iPad mini in 2024 - Buy NOW or WAIT? 

I’ve had a mini since first introduction. Perfect for travel, casual games, and web out and about. I would buy a Mini Pro in heartbeat.

Best iPad ever. Only an updated screen would make the mini better.

I bought a mini a few weeks ago. I’m a grad student and it’s great for note taking, reading paper, answering emails, and probably will be great for viewing slides/lecture content once the new semester begins. I’ve read more books in the last 3 weeks than I have in a year because it’s so convenient as an ereader. I took it on a plane and it’s the perfect size for traveling and is unobtrusive when viewing media in your seat.

If they did an iPad mini Pro I’d be sold so hardcore. My guess: iPad mini will become the iPad fold.

I don't think Apple will update the iPad Mini this year. They definitely don't want competition for the Air and Pro models.

Yes, yes, yes. "It won't replace your computer,… it's a third device." This is EXACTLY why the iPad Mini is IMHO one of the best, purest expressions of the iPad concept. Small, easy to carry, beautiful to look at (that higher PPI density), fully capable (you can pair a BT keyboard, and it welcomes the Pencil 2) for when inspiration strikes you. I bought an iPad Mini 2 "Retina display" many years ago because the screen density made it a very good handheld to read PDF eBooks on (particularly technical ones). My current Mini is still my go-to eBook reader (Hoopla Digital, Kindle, Apple Books). It also does Messages, Photos, Google Voice really well. The Mail app is perfectly at home on this cozy screen. And you hit the nail on the head, I can edit/update my Freeform sketches, Google Keep notes, other documents, then pick up on the Macbook Air … or my Mac Mini desktop to continue. In fact, Handoff makes it super-quick to do so If I'm near both devices! With a small Bluetooth keyboard (e.g. Logitech's K380) nearby, I can truly do just about anything on the go. I'm envious of the outgoing M1 Air (that supports Pencil 2), even more envious of the Pencil Pro,… but the fact the new Pencil Pro doesn't work with the iPad Mini has me doubling down on this superb travel buddy. It all works FINE. Others can early-adopt the new stuff as Apple works out any kinks. Oh, BTW … I wrote this comment on my iPad Mini with the K380. HAGWE!

You almost convinced me to buy an iPad mini… but then you talked me out of it. 😂🤔

Actually it was even longer between the iPad mini 4 and 5 at 1,286 days! (Yes I fact checked cause I had remembered thinking "hey it's been almost 4 years since the iPad mini 4 came out" like right before the 5 was announced)

I have a Mini 6 and an iPad Pro 10.5” I used them in different ways, I’ve ordered the new iPad Pro 11” just because my 10.5” is old. The issue with the Mini is the new Air; for $100 more you get a far faster processor, more cores, more Ram and double the memory. So the main advantage for the mini is its size….with the iPads price reduction the mini seems over priced, they should have also reduced the mini by $50.

Waited always a year now for a new mini. After the event I went back and forth in my head. Tomorrow I’ll collect my top spec iPad mini from the store. Just couldn’t wait any longer.

It’s the perfect one for entertainment, read emails, browse internet, watch movies. I love the size. Great for travel. An upgrade to 9” and Oled will be fantastic.

Advice: wait until the new iPad mini 7 comes out… then buy the iPad mini 6 for even cheaper.

Your assessment is right on. I still use a Mini 2 specifically for reading books.

I bought this iPad mini recently refurbished in the UK and I’m really glad that I did - excellent device that has aged well!

Currently using the 5th Gen iPad Mini, along with my iPhone 13 Mini and Apple Watch. The iPad Mini is the form factor that works for me - don’t need anything MacBook or iPad Pro sized - so I’m waiting impatiently for the new one. Thanks for the content.

Imagine a M chip, even a M1 on ipad mini, the battery would last forever 😂

I had the mini since they Introduced it and it had been carrying me for school until now since I have finished school. I sometimes look back at the memories of being the mini guy and I was the only one to carry around an iPad in my oversized pocket whilst everyone else had to either stack up their iPad on their books or vice versa or had to pack their bags for each time we are moving out.

I have a 2017 iPad 10 inch I am looking to replace, but not sure if I would be happy with the smaller screen.

I've had a mini 6 since they released, upgraded from a mini 5, and every one of your points is spot on. It's the perfect companion for my M3 Pro MBP 14. Will I upgrade if a mini 7 is released? Probably, but the specs will have to be impressive, and something more than fixing jelly scroll (which has never bothered me).

Thank you Greg for your crisp and clear perspective on mini Ipad. It was very helpful, thank you.

