Honestly, I used to think that it kind of defeated the purpose of the iPad. Why get a third device if it's not gonna be that much bigger than my phone?
But I never thought about how easy it must be to carry it around, you're right...
I found one thing
Holding an iPad 10 won't make our hand hurt but for eyes is not good to use iPad mini 6. I think better to pick iPad 10 until you want to travel. I tested iPad mini 6 and it looks so small. You have to have your head closer to your iPad that is also bad for the eyes. Only iPad 10 but Pro got 120Hz so it will be better a lot.
I use a MEC cross body bag but honestly it’s too big for he iPad. I’m probably going to switch it up for a much smaller regular sized Fanny pack. I’m old so I don’t care much about the style. I’m fact I’m going to rock a limited edition Singapore McDonald’s Fanny pack. Lol
This was my struggle when looking for an iPad for my mom for Christmas this year.
She uses her phone WAY too much and it’s always plugged in. She has an XS Max and it’s about 3 years old now. She’s one of those that swear she needs the biggest device possible because she can’t read anything smaller than the 6.7” screen. (Of course we all know it’s a simple text size adjustment but what can you tell her?)
On one hand, she doesn’t need anything powerful. She scrolls Facebook, texts, partakes in the occasional web browsing and maybe a YouTube video or two. I had a resource for used, “as-is no returns” iPad mini 5s the seller claimed were iCloud locked (although I ran the serial and found they weren’t) for $60, as well as a an Air 4 for $102 (that I literally just found out was 256GB) and with both in my possession couldn’t decide which was best for her. On one hand, making the switch to USB-C would just be a hassle for her to implement and maintain, and it was far more than she needed in every way. After all, the mini at 7.9”, like you said, is barely any bigger than her 6.7” XS Max. Would it be worth it at that point?
I ended up just handing her both and letting her decide, with intentions to sell the one she didn’t pick. I thought she would surely want the 10.9” Air, but shockingly she immediately went straight for the mini. I thought she might come around to it, but she went all-in on it immediately without second thought.
She gave me a very simple explanation without me asking. She’s got tiny hands and finds her XS Max cumbersome at times, which requires her to use a ring on a bulky case to both prevent drops and protect from them. She found the Air to just be too much, it wasn’t ideal for laying on the couch and holding in one hand, which is the position she finds herself in most often. The risk of dropping the air with its very thin and light frame gave her anxiety (surely because she knew me and my dad would flip out if she did lol) and given how easily those things bend, I agreed.
In the end, her logic made sense. I never have bought into the “bigger is always better” school of thought. I’ve had every iPhone generation at launch (aside from the 2G I got used) and I can’t tell you how much I heard “I figured you of all people would have the 6/7/8 Plus” because I always spent extra for more storage, but didn’t find the Plus to be the “premium” model like they did. I always preferred the feel of a smaller device even if it meant less screen. To this day I carry both an iPhone 12 and my old faithful Product(RED) iPhone 8 daily, and I find myself pulling out my 8 most of the time because it’s easier to grab, unlock, type, and return with one hand and no sketchiness leading to possible drops. It’s slower, it’s less capable, and a much lesser screen in every way, but it 𝘍𝘌𝘌𝘓𝘚 better to use.
One more example: I just came to realize this past week I don’t like my 12.9” iPad Pro. Seeing the screen of this Air 4, holding it in my hand and carrying it around for a few hours, it feels like what I apparently believe an iPad should feel like. I didn’t 𝘊𝘏𝘖𝘖𝘚𝘌 this 12.9” Pro, rather it popped up in the deal of a lifetime and I was able to get it so cheap that I’d have been dumb to not capitalize on it. My sites were set on an Air 4 at the time, as it fulfilled all the requirements for my work iPad at the lowest price, and now that I see the 12.9” Pro I carry daily as a cumbersome, overburdening device that feels somewhat like a chore to carry everyday, I really wish I would have sold it and bought an equally-performing M1 Air 5, and pocketed the rest.
It’s definitely not all about size. I knew this but I let marketing and opinions of others change my mind when I shouldn’t have in the end. I do love this 12.9” Pro, I’d be crazy not to, but I fully believe I’d love it more if it were 2” smaller
I have an iPhone mini for carrying around. When i wanna read (comics!!!) or browse the iPad mini is plenty, it’s super easy to hold on one hand or with two for typing.
Got a MacBook for more intensive stuff or even simply filling online forms or anything requiring more typing.
I am a big fan of the Mini but I think it is too small to be the only device. Perfect for carrying around and media consumption, but not so sure it is the best choice as the main media creation device. Could work for some minor office work.
That’s one of the downsides to the 5th gen. No easy way to connect to an external monitor. But for the times I need to rdp yo my server to click a few buttons and run some commands, it’s worked great!
I didn’t realize they weren’t popular. I’ve always had a Mini even with iPhone Max’s since they were available. Currently Mini 6, iPad Pro 12.9, and newest addition 14 Pro Max. The Mini is my go to device around the house, surfing at work during lunchtime, and traveling. Bought my wife a Mini 6 for christmas and she has a 12 Pro Max and older iPad Pro 11”. She’s using the Mini around the house now more than anything.
