The 2024 iPad Mini (7th gen) is Apple’s most portable tablet, blending solid performance with the A17 Pro chip. While the six-core CPU delivers excellent multitasking, the five-core GPU is slightly less powerful than the iPhone 15 Pro’s version but remains capable of casual gaming and media consumption. Notable upgrades include support for the Apple Pencil Pro, offering advanced gesture controls and a new squeeze feature.
However, the design remains almost identical to its predecessor, and the front camera placement is still off-centre in landscape mode, which makes video calls awkward. Apple’s decision to drop support for the 2nd-gen Apple Pencil may irk long-time users, as this forces an upgrade to the more expensive Pencil Pro. On the plus side, it offers faster charging with USB-C and maintains compatibility with existing 6th-gen cases.
Design & Display
The iPad Mini retains its compact form, with an 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display that’s great for reading, note-taking, and casual media consumption. Despite a vibrant and sharp screen, the absence of ProMotion (120Hz refresh rate) is a minor drawback for users accustomed to buttery-smooth scrolling.
Camera & Features
Its 12MP rear camera with Smart HDR 4 makes document scanning easier and the front 12MP lens supports Center Stage for improved video calls. However, the landscape orientation still suffers from an awkward side-placed camera, particularly noticeable during Zoom or FaceTime calls.
Performance
The A17 Pro chip handles multitasking with ease, making it ideal for productivity, media streaming, and casual gaming. While the five-core GPU may slightly underperform compared to the iPhone 15 Pro, it’s still more than adequate for most users who won’t push the Mini to its limits with graphically intense tasks.
Accessories & Battery
Support for the new Apple Pencil Pro is both a blessing and a frustration—it offers new features like a gyroscope for more precision, but the lack of backward compatibility with older Pencils feels unnecessary. Battery life remains strong, offering around 10 hours of mixed-use, which is excellent for its size.
Conclusion
Pros
- Compact and powerful with A17 Pro chip
- Supports Apple Pencil Pro with advanced controls
- Great for multitasking and media consumption
Cons
- Not compatible with older Apple Pencils
- Side-placed camera in landscape mode
- Lacks ProMotion display
For users who need a portable, high-performance tablet, the iPad Mini 2024 is a fantastic choice. It’s perfect for students, travellers, and creatives who need a compact device for note-taking, light gaming, or media consumption. However, the upgrades from the previous model may not justify the leap for current iPad Mini owners, especially with lingering issues like camera placement and the loss of compatibility with older accessories.
Rating: 8/10