It holds up. If they update it. They can save cost on keeping the front facing camera in the same location, add 120hz and update to the M2

Love my iPad mini, I use it so much more then when I had an air before it. It’s perfect for reading and some simple productivity. Don’t feel like I need an update either, one of the best purchases I made honestly!

I priced one the other day. With 256GB storage (64GB is worthless), the Apple Pencil 2, Smart Folio cover, and 2 years of Apple Care, it came to $831. I am tempted, NGL. But for that much money, I can’t justify buying an almost 3-year-old device with planned obsolescence when a new model is likely coming a year from now.

I have ipad mini 6 and just can’t decide if to change. i really like it and use it for hours each day. I could just do with a bigger screen for ,y day to day notes with apple pencil in the office ….

iPad mini 7 - 120hz display, Thinner bezels, M3 processor, better camera, better battery, 5G - just remember WiFi Models dont have GPS!!!!!

I own one and I think I could still use this one may be for 2-3 years. This is so perfect as daily companion almost anywhere. I only use my iPhone for taking pictures, texting and video call, almost everything else generally I do more comfortably in the iPad Mini.

My iPad mini lives locked in portrait mode. It is my notebook, ereader, sketchbook, simplified tablet. The only game I have on it is a sudoku that I use the Apple Pencil. It tends to get more use than my iPad Pro.

I still have the iPad mini 5th generation and it’s aging well. I love the form factor and this is still good enough for me.

Apple’s iPad strategy right now is dumb. Three larger iPad versions with 11” and the never update the smaller one. If Apple had done a 9” iPad Pro size I’d run and not walk to order one.

For all these reasons you outlined, I just purchased the mini. I got fed up of waiting for the new generation, knowing it’ll only be a spec bump and probably a centred camera. I love it! As some others have commented, it’s stupid that I’m spoilt for choice with 3 iPads all at 11” (Regular, Pro and Air) and yet nothing new if you don’t like that huge a size. The mini is perfect for bags, watching in bed, on the go note taking and even quick video calls. So versatile, but clearly does everything I need and is super fast for new software features like Free Form. I can’t complain, it’s awesome 🙌

Great video and bang on with these being a 2nd device and not main! I think Apple should update it and re brand as iPad Air mini and this will also help with all the different choice and streamline the choice, great Dr Evil reference to buddy

I was able to find a new iPad mini 6 in 2022 at a liquidation store with WiFi and cellular for $380. I didn’t even care that it was pink, I could not pass up that deal. 😅

This was one of the best, most concise reviews of an Apple product I have ever watched. Said in all seriousness. Kudos, Greg!

got the mini a year ago and loving it. would definitely upgrade to a 7 once available rather than getting an air or ipad pro since it fits perfectly in my jacket pockets and bags

My only problem with iPad mini it’s the 60hz boring display.

I’m very happy with the iPad mini 6. The only disappointment I had when I got it was that when I opened the box, I thought I got the wrong thing because I was expecting purple and it looked silver to me. You have to hold it on the right light just to see the slight purple hue. The main thing that I would love on the mini would be an oled display, but like you said this display is not bad but yeah compared to my iPhone 15 Pro Max there’s quite a difference. When I saw that they’re not updating the mini it actually made me feel good because I still have the latest iPad mini and I wasn’t planning on upgrading this year.

brilliant vid. i went thru the exact thought process and bought one 2 weeks ago. my use for an ipad is really the basic stuff. if i wanted to do something more complex i just do it on a laptop. the power of the A15 is PLENTY for basic stuff like browsing, email, youtube, netflix and basic gaming. the size is also the best imo opinion for travelling. sometimes you dont even feel that its in your bag. im not really sensitive also with the whole screen thing. as long as i can watch me tv series and movies im good. best buy for me in 2024.

Ive had my Ipad Mini (6) for 2 years and am more than happy with it. It does exactly what I purchased it for. No upgrade in the future for several years to come.

I use my Mini every day at work and would miss it so much if I no longer had it. It has its own place in my workflow that my iPad Pro and my iPhone couldn’t compare to.

Mini needs a better battery and more storage options like the air got! Start at 128 gb 256 gb and 512gb for the mini

For virtually all the reasons you've identified in this video, I bought a Mini in 2022. Though I was considering a Pro at that time, I went the other way and went down in size. I couldn’t be happier with this device and it works perfectly for me and I do, in fact, use it more than any other device and has likely been the highest value Apple product I’ve yet bought (AirPod Pro Gen 2 is up there too). Its form factor reigns supreme for me. I particularly like it for reading and whether it’s articles or books, that’s probably what I use it for more than anything else. My only real criticism of it was/is its native memory of 64gb and that the first upgrade (which I did) was to 256gb which was/is typically “Appleistically” expensive. I expect to use mine for years more.

