Apple’s iPads have only become more powerful, lighter and more useful since the first model launched back in 2010. And if you want a portable version that doesn’t miss out on performance, your best bet is to opt for a Mini.
And now, the Apple iPad Mini 7 has launched at £649 for the WiFi and cellular option complete with 128GB of storage. There’s also a Wi-Fi-only option at £499, and you can double or triple the storage capacity at respective premiums.
Available in four colours, including starlight, space grey, purple and blue, this 8.3” iPad’s cute form factor belies a serious amount of power thanks to its A17 Pro processor and built-in Apple Intelligence software (this AI software will be available in December). While the iPad Air and Pro models feature the same processors found in Apple’s MacBooks, the A17 is nevertheless a very powerful mobile chip that was first seen in the iPhone 15.
Its 12MP cameras on the front and rear feature Apple’s Centre Stage framing that make them ideal for video calls, selfies, and portrait shots, and the True Tone flash on the rear makes it a breeze to scan documents and record video in 4K. The liquid retina display matches its bigger Macbook cousins for gorgeous visuals, glare-resistance and a premium finish, and it’s compatible for use with Apple Pencils sold separately.
This iPad Mini 7’s computing power makes light work of multitasking, and it’s sure to deliver great results with any app available on the App Store. If you’re looking for a highly-portable and powerful device that will handle just about any tablet task you throw at it, this rapid little device could be your new best friend.
While the Mini 7 is so brand new it doesn’t yet have Amazon reviews, the Mini 6 was a runaway success ratings-wise with 4.8 out of 5 stars from over 640 ratings on Amazon. Many outlets report that the Mini 7, as you might expect, is more of the same only with added juice. Of the Mini 6, Amazon customers said: “This is a powerful little device and a perfect size…I’ve been through a few iPads, and this is by far one of the best. Lovely screen, great audio, easy cover, very useful with the Apple Pencil.” A five-star review said: “I just like the iPad Mini’s size. It’s so handy and I’m really enjoying it so far!”
Another added: “The resolution and battery life are great. It’s fast (I don’t game) and I have not measured the battery life as have no issues with it at all. It works well with my Apple Pencil and split screen mode is useful for a number of things. Happy with the purchase.”
Some noted a few drawbacks, however. “A great tablet in every aspect but for the jelly scrolling when in portrait mode. Those that use it in landscape can get away with this flaw but you see that one side refreshes faster than the other,” said one user, referring to an issue where the screen can sometimes blur whilst scrolling. The Mini 7’s additional power ought to curb this issue, however.
“The problem with the iPad Mini 6 is that it is significantly smaller than the 11″ but the user interface isn’t optimised for the smaller screen meaning that everything looks tiny,” said another three-star review. You can, however, modify the interface in the Accessibility settings.
If you’d prefer the larger screen, Currys sells the LENOVO Tab P11 Pro 2nd Gen 11.2″ Tablet for £549. You can get a great tablet on a tighter budget too, with the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9 starting at £169 being a great option. That said, there’s something really lovely about the smaller size and portability of the iPad Minis. If a hand-friendly form factor and outstanding performance appeal to you, check out the latest iPad Mini 7, starting at £499.