iPad Mini 7 vs. iPad Mini 6: Is the Upgrade Worth It? Full Buyer’s Guide
iPad Mini 7 vs iPad Mini 6 , Apple has launched the iPad Mini 7, three years after the transformative update of the iPad Mini 6 in 2021. While the new iPad Mini keeps the same compact design and many core features, it offers some significant internal upgrades, including a faster chip, more RAM, enhanced Apple Pencil compatibility, and a USB-C port with improved speeds. So, is it worth upgrading? Let’s dive into the detailed comparison to help you make the best choice.
Key Upgrades in the iPad Mini 7
The iPad Mini is on a multi-year update cycle, unlike the annual updates seen with the iPad Pro and Air models. This release introduces the A17 Pro chip, Apple Intelligence support, and several other enhancements. Here’s what’s new with the iPad Mini 7 and why it might be a better choice for you.
A17 Pro Chip and Apple Intelligence
One of the standout upgrades is the new A17 Pro chip, replacing the A15 Bionic found in the iPad Mini 6. This upgrade significantly boosts CPU and GPU performance, making the iPad Mini 7 much faster and smoother for multitasking, gaming, and other heavy-duty tasks.
- CPU and GPU Speed: According to Apple, the A17 Pro chip delivers a 30% faster CPU and a 25% faster GPU, bringing notable improvements to everyday performance.
- Apple Intelligence Support: For the first time, the iPad Mini supports Apple Intelligence features, which is similar to the technology in the latest iPhone models. This enables smarter processing for tasks, efficient battery usage, and optimized app performance.
In addition to this powerful chip, the iPad Mini 7 gets an increase in RAM from 4GB to 8GB, which supports more demanding applications and a smoother experience, especially when using multiple apps simultaneously.
Expanded Storage Options
Storage options have improved significantly. The iPad Mini 6 offered only 64GB and 256GB models, which may feel restrictive for some users. The new iPad Mini 7, however, starts at 128GB and goes up to 512GB for those needing extra space for apps, media, and files.
| Model | Storage Options |
|---|---|
| iPad Mini 7 | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB |
| iPad Mini 6 | 64GB, 256GB |
This expanded storage makes the iPad Mini 7 a better choice for users who need more flexibility, especially for productivity tasks, creative work, or multimedia storage.
Display: Retina Quality, but No ProMotion
Apple has kept the 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display from the iPad Mini 6, offering the same resolution (2266 x 1488) and pixel density (326 PPI). However, there’s still no ProMotion 120Hz refresh rate, which remains exclusive to the iPad Pro lineup.
Key features like True Tone and P3 wide color are still present, maintaining accurate colors and comfortable viewing in different lighting conditions. The 500-nit brightness is sufficient for most tasks but lags behind the iPad Pro models, which have a brighter, more fluid display experience.
One improvement comes with Apple Pencil Pro and Hover support, which allows for more intuitive interactions with the device. Apple Pencil Hover enables the iPad Mini 7 to detect the pencil before it touches the screen, adding a new dimension of precision for artists and note-takers alike.
Faster USB-C and Improved Connectivity
A big step forward is the upgrade to a 2x faster USB-C port. This allows the iPad Mini 7 to transfer data at speeds of up to 10Gbps, a considerable improvement over the 5Gbps speed on the iPad Mini 6. Faster USB-C opens up opportunities for faster file transfers, better peripheral compatibility, and more efficient workflows.
The iPad Mini 7 also adds Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 for improved connectivity. These enhancements make the iPad Mini 7 more future-proof, especially in environments with upgraded networking infrastructure.
Here’s a quick comparison of I/O features:
| Feature | iPad Mini 7 | iPad Mini 6 |
|---|---|---|
| USB-C Speed | 10Gbps | 5Gbps |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6 |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.0 |
| Apple Pencil | Apple Pencil Pro or USB-C | 2nd Gen Apple Pencil |
With these connectivity upgrades, the iPad Mini 7 is better equipped to handle modern tech ecosystems, including faster wireless connections and support for the latest accessories.
Camera Improvements and Smart HDR 4
The 12MP rear camera on the iPad Mini 7 remains similar to its predecessor but now includes Smart HDR 4, which improves dynamic range and color accuracy, especially in challenging lighting conditions. This enhancement is also available for the front-facing ultra-wide camera, which is still capable of Center Stage auto-tracking during video calls.
While the camera hardware is largely the same, Apple has positioned the iPad Mini 7’s front-facing camera on the short edge, which is unique among iPads. This is helpful for video calls when the device is held in portrait mode, making it a popular choice for those who use the iPad for FaceTime, Zoom, or other video chat applications.
Color Choices and Battery Life
Apple has made subtle changes to the color options. The iPad Mini 7 now comes in Space Gray, Blue, Purple, and Starlight, whereas the iPad Mini 6 was available in Space Gray, Pink, Purple, and Starlight. This year’s options may appeal more to those who prefer neutral or cooler shades.
Battery life remains unchanged, with up to 10 hours on a full charge for web browsing or video playback.
Price Comparison and Storage Options
The iPad Mini 7 is priced competitively, especially considering the increased base storage. Here’s a breakdown of the pricing for both Wi-Fi and cellular models:
| Model | iPad Mini 7 (2024) | iPad Mini 6 (2021) |
|---|---|---|
| 128GB Wi-Fi | $499 | – |
| 128GB Cellular | $649 | – |
| 256GB Wi-Fi | $599 | $649 |
| 256GB Cellular | $749 | $799 |
| 512GB Wi-Fi | $799 | – |
| 512GB Cellular | $949 | – |
Given the enhanced storage and updated hardware, the iPad Mini 7 provides better value per dollar, particularly for users who need larger storage and performance upgrades.
iPad Mini 7 vs iPad Mini 6
Reasons to Choose the iPad Mini 7
The iPad Mini 7 brings a host of improvements, including the A17 Pro chip, Apple Intelligence, more RAM, and better storage options. Here are some key reasons why it might be the right choice for you:
- Performance Boost: The A17 Pro chip and additional RAM make the iPad Mini 7 faster and more efficient.
- Improved I/O and Connectivity: Faster USB-C, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.3 support make it more versatile.
- Apple Pencil Pro Support: With Apple Pencil Hover and enhanced functionality, it’s great for creators.
- Enhanced Storage Options: 128GB base storage and up to 512GB for heavy-duty users.
- Long-Term Value: Future-proofed with advanced connectivity and processing power.
If you already own the iPad Mini 6 and primarily use it for light tasks, this upgrade might not be essential. However, if you rely on your iPad Mini for creative work, multitasking, or frequently transfer large files, the iPad Mini 7 offers compelling improvements worth considering.
iPad Mini 7 vs. iPad Mini 6
iPad Mini 7 vs. iPad Mini 6
iPad Mini 7 vs. iPad Mini 6