The 3G/3GS was released in 2009/2010. 2-3 years later, Apple introduces a new product line (iPad mini) that uses display tech from 2009/2010 when there's now better display tech available. That's the problem.
Actually, iPad 2 (on which iPad mini is based) was launched in 2011 with a maximum resolution of 1024×768 hence resulting in 132ppi and still is being sold now. So mini' is utilizing quite recent technology.
In addition, on the mini the iPad 2 resolution is used for a smaller screen or has 1024-by-768 resolution at 163 pixels per inch (ppi) which means that its actually by 25% sharper than iPad 2 (if you are into such things). It is lighter than rivals, has a very good camera with f/2.4 aperture (which is better than many dedicated p&s digital cameras). It is also 30% thinner than Nexus 7 and Kindle Fire HD, with Nexus which has a meagre VGA camera like in Nokia phone made in 2003. Nook HD has no camera at all.
Mini's resolution means you have a very good combination of readability and screen size while also having good battery life. Granted its not retina, but as I said above, its 25% sharper than iPad 2 which is not bad either. Actually, its of medium density screen. So nothing tragic.
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Hope it's paired properly or I'm returning it.
So all your screens are Retina? TV, computer, desktop?