Apple iPad Mini WiFi (3GB + 256GB) Review | 168 Data compared

The Telegraph rates the iPad mini 7 an 8/10, praising its highly portable 8.3-inch design, which remains lightweight and manageable for one-handed use, despite unchanged bezels. Performance is significantly boosted by the A17 Pro chip, supporting Apple Intelligence and doubling base storage, while screen issues like "jelly scrolling" appear resolved. While the LCD display lacks 120Hz ProMotion and battery life remains stagnant, it is deemed the best small tablet for reading, browsing, and gaming.

The iPad mini 7 (2024) is identified as the premier compact tablet, offering a significant performance boost with the A17 Pro chip and increased base storage, all within the same, highly portable 293g chassis. Supporting Apple Intelligence and the Apple Pencil Pro, the device delivers a future-proof experience, featuring improved display performance and reliable battery life. However, drawbacks include a stagnant 60Hz screen refresh rate, the lack of Face ID, an awkward front camera, and the move to eSIM-only for cellular models. Tech Advisor

The Digital Camera World review highlights the iPad mini (A17 Pro) as a highly portable, powerful device for creators, featuring a fast A17 Pro chip for efficient photo editing and a versatile USB-C port for direct file transfers. While praised for its, performance, the tablet is limited by a 60Hz display that lacks ProMotion and an awkward, short-edge front camera placement. Ultimately deemed a premium, specialized tool for field work rather than a laptop replacement, it is considered a worthy investment for those prioritizing portability over screen size. Digital Camera World

The Expert Reviews assessment of the Apple iPad mini 7 (2024) defines it as the "ultimate digital notepad," keeping the 8.3-inch design but upgrading to the A17 Pro chip for better performance and future Apple Intelligence features. Key pros include increased 128GB base storage, excellent Apple Pencil Pro support, and rapid processing power for gaming and creative tasks. Conversely, the review criticizes the 60Hz display for being outdated, identifies sub-par battery life, and notes the high price point.

The 2024 Apple iPad mini is lauded by PCMag UK as a "portable powerhouse" featuring the A17 Pro chip and 8GB of RAM for Apple Intelligence support. Key pros include high-quality, compact hardware and compatibility with the Apple Pencil Pro, making it ideal for mobile productivity. Despite these upgrades, the device retains a dated design from 2021 with thick bezels and a 60Hz screen, while the selfie camera remains on the short edge. Ultimately, while praised for performance and battery life, it is viewed as a niche device, with the standard 10.9-inch iPad offering better value for most users.

The Guardian describes the Apple iPad mini (A17 Pro) as the best small tablet on the market due to its unique, ultra-portable design. Pros include its 8.3-inch display and 10-hour battery life, though cons involve a high £499 starting price, lack of a significant design overhaul, and the absence of a centered landscape camera. Upgraded with the A17 Pro chip, the device supports Apple Intelligence and the Pencil Pro, offering, as noted, a 30% speed boost. While highly capable, it lacks M-series chips for advanced multitasking and does not support Stage Manager. The review concludes it is "almost perfect" for its niche—such as pilots and journalists—but may feel redundant for casual users who might prefer the cheaper, larger 10th-generation iPad. The Guardian

The iPad mini 7 is hailed by Trusted Reviews as the best small tablet, offering a powerful A17 Pro chip for Apple Intelligence and enhanced 128GB starting storage. It maintains a portable 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display, now supporting Apple Pencil Pro functionality for improved note-taking. However, the device features a modest 60Hz screen without ProMotion and still relies on Touch ID rather than Face ID. The front camera remains in portrait orientation, which is less ideal for video calls. Ultimately, this compact 293g tablet is deemed a worthy upgrade for those prioritizing power in a highly portable form factor.

The 2024 Apple iPad mini features the A17 Pro chip, enabling Apple Intelligence and Apple Pencil Pro support within the same compact 8.3-inch form factor. The updated model, which boosts base storage to 128GB and introduces Wi-Fi 6E, is highly portable and ideal for travel, though the design remains unchanged from 2021. Performance is exceptional, and the 12MP camera is considered top-tier for its size class. Pros highlighted by PCMag include a bright, fully laminated Liquid Retina display, improved battery life (roughly 7.5 hours in testing), and faster data transfers via USB 3. The tablet offers premium power in a small package. Cons include a dated, identical design with relatively thick bezels. A significant drawback is the continued use of a 60Hz screen, lacking the 120Hz ProMotion technology found on higher-end Apple devices, leading to less fluid animations. Furthermore, the selfie camera remains on the short edge, and the device lacks an IP rating for water resistance. Copy

The CNN Underscored review describes the 2024 iPad Mini 7 as an iterative update that retains its status as the premier small-screen tablet due to its ultra-portable form factor, 11.5-hour battery life, and powerful A17 Pro chip, which enables Apple Intelligence and high-end gaming. However, the device features a largely identical design to its predecessor, with a 60Hz display and a portrait-oriented camera that feels dated, alongside mandatory compatibility with the more expensive Apple Pencil Pro. While offering improved value through a 128GB base storage for $500, the review advises that upgrades are best for new users or those moving from the Mini 5, rather than Mini 6 owners. CNN Copy

Federico Viticci’s review of the 2024 iPad mini frames it as a specialized "third place" device for focused consumption rather than productivity, excelling as a portable, handheld tool for reading and gaming. The review highlights significant upgrades, including the A17 Pro chip, 8 GB of RAM for Apple Intelligence, faster Wi-Fi 6E, improved USB-C, and the resolution of the previous model's "jelly scrolling" display issue. However, limitations include the continued use of a 60 Hz display, the absence of Stage Manager, and restricted Apple Intelligence availability, making it a niche, high-performance, compact device rather than a professional workstation. For more details, visit MacStories.

