Ipad Mini 2 Vs Ipad Mini 3: Which One Is The Better Choice? expert Comparison
What To Know
- In this comprehensive guide, we will compare the iPad mini 2 and iPad mini 3, highlighting their key differences and similarities to help you decide which one is the better choice for your needs.
- If you’re looking for a device with a brighter display, slightly faster performance, and Touch ID support, then the iPad mini 3 is the better choice.
- However, if you’re on a tight budget and don’t mind a slightly thicker and heavier device, then the iPad mini 2 is still a solid option.
The iPad mini series is a line of compact and portable tablets offered by Apple. The iPad mini 2 and iPad mini 3 are two popular models that were released in 2013 and 2014 respectively. Despite their age, these devices still offer a great user experience and can be suitable for various tasks. In this comprehensive guide, we will compare the iPad mini 2 and iPad mini 3, highlighting their key differences and similarities to help you decide which one is the better choice for your needs.
Design and Build Quality:
The iPad mini 2 and iPad mini 3 share a similar design language, featuring a compact and lightweight form factor. Both devices have a metal back and a glass front, giving them a premium look and feel. However, there are some minor differences between the two models. The iPad mini 2 is slightly thinner and lighter than the iPad mini 3, making it more comfortable to hold for extended periods of time. Additionally, the iPad mini 3 has a Touch ID sensor integrated into the home button, which allows for secure biometric authentication.
Display:
Both the iPad mini 2 and iPad mini 3 feature a 7.9-inch Retina display with a resolution of 1536 x 2048 pixels. This results in sharp and vibrant visuals, making them suitable for watching videos, browsing the web, and playing games. However, the iPad mini 3 has a slightly brighter display, which makes it more visible in outdoor conditions.
Performance:
The iPad mini 2 is powered by the Apple A7 chip, while the iPad mini 3 is equipped with the A7 chip. Both processors are capable of handling everyday tasks smoothly, including web browsing, email, and social media. However, the A7 chip in the iPad mini 3 is slightly faster and more efficient, resulting in better performance in demanding apps and games.
Storage:
The iPad mini 2 and iPad mini 3 are available in various storage configurations, ranging from 16GB to 128GB. It’s important to consider your storage needs when choosing between the two models. If you plan on storing a lot of apps, photos, videos, and music, you may want to opt for a higher storage capacity.
Camera:
Both the iPad mini 2 and iPad mini 3 have a 5-megapixel rear camera and a 1.2-megapixel front-facing camera. The rear camera can capture decent photos and videos, but it’s not as good as the cameras found on newer iPad models. The front-facing camera is suitable for video calls and selfies.
Software:
The iPad mini 2 and iPad mini 3 can run up to iOS 12, which is a few versions behind the latest iOS 16. However, iOS 12 still offers a wide range of features and apps, and it’s sufficient for most users. It’s important to note that some newer apps and services may not be compatible with iOS 12, so you may need to consider this when making your decision.
Battery Life:
The iPad mini 2 and iPad mini 3 have similar battery life, with both devices lasting up to 10 hours of mixed usage. This means you can use them for a full day without having to worry about running out of power.
Which One Should You Buy?
The iPad mini 2 and iPad mini 3 are both great choices for those looking for a compact and portable tablet. However, there are some key differences between the two models that may influence your decision. If you’re looking for a device with a brighter display, slightly faster performance, and Touch ID support, then the iPad mini 3 is the better choice. However, if you’re on a tight budget and don’t mind a slightly thicker and heavier device, then the iPad mini 2 is still a solid option.
Alternatives to Consider:
If you’re looking for a more modern iPad with the latest features and software, you may want to consider the following alternatives:
- iPad mini 6: The latest iPad mini model features a larger 8.3-inch display, a more powerful A15 Bionic chip, and support for Apple Pencil 2.
- iPad Air 5: The iPad Air 5 offers a larger 10.9-inch display, a powerful M1 chip, and support for Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil 2.
- iPad Pro 11-inch (2022): The iPad Pro 11-inch is the most powerful iPad available, featuring an M2 chip, a Liquid Retina XDR display, and support for the Apple Pencil 2 and Magic Keyboard.
What People Want to Know
Q1: Which iPad mini has a better camera?
A1: The iPad mini 3 has a slightly better camera than the iPad mini 2, with a larger aperture and improved image quality.
Q2: Can I use the Apple Pencil with the iPad mini 2 or iPad mini 3?
A2: No, the iPad mini 2 and iPad mini 3 do not support the Apple Pencil.
Q3: How long does the battery last on the iPad mini 2 and iPad mini 3?
A3: Both the iPad mini 2 and iPad mini 3 have similar battery life, lasting up to 10 hours of mixed usage.
Q4: Which iPad mini is better for gaming?
A4: The iPad mini 3 is slightly better for gaming due to its faster processor and improved graphics performance.
Q5: Can I use the iPad mini 2 or iPad mini 3 as a phone?
A5: No, the iPad mini 2 and iPad mini 3 do not have cellular connectivity and cannot be used as phones.