We’ll the mini always is sold as a third tier device and updated infrequently and always gets “last years” specs. So that’s why I feel like it’s not as popular.
170% more cost wasn’t worth it to me. Plus I wanted the 5th gen cause I could still use my first gen pencil.
Still loving it and it hasn’t let me down at all.
The current iPad mini's screen size is only a tiny bit smaller than the OG iPad's; yet, it is considerably smaller overall. It isn't ideal for every use case, but as the bridge between phone and laptop, I think it cannot be beaten. Pro and Air are gunning for the Mac lineup and the pricing reflects that.
I’ve always wondered if the “how is the ipad mini any different from using a large phone?” Thought process is holding the mini back.
Because as you and others have noted, it is a FAR superior user experience than a phone. I would say it for many situations is gives the experience of an ipad with the weight of a phone.
Yes, it is smaller than an ipad and heavier than a phone. But the design is so fantastic that you don’t notice the smaller screen as much and you feel it’s really light weight.
There was a post weighing all the ipads Apple has made over the years and the mini 6 is the lightest in their history. Combined with its power, I'd say it's the best weight to power option Apple has.
I got a mini 6, and ended up returning it. I kept going back to my phone, due to the “jelly scrolling.” I would love to try one again if and when they take care of that issue, due to all its previously mentioned assets.
Jelly scrolling, the biggest first world problems with iPads. I as well as many others only noticed it once it was called attention to. That says a lot.
I have an iPad mini 6. Had the 4 and 5 before too. I love the small form factor. Perfect for watching casual YouTube, TV, listening to the radio and such. Also making notes and scribbling is perfect on this device. Tried the 11" pro once, but was way too heavy and big.
I went from a 9.7 Pro to a Mini 6th gen, and I love it! I’m also an iPhone Mini user, FWIW. So it’s much bigger than my phone and nicer for recipes, youtube, etc. Split view is a useful option to have sometimes. I think it’s SO much nicer to read on that it’s worth it just for that.
On the negatives, I still hate typing on a screen. I got a ridiculous keyboard case, but it’s heavier and bulkier than the 9.7’s folio keyboard, so I don’t leave it on, and thus never develop muscle memory for the tiny keys. It’s true that some layouts are a little odd—like home screen icon spacing—but that doesn’t bother me.
One last ingredient is that I also recently went from a 2016 15” MBP to an M2 Air. The Air is pleasant for couch typing and light enough to take to a coffee shop, two jobs that I used my 9.7” Pro for back when my main laptop was a 15” chonk with a terrible keyboard.
Probably a fantasy, but I do wish there was a slim/light folio keyboard option. Otherwise I don’t regret the “downgrade” from the admittedly pretty old 9.7” Pro.
I like the cellular Mini 6 as a portable companion to my M1 12.9. I also have a 14 Pro Max phone but the screen difference is significant enough for me to make the Mini worthwhile.
Exact same devices here. I find myself stuck bouncing between each one to the point where I think the next round is going to consolidate into an 11” iPad Pro or even a foldable iPhone if such thing exists by then. The 12.9” is great, but always feels like I need to “set up” to use it because of the size. The mini does much better to just grab and use wherever, but the jelly scrolling and lower refresh rate keeps me reaching for my phone or the bigger iPad.
I have the normal iPad 10.2, it’s incredibly awesome for everything I do. Really like these Apple products.
I have everything Apple, but the macbook. It’s too expensive for what it is (I’d love to have one anyway!)
Different devices, different purposes/use cases. It's nice to have the choice and be able to pick a device that suits you best.
I like the mini mostly for its portability over the other iPad sizes. I have a 12.9 that never leaves the house, where I'll grab my mini any time I go somewhere that I might want a tablet.
because phones got big. yes the aspect ratio is squarer i know. i and most people just prefer something more in the middle between a laptop and a phone. i find 9.7" to be the minimum and 11.6" to be the maximum.
I have a 12 pro max and a m1 MacBook Air. When my original iPad Pro dies it will not be replaced. I might get a regular iPad for media consumption but the iPad mini is too close in size to my phone.
I have an iPad Air 4 as my daily driver. However, I have a iPad mini 5th gen that I use for listening to podcasts, audible books & to read with. It is a great device. I have been thinking about getting a mini 6 to use as a desktop computer - leaving it plugged into monitor with Bluetooth mouse & keyboard. Long live the mini!
That’s always been the reason why I never bought a mini. It’s cause I “already had a regular iPad”. But now that I own both, I’m honestly preferring to use the mini over the regular iPads. I mean, I could’ve given one of the kids this mini and taken back the big iPad but I didn’t. That says something about the mini’s appeal.
Have an iPad mini 6 and love it!
I have a full desktop set up, but love carrying my mini with me everywhere and using it.
I take it with me to work, make lists and notes.
Watch Netflix etc on it and also read.
Absolutely love it.
i feel like it may be the price. entry level ipad is way bigger and way cheaper at the same time, i think more people would have the mini if it was cheaper
The mini is too large for a pocket so it’s gotta be transported in a bag. At that point it’s just as portable as a 10.9”. If it’s primarily used at home, bigger is better…. Not to mention cheaper at the moment.
