Apple introduced the iPad Mini 5 in March 2019, targeting users who preferred a smaller, more portable tablet without compromising on performance. It succeeded the iPad Mini 4 with notable upgrades in processing power, display technology, and overall usability.
Specifications
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Display | 7.9-inch Retina display with True Tone technology |
Resolution | 2048 x 1536 pixels at 326 pixels per inch (ppi) |
Processor | A12 Bionic chip with 64-bit architecture |
Coprocessor | M12 motion coprocessor |
Storage Options | 64GB or 256GB |
Cameras | 8MP rear camera with f/2.4 aperture, 1080p HD video |
7MP FaceTime HD front camera with f/2.2 aperture | |
Battery Life | Up to 10 hours of surfing the web on Wi-Fi, watching video, or listening to music |
Charging | Via power adapter or USB to computer system |
Connectivity | Wi-Fi (802.11a/b/g/n/ac); dual band (2.4GHz and 5GHz); HT80 with MIMO |
Bluetooth 5.0 technology | |
Cellular Models | Wi-Fi + Cellular models available |
Sensors | Touch ID fingerprint sensor, Three-axis gyro, Accelerometer, Barometer, Ambient light sensor |
Operating System | iPadOS 15 |
Audio | Stereo speakers, Dual microphones for calls, video recording, and audio recording |
Dimensions | 203.2 x 134.8 x 6.1 mm (8.0 x 5.3 x 0.24 inches) |
Weight | Wi-Fi model: 300.5 grams (0.66 pounds); Wi-Fi + Cellular model: 308.2 grams (0.68 pounds) |
Colors | Silver, Space Gray, Gold |
Price (at launch) | Starting at $399 (USD), €449 (EUR) |
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Display: High-resolution Retina display with True Tone adjusts the white balance to match the ambient lighting, making it easier on the eyes.
- Performance: A12 Bionic chip ensures smooth performance across apps and multitasking.
- Battery Life: Up to 10 hours of battery life makes it ideal for all-day use.
- Camera: Improved 8MP rear camera captures detailed photos and supports 1080p HD video recording.
- Connectivity: Supports Wi-Fi 5 and optional Wi-Fi + Cellular models for on-the-go connectivity.
- Accessories: Compatible with the first-generation Apple Pencil for note-taking and creative tasks.
Cons:
- Design: Thick bezels around the display compared to newer iPad models.
- Connector: Uses Lightning connector instead of the newer USB-C standard.
- Storage Options: Limited to 64GB or 256GB configurations, which may not be sufficient for heavy multimedia users.
Comparison with iPad Mini 4
Feature | iPad Mini 4 | iPad Mini 5 |
---|---|---|
Display | 7.9-inch Retina display | 7.9-inch Retina display with True Tone technology |
Processor | A8 chip | A12 Bionic chip |
Storage Options | 32GB or 128GB | 64GB or 256GB |
Cameras | 8MP rear camera, 1.2MP FaceTime HD front camera | 8MP rear camera, 7MP FaceTime HD front camera |
Connectivity | Wi-Fi and optional Wi-Fi + Cellular | Wi-Fi and optional Wi-Fi + Cellular |
Battery Life | Up to 10 hours of battery life | Up to 10 hours of battery life |
Operating System | iPadOS 10 | iPadOS 15 |
Price (at launch) | Starting at $399 (USD), €439 (EUR) | Starting at $399 (USD), €449 (EUR) |
Why Upgrade to iPad Mini 5?
The iPad Mini 5 offers several compelling reasons to upgrade from the iPad Mini 4:
- Performance Boost: The A12 Bionic chip delivers significantly faster CPU and GPU performance, enhancing overall speed and responsiveness.
- Improved Display: True Tone technology provides a more natural viewing experience by adjusting the display’s color temperature based on ambient light.
- Enhanced Cameras: The upgraded 8MP rear camera and 7MP FaceTime HD front camera deliver better photo quality and video calls.
- Storage Options: Doubled storage capacities of 64GB and 256GB allow for more apps, photos, videos, and files.
- Software Support: Runs the latest iPadOS 15, ensuring compatibility with the latest apps and features from Apple.
Personal Recommendation
If you’re seeking a compact yet powerful tablet for daily use, the iPad Mini 5 remains an excellent choice. Its combination of performance, portability, and robust ecosystem integration makes it suitable for a wide range of tasks, from productivity to entertainment and creative endeavors. Whether you’re upgrading from an older iPad Mini or considering your first tablet purchase, the iPad Mini 5 offers a balanced blend of features that cater to various needs.