 ppi
  • Supports LTE
    This tablet supports LTE, while the average tablet does not. 42.9% of tablets support LTE.
  • Longer update support
    This tablet offers longer update support than the average tablet (long vs medium). The average tablet gets medium of update support.
    long vs medium
  • 30.4% lighter
    This tablet is lighter than the average tablet (341 g vs 490 g). The average tablet weighs 490 g.
    341 g vs 490 g
  • 18.6% higher review score
    Reviews score
    8.3/ 10
    ✕
    What it is
    Average grade from independent test sites, magazines and video reviewers, 1–10.
    How we count it
    Grades: Each review's own score is converted to 1–10; without one, we grade the review ourselves. Big test sites count more, short reviews half as much as full tests. A video review counts half.
    Score: The average grade is 80% of the review mark; the number of reviews is the other 20% (1 review = 5, the typical number in this category = 8, the most-reviewed model = 10).
    Enough data: With few reviews, the average grade is pulled toward the typical grade of this category. No reviews yet: 7.4 for now.
    Share: Reviews count 25% of the overall score.
    Score distribution
    â–¼
    <55-66-77-88-99-10
    â–² Better than 80% of models

    80%

    8.2

    Average grade

    20%

    8.9

    Popularity

    Grades by review (35)
    18 reviews: 14 with a printed score, 4 estimated from the review. 17 video reviews, each counting half as much as a written test. Reviews count 25% of the overall score.
    User ratings collected online are not part of this score.
    8.3 vs 7.0
  • Sharper display
    This tablet has a sharper screen than the average tablet (2048×1536 vs 1920×1200).
    2,048×1,536 vs 1,920×1,200
  • 50 nits higher typical brightness
    This tablet has a higher typical brightness than the average tablet (450 nits vs 400 nits). The average tablet reaches 400 nits typical brightness.
    450 nits vs 400 nits
  • 18.6% higher review score
    Reviews score
    8.3/ 10
    ✕
    What it is
    Average grade from independent test sites, magazines and video reviewers, 1–10.
    How we count it
    Grades: Each review's own score is converted to 1–10; without one, we grade the review ourselves. Big test sites count more, short reviews half as much as full tests. A video review counts half.
    Score: The average grade is 80% of the review mark; the number of reviews is the other 20% (1 review = 5, the typical number in this category = 8, the most-reviewed model = 10).
    Enough data: With few reviews, the average grade is pulled toward the typical grade of this category. No reviews yet: 7.4 for now.
    Share: Reviews count 25% of the overall score.
    Score distribution
    â–¼
    <55-66-77-88-99-10
    â–² Better than 80% of models