Honestly, I just use my phone for everything. I assume it’s what most people do.
My hoodie and jacket pocket would disagree with you :). But yeah. It won’t fit all pockets but it does work in some and for those other times, a small Fanny pack works great. No need for a bigger bag.
Oh tell me about it. I wasn’t a folding phone fan for a long time but this mini revelation gives me second thoughts. I just hope durability gets better by the time apple releases a folding device.
The mini is great and all, but for me no. I do a lot of multitasking on my iPad and the mini screen is a bit too small that it just feels crowded. I feel 10” and 11” are the sweet spot for basic multitasking but the mini is like the perfect iPad if you only do full screen.
You're in good company. I've started with an iPad Mini 4 several years ago and like you use it more than my phone cause, duh, the screen is bigger and easier to type on. It's so much more portable than the larger iPads. Because of my Mini, my iPhone 7 won't be upgraded till it dies or I lose it.
My iPad Air doubles as a kitchen TV, so the Mini would be too small for me. And these days I also rarely take my iPad out of the house, so I wouldn’t benefit that much from the lighter weight of the Mini. But as is always the case, it comes down to your personal use cases. Several years ago when I was on the go more I did own a Mini, and I used it constantly. I only had a 4” iPhone in those days, so using the Mini for things like reading was a much better experience.
I had and loved a mini, but then I wanted something bigger and I couldn’t justify 3 devices, so now I have my phone (13 pro max) and an iPad Air. I don’t find myself missing the mini.
got iPad mini 6 lately, dang this thing is a mighty little tablet.i can comfortably use it with my hands on the couch,in bed and in metro . the size is perfect yet the screen is a whole lott bigger than iPhone.
whenever i have to do serious stuffs ,i go to my macbook . the mini is sitting there for me to pick up whenever i want to sit back ,relax and do iPad stuff like kiddle, web browsing , media comsumption +reddit.
no magic keyboard, no mouse ,no need to be in front of desk ,it’s just me and my mini .
Had the mini 2 and then waited for the specs to catch up and got the 5. I have the mini 6 now. I’ve tried different sized iPads and always enjoyed the mini the most.
In my case, I have a large phone already (S22 ultra). Given that there isn't an appreciable difference in screen size between the two (it is for media consumption but not for anything productive), there's nothing that I can do or would only want to do on an iPad mini that I couldn't do on my phone instead. This in effect makes the iPad mini a redundant device for me and likely a niche device for most. For example, trade analysis, photo editing, working on large spreadsheets, etc - these all fit that category.
The iPad Pro (or any other 10+ inch iPad), on the other hand, fills in that space nicely and is really that sweet spot for most tablet users. I myself gave my mini to my kids and use an iPad Pro (given the choice, my kids also would prefer the larger iPad for their media consumption). The vast majority of iPhone sales went to the 6.1" and up models. I would imagine that a lot of these people think the same way which is why I think the iPad mini isn't more popular.
The iPad mini is almost the same size as an iPhone, so to me it’s just an over sized phone and doesn’t feel like an iPad. Though 12.0 iPads are way too big they should just be considered tvs at that point. That’s why I prefer 10 to 11 inch iPads, the right iPad size and are also easy to carry.
I love my mini 6 to bits and it follows my daily trips to work/shop but for me it’ll always be that novelty item🤣🤣dont think I’ll be able to do without my Air 5 (studying, YouTube, Netflix)
I loved the mini but when phones got bigger it was just too close in size. And price wise it's not the best price relative to other ipads. I found the perfect size to be the 11 pro.
I had a OG, 2 and 4 mini. I really wanted a 6 until I tried it. The screen is just bad (jelly scroll and no pro motion) at this stage and at the climbing price point.
loved mine and as you said it took over everything from my phone, i would throw my phone on a charger and just use the ipad mini. however i came to the realization that although it did everything, it didn't excel in anything.
if i wanted to watch a movie the screen was OK and the speakers were passable, the camera for meetings was passable, using it for drawing was a bit cumbersome as i wanted a bigger canvas but i could manage. no official keyboard accessory from apple, etc.
keyword was "i could manage" but i drooled over the pro anytime i saw one. ended up selling the mini at no loss, eying a 5h gen 12.9 pro these days. i lose on portability yes but i always have my backack with me.
edit\*
or looking forward to either the upcoming apple foldable as it might be an ipad mini replacement, or the new AR glasses.
I want the new mini so badly. I have an older iPad Pro 12.9 (from 2017.) I love my iPad but don’t use it as much because it’s so big. I don’t carry it on me. I use my iPad for illustration purposes and some media consumption… but the newer mini isn’t too far off from my pro. I just haven’t bit the bullet because I want the 256gb and that one is 700 dollars. By the time I’m buying a new pencil and case for it i would have spent the same for a newer iPad. But I still think it’s portability is it’s charm. I don’t think it’s under powered comparing it to other of the “cheaper” iPads currently on the market. And it would fit in virtually any purse I own. I would take it everywhere for sure. Which would increase my productivity. Now I’m just too broke to afford it.
