Apple iPad mini 7
Identical software longevity and build quality to its siblings in a size that stays useful for reading and travel. Ranked down only because the small screen ages worse for productivity, not because of any ownership flaw.
Consolidated from 89 cited sources across 68 outlets
Where the cited sources landed, as we read them
- 70 positive sources
- 14 mixed sources
- 2 unconvinced sources
Pros & cons
- ✓ Same class-leading software longevity and build quality as the other iPads
- ✓ Genuinely pocketable size that stays useful for reading and travel
- ✓ The only serious compact tablet in the field
- ✓ Apple's usual long support tail
- ✓ Strong build
- ✗ The small form factor ages less gracefully for productivity
- ✗ Small size means battery wear shows sooner with hard daily handling
- ✗ Price is hard to defend on raw specs alone
- ✗ Known jelly-scrolling display quirk
- ✗ Older 60Hz panel
The sources behind this ranking
We searched the web and YouTube for what has been published about this product, then read the articles, video transcripts and comments we found.
Evidence 15 articles, 70 video reviews and 4 community sources
70 positive sources
After a year, the iPad Mini 7 has become my most used iPad, not because it’s the best iPad, but because it’s the most useful in the most situations. It’s one of those rare devices that works for not only me but also my wife and kids. And I think that is the major selling point here. Apple sells the iPad mini for $499 but Amazon always has it on sale. I have seen it as low as $399. And if you can find a used iPad mini 6, the experience is relatively the same.Read M
iPad mini 2021 is the refresh this form factor deserved.Watch A
In conclusion, I believe the iPad Miniis a fantastic option for digital artists, especially those frequently on the go. Its technical specifications are great, it offers compatibility with the second-gen Apple Pencil, and its display is an absolute joy to draw on. And, of course, the portability factor is a huge bonus. If you’re someone who values the freedom to create wherever inspiration strikes, the iPad Mini could be your ideal match.Read Z
Add the A20 Pro chip with 12GB of RAM, Apple's N1 and C1X chips, a water-resistant design with vibration speakers and - hopefully - ProMotion, and this is shaping up to be the biggest iPad Mini upgrade ever. Here's everything we know ahead of the late 2026 launch!Watch E
While this chip isn't quite as powerful as the M3 in the iPad Air, it's more than capable enough to handle what most people will want to do with this iPad. Notably, it's also powerful enough for Apple Intelligence. That might not be something that compels people to upgrade right now (or maybe ever), but the point is that the new mini is more futureproof than its predecessor.Read E
From smooth gameplay to impressive visuals, this iPad stands out in the world of mobile gaming tablets. Is it worth the hype? Let’s find out!Watch D
The iPad Mini sits in a slightly strange place in Apple ’s lineup and has survived many a rumor about its cancellation. But Apple is still committed to the miniature iPad formula, with the latest model getting a boost up to the latest A17 Pro processor and Apple's latest AI-powered Apple Intelligence.Read M
If you have any of those impulses already within you; if you have no space in your pocket for a supersized smartphone (and no space in your life for a full-sized tablet) … well I’ll put it to ya this way: there’s only one reason I wouldn’t buy the new iPad mini, and it probably won’t apply to you.Watch I r/ipadmini u/mighty_mastermind · owner
I own the ipad mini 7 and like it for portability. But I prefer my ipad gen 9th for reading (home screen button makes it feel like an ereader) and ipad air for productivity. Nowadays even at work or personal use cases, analog ways are slipping away quietly and are replaced by electronic ways.Read thread K
I honestly think this is like a fan favorite.Watch G
If that’s the case, then one of the best tablets you can buy is the Apple iPad Mini, but it’s rather pricey at $499 normally. Thankfully, though, you can currently get it with a hefty 20% discount, which means that for a limited-time, it’s down to $399 instead, which is an amazing price.Read 9
So, the iPad Mini 7 gets my nod of approval after 1 year, and it just amazed me after I sat down and realized just how much we use the iPad Mini, especially for day-to-day tasks where I wouldn't use my iPad Pro for because it's just too big of a tablet and too tedious to kind of have aroundWatch P
With an insanely thin 6.3mm profile and a gorgeous Liquid Retina IPS LCD screen in tow, the latest diminutive iPad basically represents a class of tablets on the verge of extinction, which probably explains why I don't remember ever seeing the 8.3-in.Read B