The 2021 Apple iPad mini features a major redesign, offering a compact 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display, powerful A15 Bionic chip, and USB-C connectivity, making it a high-performance, portable device. Key advantages include its lightweight, "Pro-style" design, support for the magnetic second-generation Apple Pencil, and a 12MP front camera with Center Stage. However, the tablet comes with a higher starting price of A$749 and carries only 64GB of base storage, which is limited for its capabilities. While performance is excellent, the screen operates at 60Hz without ProMotion, and some users may observe a "jelly scrolling" effect during operation. Despite these drawbacks, the 2021 iPad mini is identified as the best small tablet on the market for users seeking a pocketable, high-power device. It effectively balances portability with performance, catering to those who prefer a smaller form factor over the larger iPad Pro models.

The 6th generation Apple iPad mini (2021) features a significant redesign with an 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display, removing the home button in favor of Touch ID in the power button and adopting a USB-C port. Powered by the A15 Bionic chip, the device offers exceptional performance for its size, handling demanding applications, and includes a 12MP front camera with Center Stage. Despite these advancements, the device has a higher price point, lacks a 120Hz ProMotion display, and may experience a "jelly scrolling" effect in portrait orientation. Expert Reviews

The iPad mini (2021) features a significant redesign with an 8.3-inch display, adopting a flat-edged design similar to the iPad Pro, which offers high portability and an improved USB-C port for broader accessory compatibility. Powered by the A15 Bionic chip, the device delivers high performance and includes 12MP cameras with "Center Stage" technology, alongside support for the second-generation Apple Pencil. However, notable cons include the lack of a 120Hz ProMotion display, a 64GB base storage limitation, and reports of "jelly scrolling" on the screen. Copy

The Guardian describes the 2021 iPad mini as a "stunning," premium revamp, featuring a 6-generation redesign with thinner bezels and an 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display. The compact device integrates a powerful A15 Bionic chip, USB-C connectivity, and excellent, long-lasting battery life (10+ hours), making it highly portable for reading and media. The GuardianKey advantages include its excellent performance, the 12MP front camera with Centre Stage technology, and high-quality construction. However, the review notes drawbacks, including a high £479 starting price, a base 64GB storage limitation, and a potential "jelly scroll" effect in portrait mode. While deemed the best small tablet on the market, the reviewer suggests it serves a niche audience, as the standard iPad or iPad Air may offer better value for most users. The device's premium nature is emphasized, making it ideal for those specifically looking for power in a small form factor. The Guardian Copy

The Apple iPad mini 6 (2021) is a portable powerhouse featuring a redesigned, all-screen 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display, the A15 Bionic chip, and a USB-C port. Pros include high-end performance, a 12MP front camera with Center Stage, and a compact design perfect for one-handed use, according to Tech Advisor. Drawbacks are centered on the premium price tag, a 60Hz screen lacking ProMotion, and cramped multitasking. Copy

The Notebookcheck review characterizes the Apple iPad mini 7 (2024) as a premium, albeit conservative, update that maintains its status as the leading compact tablet through unmatched portability and the inclusion of the A17 Pro chip for AI and gaming performance. Key pros include increased base storage, faster USB-C transfer speeds, and support for the Apple Pencil Pro, though the design remains unchanged from its predecessor. Notable cons focus on the continued use of a 60 Hz display, limited outdoor brightness, and the lack of Face ID or a vibration motor. While serving as a top-tier niche device, it is considered a safe upgrade that may not be necessary for current iPad mini 6 users. Copy

The Laptop Mag review of the 2024 iPad Mini 7 highlights the device as a powerful, portable entertainment tablet featuring an upgraded A17 Pro chip for, enhanced gaming performance, Apple Intelligence support, and compatibility with the Apple Pencil Pro. Pros include the upgraded 128GB base storage and a 10.5-hour battery life that makes it an excellent choice for note-taking and reading, according to the review. However, notable cons include the stagnant design featuring thick bezels and a 60Hz LCD, alongside the inconvenient, short-edge placement of the front-facing camera. Furthermore, the lack of an M-series chip means the device does not support Stage Manager, making it a poor choice for a laptop replacement. Copy