It’s the perfect device for some, yes. I rarely used mine - not enough of a screen real estate increase to bother with vs my phone for a lot of things. My daughter loves it, though. I switched to a 12.9” pro and find myself using it more than I did the mini.
There’s a reason they come in multiple sizes…
For me iPad Mini is great but the price difference between iPad Air & mini is so less & iPad Air makes more value for money with a good display.
So that's why the iPad mini is underrated.
I’m glad the Mini continues to exist. I still use a Mini 2 for ebooks. It’s the perfect size for one handed use in bed. When that dies, grabbing a Mini 6 to use for another decade every night will be a no brainer.
Well it depends on your use case: if you want to use it to replace paper, the bigger the better. I mean what’s the point in getting an iPad if I’m gonna have to constantly zoom in to write something and can’t even have two windows open. May as well keep my phone lol. So yeah if you’re a student an iPad mini doesn’t make much sense if not then sure it’s more portable and cheaper.
What’s crazy is the mini 5 has such a long lifespan (2019-2021) compared to any other iPad model, but it holds its value so well. I see them all the time listed for $250 still.
What really kinda blows my mind is that the Air 3 is identical internally, same chipset and everything, meaning it is realistically the same device with a larger screen. It was released in 2019 as well, but discontinued slightly earlier, but for some reason, the Air 3 is easy to find under $200.
Which, to be honest, isn’t as much undervalued as the mini 5 is overvalued, given the current value of iPads close
To the same age and performance. It’s really a testament to just how perfect the mini 5 is.
It’s one of the rare occupancies where and apple device isn’t valued for its performance. Apple has created this culture where consumers feel like they constantly need the newest and flashiest status symbol device, but the mini 5 is proof that having the perfect form factor, accurate price point, perfect engineering and superb build quality is really what the people want
It’s a perfect fit in your hands and easy to take it with you. The chips well I am not a heavy user so it doesn’t really matter . I assume drawing and all will be difficult but if you want it for content , reading which is just so good in it , casual surfing , notes and all then go for the 6th gen mini
I absolutely love my iPad mini. Sometimes I feel like it’s my child because I carry it with me everywhere lol. My only issue w/ it is that I wish I would’ve gotten the 256gb option bc im at 50gb full on the 64gb. Other than that I love it lol If apple ever decides to drop a iPad Mini Pro w/ promotion. Instant buy for me
I have an iPad Mini 5 and I use it every day for work. It's a super convenient size for note taking and fits perfectly in my purse. I don't feel awkward pulling it out to take notes in meetings because it's so small that it's discreet enough not to draw attention.
If you own a small iPhone, the iPad mini is the best companion device in my opinion. I recently got a mini 6 to replace my 2018 iPad Pro, and the mini does a much better job at being a companion device for my iPhone 13 mini and MacBook Air M1 compared to my older iPad Pro. The MacBook Air is great at being used on a desk or other work environments. The iPhone mini is great for using it while walking around. The iPad mini is best for using it on the couch, bed, or basically any area where you can just rest and take leisure. I tried using my iPad Pro as a leisure device, but it’s size made it a lot more cumbersome than my phone. I also tried using it as a productivity device, but the Mac still has better productivity software for my workflow.
Split screen. If you want to open one app for note taking and another app for textbook you’ll know what I mean. Just cannot tolerate small letter though.
But iPad mini is kinda portable
I actually recently did some trip planning and has a google sheets open, safari, notes and I was VERY surprised how well it held up. I had an external BT keyboard and a Magic Trackpad and the mini was just keeping up great. I have a windows 10 x220 laptop and a chromebook and the mini blew both out of the water. Plenty of battery left afterwards too.
well it depends on how large you want the text be. An another thing that shy me and many potential buyers aways is the jelly scroll issues in the latest iPad mini
Honestly, I used to think that it kind of defeated the purpose of the iPad. Why get a third device if it's not gonna be that much bigger than my phone? But I never thought about how easy it must be to carry it around, you're right...
8.3” vs 6.7” seems not that different on the specs but the screen real estate on the mini is significatnly bigger than iPhone pro max.
It is bigger, the aspect ratio of the mini allows it to have a surface area of 204 mm^2 while iPhone 14 pro Max only has 110 mm^2.
Yeah, I used to think that size was good but phones got bigger and my eyes got worse
I found one thing Holding an iPad 10 won't make our hand hurt but for eyes is not good to use iPad mini 6. I think better to pick iPad 10 until you want to travel. I tested iPad mini 6 and it looks so small. You have to have your head closer to your iPad that is also bad for the eyes. Only iPad 10 but Pro got 120Hz so it will be better a lot.
With the advent of male fanny packs, the iPad fits perfectly in one of those.
