Apple iPad Mini 2024 Cellular (8GB + 256GB) Review | 168 Data compared

The Tom’s Guide review highlights the iPad mini 7 as a powerful, highly portable device featuring the A17 Pro chip, which enables superior performance for demanding tasks and gaming. Key advantages include doubled starting storage (128GB) at the same $499 price point, excellent battery life lasting over 10.5 hours, and seamless integration with the Apple Pencil Pro for note-taking. Tom's GuideDespite maintaining a 60Hz refresh rate rather than upgrading to ProMotion, the 8.3-inch display remains sharp, and testers did not experience the "jelly scrolling" issue found in the previous model. The tablet excels as a compact, durable digital notepad, offering top-tier performance in a lightweight 0.6-pound package. Drawbacks highlighted in the review include the continued portrait-oriented front camera, which is awkward for horizontal video calls, and the lack of support for the older Apple Pencil 2. Furthermore, the promised Apple Intelligence features were not fully functional at launch, making a key selling point a "work in progress". Tom's Guide

In a two-month review, AppleInsider describes the iPad mini 7 (A17 Pro) as an ideal, highly portable "Goldilocks" device that bridges the gap between smartphones and laptops, excelling in gaming and media consumption. The device features a modern design, strong battery life, and upgraded USB-C and Wi-Fi 6E, making it a powerful, future-proof, and pocketable option. Despite these strengths, the review notes continued limitations, such as the 60Hz display, persistent (though reduced) jelly scrolling, and iPadOS scaling issues. Additionally, the review highlights lackluster color options and the lack of Face ID as drawbacks, recommending it mainly for users seeking ultimate portability over laptop-level functionality.

The Apple iPad mini (A17 Pro, 2024) solidifies its position as the premier small tablet by introducing the A17 Pro chip, which delivers a 30% CPU and 25% GPU performance increase alongside Apple Intelligence support. Retaining the 8.3-inch display, the device now features doubled base storage (128GB), faster USB-C, and Apple Pencil Pro compatibility, making it a powerful tool for professionals and creatives. While praised for its portability and 10-hour battery life, the review notes drawbacks including the lack of a 120Hz display, the continued absence of landscape camera orientation, and the lack of advanced Stage Manager multitasking.

The Apple iPad mini (2024) features the A17 Pro chip and 8GB of RAM, enabling Apple Intelligence support and improved performance in a portable design, with added support for the Apple Pencil Pro and faster wireless connectivity. While praised for its power-to-size ratio, the tablet retains a 60Hz 8.3-inch display without ProMotion or OLED, and maintains a design similar to the 2021 model with an awkwardly placed front camera. Despite minor "jelly scrolling" and lack of water resistance, it offers better battery life, making it a strong choice for users prioritizing a compact form factor, though it lacks a major aesthetic redesign.

The 2024 Apple iPad mini features an iterative update focused on internal upgrades, specifically utilizing the A17 Pro chip and 8GB of RAM to support Apple Intelligence and enhance performance over the 2021 model. While retaining the 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display, the tablet introduces improved connectivity with Wi-Fi 6E, a faster USB-C port, and support for the Apple Pencil Pro. Despite these upgrades, the device suffers from a dated 60Hz display, the lack of Face ID, and an unchanged design that maintains a sub-optimal camera placement.

The Apple iPad mini 7 is positioned by Hindustan Times (HT Tech) as a highly portable powerhouse featuring the A17 Pro chip, enabling intensive tasks like Procreate design and video editing. It supports Apple Intelligence and offers excellent, one-to-two-day battery life, making it ideal for on-the-go professionals. However, the device features a 500-nit display with weaker black levels than the iPad Air M2, along with dated, thick bezels. Furthermore, the tablet lacks compatibility with older pencils, supporting only the Pencil Pro or USB-C version. HT Tech

The iPad mini (7th gen/A17 Pro) is identified as the premier compact tablet, offering significant internal upgrades, including the A17 Pro chip, 8GB of RAM, and base storage doubled to 128GB, designed to support future Apple Intelligence. Key pros include excellent portability, compatibility with the Apple Pencil Pro, and faster connectivity features like Wi-Fi 6E and a 10Gbps USB-C port. However, the review notes cons, specifically the continued use of a 60Hz screen, identical design with chunky bezels, and the lack of Face ID or, importantly, support for the Apple Pencil 2.

Digital Camera World’s review highlights the 2024 iPad mini (A17 Pro) as an ultra-portable "field companion" for photographers, featuring a powerful A17 Pro chip for fast editing and a precise, color-accurate 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display. Key strengths include USB-C functionality for direct SSD connections and Apple Pencil Pro support for precise editing tasks, creating an ideal tool for on-the-go creative workflows. Digital Camera WorldConversely, the device faces criticism for its high price point and the lack of a 120Hz ProMotion screen, missing the premium display features found in more expensive models. The review also notes the awkward, short-edge front camera placement for video calls and that, while capable, it is not intended to replace heavy-duty laptops for intensive tasks. Ultimately, the iPad mini A17 Pro is recommended for mobile creators needing a compact device for quick, location-based tasks, rather than a full desktop replacement. It delivers a specialized form factor that bridges the gap between smartphones and full-sized laptops for specialized creative workflows.