The Apple iPad mini (2024), reviewed by PCMag, is an iterative update featuring the A17 Pro chip, 8GB of RAM, and 128GB base storage, enabling Apple Intelligence capabilities. It supports the Apple Pencil Pro, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.3, providing a powerful, portable experience. However, the design remains identical to the 2021 model, featuring a 60Hz LCD screen that still exhibits "jelly scrolling". Critics noted the lack of ProMotion, an awkwardly placed front camera for landscape mode, and the absence of Face ID or IP-rated water resistance. Despite these limitations, the device received a 4.0 "Excellent" rating for its niche as a compact, high-performance tablet for specialized use cases. While powerful, the review suggests it may not offer as much value as the base-model iPad for casual users. Copy

The 2024 Wired review describes the iPad Mini (A17 Pro) as an "outlier" that excels as a portable, high-quality tablet, powered by the A17 Pro chip to support Apple Intelligence and starting at $499 with 128GB of base storage. Notable pros include the ultra-portable form factor, ideal for note-taking and reading, which maintains the, compact, "tote around" design that makes the device unique in the market. WIREDHowever, the review highlights that the device continues to use a 60Hz LCD display rather than OLED or ProMotion, and it lack features like Stage Manager for advanced multitasking. A significant downside is the lack of compatibility with the second-gen Apple Pencil, forcing users to buy the $129 Apple Pencil Pro, alongside a selfie camera still located on the short edge. Ultimately, the Mini is considered a "great tiny tablet" for niche, dedicated users such as pilots, but may feel cramped for extensive productivity or entertainment compared to larger, cheaper alternatives. While offering a massive performance boost, the review implies it serves a specific audience rather than the average consumer. iPhone J.D.

The iPad mini (A17 Pro) review from The Disconnekt highlights the device as a portable "compact champion," featuring significant performance upgrades, including the A17 Pro chip and Apple Intelligence support, while maintaining the same design as its predecessor. Pros include an excellent 8.3-inch display, reduced "jelly scrolling," support for the Apple Pencil Pro, and doubled base storage of 128GB. However, cons involve relatively thick bezels, the lack of a 120Hz ProMotion display, and the absence of multi-user support in iPadOS. Copy

The iPad mini (A17 Pro), as reviewed by T3, is a highly portable tablet that delivers a significant 30% CPU and 25% GPU performance boost, enabling Apple Intelligence and superior gaming capabilities. Key advantages include compatibility with the Apple Pencil Pro, doubled base storage of 128GB, and enhanced connectivity with Wi-Fi 6E and a faster USB-C port. However, the 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display still lacks ProMotion 120Hz support, and the device lacks Stage Manager, limiting its multitasking capabilities compared to Pro models. T3 Copy

The Apple iPad mini (A17 Pro) is characterized by a 30% CPU and 25% GPU performance boost, designed primarily to support Apple Intelligence, while maintaining the same exterior design as the previous model. Key advantages include doubled base storage (128GB), faster Wi-Fi 6E, improved USB-C connectivity, and Pencil Pro support, making it a powerful tool for handheld tasks. However, notable drawbacks include the continued use of a 60Hz display—resulting in persistent "jelly scrolling"—an underclocked GPU, and no support for external monitor multitasking. Copy

The Independent reviews the Apple iPad mini 7 (A17 Pro), praising it as a premium, highly portable 8.3-inch tablet that addresses previous "jelly scrolling" issues with a better screen controller. The device, featuring a 6.3mm thin design, sees performance gains with the A17 Pro chip, supporting Apple Intelligence and the Apple Pencil Pro. The IndependentPerformance is enhanced with doubled base storage (128GB) and a crisp 326 ppi Liquid Retina display. However, the review notes drawbacks including the lack of a 120Hz ProMotion display, the absence of M-series chips, and an awkward front camera placement. The IndependentUltimately, the iPad mini 7 is described as a powerful, yet expensive, niche device for users prioritizing portability over large-screen productivity. The Independent

The Daily Express reviews the 2024 iPad mini as a pocket-sized powerhouse, highlighting its upgraded A17 Pro chip for faster CPU/GPU performance and doubled base storage (128GB) for the same price, now supporting the Apple Pencil Pro. While enabling Apple Intelligence, the device retains the 2021 design's thick bezels, lacks a 60Hz display upgrade, and keeps the portrait-oriented front camera. Ultimately deemed the best small tablet, it is recommended as an incremental upgrade for users focusing on portability and AI functionality. For more details, visit Daily Express. Copy

The iPad mini 7 is hailed by Tom's Guide as the premier small tablet, retaining its highly portable 8.3-inch design while introducing the A17 Pro chip for faster performance and Apple Intelligence support. Key upgrades include a doubled 128GB base storage for the same $499 price, sustained 10+ hour battery life, and support for the Apple Pencil Pro. Despite these improvements, the review notes a significant drawback in the 60Hz display, which lacks the smoother 120Hz refresh rate found on higher-end iPad models. Additionally, the front-facing camera remains in a portrait-oriented position, and the device requires a new stylus for users upgrading from the Apple Pencil 2. Ultimately, the iPad mini 7 is considered a worthy, if incremental, update for users seeking maximum power in a compact form factor.