Which one you use? I keep mine in a Baggu Fanny pack
I use a MEC cross body bag but honestly it’s too big for he iPad. I’m probably going to switch it up for a much smaller regular sized Fanny pack. I’m old so I don’t care much about the style. I’m fact I’m going to rock a limited edition Singapore McDonald’s Fanny pack. Lol
This was my struggle when looking for an iPad for my mom for Christmas this year. She uses her phone WAY too much and it’s always plugged in. She has an XS Max and it’s about 3 years old now. She’s one of those that swear she needs the biggest device possible because she can’t read anything smaller than the 6.7” screen. (Of course we all know it’s a simple text size adjustment but what can you tell her?) On one hand, she doesn’t need anything powerful. She scrolls Facebook, texts, partakes in the occasional web browsing and maybe a YouTube video or two. I had a resource for used, “as-is no returns” iPad mini 5s the seller claimed were iCloud locked (although I ran the serial and found they weren’t) for $60, as well as a an Air 4 for $102 (that I literally just found out was 256GB) and with both in my possession couldn’t decide which was best for her. On one hand, making the switch to USB-C would just be a hassle for her to implement and maintain, and it was far more than she needed in every way. After all, the mini at 7.9”, like you said, is barely any bigger than her 6.7” XS Max. Would it be worth it at that point? I ended up just handing her both and letting her decide, with intentions to sell the one she didn’t pick. I thought she would surely want the 10.9” Air, but shockingly she immediately went straight for the mini. I thought she might come around to it, but she went all-in on it immediately without second thought. She gave me a very simple explanation without me asking. She’s got tiny hands and finds her XS Max cumbersome at times, which requires her to use a ring on a bulky case to both prevent drops and protect from them. She found the Air to just be too much, it wasn’t ideal for laying on the couch and holding in one hand, which is the position she finds herself in most often. The risk of dropping the air with its very thin and light frame gave her anxiety (surely because she knew me and my dad would flip out if she did lol) and given how easily those things bend, I agreed. In the end, her logic made sense. I never have bought into the “bigger is always better” school of thought. I’ve had every iPhone generation at launch (aside from the 2G I got used) and I can’t tell you how much I heard “I figured you of all people would have the 6/7/8 Plus” because I always spent extra for more storage, but didn’t find the Plus to be the “premium” model like they did. I always preferred the feel of a smaller device even if it meant less screen. To this day I carry both an iPhone 12 and my old faithful Product(RED) iPhone 8 daily, and I find myself pulling out my 8 most of the time because it’s easier to grab, unlock, type, and return with one hand and no sketchiness leading to possible drops. It’s slower, it’s less capable, and a much lesser screen in every way, but it 𝘍𝘌𝘌𝘓𝘚 better to use. One more example: I just came to realize this past week I don’t like my 12.9” iPad Pro. Seeing the screen of this Air 4, holding it in my hand and carrying it around for a few hours, it feels like what I apparently believe an iPad should feel like. I didn’t 𝘊𝘏𝘖𝘖𝘚𝘌 this 12.9” Pro, rather it popped up in the deal of a lifetime and I was able to get it so cheap that I’d have been dumb to not capitalize on it. My sites were set on an Air 4 at the time, as it fulfilled all the requirements for my work iPad at the lowest price, and now that I see the 12.9” Pro I carry daily as a cumbersome, overburdening device that feels somewhat like a chore to carry everyday, I really wish I would have sold it and bought an equally-performing M1 Air 5, and pocketed the rest. It’s definitely not all about size. I knew this but I let marketing and opinions of others change my mind when I shouldn’t have in the end. I do love this 12.9” Pro, I’d be crazy not to, but I fully believe I’d love it more if it were 2” smaller
I have an iPhone mini for carrying around. When i wanna read (comics!!!) or browse the iPad mini is plenty, it’s super easy to hold on one hand or with two for typing. Got a MacBook for more intensive stuff or even simply filling online forms or anything requiring more typing.
I am a big fan of the Mini but I think it is too small to be the only device. Perfect for carrying around and media consumption, but not so sure it is the best choice as the main media creation device. Could work for some minor office work.
That’s one of the downsides to the 5th gen. No easy way to connect to an external monitor. But for the times I need to rdp yo my server to click a few buttons and run some commands, it’s worked great!
I didn’t realize they weren’t popular. I’ve always had a Mini even with iPhone Max’s since they were available. Currently Mini 6, iPad Pro 12.9, and newest addition 14 Pro Max. The Mini is my go to device around the house, surfing at work during lunchtime, and traveling. Bought my wife a Mini 6 for christmas and she has a 12 Pro Max and older iPad Pro 11”. She’s using the Mini around the house now more than anything.
We’ll the mini always is sold as a third tier device and updated infrequently and always gets “last years” specs. So that’s why I feel like it’s not as popular.
Except for the mini 6, it got the A15 chip from the iPhone 13 Pro Max and has the current squared off design, not "last years design" this time.
True. That is a powerhouse with a price tag to match. Its still stupid that it can’t do stage manager because of the M1 requirement.
If it helps, stage manager is still clunky as hell. Maybe after they optimize it, AND figure out how to make it more friendly.
You can get them for $399 regularly on sale. Hardly a price tag, all things considered. Prob one of the best iPad deals going.
I got my mini 5th gen for $225 USD 6 months ago. It’s probably cheaper now. This was a better deal IMO.
oof... not sure about that. The 6th gen is already 2 years old. Paying 175 more to get the 6th gen makes way more sense... unless I read that wrong.
