From PCMAG · Eric Zeman · · 2m
Apple iPad mini (2026) vs. iPad mini (2024): Should You Pay $200 More?
Apple's 2026 iPad mini costs $200 more than the 2024 model but offers key upgrades.
In brief
Apple's 2026 iPad mini costs $200 more than the 2024 model but offers key upgrades. The 2026 iPad mini costs $200 more than the 2024 model but has better display, processor, and camera features. Originally reported by PCMAG.
Price: From Not Bad to Yeeouch
The 2024 iPad mini starts at $499 for 128GB Wi-Fi. Apple raised the price by $100 to $599 this year.
Price: From Not Bad to Yeeouch
The 2026 model starts at $699 for 128GB, up $100 from the 2024 model. The 512GB version costs $999.
Price: From Not Bad to Yeeouch
Adding 5G cellular costs another $150. The 2026 iPad mini costs up to $1,149, more than the MacBook Neo.
Design: One Big Gain
The 2026 model has fewer colors: only Midnight (black) or Starlight (gold).
Design: One Big Gain
The 2026 model has sealed edges for an IP67 rating, protecting against dust and water.
Size: Apple's Obsession With 'Thinner and Lighter' Pays Off
The 2026 iPad mini weighs 0.56 pounds, the same as the iPhone Duo.
Display: Finally, What We've Waited Years For
The 2026 model has an 8.5-inch OLED display with 2,316 by 1,512 pixels at 322ppi.
Display: Finally, What We've Waited Years For
The 2026 display has 1,200 nits brightness and runs as low as 1 nit in low light.
Processor and Specs: Everything Is Faster
The 2026 model uses the A20 Pro chip, the same as the iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max.
Processor and Specs: Everything Is Faster
The A20 Pro delivers 60% faster CPU performance and 4.5x faster AI performance than the A17 Pro.
Battery: You'll Never Guess
Apple says the 2026 iPad mini will last 10 hours on Wi-Fi or 9 hours on cellular.
Cameras: A Fresh Orientation Makes a World of Difference
The 2026 model has a centered FaceTime camera for easier video calls in landscape orientation.
Cameras: A Fresh Orientation Makes a World of Difference
The 2026 model's rear camera supports 4K60 video and has an f/1.8 aperture.
Winner: iPad mini (2026)
The 2026 iPad mini wins on display, processor, and camera improvements.
The key point
The 2026 iPad mini costs $200 more than the 2024 model but has better display, processor, and camera features.
