All iPads Form factor: iPad Air vs iPad mini

[XTheLancerX]

I love slipping the mini into my pocket; its so convenient and one of the main reasons I think I will stick with it till after I get the Apple Watch. Then I will probably wait till October for a hopefully much improved mini. For now, my good old mini 1 is working fine for my simple uses.

Lately I've been trying to convince myself that a bigger screen would be so much better because I'm sick of worrying about getting low balled by Apple, giving inferior specs to the mini.

The only things that bother me about my mini 2 are 1. The PERFORMANCE OF iOS 8 ON THIS ONE YEAR OLD TABLET, 2. The display (at times) and 3. I wish I had Touch ID like on my iPhone 6, but it is certainly not a big deal by any means.

Anyway, iOS is seriously horrendous on A7 and I'm assuming A6 tablets when it comes to UI performance. Everything that has to do with translucency stutters horribly. The load times of pretty much everything is excellent, it's just the terrible UI performance and glitches because of iOS 8. On the iPad 2 and 3, translucency is disabled. As a result, the 4 YEAR OLD iPad 2 smashes my mini 2 in terms of UI performance in almost every aspect. Yes, it has half the resolution and not even anywhere close of a load on the GPU (lack of translucency) but Apple should make sure a 1 year old tablet runs smoother than a 4 year old tablet, I mean, COME ON.

Now for issue #2, the display. It's amazing, don't get me wrong, but sometimes the lower color gamut does bother me somewhat. Again, somewhat. I can definitely live with this display, it still looks beautiful, but it's just a little more on the drab side than I'd like.

So if they made the iPad mini 4 have an A9X processor like the iPad Air 3 and fixed the screen to be same quality as iPad Air 3, I would be more than pleased. Now, we need to find a couple ways they could slag the mini to make it a little more... realistic.

First of all, they could keep all the same external elements. Thick build, awkwardly placed microphones, sub par camera (who needs a good camera on a tablet anyway though?), same speakers, and just enough extra battery capacity to keep battery life the same.

Now, the iPad Air 3 would have the same screen quality as the iPad mini 4, same internals, but have batter cameras than the Air 2, better, stereo speakers, lighter, better build, better battery, and microphones in same places as Air 2, etc. But one could only wish. I'm 100% fine with the build of my iPad mini 2. I just want a better processor that can actually handle the UI. Also more RAM to reduce page reloads, and a more colorful, less reflective, laminated display. I like the idea of no air gap as well. However I don't think the mini will ever pack the same CPU as the full size iPad again... I think Apple learned with Air 1 and mini 2 that it results in too much of a loss in profits.

 

[newellj]

Honestly, one really needs both. The Mini is perfect for when mobility is foremost.

The iPad is perfect for when your sitting by the fireplace with your Golden Retriever at your side.

That's been my experience as well.

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Lately I've been trying to convince myself that a bigger screen would be so much better because I'm sick of worrying about getting low balled by Apple, giving inferior specs to the mini.

The only things that bother me about my mini 2 are 1. The PERFORMANCE OF iOS 8 ON THIS ONE YEAR OLD TABLET, 2. The display (at times) and 3. I wish I had Touch ID like on my iPhone 6, but it is certainly not a big deal by any means.

Anyway, iOS is seriously horrendous on A7 and I'm assuming A6 tablets when it comes to UI performance. Everything that has to do with translucency stutters horribly. The load times of pretty much everything is excellent, it's just the terrible UI performance and glitches because of iOS 8. On the iPad 2 and 3, translucency is disabled. As a result, the 4 YEAR OLD iPad 2 smashes my mini 2 in terms of UI performance in almost every aspect. Yes, it has half the resolution and not even anywhere close of a load on the GPU (lack of translucency) but Apple should make sure a 1 year old tablet runs smoother than a 4 year old tablet, I mean, COME ON.

Now for issue #2, the display. It's amazing, don't get me wrong, but sometimes the lower color gamut does bother me somewhat. Again, somewhat. I can definitely live with this display, it still looks beautiful, but it's just a little more on the drab side than I'd like.

So if they made the iPad mini 4 have an A9X processor like the iPad Air 3 and fixed the screen to be same quality as iPad Air 3, I would be more than pleased. Now, we need to find a couple ways they could slag the mini to make it a little more... realistic.

First of all, they could keep all the same external elements. Thick build, awkwardly placed microphones, sub par camera (who needs a good camera on a tablet anyway though?), same speakers, and just enough extra battery capacity to keep battery life the same.

Now, the iPad Air 3 would have the same screen quality as the iPad mini 4, same internals, but have batter cameras than the Air 2, better, stereo speakers, lighter, better build, better battery, and microphones in same places as Air 2, etc. But one could only wish. I'm 100% fine with the build of my iPad mini 2. I just want a better processor that can actually handle the UI. Also more RAM to reduce page reloads, and a more colorful, less reflective, laminated display. I like the idea of no air gap as well. However I don't think the mini will ever pack the same CPU as the full size iPad again... I think Apple learned with Air 1 and mini 2 that it results in too much of a loss in profits.