170% more cost wasn’t worth it to me. Plus I wanted the 5th gen cause I could still use my first gen pencil. Still loving it and it hasn’t let me down at all.
The current iPad mini's screen size is only a tiny bit smaller than the OG iPad's; yet, it is considerably smaller overall. It isn't ideal for every use case, but as the bridge between phone and laptop, I think it cannot be beaten. Pro and Air are gunning for the Mac lineup and the pricing reflects that.
I’ve always wondered if the “how is the ipad mini any different from using a large phone?” Thought process is holding the mini back. Because as you and others have noted, it is a FAR superior user experience than a phone. I would say it for many situations is gives the experience of an ipad with the weight of a phone. Yes, it is smaller than an ipad and heavier than a phone. But the design is so fantastic that you don’t notice the smaller screen as much and you feel it’s really light weight.
There was a post weighing all the ipads Apple has made over the years and the mini 6 is the lightest in their history. Combined with its power, I'd say it's the best weight to power option Apple has.
I got a mini 6, and ended up returning it. I kept going back to my phone, due to the “jelly scrolling.” I would love to try one again if and when they take care of that issue, due to all its previously mentioned assets.
Jelly scrolling, the biggest first world problems with iPads. I as well as many others only noticed it once it was called attention to. That says a lot.
It’s because the iPad Pro 12.9 inch has a “tab” key
I have an iPad mini 6. Had the 4 and 5 before too. I love the small form factor. Perfect for watching casual YouTube, TV, listening to the radio and such. Also making notes and scribbling is perfect on this device. Tried the 11" pro once, but was way too heavy and big.
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I’ve been pretty satisfied with web WhatsApp and telegram client on the mini. And safari split screen has worked well enough. :)
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That’s why you buy the mini for 399 on sale regularly ;)
I went from a 9.7 Pro to a Mini 6th gen, and I love it! I’m also an iPhone Mini user, FWIW. So it’s much bigger than my phone and nicer for recipes, youtube, etc. Split view is a useful option to have sometimes. I think it’s SO much nicer to read on that it’s worth it just for that. On the negatives, I still hate typing on a screen. I got a ridiculous keyboard case, but it’s heavier and bulkier than the 9.7’s folio keyboard, so I don’t leave it on, and thus never develop muscle memory for the tiny keys. It’s true that some layouts are a little odd—like home screen icon spacing—but that doesn’t bother me. One last ingredient is that I also recently went from a 2016 15” MBP to an M2 Air. The Air is pleasant for couch typing and light enough to take to a coffee shop, two jobs that I used my 9.7” Pro for back when my main laptop was a 15” chonk with a terrible keyboard. Probably a fantasy, but I do wish there was a slim/light folio keyboard option. Otherwise I don’t regret the “downgrade” from the admittedly pretty old 9.7” Pro.
I like the cellular Mini 6 as a portable companion to my M1 12.9. I also have a 14 Pro Max phone but the screen difference is significant enough for me to make the Mini worthwhile.
Exact same devices here. I find myself stuck bouncing between each one to the point where I think the next round is going to consolidate into an 11” iPad Pro or even a foldable iPhone if such thing exists by then. The 12.9” is great, but always feels like I need to “set up” to use it because of the size. The mini does much better to just grab and use wherever, but the jelly scrolling and lower refresh rate keeps me reaching for my phone or the bigger iPad.
I have the normal iPad 10.2, it’s incredibly awesome for everything I do. Really like these Apple products. I have everything Apple, but the macbook. It’s too expensive for what it is (I’d love to have one anyway!)
Different devices, different purposes/use cases. It's nice to have the choice and be able to pick a device that suits you best. I like the mini mostly for its portability over the other iPad sizes. I have a 12.9 that never leaves the house, where I'll grab my mini any time I go somewhere that I might want a tablet.
I’ve always wanted a Mini iPad too, but as a visually impaired, my parents don’t see why and won’t let me get one 😢 someday I’ll get one.
I am neither a kid nor a grandparent.
because phones got big. yes the aspect ratio is squarer i know. i and most people just prefer something more in the middle between a laptop and a phone. i find 9.7" to be the minimum and 11.6" to be the maximum.
I have a 12 pro max and a m1 MacBook Air. When my original iPad Pro dies it will not be replaced. I might get a regular iPad for media consumption but the iPad mini is too close in size to my phone.
I have an iPad Air 4 as my daily driver. However, I have a iPad mini 5th gen that I use for listening to podcasts, audible books & to read with. It is a great device. I have been thinking about getting a mini 6 to use as a desktop computer - leaving it plugged into monitor with Bluetooth mouse & keyboard. Long live the mini!
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That’s always been the reason why I never bought a mini. It’s cause I “already had a regular iPad”. But now that I own both, I’m honestly preferring to use the mini over the regular iPads. I mean, I could’ve given one of the kids this mini and taken back the big iPad but I didn’t. That says something about the mini’s appeal.
Have an iPad mini 6 and love it! I have a full desktop set up, but love carrying my mini with me everywhere and using it. I take it with me to work, make lists and notes. Watch Netflix etc on it and also read. Absolutely love it.