This is the iPad Mini redesign we've been waiting for. This brings it inlie with last year's iPad air with the inclusion of touch ID and the Apple Pencil 2. But how is the size, is it to small for drawing on. We talk about that here in today's review.Watch T
“The iPad mini is exactly as it sounds – a powerful, pocked-sized iPad with a lot of the same functionality as larger iPads. It’s got a super-sharp display, snappy and responsive performance and long-lasting battery life,” says Jason Tavoletti.Read B
The new iPad mini is a great little portable sketchbook. They didn't change much but the spec bump with apple pencil pro support are great additions to an already nice little tablet.Watch L
After spending some time with the 7th-gen iPad mini (named the iPad mini A17 Pro, by Apple), it’s obviously a much faster tablet, and is the first iPad mini I could personally recommend.Read M
It has a much faster chip and a few other tweaks, so we thought we'd check it out and do a quick review.Watch K
Our two weeks in Europe with just the Mini proved to me what an outstanding travel companion it is.Read S
So overall, what I can definitely tell you is that I personally am a really big fan of the, you know, iPad Mini 7. I think this is a really good type of device. I think it's for sure worth buyingWatch M
iPad Mini is in a good spot at $499. An increase will make it sell at even lower volumes.Read N
From fitting easily in my bag to handling all my travel needs—whether it’s navigating, editing videos, catching up on work, or streaming my favorite shows on the go—the iPad Mini has been a powerhouse in a compact form. Join me as I test out its battery life, performance, and how it seamlessly fits into my travel routine. If you’re always on the move and need a device that can keep up, this one’s for you!Watch N
Without hesitation. At least for me, a photographer who initially had many hesitations.Read G
So, I actually think that the Mini might be one of the more slept on new products coming from Apple this year. And that does start with an upgrade that everyone has been begging for, and it's not even coming to the regular iPad first or the iPad Air first, it's coming to the iPad Mini. And that is because Apple is rumored to finally get rid of the LCD display and replace it with an OLED display. Now, this is not a tandem OLED display like the iPad Pros have, where Apple basically uses two bigger OLED panels and they stack them on top of each other to increase things like the brightness.Watch I r/ipadmini reddit.com
It is still a phenomenal device if it fits your use cases No chance I would wait.Read thread M
Okay, quick update on the iPad Mini 7. It is well, it's the best iPad Apple has ever made, stillWatch C
Personally, I've been saying the iPad Mini is the best iPad for a while, and while this year's model isn't a massive update, it still is an incredible device.Watch C
The iPad Mini is still my favorite iPad model and I made a video a little while ago about why I still use the iPad Mini and why it's my favorite and by now I thought I'd either stop using it or find problems with it, but my love for this device has only grown. Okay, so this iPad Mini has not been upgraded since 2024 and even that upgrade was just color and new processor basically and that lack of a major upgrade in some areas does kind of still show.Watch M
Apple's newest iPad mini (7th Generation) might just very well be the best iPad to buy in 2024. While it may not have a 120Hz ProMotion display. Its size and weight is perfect for everyday carry and it's a very powerful iPad. If you're in the market for a small tablet that can co-exist with your smartphone. The iPad mini is honestly a great choice. I use my iPad mini as my gaming handheld for retro gaming and I also use it to watch videos or movies when I travel. It's the perfect tablet for entertainment.Watch P
So, the iPad Mini is hands-down the best iPad Apple has ever made. Dare I even say the best tablet that was ever made.Watch N
The new 2024 iPad mini 7th generation or A17 Pro model just launched last week.Watch F
Sounds like it could be released in October, which means if you don't like the price, the iPad Mini 7 might be a better, more affordable option. The iPad Mini 7 is still one of the most powerful small tablets, even if it is more expensive now. You can get a refurbished or renewed version, maybe an open-box or a slightly used version as well. So, unless you need an OLED display, which apparently the iPad Mini 8 might have, I don't really see any reason not to get this iPad Mini in 2026, although it could be a little cheaper once the 8 is releasedWatch S
iPad mini 7 after 3 weeks. JUST WOW.Watch O
This is still one of the best feeling tablets I've ever used. It slides, I think, 293 g, thin at 6.3 mm, aluminum back, and it still feels premium. It just doesn't feel like a small tablet.Watch M
