Apple’s iPad Mini 7 merges powerful performance with compact design, featuring the new A17 Pro chip, an 8.3-inch display, and up to 512GB storage. While the tablet excels in performance and portability, some users might find limitations in the refresh rate and camera placement. The device starts at ₹49,900 for the base model.

Design and Display

The iPad Mini 7 maintains a premium build quality with an aluminum body, weighing just 308 grams. Available in Space Gray, Silver, Purple, and Blue, it features an 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display with 2266 x 1488 pixels resolution. The screen delivers 500 nits of peak brightness and includes True Tone technology for adaptive viewing.

Processor

The A17 Pro chip powers the device, delivering a 30% boost in CPU performance and 25% improvement in graphics capabilities compared to its predecessor.

RAM and Storage

With 8GB RAM and storage options from 128GB to 512GB, the device offers ample space for apps and media. However, unlike some Android competitors, it lacks expandable storage.

Software

iPadOS 18 introduces enhanced multitasking capabilities and Apple Pencil Pro support. It brings improved camera features, including better low-light performance and advanced photo editing tools. Apple’s commitment to five years of updates ensures long-term software support.

Performance

The A17 Pro chip establishes the iPad Mini 7 as a performance powerhouse in the compact tablet segment. Compared to similarly sized competitors like the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 and Xiaomi Pad 6, it demonstrates superior processing capabilities in demanding tasks. Photo and video editing applications run seamlessly, while graphics-intensive games maintain stable frame rates. The device excels in multitasking scenarios, handling multiple apps simultaneously without noticeable lag. Smart Script integration enhances productivity, making it particularly effective for professional users. The tablet’s performance in benchmarks consistently outperforms competitors in its size class, though larger tablets like the iPad Pro offer marginally better thermal management during sustained workloads.

Camera

The iPad Mini 7 features a 12MP rear camera and a 12MP ultra-wide front camera, competing well with the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9’s camera system. The rear camera supports 4K/60fps video recording, while the front camera includes Smart HDR 4 and Centre Stage. Though the landscape orientation of the front camera may be awkward compared to the iPad Air, image quality surpasses most tablets in its price range. Low-light performance shows improvement over the previous generation.

Sound

The stereo speakers deliver clear audio suitable for casual use, though they don’t match the immersive experience of larger tablets like the iPad Pro or Samsung Galaxy Tab S9.

Battery

Battery life extends to 10 hours of typical use, including web browsing and video playback, matching industry standards in its category.

Accessories

Compatible with the second-generation Apple Pencil (₹10,900) and various keyboards (starting at ₹14,900), enhancing productivity options.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Powerful A17 Pro chip
• Compact, lightweight design
• High-quality Liquid Retina display
• 10-hour battery life
• Apple Pencil support
• Long-term software support

Cons

• Limited design updates
• No high refresh rate display
• Suboptimal front camera placement
• Non-expandable storage

Market Buzz

Amazon and Flipkart users praise the device’s performance and portability while noting concerns about refresh rate and camera placement.

Pricing

• 128GB Wi-Fi: ₹49,900
• 256GB Wi-Fi: ₹59,900
• 512GB Wi-Fi: ₹79,900
• 128GB Wi-Fi + Cellular: ₹64,900
• 256GB Wi-Fi + Cellular: ₹74,900
• 512GB Wi-Fi + Cellular: ₹94,900

Final Verdict

The iPad Mini 7 excels as a compact yet powerful tablet, ideal for users prioritizing portability and performance, despite minor drawbacks in display refresh rate and camera positioning.