iPad Mini (2021): A Mighty Mini with a Few Caveats
The iPad Mini has always been the runt of the iPad litter, a charming little device overshadowed by its larger, more powerful siblings. But in 2021, Apple finally gave the Mini the glow-up it deserved. The result? A tiny tablet that packs a surprising punch, but with a few compromises that might make you think twice.
Design: Big in a Small Package
Gone are the days of chunky bezels and a home button. The new Mini takes on the iPad Air's sleek design, with flat edges, a beautiful Liquid Retina display, and Touch ID embedded in the power button. It's available in a delightful array of colors, from the classic Space Gray to the playful Starlight and Coral, and while I opted for Space Gray having these different options is always enjoyable. At 8.3 inches, it's still incredibly pocketable, but the slightly larger screen makes a world of difference for reading, watching videos, and even getting some work done.
Performance: Punching Above its Weight
Apple's A15 Bionic chip, the same one powering the iPhone 13 Pro, lives inside the Mini. This translates to buttery-smooth performance, whether you're editing photos, playing demanding games, or multitasking like a pro. You won't experience any lag or slowdown, even with multiple apps open.
Camera: Surprisingly Capable
The rear camera has been bumped up to 12 megapixels, but like any tablet the rear camera should only be used for document scanning or showing off some subject during a FaceTime call. The ultrawide lens on the front is a welcome addition for selfies and video calls, especially with the nifty Center Stage feature that keeps you in the frame even as you move around.
Battery Life: A Day's Work, Maybe
The battery life is decent, but not stellar. You'll likely get a full day of light use out of it, but if you're streaming videos or gaming all day, you might need to top it up before bedtime.
The Not-So-Mini Price Tag
Here's where things get a little tricky. The iPad Mini starts at $499 for the 64GB model, which is significantly more expensive than previous Mini iterations. And if you want more storage or cellular connectivity, the price quickly climbs.
The Verdict: A Mighty Mini, But With Caveats
The 2021 iPad Mini is a fantastic tablet, especially for those who value portability and performance. It's powerful, versatile, and has a beautiful design. But the high price tag and lack of features like a 120Hz refresh rate and a headphone jack might give you pause.
Should you buy it?
If you're looking for a small tablet that can do it all, and you're willing to pay a premium for the privilege, then the iPad Mini is a great choice. But if you're on a budget or don't need the absolute top-of-the-line performance, you might be better off with a more affordable option like the iPad Air or even a larger smartphone.
Overall Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
The iPad Mini (2021) is a powerful and pocketable tablet that redefines what a small device can do. However, the high price tag and a few missing features might make you think twice before pulling the trigger.