The iPad Mini 7 (2024) retains its predecessor’s compact 8.3-inch design while introducing significant internal upgrades, most notably the A17 Pro chip for enhanced performance, Apple Intelligence, 128GB base storage, and Apple Pencil Pro support. Despite these improvements, the review highlights that the hardware remains mostly unchanged, with the 60Hz Liquid Retina display lacking a high-refresh-rate ProMotion feature. While deemed the best small tablet available, limitations include the lack of Stage Manager support and a portrait-oriented front camera.

The Independent's IndyBest review characterizes the Apple iPad mini 7 (2024) as a premium, highly portable device that maintains its 8.3-inch design while delivering significant internal upgrades, including the A17 Pro chip for Apple Intelligence support. Key advantages highlighted include doubled base storage (128GB), support for the Apple Pencil Pro, and a sharper, industry-leading pixel density compared to larger iPad models. Despite these improvements, the review notes drawbacks such as the continued use of a 60Hz LCD display rather than OLED, the lack of Face ID, and a front camera position that can be awkward for video calls.

The iPad Mini 7 (2024) is a conservative update, featuring the A17 Pro chip, 8GB of RAM, and a 128GB base storage, which prepares the device for Apple Intelligence and boosts performance. A key improvement is the resolution of the "jelly scrolling" issue via a new display controller, alongside added support for the Apple Pencil Pro, though the 60Hz LCD screen is now considered outdated. While keeping the same design, cameras, and battery life, the tablet is deemed the best small-device option, making it a recommended, albeit safe, choice for enthusiasts.

In his Six Colors review of the 2024 iPad mini, Jason Snell describes the device as a "familiar friend" receiving a targeted internal refresh focused on AI readiness. Key pros highlighted include the powerful A17 Pro chip, which enables Apple Intelligence, paired with 8GB of RAM and increased base storage, making it a capable, highly portable tool. Conversely, the review identifies cons like the aging 60Hz Liquid Retina display, the omission of ProMotion, and a front-facing camera still positioned on the short edge. Ultimately, the review finds that while the exterior remains unchanged, the internal upgrades render this niche, portable tablet relevant and efficient for specialized users. Copy

In his MacStories review, Federico Viticci defines the 2024 iPad mini as a "third place" device, perfectly positioned between the phone and iPad Pro for leisure tasks like reading, browsing, and gaming. The review highlights key improvements, including the A17 Pro chip and 8GB of RAM for Apple Intelligence, faster Wi-Fi 6E, Apple Pencil Pro support, and a new display controller that resolves previous "jelly scrolling" issues. However, the device features a 60Hz LCD screen lacking ProMotion, maintains the old design with the camera on the short edge, and does not support Stage Manager, making it a specialized, rather than a productivity-first, machine. Copy

The CNET review of the 2024 iPad Mini describes it as a modest, iterative update focused on internal improvements rather than design innovation. Key pros include the upgrade to the A17 Pro chip for better performance, doubled base storage to 128GB, and added support for the Apple Pencil Pro. However, the tablet retains the same design as its three-year-old predecessor, lacking features like a 120Hz ProMotion display and a landscape-oriented front camera. Additionally, the A17 chip does not support advanced multitasking features like Stage Manager, and the device lacks OLED screen technology. CNETRegarding Apple Intelligence, the review describes the AI features as a currently subtle "mixed bag" rather than a revolutionary change. While the device is "future-proofed," CNET suggests the update feels more like a routine, albeit necessary, tune-up than a groundbreaking new chapter for the small tablet. CNET Copy

The TechCrunch review of the 2024 iPad mini highlights it as a "small but mighty" update, focusing on internal upgrades rather than external design changes, featuring the A17 Pro chip for Apple Intelligence support, 128GB base storage, and improved Wi-Fi 6E connectivity. Pros include Apple Pencil Pro support, enhanced performance for gaming, and a mitigated "jelly scrolling" display issue, though it remains a 60Hz screen. Conversely, the review notes cons, including the unchanged 8.3-inch design, a front camera still awkwardly placed on the short edge, and the lack of an M-series chip for features like Stage Manager. Copy

The 2024 iPad mini (A17 Pro) maintains a familiar 8.3-inch, highly portable design while upgrading to the A17 Pro chip and 8GB of RAM to support Apple Intelligence and improve gaming performance. Key drawbacks noted include the continued use of a 60Hz LCD screen lacking ProMotion, the portrait-oriented front camera, and a lack of backward compatibility requiring new stylus purchases. Despite these constraints, it remains the premier small tablet, offering a unique, niche experience for portability and light productivity. Copy