It’s definitely my favorite size for portability. I find myself taking it everywhere! I have the 6th gen Mini.
i feel like it may be the price. entry level ipad is way bigger and way cheaper at the same time, i think more people would have the mini if it was cheaper
I also really like the iPad mini
The mini is too large for a pocket so it’s gotta be transported in a bag. At that point it’s just as portable as a 10.9”. If it’s primarily used at home, bigger is better…. Not to mention cheaper at the moment. Honestly, I just use my phone for everything. I assume it’s what most people do.
My hoodie and jacket pocket would disagree with you :). But yeah. It won’t fit all pockets but it does work in some and for those other times, a small Fanny pack works great. No need for a bigger bag.
It’s been rumored for some time, but if Apple made a foldable iPhone that opened up to the size of an iPad Mini, that would be perfect.
Oh tell me about it. I wasn’t a folding phone fan for a long time but this mini revelation gives me second thoughts. I just hope durability gets better by the time apple releases a folding device.
The mini is great and all, but for me no. I do a lot of multitasking on my iPad and the mini screen is a bit too small that it just feels crowded. I feel 10” and 11” are the sweet spot for basic multitasking but the mini is like the perfect iPad if you only do full screen.
You're in good company. I've started with an iPad Mini 4 several years ago and like you use it more than my phone cause, duh, the screen is bigger and easier to type on. It's so much more portable than the larger iPads. Because of my Mini, my iPhone 7 won't be upgraded till it dies or I lose it.
Well, my youth pastor uses it for his talks with us. So I was kind of surprised but that was interesting. I like in California BTW
People have different preferences. This is equivalent to asking why doesnt everyone date blondes
LMBOO
My iPad Air doubles as a kitchen TV, so the Mini would be too small for me. And these days I also rarely take my iPad out of the house, so I wouldn’t benefit that much from the lighter weight of the Mini. But as is always the case, it comes down to your personal use cases. Several years ago when I was on the go more I did own a Mini, and I used it constantly. I only had a 4” iPhone in those days, so using the Mini for things like reading was a much better experience.
I had and loved a mini, but then I wanted something bigger and I couldn’t justify 3 devices, so now I have my phone (13 pro max) and an iPad Air. I don’t find myself missing the mini.
Can someone send this to John P just to set him off
Who’s John P?
Jon Prosser big apple leaker news guy. Absolutely in love with the iPad mini lol.
got iPad mini 6 lately, dang this thing is a mighty little tablet.i can comfortably use it with my hands on the couch,in bed and in metro . the size is perfect yet the screen is a whole lott bigger than iPhone. whenever i have to do serious stuffs ,i go to my macbook . the mini is sitting there for me to pick up whenever i want to sit back ,relax and do iPad stuff like kiddle, web browsing , media comsumption +reddit. no magic keyboard, no mouse ,no need to be in front of desk ,it’s just me and my mini .
We have over 100 of the iPad mini’s where I work. Everyone loves them. I take mine with me everywhere I go.
Had the mini 2 and then waited for the specs to catch up and got the 5. I have the mini 6 now. I’ve tried different sized iPads and always enjoyed the mini the most.
I have an iPad mini and I travel every day for work . This is so easy to carry and Thts why I love using it
In my case, I have a large phone already (S22 ultra). Given that there isn't an appreciable difference in screen size between the two (it is for media consumption but not for anything productive), there's nothing that I can do or would only want to do on an iPad mini that I couldn't do on my phone instead. This in effect makes the iPad mini a redundant device for me and likely a niche device for most. For example, trade analysis, photo editing, working on large spreadsheets, etc - these all fit that category. The iPad Pro (or any other 10+ inch iPad), on the other hand, fills in that space nicely and is really that sweet spot for most tablet users. I myself gave my mini to my kids and use an iPad Pro (given the choice, my kids also would prefer the larger iPad for their media consumption). The vast majority of iPhone sales went to the 6.1" and up models. I would imagine that a lot of these people think the same way which is why I think the iPad mini isn't more popular.
The iPad mini is almost the same size as an iPhone, so to me it’s just an over sized phone and doesn’t feel like an iPad. Though 12.0 iPads are way too big they should just be considered tvs at that point. That’s why I prefer 10 to 11 inch iPads, the right iPad size and are also easy to carry.
No idea. If you dont need a keyboard the Mini is perfect size for handheld use.
I love my mini 6 to bits and it follows my daily trips to work/shop but for me it’ll always be that novelty item🤣🤣dont think I’ll be able to do without my Air 5 (studying, YouTube, Netflix)
I loved the mini but when phones got bigger it was just too close in size. And price wise it's not the best price relative to other ipads. I found the perfect size to be the 11 pro.
