TLDR Review: iPad Mini A17 Pro
Verdict
The New Apple iPad Mini (A17 Pro) is a powerhouse of portability and performance, perfect for users who want a premium tablet that fits in one hand without compromising on speed, display, or connectivity. It shines in media viewing, note-taking, and casual multitasking, all wrapped in a sturdy, stylish package. However, if you crave a larger screen, smoother 120Hz display, or Face ID, you might want to explore Apple’s iPad Air or standard iPad models. For those prioritizing compact size and top-tier power in a sleek design, this iPad Mini is an excellent, albeit premium, choice.
- Top pro:
- The 8.3-inch Liquid Retina Display delivers sharp, vibrant visuals with excellent brightness, enhancing media consumption, reading, and drawing experiences.
- Top con:
- Screen size may feel too small for some users who need more real estate for productivity or media viewing.
Pros
- •The 8.3-inch Liquid Retina Display delivers sharp, vibrant visuals with excellent brightness, enhancing media consumption, reading, and drawing experiences.
- •Equipped with 128GB of storage, it offers ample space for apps, photos, and videos.
- •Advanced 12MP front and back cameras support high-quality photos, video calls, and features like Smart HDR 4 and Center Stage.
- •Touch ID fingerprint sensor provides quick, secure, and reliable device access.
- •Supports Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 for faster, more stable internet and wireless connectivity.
- •All-day battery life (up to 10 hours) suits on-the-go use, including web browsing and video playback.
- •Lightweight and extremely portable, ideal for travel, university classes, and everyday carry.
- •Smooth performance with Apple’s A17 Pro 6-core processor; capable of handling multitasking like running two apps side by side without significant lag.
- •Excellent stylus support compatible with Apple Pencil 2 and Apple Pencil Pro, great for note-taking and creative tasks.
- •Sleek, durable aluminum build with a modern design that fits well in various settings.
Cons
- •Screen size may feel too small for some users who need more real estate for productivity or media viewing.
- •Lacks ProMotion display (no 120Hz refresh rate), which some users note impacts the fluidity of scrolling and animations compared to other Apple devices.
- •Occasional minor lag under heavy multitasking scenarios.
- •Back camera placement can feel awkward for some users during use.
- •The device does not offer Face ID, relying solely on Touch ID for biometric security.
- •Some find the stylus compatibility and functionality confusing or limited depending on the Apple Pencil model.
- •Slightly heavier and a bit slippery, so a protective case is recommended.
- •Keyboard layout changes (such as swapped keys for numbers or emoticons) may require an adjustment period.
- •Battery life opinions vary—while it promises all-day use, some users report it lasting only 2-3 hours under intensive tasks.
- •Premium price point may be a barrier for budget-conscious buyers, and accessory compatibility might be limited with older peripherals.
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How we researched this
About this review: it summarizes the professional reviews and customer ratings ShopSavvy collected for this product, alongside prices from ShopSavvy's price data.
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