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First Impressions and Hands On with iPad Mini

MacRumors

MacRumors

macrumors bot
Original poster
Apr 12, 2001
65,076
33,293



Apple introduced the long-rumored iPad mini today. At 7.9" in diagonal, the new smaller iPad is said to allow for one handed usage. Apple had the device on hand for reporters to have hands on demos with the device.

​

Overall, the impressions are positive with many focusing on the build quality and lightness of the device. While the device is smaller, others note that it's certainly not tiny. Here is a roundup of some of the early impressions:

TechCrunch:
The finish of the device is matte on the back, making for a very nice feeling in the hand. The weight is really the most impressive part, though - as with the iPhone 5, but to an even greater degree, the iPad mini feels almost weightless when compared to its predecessors. It's so thin and light as to feel almost like a prop, rather than a functional device.
Click to expand...
The Verge:
The display on the mini looks incredibly sharp, and even though the resolution is lower than the 3rd and 4th generation full-size iPad, it doesn't immediately seem like a 1024 x 768 display. The smaller, 7.9-inch surface area certainly helps squeeze the pixels.
Click to expand...
Engadget:
It's still not "small," though. While a fully outstretched adult hand can generally grasp it without help from the other, you'll still want both for typing and using apps. It's still too big for your average pocket, and it's not going to save you a heck of a lot of room in your knapsack compared to the 9.7-incher.
Click to expand...
Anandtech offers this hands on video:


Article Link: First Impressions and Hands On with iPad Mini
 
Article Link
https://www.macrumors.com/2012/10/23/first-impressions-and-hands-on-with-ipad-mini/
P

psxp

macrumors 6502
Jan 8, 2008
396
469
looks ok for a smaller tablet.

I'd have to get a new iCade cabinet though! lol!

Think I'll stick to my 9.7" ipad 3rd Gen
 
F

frayne182

macrumors 6502
Oct 1, 2012
416
0
Canada
Nice video hands on.

Still looks a bit big. I probably would of gotten it if it was announced along with the iPad 3.... but to little to late now.
 
A

Alfuh

macrumors regular
Mar 31, 2009
239
0
Looks like an iPad ... but smaller! :eek:

The tech specs on this are the same as the iPad 2 right?

Maybe not confirmed from a tear down, but that's what's expected?
 
Lancer

Lancer

macrumors 68020
Jul 22, 2002
2,217
147
Australia
"One hand use"?

So why the big deal about the 4" iPhone, didn't Apple say it was the perfect size for one hand use, the iPad Mini is much bigger!
 
somethingelsefl

somethingelsefl

macrumors 6502
Dec 22, 2008
461
204
Tampa, FL
Did Engadget just use the word "knapsack"? What's next? A tech blog saying "The iPad mini fits great in your fanny pak!"

Also, all of this talk of sizes, inches, minis, etc...I having to try so hard to refrain from yelling "That's what she said!" every few moments.
 
F

futbalguy

macrumors 6502
May 16, 2007
285
63
Everyone is complaining but I think it looks far better than the iPad 3. I always thought the iPad weighed a bit too much to be really comfortable. This looks like it has reached the point where you wont notice the weight. Also, its not retina but it certainly is better than the original screen. Im sure it will not be noticeable unless you get really close in. Also, size-wise I think its better than the iPad which seemed a little too big to me. I just dont think you need a personal media device to have a large screen. I might actually get one of these. I wont compare price to the more expensive model because the more expensive model never suited me. Its one of the only Apple products I dont own because I just didnt see the point. A kindle or nook was better for reading because they are so light and easy to hold. This looks like a solid option.
 
skoldpadda

skoldpadda

macrumors 6502
Sep 28, 2010
360
2
If this had been Retina... I probably would have purchased. It's a shame, but It gives you something to look forward to I guess.
 
S

samcraig

macrumors P6
Jun 22, 2009
16,780
41,983
USA
As I said on another thread...

Only Apple would say that a >4" phone is too large for the hand, yet talk about how great it is to use a 7.9" iPad mini that fits in one hand. :)
 
bogg

bogg

macrumors 6502
Apr 12, 2005
448
79
Sweden
Lancer said:
"One hand use"?

So why the big deal about the 4" iPhone, didn't Apple say it was the perfect size for one hand use, the iPad Mini is much bigger!
Click to expand...


Idiots everywhere.

HOLD IT with one hand. You either have your 9.7" iPad in your lap, on the stand or held with two hands. You never hold it with 1 hand for prolonged periods of time.

you USE your iphone with 1 hand.
 
I

iAco

macrumors regular
Sep 19, 2012
132
0
Not that excisting or impressive. It's just a smaller iPad. Still runs the same OS.

Boooorrrriiinnnnngggg....

Now I gotta wait another 2 years for iPhone 6 and probably a Retina Air.

Screw Apple.
 
P

pizz

macrumors regular
Sep 10, 2007
196
0
$299 for an iPod touch but for $30 more I can get an iPad mini?? Why would I buy an iPod then? Doesnt make sense.
 
Last edited:
budfoot

budfoot

macrumors 6502
Jul 1, 2008
261
167
Boston, MA
Innovation at Apple

I now see how innovation works at Apple since Steve Jobs has died.

"We need innovation in the iPhone! Do it now!"
---"We'll make it bigger!"
"Brilliant! Magical!"

"We need innovation in the iPad! Do it now!"
---"Well... it worked for the iphone, but lets make this smaller!"
"Brilliant! Magical!"
 
M

MOKHAN

macrumors 6502
Mar 19, 2011
341
9
Toronto, Canada
The size of the mini seems more practical for normal use than the regular sized iPad. I wonder how long until the students at university make the switch LOL.
 
Rocko1

Rocko1

macrumors 68020
Nov 3, 2011
2,070
4
Made with the same low grade aluminum as the 5. Say hello to scuffs and dents.
 
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