Agree on display gamut. Disagree on iOS 8, which I'm running with no problems on all my iOS devices other than the Gen 5 Touch.

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So 15 minutes ago I was carrying a lot of food out from the kitchen and didn't have a free hand for my iPad mini, I didn't want to make two trips so I got desperate and put the freaking iPad in my back pocket. Things like that really make me appreciate the mini size. Now keep in mind, I'm a guy, so pockets are generally much larger than women's pockets. But still. Was pretty surprised when I was able to pull that off.

You're lucky you remembered to take it out of your pocket before you sat down!

 

[oldmacs]

I love the mini size. For a long time I liked the idea of having an iPad, but it never was anything overpowering until I first held an iPad mini. Something about it, I just love them. In a pinch I can stick it in a sweatshirt pocket. I can decently comfortably hold it in one hand for awhile to use. It isn't too big to have while you use it in bed or on the couch. But it still is perfectly big enough to consume media or video, or play games. I actually prefer games on the mini because it's easier to reach around the screen for controls but the game is still nice and big.

However, lately I've been preparing myself to have to let go of the mini size for an iPad upgrade. Apple simply is set on keeping the mini as an inferior product to the full size iPad. I mean just look at the mini 3! What happened to the whole "Why should you have to compromise performance for a smaller form factor?"

rumour has it Apple wanted to introduce a new slimmer form factor but couldn't get the battery life needed out of the smaller battery, so they rushed the iPad Mini 3 and are aiming for a mid 2015 introduction for a better model. Like how the iPad 4 fixed all of the iPad 3 problems.

 

[DiCaprioAngel]

I own the rMini 2 and I bought my little sister an iPad Air for her 16th birthday. Both are great devices, but for me, personally, I prefer the smaller screen on the rMini 2. It's easier to hold and it suits my needs for a tablet. If I want to view something on a bigger screen, I'll just use my MacBook Pro. The rMini 2 is perfect for on the go, in my opinion. It's not so obvious, for one, and it's just the perfect size for reading a book or viewing a movie. Either way, it's up to you what you want to get for yourself. I've had experience with both devices and I always prefer my rMini 2.

 

[Phonzoxd]

rumour has it Apple wanted to introduce a new slimmer form factor but couldn't get the battery life needed out of the smaller battery, so they rushed the iPad Mini 3 and are aiming for a mid 2015 introduction for a better model. Like how the iPad 4 fixed all of the iPad 3 problems.

An actual rumor or just people being hopeful?

 

[oldmacs]

An actual rumor or just people being hopeful?

Not quite sure where I read it but it could be a bit of both.

There are a few ideas going around - Another is Apple didn't want to take away from iPhone 6+ sales by introducing a properly upgraded iPad Mini 3, so it is waiting to release a new model.

 

[Infinitewisdom]

Not quite sure where I read it but it could be a bit of both.

There are a few ideas going around - Another is Apple didn't want to take away from iPhone 6+ sales by introducing a properly upgraded iPad Mini 3, so it is waiting to release a new model.

Yeah, it's totally possible. The iPhone is their biggest source of revenue. And they make higher margins on the iPhone than the iPad. Why not gimp the iPad to make sure iphone sales aren't affected.

 

[Chocolatemilty]

Form factor: iPad Air vs iPad mini

Yeah, it's totally possible. The iPhone is their biggest source of revenue. And they make higher margins on the iPhone than the iPad. Why not gimp the iPad to make sure iphone sales aren't affected.

If this is true, then I won't be so sad upgrading my mini 1 to a mini 2 today. I'm loving this device a lot, but an A8 with 2GB RAM will take me well into 2017. I may do a launch day purchase for the second time (first time on the mini 1). We shall see!

I personally love the mini form factor. I tried to force myself to like the Air 2 and while everything about it was lovely, I just didn't like the extra ounces and feel in the hand. Just preference, I suppose.

 

[Infinitewisdom]

If this is true, then I won't be so sad upgrading my mini 1 to a mini 2 today. I'm loving this device a lot, but an A8 with 2GB RAM will take me well into 2017. I may do a launch day purchase for the second time (first time on the mini 1). We shall see!

I personally love the mini form factor. I tried to force myself to like the Air 2 and while everything about it was lovely, I just didn't like the extra ounces and feel in the hand. Just preference, I suppose.

Yeah, Apple can make the big iPad as thin as they want, but you can't get around the laws of physics. Mass is mass, regardless of what form it takes.

 

[Chocolatemilty]

Form factor: iPad Air vs iPad mini

Yeah, Apple can make the big iPad as thin as they want, but you can't get around the laws of physics. Mass is mass, regardless of what form it takes.