    80%

    8.2

    Average grade

    20%

    8.9

    Popularity

    Grades by review (35)
    18 reviews: 14 with a printed score, 4 estimated from the review. 17 video reviews, each counting half as much as a written test. Reviews count 25% of the overall score.
    User ratings collected online are not part of this score.
    8.3 vs 7.0
  • 2.74x cheaper
    Apple iPad Mini 2 Cellular (1GB + 16GB) is cheaper than the average tablet (£95 vs £260).
    £95 vs £260
  • More advanced chipset
    This tablet has a more advanced chipset than the average tablet (Apple A7 vs MediaTek MT8169A).
    Apple A7 vs MediaTek MT8169A
  • 47.5% sharper screen detail
    This tablet has sharper screen detail than the average tablet (326 ppi vs 221 ppi). The average tablet has a pixel density of 221 ppi.
    326 ppi vs 221 ppi
  • Sharper display
    This tablet has a sharper screen than the average tablet (2048×1536 vs 1920×1200).
    2,048×1,536 vs 1,920×1,200
  • 50 nits higher typical brightness
    This tablet has a higher typical brightness than the average tablet (450 nits vs 400 nits). The average tablet reaches 400 nits typical brightness.
    450 nits vs 400 nits
  • 49 nits brighter screen
    This tablet is brighter than the average tablet (450 nits vs 401 nits). The average tablet reaches 401 nits.
    450 nits vs 401 nits
  • Supports slow-motion video
    This tablet supports slow-motion recording, while the average tablet does not. 37.3% of tablets support slow-motion recording.
  • Supports LTE
    This tablet supports LTE, while the average tablet does not. 42.9% of tablets support LTE.
  • Supports cellular data
    This tablet supports cellular data, while the average tablet does not. 47.4% of tablets offer this.
  • Supports AirPlay streaming
    This tablet supports AirPlay streaming, while the average tablet does not. 7.5% of tablets offer this.
  • Supports HDMI output
    This tablet supports HDMI output, while the average tablet does not. 49.8% of tablets offer this.
    via Lightning Digital AV adapter
  • Longer update support
    This tablet offers longer update support than the average tablet (long vs medium). The average tablet gets medium of update support.
    long vs medium
  • Supports app offloading
    This tablet supports app offloading, while the average tablet does not. 26.3% of tablets offer this.
  • Supports extra dim mode
    This tablet supports extra dim mode, while the average tablet does not. 35.9% of tablets offer this.
    Reduce White Point accessibility dimming
  • 30.4% lighter
    This tablet is lighter than the average tablet (341 g vs 490 g). The average tablet weighs 490 g.
    341 g vs 490 g
  • 40.6 mm narrower
    This tablet is narrower than the average tablet (134.7 mm vs 175.3 mm). The average tablet is 175.3 mm wide.
    134.7 mm vs 175.3 mm
  • 1 more microphones
    This tablet has more microphones than the average tablet (2 vs 1). The average tablet's microphone count is 1.
    2 vs 1
  • 6 fewer CPU threads
    This tablet has fewer CPU threads than the average tablet (2 vs 8). The average tablet has 8 CPU threads.
    2 vs 8
  • 3.8 MP lower front resolution
    This tablet has a lower-resolution front camera than the average tablet (1.2 MP vs 5 MP). The average tablet has a front camera of 5 MP.
    1.2 MP vs 5 MP
  • No USB-C port
    This tablet does not have a USB Type-C port, while the average tablet does. 54% of tablets have one.
  • 3 GB less RAM
    This tablet has less RAM than the average tablet (1 GB vs 4 GB). The average tablet has 4 GB of RAM.
    1 GB vs 4 GB
  • Less advanced operating system
    This tablet runs on a less advanced operating system than the average tablet (iOS vs Android). Operating system choice shapes app support, updates, and ecosystem features.
    iOS vs Android
  • No fast charging
    This tablet does not support fast charging, while the average tablet does. 56.8% of tablets support fast charging.
  • 35% lower CPU speed
    This tablet has a lower CPU speed than the average tablet (1.3 GHz vs 2 GHz). The average tablet has CPU speed of 2 GHz.
    1.3 GHz vs 2 GHz
  • 3 MP lower rear resolution
    This tablet has a lower-resolution rear camera than the average tablet (5 MP vs 8 MP). The average tablet has a rear camera of 8 MP.
    5 MP vs 8 MP
  • 26.7% lower sentiment score
    5.5 vs 7.5
  • 6 fewer CPU threads
    This tablet has fewer CPU threads than the average tablet (2 vs 8). The average tablet has 8 CPU threads.
    2 vs 8
  • 3 GB less RAM
    This tablet has less RAM than the average tablet (1 GB vs 4 GB). The average tablet has 4 GB of RAM.
    1 GB vs 4 GB
  • 35% lower CPU speed
    This tablet has a lower CPU speed than the average tablet (1.3 GHz vs 2 GHz). The average tablet has CPU speed of 2 GHz.
    1.3 GHz vs 2 GHz
  • 75% less internal storage
    This tablet has less internal storage than the average tablet (16 GB vs 64 GB). The average tablet has 64 GB of internal storage.
    16 GB vs 64 GB
  • 2x larger process node
    This tablet has a larger process node than the average tablet (28 nm vs 14 nm). The average tablet is built on 14 nm.
    28 nm vs 14 nm
  • No big.LITTLE architecture
    This tablet does not support big.LITTLE architecture, while the average tablet does. 51.7% of tablets support big.LITTLE architecture.
  • More basic graphics
