Apple’s iPad Mini (2025) continues to be the go-to choice for users who want premium Apple quality in a compact form factor. With subtle but meaningful upgrades over its predecessor, the 2025 model aims to solidify its position as the best small tablet on the market. But does it deliver enough to justify its premium price? Let’s find out.
Key Specifications
- Display: 8.3-inch Liquid Retina (2266×1488), 60Hz, True Tone, P3 wide color
- Chipset: Apple A16 Bionic (5nm, 6-core CPU/5-core GPU)
- RAM: 6GB
- Storage: 64GB / 256GB (non-expandable)
- Cameras:
- Rear: 12MP (f/1.8), Smart HDR 4, 4K video
- Front: 12MP Ultra Wide (f/2.4) with Center Stage
- Battery: Up to 10 hours (mixed usage)
- Ports: USB-C (USB 3.1 Gen 2, 10Gbps)
- Wireless: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, optional 5G
- Dimensions: 195.4 × 134.8 × 6.3mm, 297g (Wi-Fi) / 301g (5G)
- Colors: Space Gray, Pink, Purple, Starlight
Performance: Small but Mighty
The A16 Bionic chip (same as iPhone 15 Pro) ensures smooth performance for:
- Multitasking (split-screen apps, Safari tabs)
- Gaming (Genshin Impact, Call of Duty Mobile run well)
- Creative work (Procreate, Lightroom, LumaFusion)
While not as powerful as the M-series iPads, the A16 is more than capable for most users. However:
- No ProMotion (60Hz only) – Scrolling isn’t as smooth as iPad Pro
- 6GB RAM helps with app retention, but heavy workflows may still reload apps
Compared to last-gen (A15):
- ~15% faster CPU, ~20% better GPU
- Better sustained performance due to improved thermals
Design: Premium & Pocketable
The iPad Mini retains its sleek, all-metal unibody with:
- Thin bezels (but no Face ID—still Touch ID in power button)
- USB-C (faster than Lightning, but not Thunderbolt)
- Lightweight (297g) – Easy to hold one-handed
- Flat edges (similar to iPad Pro design language)
Downsides:
- No MagSafe or wireless charging
- No keyboard folio option (unlike iPad Air)
Camera Quality: Surprisingly Good for a Tablet
- 12MP rear camera takes sharp photos in good light (great for document scanning)
- 12MP Ultra Wide front camera with Center Stage (perfect for video calls)
- 4K video recording (but no ProRes or cinematic mode)
Compared to rivals:
- Better than Amazon Fire HD 8
- On par with Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+
- Lacks LiDAR and Night Mode (found on iPad Pro)
Battery Life: All-Day, But Not Amazing
- 10 hours of mixed use (web, video, light apps)
- 6-7 hours under heavy use (gaming, video editing)
- 20W fast charging (charges 50% in ~35 mins)
Not class-leading, but sufficient for most users. The Galaxy Tab S9 FE lasts slightly longer.
Unique Features
✅ Apple Pencil (2nd Gen) Support – Great for notes and art
✅ iPadOS 19 – Improved multitasking with Stage Manager
✅ 5G option – Useful for on-the-go productivity
❌ No ProMotion or OLED – 60Hz feels dated
❌ No Magic Keyboard support – Limits productivity
Value for Money: How Does It Compare?
Starts at $499 (64GB), competing with:
| Device | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE (8.7″) | 90Hz AMOLED, S Pen included | Slower Exynos chip, weaker software |
| Amazon Fire Max 11 | Cheaper, decent display | Limited app ecosystem, sluggish performance |
| iPad (10th Gen, 2024) | Larger screen, A15 chip | Less portable, no Pencil 2 support |
Who Should Buy It?
- Students needing a portable note-taking device
- Travelers who want a compact media machine
- Artists who prefer a smaller canvas
Who Should Skip It?
- Power users (get an iPad Air instead)
- Those needing a laptop replacement (no keyboard folio)
- Budget buyers (Fire Max 11 is half the price)
Final Verdict: Still the King of Small Tablets?
✅ Pros: Premium build, A16 performance, Pencil 2 support, USB-C
❌ Cons: 60Hz display, expensive for specs, no keyboard support
Rating: 4.2/5 ★★★★☆
Best for: Users who prioritize portability and Apple’s ecosystem over raw power.
The iPad Mini (2025) isn’t a huge leap forward, but it’s still the best compact tablet for Apple fans. If you want a pocketable powerhouse, it’s worth the premium. However, if you need more screen real estate or better multitasking, the iPad Air or Galaxy Tab S9 FE might be better choices.
Alternatives to Consider:
- iPad Air (M2, $599) – More versatile, better for productivity
- Galaxy Tab S9 FE ($449) – Better display, included S Pen
- Refurbished iPad Mini 6 (~$399) – Nearly identical, much cheaper