Exactly. I seriously let the "am I really complaining about ounces?" thought cross my mind many a time during my hands-on with the Air 2, and Lord knows that screen was incredible and the A8/2GB RAM combo was a dream, but it continuously boiled down to the feel. I just couldn't FEEL myself using it day in and day out, regardless of specs and price.

 

[JerTheGeek]

Exactly. I seriously let the "am I really complaining about ounces?" thought cross my mind many a time during my hands-on with the Air 2, and Lord knows that screen was incredible and the A8/2GB RAM combo was a dream, but it continuously boiled down to the feel. I just couldn't FEEL myself using it day in and day out, regardless of specs and price.

I think I prefer to mini; but I haven't actually owned an Air 2 to compare with my time spent on the mini. I've used it in the Apple Store but you can't get a feel of what it's like in day to day life until you actually own one; for me at least. I think I'll end up getting an air for my next iPad just to see

 

[Phonzoxd]

I went with the Mini 3 just a few days ago. So glad I did.

I was worried that it might be a little too small, but its actually the most well rounded ipad when you consider every aspect. The screen is big enough.

Would prefer an Air 2 for the bigger screen, but then it'll be heavily, more awkward to hold, and less portable. Plus it cost more.

 

[AHDuke99]

I owned an iPad 2 for years and upgraded to the Air 2. I just sold mine and am buying a Mini 2 because it's just so awkward to do anything on the full sized iPad.

Unless you have big hands, typing is a pain unless you lay it flat, and if you do that, what is the point in a tablet? I'm excited about my Mini because I will actually be able to type emails and use the internet more than I did before.

I'll miss the larger screen, but if I'm going to own an iPad, I want to use it for more than just watching Netflix or other movies.

 

[rrrahu1]

Get the Mini

Too many responses over here are along the lines of "buy whichever size suits your needs best."

I assume OP is looking for definitive arguments on either side, so although the above quote is basically on point, it isn't really helpful to answering the question.

So here I will take an opinionated, partisan, and yes *biased* perspective, in the hope that my argument will help OP make a decision.

Basically, think about it this way: iPad Mini = portable device. iPad Air = not a portable device. Fact.

It is simply not practical to carry around an iPad Air for extended periods of time for most people. Even if you do have a large bag (I'm looking at you, ladies), using it outside, or on public transportation, is a royal pain. It requires 2 hands at all times. And the size itself is a bit obstructive and interferes with whatever else you might be simultaneously doing (eg holding onto railing, peeking out in front of you, etc.) It is almost *too* immersive to be used on the go.

Then there are those who claim that if you use your iPad primarily at home, that the iPad Air is better. I don't find this argument to be convincing either. At home, you most definitely own a computer. You might even own a laptop, which would allow you to have a computer anywhere you'd like in the house. And no matter what anyone says, the user experience on an iPad, without a keyboard or mouse, is simply not as satisfying as the user experience of a full computer. Fact. So while at home, why not just use a computer?

Also, remember that apps for the iPad are made for both the iPad Mini *AND* the iPad Air. Hence, apps on the iPad Air will not really take advantage of the larger screen real estate. All you will be left with is more blank space and slightly larger text/images. If additional features (a sidebar, etc) were included on the iPad Air version of apps, then maybe there'd be a benefit. But as there are none, I'd actually argue that apps look better on the Mini.

Hence, despite the lesser specs, I really find the Mini to be far more useful. And you're really not going to miss much vis-a-vis the iPad Air when you want to watch a movie in bed. I promise. At that close of a viewing distance, the screen size does not matter.

Get the Mini.

 

[JerTheGeek]

Too many responses over here are along the lines of "buy whichever size suits your needs best."

I assume OP is looking for definitive arguments on either side, so although the above quote is basically on point, it isn't really helpful to answering the question.

So here I will take an opinionated, partisan, and yes *biased* perspective, in the hope that my argument will help OP make a decision.

Basically, think about it this way: iPad Mini = portable device. iPad Air = not a portable device. Fact.

It is simply not practical to carry around an iPad Air for extended periods of time for most people. Even if you do have a large bag (I'm looking at you, ladies), using it outside, or on public transportation, is a royal pain. It requires 2 hands at all times. And the size itself is a bit obstructive and interferes with whatever else you might be simultaneously doing (eg holding onto railing, peeking out in front of you, etc.) It is almost *too* immersive to be used on the go.

Then there are those who claim that if you use your iPad primarily at home, that the iPad Air is better. I don't find this argument to be convincing either. At home, you most definitely own a computer. You might even own a laptop, which would allow you to have a computer anywhere you'd like in the house. And no matter what anyone says, the user experience on an iPad, without a keyboard or mouse, is simply not as satisfying as the user experience of a full computer. Fact. So while at home, why not just use a computer?

