Apple iPad Mini 3 The Ultimate Guide to Features Pricing and Performance

Design and Build Quality

The Apple iPad mini 3 maintains the sleek, high-quality design standards that Apple's products are known for. With its dimensions at 200 x 134.7 x 7.5 mm and a weight of 331g for the Wi-Fi variant and 341g for the 3G/LTE version, the device offers a compact form factor that is lightweight and easy to handle. It's constructed from premium materials and comes in three elegant colors: Space Gray/Black, Silver/White, and Gold. Despite its durable build, the thin profile ensures that it's portable enough to be carried with ease, fitting comfortably in most bags without adding significant weight.

Display

The iPad mini 3 is equipped with a 7.9-inch IPS LCD screen, delivering a high resolution of 1536 x 2048 pixels with a density of approximately 324 ppi. This results in crisp and vibrant visuals, providing an excellent experience for consuming media. The display is protected by an oleophobic coating that reduces fingerprints and smudges, maintaining a clear view of the screen at all times. The 4:3 aspect ratio is ideal for reading and web browsing, while the color accuracy and wide viewing angles further enhance the overall display quality.

Performance

Under the hood, the iPad mini 3 is powered by the Apple A7 chipset, based on a 28nm process. It features a dual-core 1.3 GHz Cyclone (ARM v8-based) CPU and a PowerVR G6430 GPU with quad-core graphics. This combination ensures smooth and reliable performance for everyday tasks such as browsing, email, and multimedia playback. With 1GB of RAM, the device efficiently handles multitasking for basic applications. Although it may not cater to heavy gaming or high-end applications optimally, it balances performance and efficiency for casual users.

Storage Options

Apple offers the iPad mini 3 in three storage variants: 16GB, 64GB, and 128GB. The variety allows users to choose a storage capacity that best suits their needs, whether they plan to use the device primarily for cloud-based activities or require ample local storage for media and apps. Unfortunately, there's no card slot for expandable storage, which means users should carefully consider which variant to purchase based on their intended use.

Camera Capabilities

The main camera of the iPad mini 3 features a 5 MP sensor with an f/2.4 aperture and autofocus. It supports HDR and can capture 1080p video at 30fps, making it sufficient for casual photography and video recording. The 1.2 MP front-facing camera also supports FaceTime calls over Wi-Fi or cellular, capturing video at 720p@30fps. While the camera system may not compete with more advanced tablets or smartphones, it serves well for casual photography and video calls.

Audio and Connectivity

The iPad mini 3 includes stereo speakers for an enhanced audio experience while watching videos or listening to music. It also retains the 3.5mm headphone jack, allowing for both conventional and wireless audio solutions. In terms of connectivity, the device supports Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.0 with A2DP, and EDR. It also features GPS and GLONASS for location-based services. While it lacks NFC, it utilizes Apple's Lightning connector and supports USB 2.0 for charging and data transfer.

Sensors and Additional Features

Equipped with a front-mounted fingerprint sensor, the iPad mini 3 benefits from enhanced security features, including convenient biometric authentication. The device also includes an accelerometer, gyro, and compass, adding unique functionalities useful in various applications, from gaming to navigation.

Battery Life

The device is powered by a Li-Po 6470 mAh non-removable battery, which offers up to 10 hours of multimedia use. This impressive battery life ensures that users can stay productive and entertained throughout the day without needing to frequently recharge.

Pricing and Availability

Initially launched in October 2014, the iPad mini 3 has since been discontinued, making it primarily available through secondary markets or refurbished products. At its launch, it was priced around 400 EUR depending on the storage capacity and model. Due to its discontinuation, prices in the secondary market can vary significantly based on condition, storage capacity, and market demand.

Software and Updates

The iPad mini 3 originally shipped with iOS 8.1 and is upgradable to iPadOS 12.5.6. This enables access to a wide range of apps and features that are characteristic of the iOS ecosystem, such as FaceTime, iMessage, and the Apple App Store. However, since it doesn't support the latest iPadOS versions, users might miss out on some of the newer features and optimizations brought by recent updates. Yet, it remains a solid device for those who require basic functionalities without needing the latest advancements.

Network and Connectivity Options

The iPad mini 3 supports a wide range of network technologies, including GSM, CDMA, HSPA, EVDO, and LTE. This makes it a versatile option for users who require connectivity both on Wi-Fi and cellular networks. It supports various bands for 2G, 3G, and 4G networks, ensuring broad compatibility with several carriers worldwide. Additionally, it has a nano-SIM slot and supports eSIM technology, offering flexible options for network management.

Conclusion

Overall, the Apple iPad mini 3 presents itself as a capable device for those seeking a compact tablet with a trusted brand legacy. Though it's not the latest in Apple's lineup, its build quality, display resolution, and balanced performance make it suited for everyday tasks, casual media consumption, and effective connectivity. While newer models have introduced upgraded performance and features, the iPad mini 3 still holds value for users prioritizing portability and foundational iOS features. Its status as a legacy product means it's best suited for those who do not require the very latest advancements or those looking for a secondary device.