    This tablet has less advanced graphics than the average tablet (PowerVR G6430 vs Mali-G51).
    PowerVR G6430 vs Mali-G51
  • 30.8% slower GPU clock
    This tablet runs its GPU slower than the average tablet (450 MHz vs 650 MHz). The average tablet runs its GPU at 650 MHz.
    450 MHz vs 650 MHz
  • 6 years older
    This tablet was released earlier than the average tablet (2013 vs 2019). The average tablet was released in 2019.
    November 2013
    2013 vs 2019
  • 266 MHz slower RAM speed
    This tablet has a lower RAM speed than the average tablet (1,600 MHz vs 1,866 MHz). The average tablet has RAM speed of 1,866 MHz.
    1,600 MHz vs 1,866 MHz
  • 14.1% less memory bandwidth
    This tablet has less memory bandwidth than the average tablet (12.8 GB/s vs 14.9 GB/s). The average tablet has 14.9 GB/s of memory bandwidth.
    12.8 GB/s vs 14.9 GB/s
  • 2.2 inches smaller screen
    This tablet has a smaller screen than the average tablet (7.9 inches vs 10.1 inches). The average tablet measures 10.1 inches.
    7.9 inches vs 10.1 inches
  • Less vivid contrast
    This tablet has less contrast than the average tablet (804:1 vs 1015:1). The average tablet has a contrast ratio of 1015:1.
    804:1 vs 1,015:1
  • Less durable glass
    This tablet has less durable glass than the average tablet (Aluminosilicate Glass vs Corning Gorilla Glass). The average tablet uses Corning Gorilla Glass.
    Aluminosilicate Glass vs Corning Gorilla Glass
  • 50% slower touch response
    This tablet samples touch more slowly than the average tablet (60 Hz vs 120 Hz). The average tablet samples touch at 120 Hz.
    60 Hz vs 120 Hz
  • 3.8 MP lower front resolution
    This tablet has a lower-resolution front camera than the average tablet (1.2 MP vs 5 MP). The average tablet has a front camera of 5 MP.
    1.2 MP vs 5 MP
  • 3 MP lower rear resolution
    This tablet has a lower-resolution rear camera than the average tablet (5 MP vs 8 MP). The average tablet has a rear camera of 8 MP.
    5 MP vs 8 MP
  • Narrower front camera aperture
    This tablet has a narrower front camera aperture than the average tablet (f/2.4 vs f/2.2). The average tablet's front camera aperture is f/2.2.
    f/2.4 vs f/2.2
  • No manual white balance
    This tablet does not support manual white balance, while the average tablet does. 51.5% of tablets support manual white balance.
  • Narrower main camera aperture
    This tablet has a narrower main camera aperture than the average tablet (f/2.4 vs f/2.2). The average tablet's main camera aperture is f/2.2.
    f/2.4 vs f/2.2
  • No fast charging
    This tablet does not support fast charging, while the average tablet does. 56.8% of tablets support fast charging.
  • 1 hours shorter battery life
    This tablet offers shorter battery life than the average tablet (9 hours vs 10 hours). The average tablet offers 10 hours of battery life.
    9 hours vs 10 hours
  • 33.3% slower charging
    This tablet charges slower than the average tablet (12 W vs 18 W). The average tablet charges at 18 W.
    12 W vs 18 W
  • No USB-C port
    This tablet does not have a USB Type-C port, while the average tablet does. 54% of tablets have one.
  • Older Wi-Fi standard
    This tablet has an older Wi-Fi standard than the average tablet (Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n) vs Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac)).
    Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n) vs Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac)
  • Older Bluetooth version
    This tablet has an older Bluetooth version than the average tablet (4 vs 5).
    4 vs 5
  • No face recognition
    This tablet does not have face recognition, the average tablet does. 56.4% of tablets support face recognition.
  • Less advanced operating system
    This tablet runs on a less advanced operating system than the average tablet (iOS vs Android). Operating system choice shapes app support, updates, and ecosystem features.
    iOS vs Android
  • No split-screen
    This tablet does not support split-screen, the average tablet does. 72.8% of tablets support split-screen.
  • No picture-in-picture mode
    This tablet does not support picture-in-picture, the average tablet does. 61.4% of tablets support picture-in-picture.
  • No multi-user mode
    User score
    6.1/ 10
    ✕
    What it is
    Average of independent expert reviews and videos, graded by us; missing reviews count as 7/10.
    When it matters
    When you want to know how independent test sites and video reviewers rate the product in real use.
    Score distribution
    â–¼
    â–¼
    <55-66-77-88-99-10
    Apple iPad Mini 2 Cellular
    the average tablet
    Apple iPad Mini 2 Cellular (1GB + 16GB) does not support multi-user mode, while the average tablet does. 73.8% of tablets offer this.
  • No full-page screenshots
    This tablet does not support full-page screenshots, the average tablet does. 53% of tablets support full-page screenshots.
  • No widgets
    This tablet does not support widgets, the average tablet does. 93.6% of tablets support widgets.
  • No dark mode
    This tablet does not support dark mode, while the average tablet does. 57.7% of tablets offer this.
  • No offline voice recognition
    This tablet does not support offline voice recognition, the average tablet does. 76.4% of tablets support offline voice recognition.