One of my favorite pieces of tech of all time is the iPad Mini 7. And wildly enough, it's arguably the worst one they make. The screen is worse. The processor is worse, the cameras, speakers, pretty much everything about this thing is worse except the fact that it's tinyWatch T Tech with Jerad (How I Use This) Tech with Jerad (How I Use This) · 137K subscribers · Sept 2026
So you'll get plenty of time and durability from the iPad Mini, whether you buy it now or wait for the next generation. But I can guarantee that the price of the next generation will increase, because the price of almost all technologies is increasing now due to the cost of memory. So I just don't think you can get a better deal on a tablet that will be more useful in your life. So I hope you found it useful to see how I use the iPad Mini, and maybe it will help you decide whether you should buy one here in 2026Watch T
So in conclusion, I think that the iPad mini is the most iPad of iPads because it is portable. It's got plenty of power. It's got a bigger display for when we need that, but it's not so large that it becomes impractical to carry around with usWatch F
So, after a full year, I can confidently say that the iPad Mini 7 is still one of my favorite devices. It's become my e-reader, note-taking companion, social media machine, and even a mini productivity tool when I need it. Now, it's definitely not the most powerful iPad, but it's easily the most fun and the one that I keep reaching for the mostWatch F
The iPad Mini is hands-down one of my favorite Apple devices. It's small enough to fit in one hand, yet powerful enough to replace half your gadgetsWatch M
This is the 2024 iPad Mini 7 generation. I've been using it now for the last few months and I personally think it's the best iPad that Apple makeWatch M
So, after a week of using the iPad Mini, I kind of realized that if you're questioning about buying it, you should probably just buy it. Like, yes, they're maybe going to come out with a newer model later this year, but they also may not. So, it's like one of those things that if you want it now, I would just personally buy it now. If I didn't have this, I would go out and buy it right now on the spotWatch F
Life with iPad mini 7 in 2025: I'm ADDICTED to it!Watch M
I break down why the mini is still the ultimate iPad for portability, power, and everyday use — and why it’s the one I keep reaching for over the Pro or Air.Watch M
I break down why the mini is still the ultimate iPad for portability, power, and everyday use — and why it’s the one I keep reaching for over the Pro or Air.Watch R
In 2026, this is still the iPad I use the most. Not because it's impressive on paper, not because it has some new feature nobody else has, but because it fits into my life in a way that no other iPad really does. And I think that's the mistake a lot of people make when talking about the iPad Mini. They judge it like it's supposed to compete with the iPad Pro or they expect it to replace a laptop or they look at the price and wonder why this thing even exists.Watch J
And now that I'm a few months into owning the iPad Mini, it's crazy to see that it's working out even better than I thought. And honestly, I can't help but recommend this thing. So, if you're on the fence, I say give it a chanceWatch H
This is the new 7th gen iPad Mini and it’s basically identical to the Mini 6 which came out all the way back in 2021. It has last year’s A17 Pro chipset and just an IPS LCD display instead of OLED. Starting at $499, which is only $100 less than the iPad Air, the iPad Mini 7 might seem like a tough sell. But with some important lowkey upgrades and a reality check on how I actually use my tablets, I’ll argue that this is actually the best iPad purchase for me and for most people out thereWatch M
I think this is really compact and premium. The iPad Mini 7, it stays true to what makes this iPad Mini special. It's small, it's light, it's easy to hold in one hand.Watch M
And I got to say, I think this might be the best tablet for most people. Tablet is the keyword. It's not trying to replace your workflow.Watch M
This is the only iPad that I carry with me on the daily that I always come back to no matter what. Those yes, I test them out, but this is the iPad that I still use. And I think it's the actual iPad. Like this is the only iPad that still gives just iPad, you know, experiences. iPad Pro is trying to go, at least for me, towards being a replacement for my Mac, which doesn't work obviously. Uh, but iPad Mini, it's not like that. It's just being an iPad.Watch D
I can definitely understand why the IPad mini is so popular with general consumers, and I can see it being integrated into my daily flow going forward. I walk you guys through my experience with the IPad Mini to help you decide if it is for you!Watch T
