Typing on an iPad was a huge reason I was looking forward to a mini. For me, sitting in bed or on the couch and trying to type something was a major pain with the current 9.7" design. I'm 6'4" tall and have above average size hands for a guy. Even with the split keyboard it felt awkward at best, while holding on to it. Sure setting it down and typing is different but again, I'm talking about sitting and holding on to it with 2 hands. I think the mini will feel much better to thumb type on.
Slightly disappointed by the price as I was hoping for $299 for the entry level but $329 is better than $499 and I don't mind the non retina display. Sure, there will probably be a retina one out in 6-12 months for the same price but I'll probably end up gifting the mini to my daughter like I did my original iPad this past summer.