I want an iPad mini to put my knitting patterns on. I’m going to see what the lineup is in June, if they don’t have a new iPad mini, then I’m gonna buy the older one.

The Mini is my 2nd used computer, next to my desktop. My third is my Mac Air, that I use in the living room. Have been hoping for a new Mini for a while now, but will still use the one I have for many portable uses.

My Mini 6 is great, bought it on launch day and have zero regrets. The laminated display, the speedy chip, it's just a great device. I will certainly upgrade immediately when the mini 7 comes out, but I'm content to wait until then because I'm not sure what really needs to be updated on this thing. It just works.

This gave me so much clarity 🙏🏻🥂

I had the 11” and it would sit on a bench more often than not. Then got the mini and I genuinely use it as much as my phone.

I've just bought one for my son who's 2 mo. old for storing his pics. the price still holds up pretty well

Where's the Mini, Timmy?😂

I don’t understand why the mini costs more than the regular one

Love my mini!! When traveling it is great, waiting for reset!! & new design,, I hope!!

I bought a second hand Mini 6 a few weeks ago. Couldnt be happier! I'll probably get the Mini 7 when it comes out tho.

Bought my iPad mini 6 on release date, still my favourite Apple product, simple…

That intro was your best yet!

I love the main thesis of it being the tablet’s tablet. Couldn’t agree more.

dude the intro!!! OMG you are amazing :-D

I still absolutely love my Mini, which I bought when the current version was first released. I've used it for drawing in Procreate, and even video editing in LumaFusion. The only improvement that would really make a difference to me would be improved battery life.

What do you think about a 9th gen iPad in 2024? I just bought one a few weeks back with 256GB for $380. I already had the keyboard and pencil from a broken Air 3. I’m still in the return window and torn.

I still have my mini, but I find that I'm using it less nowadays with a iPhone 14 Pro Max with OLED, and I had the 12.9" Mini-LED iPad pro but I just traded it in for the 11" iPad Pro M4. With all these pretty OLED screens around and now having been able to downsize my main iPad back down to 11" to get a premium screen, about the only thing I still like about the Mini is the smaller size. I'd be happy to see a model with an updated screen. Like you, I feel that is it's biggest current weakness.

That little smirk Tim Cook made 😂 at the end of the event when he mentioned the iPad mini killed me! 🍎 💔

Still using an iPad Mini 2. I'd wait simply given the huge gap in hardware since it's last update. Given time between updates I'd buy the next refresh and sit on it for another 6 years or so.

I tried using iPad OS (iPad Air M1) for a few hours hooked up to my monitor today. Every time I had an app open such as settings for configuring something when listening to the desktop RU-vid on Safari, it cuts out all audio. Using discord in safari is absolutely horrible too, with the scrollbar randomly breaking and the bottom part of the window going white when resuming on stage manager. Apple putting the M4 chip in an iPad is a waste of sand, but at least the iPad mini isn't trying to be anything more than it actually is.

Wow! I love my mini, and I bought it for ~ $200 used, just before everyone else seemed to discover it.

I am so ready to move up from my mini 4 to the mini 7. Battery life is getting weaker and worse all the time! Barely hanging on, hope they hurry things up! +1 for the vid

wasn't it longer between 2015 Mini 4 and 2019 Mini 5?

Great review

“Mini’r” - dying laughing! 🤣

Here's what I'm thinking Apple might do: 1. They're going to drop an M4 chip in it and introduce it at the iPhone event later this year. 2. Theyre going to drop an M4 chip in it and introduce at wwdc 3. They're not going to update it all, and the iPad mini could end up getting the same treatment as the mini iPhone. I was actually hoping for a new iPad mini at the event despite all leaks saying there would be no such announcement. I am one of the many who is anticipating buying a new iPad mini or at least the last model after the inevitable price drop.

I have the iPad Mini 6 and love it. I never noticed the jelly scrolling. The screen suits me fine; I have an iPhone (also mini !) with an oled display and even if i can see the difference I’m perfectly happy with the screen of the Mini

I love my mini that I got from pre-order, I don’t need that much but if they do change, would probably upgrade. But I’m good for now.

Had a 2018 11" Pro and sold it for the mini 6 and never looked back. If I want high end performance on the go, I have my 14" M3 Max for that, and even then, I don't like to lug that around.

I will be getting the Mini, pity it did not get an update but I like the small size. I have an old iPad air and it's too big for what I use it for

Still using the 2020 iPad Pro and works great.