The 2024 iPad Mini is characterized as a minor update driven by supply chain adjustments rather than innovation, functioning primarily as a small-screen vessel for Apple Intelligence. While retaining its portable 8.3-inch form factor, the device features internal upgrades including the A17 Pro chip, 8GB of RAM, and increased base storage of 128GB, along with Apple Pencil Pro support. However, the, design remains identical to the 2021 model, lacking a higher refresh rate display or M-series chip functionality. The VergePros include superior one-handed portability, increased performance for gaming, and faster connectivity, making it the only premium small tablet available. Conversely, cons center on the lack of design innovation, the continued use of a 60Hz LCD, and a $499 starting price that offers lower value compared to other iPad models. The Verge concludes that this is a niche device meant only for those seeking a small, Apple Intelligence-ready tablet. The Verge

Macworld's review highlights the iPad mini (A17 Pro) as the definitive small-form-factor tablet, driven by a 23–26% performance boost from the A17 Pro chip and support for Apple Intelligence. Pros include doubled base storage (128GB) at the same price, faster Wi-Fi 6E, a 10Gbps USB-C port, and compatibility with the Apple Pencil Pro. Conversely, the device faces criticism for its unchanged 8.3-inch display, which still lacks ProMotion (120Hz) and OLED technology. Additionally, the camera remains on the short edge, which is deemed awkward, and it is incompatible with older 2nd-generation Apple Pencils. Macworld concludes that while the mini is the "best at its size," it is only a necessary upgrade from the 6th-gen model for those requiring Apple Intelligence or maximum portability, noting the iPad Air M2 offers better price-per-performance. Macworld Copy

The Stuff.tv review describes the iPad mini (A17 Pro) as a minor update focused on bringing the 2021 chassis in line with Apple’s current software and accessory ecosystem. While maintaining the same design, the tablet is praised for being a high-performance, ultra-portable device that remains the best option in its size class. Key hardware improvements include the A17 Pro chip (offering a 30% CPU and 25% GPU boost), doubled base storage, and support for the Apple Pencil Pro. The review notes the 60Hz LCD screen is largely the same, though with an improved controller that makes "jelly scrolling" less noticeable. Performance-wise, the device is more than capable of handling demanding apps like LumaFusion, and it now features faster Wi-Fi 6E connectivity. Conversely, the review criticizes the stagnant design, the lack of a 120Hz ProMotion display, and the positioning of the front camera on the short edge. A significant drawback is that the touted Apple Intelligence features, which justify the chip upgrade, were not available during testing, and the device lacks Stage Manager support. Copy

The iPad mini (A17 Pro) is described as a "compact champion" ideal for portability, featuring a vibrant 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display, the powerful A17 Pro chip, and resolved "jelly scrolling" issues. Key drawbacks highlighted include the lack of 120Hz ProMotion display technology, relatively wide bezels, and the front-facing camera’s suboptimal placement on the short edge. Despite limited multi-user support in iPadOS and the absence of full Apple Intelligence features at launch, it is recommended for users prioritizing extreme portability and Apple Pencil Pro support. The Disconnekt Copy

The NextPit review finds the iPad mini 7 (2024) a powerful, ultra-portable device featuring the A17 Pro chip and Apple Pencil Pro support, making it an excellent, fast-performing tool for media and note-taking. However, the tablet retains a 60Hz display lacking ProMotion, uses Touch ID instead of Face ID, and positions the front camera on the narrow bezel, creating suboptimal angles for video calls. Despite these drawbacks and a switch to eSIM-only for cellular models, it is considered an ideal, albeit expensive, choice for those prioritizing portability and performance. Copy

The iPad mini A17 Pro retains its signature portable design while delivering a 30% CPU and 25% GPU performance boost, positioning it as an ideal, compact device for Apple Intelligence and gaming. Key upgrades include Apple Pencil Pro support, double the base storage to 128GB at the same $499 price point, and faster 10Gbps USB-C data transfers. However, the review notes drawbacks, including the continued use of a 60Hz display lacking ProMotion, persistent "jelly scroll" issues, and a front camera located in the portrait bezel.

The Telegraph rates the iPad mini (A17 Pro) an 8/10, praising its highly portable, lightweight design that makes it ideal for one-handed use during travel, while keeping the same form factor as the 2021 model. It delivers a fast, fluid experience with an upgraded chip supporting Apple Intelligence and the Apple Pencil Pro, alongside a vibrant display with reduced "jelly scrolling". However, the review notes drawbacks, including the absence of ProMotion 120Hz or OLED technology, thick bezels, and slower charging speeds compared to higher-end models. For a full analysis, read the review at The Telegraph. The Telegraph

The iPad Mini 7 (2024) retains its 8.3-inch design while introducing the A17 Pro chip, enabling Apple Intelligence support and upgrading the base storage to 128GB. Key strengths include improved handheld ergonomics, Apple Pencil Pro compatibility, faster USB-C data transfers, and a mitigated "jelly scrolling" effect. However, the tablet is limited by a 60Hz screen, outdated short-edge camera placement, and no Stage Manager support, making it ideal for users upgrading from older models. Copy