The new iPad Mini 7 (2024) is a compact tablet with notable upgrades that enhance its utility without deviating much from the design and form factor of its predecessor. Equipped with the A17 Pro chip, it delivers a 30% performance boost over the prior model, enhancing its speed for everyday tasks, gaming, and light photo editing. While it’s a capable and fast processor, it’s slightly scaled back compared to the A17 Pro chip in the iPhone 15 Pro series but still more than sufficient for regular usage.
The display remains an 8.3-inch LCD with the same 326 PPI as the previous version, but Apple appears to have resolved the “jelly-scrolling” issue, making the display smoother. However, the 60Hz refresh rate could feel limiting, especially as Apple reserves higher refresh rates for Pro models. Despite this, the Mini 7’s screen is vibrant with wide color gamut support and anti-reflective coating, making it enjoyable for media consumption.
One major enhancement is Apple Pencil Pro support, a first for the Mini line, which transforms it into a digital notebook for creative tasks. The USB-C port enables faster charging and better connectivity options, and the updated storage options (starting at 128GB) provide flexibility, especially for a device often used on the go.
Battery life claims reach up to 10 hours of mixed usage, and it supports Wi-Fi 6 and optional 5G for connectivity. While it lacks cutting-edge features, the iPad Mini 7 excels in performance, portability, and improved accessory support, making it a well-rounded choice for those seeking a powerful yet compact tablet.
The iPad mini 7 for 2024 offers incremental updates over its predecessor, mainly aiming to boost performance with the new A17 Pro chip and expanded connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3. This 8.3-inch tablet remains largely unchanged in design, display specs, and general functionality, continuing to feature a 60Hz LCD screen at 500 nits of brightness. The A17 Pro processor is a capable upgrade, offering a 30% performance boost over the previous model. Although slightly less powerful than the iPhone 15 Pro’s version, this chip comfortably supports Apple Intelligence features and Apple Pencil Pro integration, adding value for creative and professional users.
However, the new iPad mini lacks major changes in screen technology and design, maintaining the same dimensions and display qualities as the previous generation. Battery life also remains steady, without upgrades, which may be less appealing to those seeking higher-end visuals or extended power capacity. Many reviewers note that these modest enhancements suit professional users who prioritize performance and compact size over advanced features, but may not compel current iPad mini 6 users to upgrade.
iPad Mini 7 Full Specifications (2024):
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Display | 8.3-inch Liquid Retina, 2266 x 1488 pixels, 500 nits, 60Hz |
| Processor | A17 Pro chip (5-core GPU) |
| Storage Options | 128GB, 256GB |
| RAM | 8GB |
| Rear Camera | 12MP Wide, Smart HDR 4, 4K video recording |
| Front Camera | 12MP Ultra Wide, Center Stage support, Smart HDR 4 |
| Apple Pencil Support | Apple Pencil Pro (2nd generation) |
| Battery Life | Up to 10 hours on Wi-Fi, 9 hours on cellular |
| Operating System | iPadOS 17 |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, optional 5G |
| Ports | USB-C (10 Gbps) |
| Audio | Stereo speakers |
| Dimensions | 195.4 x 134.8 x 6.3 mm |
| Weight | 293g (Wi-Fi), 297g (Wi-Fi + Cellular) |
| Colors | Space Gray, Pink, Purple, Starlight |
This model provides upgraded performance and storage over the previous iPad mini, focusing on incremental enhancements for portability and power efficiency.