Video reviews

Hands-on testing, unboxing, and real-world video evaluations

7.0
OSReviews
≈ estimated
13/06/2023
Revisited review · software support, apps, speakers and everyday use
Verdict
Apple iPad Mini 2 Cellular is not obsolete yet: fine for light use, but heavy apps and games let it down.
4.0
Simple Alpaca
≈ estimated
30/01/2022
Retrospective review · outdated model in 2022
Verdict
Apple iPad Mini 2 Cellular is not worth buying even as an iPad, given its outdated software and aging battery.
4.0
91Tech
≈ estimated
02/10/2020
Long-term use review · value and buying advice
Verdict
Apple iPad Mini 2 Cellular is not worth buying now at current prices, though still a good device if you already own one.
7.0
THE Unboxing
≈ estimated
01/06/2020
Long-term use review · browsing, video and light work
Verdict
Apple iPad Mini 2 Cellular is still suggested for light use if you can find one, though the device is outdated.
8.0
PhoneArena
≈ estimated
20/11/2013
Hands-on review · display, battery, camera and price
Verdict
Apple iPad Mini 2 Cellular is an excellent tablet overall, but the higher launch price makes it a tough sell.
4.0
RetroTech
≈ estimated
09/10/2024
Retro review · 2024 check against newer iPads
Verdict
Apple iPad Mini 2 Cellular has outdated software and a weak camera, making it a poor buy next to newer iPads.
7.0
Droz Tech
≈ estimated
03/09/2024
Retrospective review · daily use and app tests
Verdict
Apple iPad Mini 2 Cellular is still worth it for reading, notes and offline videos, but not for streaming or heavy apps.
Not graded
Overview video
Overview video
Overview video

