iPad Mini (A20 Pro) Review: The Little Tablet That Could (But at a Price)

The 2024 iPad mini cost $599 after the recent increase, and this new one starts at $699. I think all the updates on board here — the screen, the A20 Pro and a tighter design — make a $100 price bump reasonable.

Let’s talk about the latest and greatest from Apple: the iPad Mini (A20 Pro). It’s like the little sibling who finally got their act together and is now ready to take on the world—or at least your couch. This compact tablet has received some impressive upgrades, making it a worthy contender in the tablet arena. But before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s just acknowledge one thing: it’s still called a Mini. Spoiler alert: it’s not that mini anymore.

First up, the star of the show: the new OLED display. If you thought your Netflix binges couldn’t get any more vibrant, well, think again. This new display is like a feast for your eyes, turning every episode into a cinematic experience. It’s so bright and colorful that you might find yourself wondering if you accidentally walked into a candy store. But hey, who wouldn’t want their entertainment to look delicious?

Now, let’s talk specs. The iPad Mini now boasts a whopping 12GB of memory. That’s right—12GB! It’s like giving your tablet a triple shot of espresso. What does this mean for you? Well, multitasking just got a serious upgrade. You can switch between apps faster than you can say “I should really get some work done”—and we all know how that usually goes.

And if you’re the type who enjoys video calls (or perhaps just needs to look good while you chat with Grandma), you’ll appreciate the new landscape webcam. It’s positioned perfectly for those awkward moments when you realize your phone is too small to capture your best side. No more having to awkwardly tilt your device like you’re trying to get the perfect angle for a selfie. Apple’s got your back.

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: the price. Yes, this little powerhouse comes with a heftier price tag than its predecessors. It’s like going to a fancy restaurant and realizing that the tiny dish you ordered costs as much as a full meal at a diner. But, you know, at least it comes with a side of high-tech features.

However, it’s important to note that while the iPad Mini is thinner and lighter with a slightly larger screen than previous models, it doesn’t come with some of the bells and whistles you might expect. No Face ID? Check. No ProMotion technology? Check. It’s almost like getting a fancy sports car that only has a radio and no air conditioning. You can still drive it, but it’s not quite the same experience.

Despite the gripes, Apple has clearly positioned the iPad Mini as a compact and powerful on-the-go tablet. It’s perfect for those quick trips to the coffee shop, not-so-quick trips to the couch, or when you need to look productive in front of your friends. It’s definitely not for everyone, but if you’re in the market for a lightweight tablet that doesn’t compromise on performance, the iPad Mini (A20 Pro) might just be your new best friend.

In conclusion, the iPad Mini (A20 Pro) is a delightful little device that packs a punch. Sure, it’s not without its flaws, but let’s be honest: what is? If you’re willing to cough up the cash, you’ll find yourself with a tablet that’s as versatile as it is cute. Just remember to keep it away from the dog—those tiny tablets have a tendency to disappear in the blink of an eye!


Inspired by: “iPad mini (A20 Pro) review: Apple’s tiny tablet gets a big update” (r/Tech)