Also, remember that apps for the iPad are made for both the iPad Mini *AND* the iPad Air. Hence, apps on the iPad Air will not really take advantage of the larger screen real estate. All you will be left with is more blank space and slightly larger text/images. If additional features (a sidebar, etc) were included on the iPad Air version of apps, then maybe there'd be a benefit. But as there are none, I'd actually argue that apps look better on the Mini.

Hence, despite the lesser specs, I really find the Mini to be far more useful. And you're really not going to miss much vis-a-vis the iPad Air when you want to watch a movie in bed. I promise. At that close of a viewing distance, the screen size does not matter.

Get the Mini.

Thanks for the advice! I definitely am leaning towards getting the mini after I get the Watch; the great thing is, my mini 1 still works pretty well, and now that I basically know for sure that I prefer the mini size, there isn't as big of a need to upgrade because I'm not upgrading for a bigger screen or different size; I'm just upgrading for newer specs.

 

[newellj]

If you're not pressed, you might wait until the probably update this fall. I like my rMini, but a better screen, faster chip and/or more RAM wouldn't hurt things. Since you're only ~ six months away from a likely new generation Mini, waiting might not be a bad idea. Or not, it's not like it's a life or death decision, contrary to most of the commentary around here.

 

[JerTheGeek]

Well i have listed my mini 1 on eBay and will be selling it for a refurb mini 2. A huge reason for my decision is that I find myself using my iPad a lot outside on the swing; its stuff like this that made me realize the full size iPad would be too big and uncomfortable for me to use in certain situations. Plus I already have a big screen in my MacBook Air 13", I really don't need a larger screen on my iPad. 7.9 inches is immersive enough, yet still portable and comfortable.

 

[DaCurmudgen]

My big question is, should I choose the mini just because of portabilty? I don't bring my iPad out too much; maybe 2-4 times a month. Also I use it when I go on vacations once or twice a year.
When I was at the hospital for long hours at a time a few months ago, it was super convenient to just slip my iPad mini into my jeans or shorts pocket and walk around.
I also use my iPad outside for reading the occasional book for school book reports, and also for taking notes for school outside when the weather is nice enough.
So for these uses, would it be worth it to choose the mini form factor?

So I used an iPad mini 2 since it came out, and just recently picked up the Air 2 because our family iPad 3 was cruelly dropped by a family member who shall remain nameless. I've had the Air for about 2 weeks, and here's what I would say. Unless you really want to have your iPad with you no matter what, the Air 2 is probably a better bet. Personally, I prefer the Mini because it is so portable, but the Air 2 is a better tablet in terms of color and longevity. The Mini 2 is plenty fast, and it is still lighter than the Air 2 -- for an all purpose tablet that you can take with you, there's nothing better, and for me, that is important. The Air 2 is, however, definitely an improvement over the iPad 3 and 4 weight and feel, so it is more feasible to hold for longer or bring it with you. It doesn't sound like portability is so critical to you, and when you do want to bring it with you on the odd occasion or when reading a book, the Air 2 works fine.

 

[mr.bee]

I'd like to buy a new ipad too.

I have an old ipad 2, and I use it around the house sporadically, most of the times in the bathroom. In bed and on the couch I actually use my macbook pro more.
I tried taking it more outside but I found it was too big.

I'd like to think the mini has a better form factor to use outside the house, but I refuse to buy one as long as as the specs are inferior to the Air.

Besides the form factor, there's also something to be said about iOS. iOS works perfectly on the iphone, but lacks some functionality for the ipad. Yes, you can read websites, mail and watch youtube on an ipad, but from the moment you want to do more, I don't find iOS to be the best choice, but that's personal preference. So at home I switch quickly to os X.

So for me, the mini will fill in that gap when I need a bigger screen and I'm not at home. Why not a 6s? Because I think I'll look like a retard when I need to hold that to my face to answer the phone. Because I don't always need a bigger screen and I like to wear skinny jeans and a 5 or 6 iphone fits, so a plus is just stupid in my world.

 

[adam9c1]

No multitasking on the mini, only air2 gets split screen. Boo.

 

[malih]

For me I use iPad for reading, and I like the Air for it's Magazine size, which means bigger fonts.
The lighter weight also helps a lot, I can use the Air one handed for reasonable duration compared to my previous iPad 3 which is very cumbersome.

I imagine the mini would be better for Gaming due to better reachability across screen, but for games you play with kids together, the Air is better.

One thing to note, it's not as easy to type using the Air due to it's bigger size.

Edit: Ooops, (due to using 3rd party keyboard) I forgot the default keyboard have split mode, which make it easier to type on big iPad Air screen

 

[JerTheGeek]

I ended up going for the air 1 in June, but I am seriously considering getting the mini 4 this Christmas. I'm thinking the portability of the iPad Air is just a bit too lacking...