Expert reviews

In-depth analysis and verdict from leading tech publications

10
macworld.com
✓ explicit
26/02/2015
Expert review · Retina mini
Verdict
Apple iPad Mini 2 is the best-looking 7-inch tablet, with a sharp Retina screen and longer battery life than the iPad Air, but it costs more than the original mini.
10
t3.com
✓ explicit
18/11/2013
Hands-on review · Everyday tablet
Verdict
Apple iPad Mini 2 suits daily use, with a sharp Retina screen and fast performance, but no Touch ID and its high price hold it back.
10
stuff.tv
✓ explicit
21/11/2013
One-week test · Small tablet
Verdict
Apple iPad Mini 2 is a small tablet with a sharp screen and all-day battery life, though colors trail the Air and the price is steep.
9.0
uk.pcmag.com
✓ explicit
06/11/2014
Hands-on review · Entry-level iPad
Verdict
Apple iPad Mini 2 is a low-cost way into iOS apps, with a sharp screen and solid speed, but the Galaxy Tab S 8.4 is the better small tablet.
9.0
techradar.com
✓ explicit
26/07/2016
Updated review · Night Shift test
Verdict
Apple iPad Mini 2 has a strong screen, design and app catalog, but its price is high and 16GB is low storage.
10
whathifi.com
✓ explicit
27/11/2013
Hands-on review · Media tablet
Verdict
Apple iPad Mini 2 has the best video of any sub-8-inch tablet, plus sharp, fast performance, though its price is steep next to rivals like the Nexus 7.
9.0
wired.com
✓ explicit
19/11/2013
Expert review · Tablet value
Verdict
Apple iPad Mini 2 is the best small tablet if budget isn't tight, with a sharp screen and strong battery life, though rivals cost less.
10
expertreviews.co.uk
✓ explicit
16/01/2019
Retrospective review · Older iPad
Verdict
Apple iPad Mini 2 is now a dated buy, with a clean design and sharp screen, but the iPad mini 4 is the better choice today.
9.0
trustedreviews.com
✓ explicit
22/10/2013
Expert review · Compact tablet
Verdict
Apple iPad Mini 2 is an easy tablet to recommend, with a strong screen, camera and size, though it is not the best for video.
9.0
uk.pcmag.com
≈ estimated
15/05/2014
Expert review · Entry-level iOS
Verdict
Apple iPad Mini 2 is the best cheap way into iOS apps, with a sharp screen and solid battery, but its 16GB storage and slower Wi-Fi hold it back.
7.7
cnet.com
✓ explicit
14/07/2016
Expert review · Basic tablet use
Verdict
Apple iPad Mini 2 is a solid, cheap way into iOS for video and web browsing, best bought on sale, though it lacks Touch ID and expandable storage.
9.0
techspot.com
✓ explicit
27/11/2013
Hands-on review · Display and design
Verdict
Apple iPad Mini 2 is a crisp, compact tablet with easy one-hand handling, but its colors look muted and it is one of the priciest for its size.
phonearena.com
02/12/2013
Not graded yet
7.8
computerbild.de
✓ explicit
21/11/2013
Lab test · Retina display
Verdict
Apple iPad Mini 2 is the best tablet at its size, fast and very sharp, but it is expensive and its storage cannot be upgraded.
9.5
connect.de
≈ estimated
11/12/2013
Test report · Retina display
Verdict
Apple iPad Mini 2 is a sharp, bright and light tablet with the largest app range, but storage cannot be expanded and standard ports are missing.
8.0
notebooks-und-mobiles.de
≈ estimated
19/03/2016
Hands-on test · Battery and memory
Verdict
Apple iPad Mini 2 is a solid, well-built small tablet whose Retina screen and long update support suit long-term owners, though 1GB of RAM limits heavy multitasking.
9.0
spiegel.de
≈ estimated
21/11/2013
Hands-on test · Retina display
Verdict
Apple iPad Mini 2 is the best iPad yet, with iPad Air speed and a sharp screen in a smaller body, but it is not cheap.
stern.de
21/11/2013
Not graded yet
9.0
wired.it
✓ explicit
30/12/2013
Hands-on test · Everyday use
Verdict
Apple iPad Mini 2 is a sharp, light tablet for movies and photo albums, but its 16GB base model fills quickly and it lacks Touch ID.
9.0
tweakers.net
✓ explicit
07/07/2015
Owner reviews · Compact tablet
Verdict
Apple iPad Mini 2 is praised by owners as a compact, sharp tablet with long battery life, but it is pricey and its storage and accessories cost extra.

Third-party reviews

What customers like about Apple iPad Mini 2 Cellular (1GB + 16GB)

  • Sharp Retina display with 326 ppi pixel density
  • Highly portable, slim, and lightweight aluminum design
  • Strong battery life, often reaching up to 10 hours of active use
  • Fast performance for basic tasks and games due to the A7 64-bit chip
  • Access to a wide ecosystem of high-quality iOS apps
  • Reliable 3G and 4G LTE cellular connectivity for use on the go

What customers don't like about Apple iPad Mini 2 Cellular (1GB + 16GB)

  • Missing modern features like Touch ID and split-screen multitasking
  • Non-expandable internal storage, with entry-level models limited to 16GB
  • Camera performance is poor in low-light conditions
  • Screen color gamut is lower compared to larger iPads like the iPad Air
  • No standard USB port and heavy reliance on iTunes for file management
  • Noticeably slower and more 'antiquated' when running modern software

Verdict

The Apple iPad Mini 2 Cellular is a compact tablet featuring a 7.9-inch Retina IPS display with a sharp 2048 x 1536 resolution at 326 ppi. Internally, it is powered by a 64-bit dual-core 1.3GHz A7 chip and M7 motion coprocessor, paired with 1GB of LPDDR3 RAM and 16GB of non-expandable flash storage. Connectivity includes dual-band Wi-Fi and 4G LTE support for on-the-go data, while its camera system consists of a 5MP iSight rear camera (1080p video) and a 1.2MP FaceTime HD front camera. Its main pros are the high-quality, high-resolution screen, a premium aluminum build, and a solid 10-hour battery life. However, key cons include the lack of a Touch ID sensor, limited multitasking capabilities due to the 1GB RAM, and no option for storage expansion via microSD.

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