the iPad mini 7th generation. In this 2026 review, I share why this compact tablet remains my absolute favorite iPad ever and why I still highly recommend it for anyone looking to upgrade todayWatch T
To sum up, is the 7th generation iPad Mini worth buying in 2026? In my opinion, definitely. If you're currently using an older iPad Mini or a basic budget iPad and are hesitant about upgrading, this tablet is a perfect choice. It has enough power for years to come, full support for modern Apple Intelligence features, and a form factor that is unmatched for reading, gaming, and everyday useWatch T
What's the final verdict on the iPad Mini 7 with iPad OS 26? Well, to put it simply, this is one of the most exciting products Apple has released in a while. Not because it's brand new hardware, but because the software has finally caught up to the hardware's promise. It has transformed from being just a small iPad into a tiny, portable, and incredibly capable computerWatch R Renzo Claros - Tech & Cameras Renzo Claros - Tech & Cameras · 45.1K subscribers · Mar 2025
TLDR: if you are looking to own an iPad Mini strictly for remote play sessions, I guess this is a sign to get one now because it's awesomeWatch T
And I've got to say, it has become without a doubt my go-to device for so many things.Watch T
iPad Mini 7 in 2026 Review: Why I Choose the iPad Mini 7 Over the iPad ProWatch T
Is the iPad Mini 7 still the king of small tablets in 2025? After using it since April, I'm sharing my honest one-year-later review to help you decide if it's still worth buying or if you should upgrade.Watch A AshLee Digital Review unit from Apple AshLee Digital · 23.3K subscribers · Aug 2025
The iPad Mini 7 might just be the best iPad of 2025 — and today I’m showing you 5 ways I use it every day for productivity, travel, content creation, reading, and even gamingWatch K
I shared 10 tips on how to turn a iPad mini 7 (the best iPad in 2025 in my opinion) into a productivity machine instead of a big distraction.Watch T
And that's how after 6 months of using the iPad Mini 7, it become a crucial part of my daily setup because among all the iPad that Apple has made from the Pro, the Air, and the A16, sure, they all have their own strength, but if we're talking about the device that add something to your experience rather than trying to replace something, the iPad Mini 7 is definitely the most balanced piece of the puzzle for the MacBook and iPhone userWatch G
While it may not be the absolute best iPad from a technical standpoint, its exceptional portability sets it apart from other models in the lineup.Watch M
So, is the iPad Mini 7 we're getting? Absolutely. Thank you guys for watching.Watch A
Instead, it sits in a category of its own: a powerful, ultra-portable tablet that focuses on simplicity, portability, and everyday usability.Watch C
I think the iPad Mini 7 offers a good value for the moneyWatch R
🚨 I break down everything you need to know about the iPad Mini 7, inluding notetaking, portability, and I even got my cousin's take—she’s a law graduate from King’s College London and absolutely swears by it.Watch J
And having owned and used it everyday since its release, I think it's one of the best tablets you can get.Watch G
Perfect for digital artists, students, frequent travelers, note-takers, casual gamers, and anyoneWatch T
Now, if you sit here and enjoy the iPad mini experience for what it is, you will love this tablet.Watch A
Is the iPad Mini 7 really the best iPad out there? I’ve been living with it everyday for the past few months and it quickly has become a daily essential. This thing packs a punch and changed my mind on what I’ve thought about the iPad all alongWatch
14 mixed sources
The iPad mini is a quality product, but hasn't really gone anywhere outside of serving a few niche markets, like pilots and mobile gamers. The core problem seems to be iPadOS, which is optimized for larger displays, and just doesn't have much raison d'etre on a mini versus using an iPhone.Read M
And it was really great to actually have this and also the ability to use Apple Intelligence and things like this all built into the iPad mini. The disappointing thing that I think will came with it is a lot of you guys really wanted the Pro Motion display on the iPad mini.Watch H
However, the iPad Mini 7 in 2026 still has one major limitation: its display runs at 60Hz. If you specifically want a 120Hz screen, you may prefer an iPad Pro or another device with a higher refresh rate.Read A
iPad Mini 7 is finally out and while its not perfect and its probably not what we all wanted, its still really good for what it is. Don't forget to checkout Goodnotes 6 as well !Watch I
I suppose I still think that, but only for some folks. For most lawyers, I think that the compromises are too great for this to be your one-and-only iPad.Read B