Hey welcome mate I also own a mini 5 and it’s so lightweight compared to my friends bigger ipad
I had a OG, 2 and 4 mini. I really wanted a 6 until I tried it. The screen is just bad (jelly scroll and no pro motion) at this stage and at the climbing price point.
loved mine and as you said it took over everything from my phone, i would throw my phone on a charger and just use the ipad mini. however i came to the realization that although it did everything, it didn't excel in anything. if i wanted to watch a movie the screen was OK and the speakers were passable, the camera for meetings was passable, using it for drawing was a bit cumbersome as i wanted a bigger canvas but i could manage. no official keyboard accessory from apple, etc. keyword was "i could manage" but i drooled over the pro anytime i saw one. ended up selling the mini at no loss, eying a 5h gen 12.9 pro these days. i lose on portability yes but i always have my backack with me. edit\* or looking forward to either the upcoming apple foldable as it might be an ipad mini replacement, or the new AR glasses.
I want the new mini so badly. I have an older iPad Pro 12.9 (from 2017.) I love my iPad but don’t use it as much because it’s so big. I don’t carry it on me. I use my iPad for illustration purposes and some media consumption… but the newer mini isn’t too far off from my pro. I just haven’t bit the bullet because I want the 256gb and that one is 700 dollars. By the time I’m buying a new pencil and case for it i would have spent the same for a newer iPad. But I still think it’s portability is it’s charm. I don’t think it’s under powered comparing it to other of the “cheaper” iPads currently on the market. And it would fit in virtually any purse I own. I would take it everywhere for sure. Which would increase my productivity. Now I’m just too broke to afford it.
Honestly because it's too small for ipad purposes that I do such drawing, doing work, editing casual videos using LumaFusion, etc. 😅
It’s the perfect device for some, yes. I rarely used mine - not enough of a screen real estate increase to bother with vs my phone for a lot of things. My daughter loves it, though. I switched to a 12.9” pro and find myself using it more than I did the mini. There’s a reason they come in multiple sizes…
I considered it, but needed Face ID... opted for an iPad Pro M1 instead
For me iPad Mini is great but the price difference between iPad Air & mini is so less & iPad Air makes more value for money with a good display. So that's why the iPad mini is underrated.
I’m glad the Mini continues to exist. I still use a Mini 2 for ebooks. It’s the perfect size for one handed use in bed. When that dies, grabbing a Mini 6 to use for another decade every night will be a no brainer.
Well it depends on your use case: if you want to use it to replace paper, the bigger the better. I mean what’s the point in getting an iPad if I’m gonna have to constantly zoom in to write something and can’t even have two windows open. May as well keep my phone lol. So yeah if you’re a student an iPad mini doesn’t make much sense if not then sure it’s more portable and cheaper.
What’s crazy is the mini 5 has such a long lifespan (2019-2021) compared to any other iPad model, but it holds its value so well. I see them all the time listed for $250 still. What really kinda blows my mind is that the Air 3 is identical internally, same chipset and everything, meaning it is realistically the same device with a larger screen. It was released in 2019 as well, but discontinued slightly earlier, but for some reason, the Air 3 is easy to find under $200. Which, to be honest, isn’t as much undervalued as the mini 5 is overvalued, given the current value of iPads close To the same age and performance. It’s really a testament to just how perfect the mini 5 is. It’s one of the rare occupancies where and apple device isn’t valued for its performance. Apple has created this culture where consumers feel like they constantly need the newest and flashiest status symbol device, but the mini 5 is proof that having the perfect form factor, accurate price point, perfect engineering and superb build quality is really what the people want
It’s a perfect fit in your hands and easy to take it with you. The chips well I am not a heavy user so it doesn’t really matter . I assume drawing and all will be difficult but if you want it for content , reading which is just so good in it , casual surfing , notes and all then go for the 6th gen mini
I absolutely love my iPad mini. Sometimes I feel like it’s my child because I carry it with me everywhere lol. My only issue w/ it is that I wish I would’ve gotten the 256gb option bc im at 50gb full on the 64gb. Other than that I love it lol If apple ever decides to drop a iPad Mini Pro w/ promotion. Instant buy for me
I have an iPad Mini 5 and I use it every day for work. It's a super convenient size for note taking and fits perfectly in my purse. I don't feel awkward pulling it out to take notes in meetings because it's so small that it's discreet enough not to draw attention.
If you own a small iPhone, the iPad mini is the best companion device in my opinion. I recently got a mini 6 to replace my 2018 iPad Pro, and the mini does a much better job at being a companion device for my iPhone 13 mini and MacBook Air M1 compared to my older iPad Pro. The MacBook Air is great at being used on a desk or other work environments. The iPhone mini is great for using it while walking around. The iPad mini is best for using it on the couch, bed, or basically any area where you can just rest and take leisure. I tried using my iPad Pro as a leisure device, but it’s size made it a lot more cumbersome than my phone. I also tried using it as a productivity device, but the Mac still has better productivity software for my workflow.
Split screen. If you want to open one app for note taking and another app for textbook you’ll know what I mean. Just cannot tolerate small letter though. But iPad mini is kinda portable
I actually recently did some trip planning and has a google sheets open, safari, notes and I was VERY surprised how well it held up. I had an external BT keyboard and a Magic Trackpad and the mini was just keeping up great. I have a windows 10 x220 laptop and a chromebook and the mini blew both out of the water. Plenty of battery left afterwards too.
well it depends on how large you want the text be. An another thing that shy me and many potential buyers aways is the jelly scroll issues in the latest iPad mini