Apple iPad mini (2024) vs. iPad mini (2021): Hard sell

iPad mini has always been a pocket-sized powerhouse, offering the Apple tablet experience in a compact form. Initially, it was aimed at the same audience as the larger iPad. Apple has since positioned the iPad mini to match the specifications of the iPad Air. After three years of waiting, Apple has finally announced the new iPad mini (2024). Did Apple get the iPad mini the attention it deserved? Is it time to upgrade?

Explore the changes and similarities between iPad mini (2021) and iPad mini (2024), and discuss whether the new models are worth upgrading to or whether you should wait and see what Apple comes out with in the future. Would you like to try it?

iPad mini (2024) and iPad mini (2021): specs

iPad mini (2024) and iPad mini (2021): design and display

Travel back in time from 2024 to 2021 and you might feel a bit of deja vu regarding the iPad mini. At first glance, the two models look like twins, sharing the same sleek design and compact dimensions. When you hold the new iPad mini (2024), you’ll feel the familiar comfort of its 7.69-inch x 5.3-inch frame. Peek into the vibrant 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display and you’ll see the same rich colors and crisp detail as its predecessor. The new iPad mini (2024) display similarly warmly embraces True Tone technology, offering a wide spread of P3 color and a subtle shield of anti-reflective coating.

Resolution remains respectable at 2266 x 1488 at 326 pixels per inch (ppi), but peak brightness is still limited to 500 nits. Are there any differences in the design or display of iPad mini (2024) from previous models?

One design change is that the new model is available in Space Gray, Purple, Starlight, and an all-new Blue. The previous model offered the same color, but instead of blue it had a pink option.

There’s still no official Apple keyboard for the new iPad mini, but this model, unlike previous models, supports Apple Pencil Pro. If you have a USB-C Apple Pencil for the older iPad mini, it will also work with the new iPad mini.

iPad mini (2024) and iPad mini (2021): Performance

Apple made some big performance changes this year with the iPad mini (2024). The previous model had the A15 Bionic chip, but now it has the same A17 Pro chipset as the iPhone 15 Pro series. According to Apple, this results in 30% faster CPU performance and 25% faster graphics. We put this to the test in our review to see if the iPad mini (2024) delivers on these promises.

Thanks to the new chip, iPad mini (2024) will be the first iPad without an M1 chip or later to support Apple Intelligence. Announced earlier this year, these AI features will be partially available in the iOS 18.1/iPadOS 18.1 update in just a few weeks.

iPad mini (2024) and iPad mini (2021): Camera and battery

The Apple iPad has never been known for its camera system. Still, sometimes you just need to take a quick photo. In that case, like previous models, the iPad mini (2024) has you covered.

Apple has kept the camera setup consistent with previous generations, recognizing that for most Mini users the camera is a useful tool rather than a primary function. There’s a 12MP wide camera on the back that’s great for everyday photography, and there’s also a 12MP ultra-wide front camera with center stage that’s perfect for FaceTime calls with family and friends.

There is no change in battery life either. You can expect to get 9-10 hours of use between charges.

iPad mini (2024) and iPad mini (2021): Software

iPad mini (2024) supports Apple Intelligence, bringing new AI-powered features to iPad (and other Apple devices) for writing, focusing, and communicating. Apple Intelligence won’t ship with the latest iPad mini, but the first Apple Intelligence components will be available as a software upgrade in the coming days. Older iPad minis don’t run Apple Intelligence at all, so keep that in mind if you’re interested in Apple’s AI.

It’s also worth noting that the iPad mini (2024) will receive more iPadOS updates than its predecessor. Apple hasn’t officially committed to the number of software updates the device will receive, but it’s reasonable to expect around five years of support.

iPad mini (2024) and iPad mini (2021): pricing and availability

The latest iPad mini, like its predecessor, starts at $499 for the entry-level model. However, this year it will be a 128GB model instead of a 64GB only model. You can also purchase the iPad mini (2024) with 256GB or 512GB of storage. Wi-Fi only and Wi-Fi+Cellular options are available.

Apple has discontinued the iPad mini (2021), but you may still be able to find the iPad mini (2021) through third-party retailers, perhaps at a discount, at least for a while.

The new model is available for pre-order now, with the first units expected to be available on October 23rd.

iPad mini (2024) and iPad mini (2021): Should you upgrade?

The iPad mini (2024) poses a compelling dilemma for owners of the 2021 model. Do you want to stick with the familiar comfort of your current iPad mini, or take the plunge into the fascinating world of Apple Intelligence and enhanced performance?

There’s no denying the appeal of the new iPad mini. This isn’t just an Apple intelligence issue. That’s thanks to the huge performance boost thanks to the A17 Pro chip, expanded storage options that let you finally download all the movies you’ve been looking for, and the creative freedom unleashed by compatibility with Apple Pencil Pro. It’s a possibility.

But let’s face it. The lack of a dazzling new display or innovative camera system can be overwhelming for some. Those who were hoping for an OLED or iPhone-comparable camera for the iPad mini won’t find it with this update.

So the question remains, are the Apple Intelligence and performance improvements enough to justify an upgrade? Or are you willing to hold out for the next version in hopes of long-awaited features like OLED and a true pro-grade camera system? The choice is yours, of course. For us, that’s not a big enough leap to justify an upgrade.