Apple doesn't take any big risks with its newest iPad mini because it doesn't have to. A faster A17 Pro chip, Apple Pencil Pro compatibility, and addressing the 'jelly scroll' issue are solid moves. It's still excellent and will serve users who want one well. But they could have done more, 3 years after the last iPad mini was releasedWatch F Facebook Facebook post
Some owners say they've never noticed it, but others find it super annoying.View post M
That is the iPad Mini 7's saving grace. As mentioned earlier, yes, you could buy an Android tablet of roughly this size, but that's why I still recommend this massively. And it's still Apple's best nearly said laptop, best iPad if you can just accept the fact that one, it has a subpar display, and two, Apple intelligence isn't a selling point. If you accept those two truths, this is the best iPad money can buyWatch M
I know this sounds a bit boring and as though it's going to completely remove all of the joy from buying one of these fantastic little tablets and it is fantastic, but it's not perfect.Watch K
Today, I'm putting the iPad mini 7 though its paces from web browsing and note-taking to gaming and photo editing. The mini 7 brings faster performance, USB-C upgrades, and more RAM, yet some features like the 60Hz display and limited external accessory support feel dated. Whether you’re after portability or power, I break down how the Mini 7 compares to other iPads in Apple’s lineup like the iPad Air M2 and iPad Pro M4—and if it’s worth the price. Join me to see where the iPad Mini 7 shines and where it might fall shortWatch P
As I've been using the 6th gen Mini over the past few weeks, I've realized the pros and cons of its smaller form factor in terms of notetaking.Watch K
And I've only been using this device for the past couple of days, but I have had some mixed thoughts while using it, especially compared to some of the other YouTubers you might have seen. But first, let's set the gym and then we'll talk about the iPad Mini. Yeah. Astonishing. Your love got me looking for honesty. Breaking me down like novelty. I know it's going to be okay. Always knew someday I would be with you. Someday I would fall for you again. I could see you in the way I should. Too many times. Okay.Watch C
So, this is the iPad Mini 7, and after using it for well over a month, I have a bit of a lovehate relationship with it. On one hand, it's a great portable, cute little iPad. On the other hand, there are one or two things that Apple could have made better to make it the perfect iPad miniWatch L
In this long-term review, I’ll break down what I loved, the frustrations I didn’t expect, and whether it’s still worth buying in 2024. If you’re considering the iPad mini or wondering how it holds up over time, this deep dive will help you decide if it’s the right iPad for you.Watch
2 unconvinced sources
Once the Ultra launches, there will be clearly better options in every single respect, leaving the mini as the choice for an incredibly niche audience with a peculiar combination of needs. Those who want a small device that’s cheap, but not that cheap, with some slightly upgraded specs, but not that upgraded, and are willing to use it in conjunction with a separate phone. It’s like a Venn diagram where one of the segments has been almost totally wiped out.Read T
This is an astonishing bit of kit, but there are eight reasons why I think you shouldn't buy the latest 7th generation iPad Mini.Watch
3 stance not read sources
does anyone here use an iPad mini 7 especially one with iPadOS 26, I would love to hear any opinions .View post A
I'm kind of betting on the 8.4 inches reports because Apple probably doesn't want to kind of get get the iPad Mini to be too big and start competing with the regular iPad. So now, here's a slightly controversial thing. Several leakers reckon that it's still 60 hertz display. I'm really hoping it isn't true because, you know, Apple wants you to use this device and draw on it and read stuff on it. I don't know if that's true, it's another very Apple decision and you can bet I'll have a lot to say about it come October.Watch M
On today's video I give my thoughts on the 2024 iPad Mini and if you should upgrade from the 6th gen. Also If you've never owned an iPad Mini, should this be the one? Let's talk about it!Watch
Frequently asked questions
It ranks #5 of 20 on our tablets tier list, in B tier. That placement draws on 89 cited sources across 68 outlets.
2 of the 86 sources with a clear view are critical of it: Macworld and That Mark Gilroy. The small form factor ages less gracefully for productivity. Small size means battery wear shows sooner with hard daily handling. Price is hard to defend on raw specs alone. Known jelly-scrolling display quirk. Older 60Hz panel.
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