Apple iPad Mini 2021 Specs Prices Pros & Cons Unveiled

Introduction to Apple iPad mini (2021)

The Apple iPad mini (2021) is the sixth generation of the iPad mini lineup, achieving a perfect blend of portability, power, and functionality. Announced on September 14, 2021, and released shortly after on September 24, this device offers a modern design and impressive specifications to cater to a variety of users, from casual consumers to professionals. Let's delve into the details of what makes the iPad mini (2021) an appealing choice in the vast tablet market.

Design and Build Quality

The iPad mini (2021) embodies a sleek and modern design with its 195.4 x 134.8 x 6.3 mm dimensions, and a weight of 293 g for the Wi-Fi model and 297 g for the Wi-Fi + Cellular model. This lightweight construction makes it incredibly portable, suitable for both work and play on the go. The device features a glass front with an aluminum back and frame, providing a premium feel and robust durability. Available in four stunning colors—Space Gray, Pink, Purple, and Starlight—the iPad mini adapts stylishly to various personal preferences. The inclusion of a Nano-SIM and eSIM also enhances its connectivity versatility.

Display

Central to any tablet is its display, and the iPad mini (2021) does not disappoint. It sports an 8.3-inch Liquid Retina IPS LCD screen with a resolution of 1488 x 2266 pixels (~327 ppi density). The screen covers approximately 77.4% of the device's body, offering an immersive viewing experience. With 500 nits brightness, this display ensures visibility even in brightly lit environments. Additionally, the anti-scratch and oleophobic coating protect the screen from everyday abrasions and fingerprint smudges, respectively.

Performance and Hardware

Under the hood, the iPad mini (2021) features the powerful Apple A15 Bionic chip, manufactured using a 5 nm process. This hexa-core processor includes two high-performance cores clocked at 2.93 GHz, in addition to four energy-efficient cores, providing a balance between performance and power efficiency. Accompanying the CPU is a 5-core Apple GPU, delivering excellent graphics performance, suitable for gaming and demanding applications. The device includes 4GB of RAM, ensuring smooth multitasking and app execution.

Storage Options

The iPad mini (2021) is available in two storage configurations: 64GB and 256GB, both paired with 4GB of RAM. However, it lacks expandable storage, as there is no card slot included. Prospective buyers should consider their storage needs carefully, especially if they plan to store large files, apps, or media on the device.

Camera Capabilities

The camera system on the iPad mini (2021) is one of its standout features. The main rear camera is a 12 MP wide sensor with an f/1.8 aperture, capable of autofocus and capturing stunning photos with great detail and color accuracy. The camera supports 4K video recording at 24/25/30/60fps and 1080p at 25/30/60/120/240fps, with gyro-EIS providing stability for smoother videos. Additionally, quad-LED dual-tone flash and HDR enhance photo quality.

The front-facing camera is also a 12 MP ultrawide sensor with an f/2.4 aperture, featuring HDR and recording capability up to 1080p at 25/30/60fps. This setup offers crisp and wide-angle selfies, which is ideal for video calls and conferences.

Battery Life and Charging

Equipped with a non-removable Li-Ion battery rated at 19.3 Wh, the iPad mini (2021) offers respectable battery life, capable of supporting extensive use throughout the day. While Apple does not disclose exact mAh, the battery performs well with both typical and demanding usage scenarios. The device supports fast charging via its USB Type-C 3.1 port, which also serves as a DisplayPort for expanded display options.

Software Experience

At launch, the iPad mini came with iPadOS 15, but it is upgradable to iPadOS 17.5.1, keeping it updated with Apple's latest software developments. iPadOS enhances the iPad mini's functionality with features like multitasking, improved widgets, and enhanced Apple Pencil support, making it an efficient tool for both productivity and creativity.

Connectivity and Additional Features

The iPad mini (2021) supports an array of modern connectivity standards, including Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) for fast internet speeds, dual-band Wi-Fi, and hotspot capabilities for flexible connections. Bluetooth 5.0 ensures seamless pairing with accessories and allows for low energy consumption. The Wi-Fi + Cellular model supports GPS and GLONASS, broadening its utility for navigation.

Notably, the iPad mini incorporates a side-mounted fingerprint sensor for quick and secure unlocking. It also features a variety of sensors such as an accelerometer, gyro, compass, and barometer, contributing to its functionality across numerous applications.

Sound and Media Consumption

The device has stereo speakers that deliver clear and balanced sound, enhancing the media consumption experience. However, it lacks a 3.5mm audio jack, necessitating the use of wireless audio solutions or USB-C compatible headphones for private listening.

Pricing and Availability

Available globally, the iPad mini (2021) starts at about 550 EUR, varying based on configuration and region. Its price reflects its premium design, performance, and versatility. The iPad mini stands out as a compact yet powerful alternative in Apple's iPad lineup, appealing to users who require a portable and capable tablet without compromising on features.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Apple iPad mini (2021) offers a significant upgrade in portability, performance, and capability. Its compact size doesn't compromise its extensive feature set, making it suitable for a wide range of users looking for a versatile device to complement their lifestyle. With robust build quality, stunning display, powerful internals, and enhanced software, the iPad mini continues to be a leader in the small tablet market, well-suited for those who need the practicality of a tablet without the bulk of larger devices.