iPad is also available in its Mini version with almost similar specs as found on a full-sized iPad. So which one should you go for – The larger iPad in its traditional 9.7″ size or the smaller iPad Mini? Let’s find out in this iPad vs iPad Mini comparison.
iPad Vs iPad Mini Comparison
Let’s get started on this iPad vs iPad Mini comparison by taking a look at the major specs of these two models of iPad in an easy to understand tabular format.
iPad vs iPad Mini Comparison Chart
| Features | iPad | iPad Mini |
|---|---|---|
| Size (L x W) | 9.4″ x 6.6″ inches | 8.0″ x 5.3″ inches |
| Thickness | 0.29 inches | 0.24 inches |
| Weight | 469 ~ 478 grams | 298.8 ~ 304 grams |
| Screen size | 9.7 inches | 7.9 inches |
| Resolution | 2048 x 1536, 264 ppi | 2048 x 1536, 326 ppi |
| Processor | A9, 1.6 GHZ | A8, 1.3 GHZ |
| RAM | 1GB | 1GB |
| Storage | 32 GB, 128 GB | 128 GB |
| OS | iOS | iOS |
| Battery Life | 10 hours | 10 hours |
| Camera Front | 1.2 MP, 720p | 1.2MP, 720 p |
| Camera Rear | 8 MP, 1080p HD | 8 MP, 1080p HD |
| Others | Siri, Touch ID | Siri, Touch ID |
| Network | WiFi, WiFi+Cellular | WiFi, WiFi+Cellular |
| Price | $329 ~ $429 | $399 |
As you can see from the comparison above, both iPad and iPad Mini have similar hardware specs and the same retina display. This almost amounts to Apple making available the same tablet in two different sizes.
iPad vs iPad Mini – Size
- iPad – 9.4″ x 6.6″ x 0.29″, 469 ~ 478 grams
- iPad Mini – 8.0″ x 5.3″ x 0.24″, 298.8 ~ 304 grams
Both iPad and iPad Mini have attractive slim bodies with chamfered corners a central home button with Touch-ID located on the bottom bezel.
As you can see from above, iPad Mini is smaller, thinner and lighter than iPad. Hence, the choice practically boils down to whether you like using iPad in its traditional size or prefer the small form factor in a tablet.
Those who favour the small form factor prefer their devices to be portable and easy to carry around. While those who favour the large form factor like to see larger text and images, extra space for typing and getting things done faster.
iPad vs iPad Mini – Processor
- iPad – A9 Processor with 1.6 GHZ Speed, 2 GB RAM
- iPad Mini – A8 Processor with 1.3 GHZ Speed, 2 GB RAM
Both iPad and iPad Mini use desktop grade 64-bit Apple processors. iPad Mini is powered by Apple A8 Processor while the iPad has comparatively faster Apple A9 processor.
However, the actual difference between the two processors can only be felt while playing games and not while texting or browsing on the internet.
iPad vs iPad Mini – Display
- iPad – 9.7″ (diagonal), 2048 x 1536 (264 ppi)
- iPad Mini – 7.9″ (diagonal), 2048 x 1536 (326 ppi)
Both tablets have a similar 2048 x 1536 display. Due to its small screen size, iPad Mini packs in more pixels per inch (326 ppi), compared to the larger sized iPad (264 ppi)
The screen of iPad Mini is laminated and features anti-reflective coating. In comparison, the screen of iPad is unlamented and feels a bit spongy when you press on it.
While both tablets have amazing display quality, iPad Mini has a brighter display, reduced glare and feels good to use due to its laminated screen.
iPad vs iPad Mini – Battery
- iPad – 32.4 Whr
- iPad Mini – 23.8 Whr
The larger iPad needs a bigger battery to light up its 9.7″ screen. In comparison, the smaller iPad Mini is fitted with a smaller size battery, which is good enough to power its equally brilliant Retina display.
In terms of battery life, both tablets are rated to last up to 10 hours on a single charge.
iPad vs iPad Mini – Camera
- iPad – 8 MP Rear & 1.2 MP Front
- iPad Mini – 8 MP Rear & 1.2 MP Front
Both iPad and iPad Mini come with 1.2 MP Front and 8MP rear cameras.
Rear Cameras on both tablets feature auto image stabilization, f/2.4 aperture size snd 1080p HD video recording. The front cameras support auto image stabilization, f/2.2 aperture size and 720p HD video recording.
The Rear-facing flash is missing on both iPad and iPad Mini, which means that the rear cameras on both tablets are not ideal to use at night or in low light conditions.
iPad vs iPad Mini – Storage
- iPad – 32, 128 GB
- iPad Mini – 128 GB
iPad is available in 32 GB version, which makes it comparatively less expensive than iPad Mini, which is only available in 128 GB storage.
Going for the larger storage capacity makes sense, in case you are going to make the most of iWork, iPhoto, and iMovie, which Apple gives away for free with the purchase of an iPad.
Conclusion
iPad Mini is smaller, lighter and just disappears into your handbag without taking much space. This makes it more suitable for use while travelling to places of work (in a Bus or Train).
iPad with its larger screen is suitable for watching movies and playing games. You can go for iPad, in case you are most likely to use a tablet at home and it is also going to be used by your kids.