We have a new iPad mini in the office. Apple's compact device was officially unveiled yesterday, and you're probably wondering what changes this model brings compared to the 2021 iPad mini. Although they look almost identical on the outside, the internal differences might tip the scales in favor of the latest version. We'll give you all the details so you can decide whether it's worth upgrading your current iPad mini or, if you're giving it a try for the first time, whether it's worth going for the new one or opting for a cheaper, older generation instead. Take note.
Almost intact design and same screen now compatible with the Pencil Pro
One of the first things that stands out when comparing both models is that the design remains virtually the same . Both the 2021 iPad mini (6th generation) and the 2024 iPad mini (7th generation) share that minimalist aesthetic with straight edges and relatively prominent bezels, as well as the same sizes and materials.
However, there are changes in terms of color. Apple has added a new blue color in the 2024 version, in exchange for removing the pink color from the previous edition. Additionally, the logo on the back of the device has undergone a slight change; it now reads "iPad mini" instead of simply "iPad . "
Otherwise, both feature an 8,3-inch Liquid Retina display, with 500 nits of brightness and a resolution of 2.266 x 1.488 pixels that promises, as always, good levels of detail and color, now offering compatibility with the Apple Pencil Pro while the previous one supports the Apple Pencil 2.
The aforementioned stylus, which is the most advanced version we have in our catalog, allows for superior precision and sensitivity when drawing or writing, also including the floating pointer function , which detects the stylus before it touches the screen, making the experience smoother.
The biggest difference: the processor
The performance jump between the two models is more noticeable . While the 2021 iPad mini comes with the A15 Bionic chip, the newer 2024 iPad mini features the A17 Pro , which offers significant improvements.
This processor is manufactured using a 3-nanometer process, which not only improves energy efficiency but also allows for greater CPU and graphics power (we're talking about a 30% increase in CPU performance and a 25% increase in GPU performance compared to the A15 chip). So, if you're a user who, for example, often plays more demanding games, you might notice the difference.
Furthermore, the A17 Pro chip in the new iPad is compatible with the renowned Apple Intelligence , Cupertino's new artificial intelligence solution that promises, once available in 2025, to automate and assist us in a good number of tasks we perform with the Apple device—while the 6th generation iPad mini will not be able to access these features.
Doubled storage and vitaminized connectivity
Forget the base model with only 64GB of storage (which in many cases was insufficient): the 2024 iPad mini doubles the base storage capacity to 128GB, with an additional 512GB option , instead of being limited to the previous 256GB.
As for connectivity improvements, the latest model features Bluetooth 5.3 and Wi-Fi 6E , which, according to the company, promises faster and more stable connections compared to the Bluetooth 5.0 and Wi-Fi 6 of the 2021 model.
A difference in prices
With all these improvements, however small, it was expected that the price of the seventh-generation iPad mini would be higher than its predecessor, although fortunately the increase hasn't been too significant. The difference is just 50 euros between the two generations, as the 2021 iPad mini started at 549 euros, while the 2024 mini starts at 599 euros for its most affordable version.
However, it is expected that the 6th generation model can now be found for a slightly lower price at other retailers (it has already been withdrawn from the official Apple store). Keep that in mind.
Is it worth the change?
If you have a 2021 iPad mini and primarily use it for basic tasks like browsing the internet, taking notes, or watching videos , upgrading to the new iPad mini probably isn't essential for you. The A15 Bionic is still a very capable processor that will handle everyday tasks without issue.
If you don't already own one and are trying this out for the first time, then the price difference (at least officially) might make you want to opt for greater graphics power or the use of Apple Intelligence 's new features (when they become available, remember). The increased storage capacity and improved connectivity also make this new device a more future-proof option, although we'll keep that opinion to ourselves until we can conduct a more in-depth analysis. So, stay tuned.