Back in my days. Ipod touch 4thgen cost $350.

I have an iPad Pro and its essentially my in-home mobile media consumption device, but I don’t like carrying it when I am out and about and I know I am going to have some downtime in between. In comes the mini. It is perfect for that. I use it with the Apple Pencil to take notes, sketch and have a bigger screen than my phone (I prefer smaller iPhones). It is also so much better for my coaching than the bigger iPad as I can slip it into my jacket pocket. I was thrilled to be able to pick up a brand new 256 GB for $400. Maybe a foldable iPhone that works with the Apple Pencil could eventually replace an iPad mini?

It is weird how the new layout of the Home Screen for iPad mini the app icon sizes are smaller than the iPhone. It just looks so weird with so much negative space on the sides of the Home Screen with the mini app icons.

Haha that was a great intro. Nice job.

Got iPad minis since years. Mini1, Mini4, Mini5 and Mini6. The Mini6 is great and holds the test of time. However I would not buy new new today. It’s just to old so an update has to be right next corner. Or buy a used 6 if available.

I just bought one used. Love it.

i bought my iPad Mini when it first came out and it's as good as the day I received it. I love it and use it CONSTANTLY. There is absolutely no sense of it getting older or slower.

i have had 2 minis, really great form factor, but i will say part of me would love a foldable that is about the size of the mini

Honestly I have iPad Air and iPad Pro and iPhone 15 pro max and I tend to reach for my iPad mini more often than all my other products.

It in fact doesn’t suffer from anything you mentioned at the start! I have ZERO NEED for an update!

Bought one in January 2024. Love it

Mini 4 to Mini 5 was longer though? Around 2015 to 2019. 4 years. It’s only been 2 years since the Mini 6 release.

My wife loves her mini. Before this latest one came out she resorted to buying an iPad Air, but hates the size. So when this came out she bought that and I inherited her air (which stopped me investing a in a pro). She will only upgrade if a new mini comes out.

Tbh i bought an iPad mini 5 in 2020 - great device; I've always loved small tablets - and was thinking about upgrading to a mini 7 when it arrived but it never did. I've recently switched to an android folding phone and am really happy with my purchase!

I love my mini 6 258 cellular. The mini 6 is the sharpest of the iPad line. The ppi is 324 vs 264 on the pro and air. Side by side you can see the sharper text.

I ended up getting the new 11” iPad Air instead. I’m mostly happy with it but the weight makes it slightly uncomfortable to use. I also think that for the price the refresh rate should be 90 or 120Hz. I have a feeling the iPad mini won’t be updated for some time.

it won't get a 120 hertz display so why would it be updated ?

I’m watching you on a mini. I love it. I use the mini as my tv.

I got the iPad mini 6. Wow best tablet I’ve had ever (iOS, android and other). My top 3 things I’d like but not that much of an issue: wireless charging, better screen, longer battery life.

Need a mini pro with the A18 Pro Chipset, 120hz (or at least 90hz) 8.7-8.9in OLED display (shrink the bezels), 8-12gb of ram, 256gb-1tb SSD, the nano texture glass option, and support for the new apple pencil

Mini 6 is great, I've recently completed pretty heavy animation project, using primarily iPad mini 6 for painting frames. Other artists used Pros and regular iPads (and Wacoms as well). Sometimes Mini performed even better than older Pros (before M1) in terms of stability and layers numbers. I specifically wanted small size - it's perfect daily gadget for media consumption, conf calls and browsing. I rarely touch my iPhone 11 at home. Using it since launch, only one thing I regret - I should get 256GB model. Though even for art work 64GB is pretty comfortable, if upload project files to cloud often

I barely use it anymore since I got the galaxy fold. I was shocked going back to 60hz when I turned it on the other day 😅

I bought the 2021 edition iPad mini in 2023 and don't regret it at all. It's like having a much larger screen smartphone with great battery life. For most users, iPads provide great value regardless of the performance spec.

Once you go 13” a mini just won’t due.

I’ve had iPads since the iPad 2. I got the Mini a few weeks ago. My 4th iPad. This is EASILY my favorite iPad. It’s more powerful than my 2018 iPad Pro. Vibrant color. More than fast enough for my needs. I’m pleased as punch with my purchase. From now on, the Mini will be my iPad of choice. 👍👍

Two years old is ancient for tech... Wait... Apple tried to kill the Mini but demand remains unmoved. It should be on par with an Ipad Air at this point.

This is a must for pilots.

iPad mini 6 has been the best iPad for the past 2 years. I love it since I do video editing and art for the most part. It fits in your pocket too!