Which iPad should you choose? iPad Mini, iPad Air or iPad Pro. Comparison of iPad mini with the second generation iPad mini Retina tablet

There is no single right decision in this choice: you need to base it on your preferences and the functions that you plan to get from the tablet. I will try to combine my knowledge with facts and provide a little research on the topic: which iPad form factor to choose. This article can help beginners decide or guide them to the truth.

As examples I give iPad Air 2 and iPad Mini 4, as the latest tablets in their lines, but the article is about the choice of form factor.

iPad Mini

iPad Mini is Apple's smallest and lightest tablet. Just think about it, the weight of the iPad Mini 4 is 298.8 grams (304 grams for the Cellular model). With a length of 203.2 mm and a width of 134.8 mm, it can fit into even the smallest handbag. That is why I personally call it “female”, although this does not mean at all that it is intended for women.

About games. The iPad Mini is great for gaming - it's comfortable to hold (and in one hand), like a big joystick with a screen. All genres of games that I mastered on the iPad Mini play perfectly on it. The point is that in mobile games it is often important to have quick access to any point on the screen and on the iPad Mini this is easiest. I have a friend who is two meters tall and plays on an iPad Mini. His hands are large and he can reach absolutely any point on the screen with all his fingers.

But there is such a nuance. The iPad Mini 4 has an A8 processor, while the iPad Air 2 has an A8X processor. Their speed differs slightly, but graphics processing on the iPad Air 2 is about one and a half times faster. Gamers should remember this. It doesn't matter now, but it may have an impact in the future. For example, in the future GTA IV on iPad may well work on the iPad Air 2, but not on the iPad Mini 4.

About programs. Due to the smaller screen, details also become smaller. With a diagonal of 7.9 inches (for the iPad Air - 9.7), the resolution for the iPad Mini is the same as for the iPad Air - 2048x1536, which means a pixel density of 326 per inch (for the iPad Air and iPad Pro 264). The iPhone has an even higher pixel density, but the applications there are adapted specifically for the smartphone. Since the iPad Mini has the same resolution as the iPad Air, the developers don’t bother too much and make their programs the same for them. Visually this is expressed in more small fonts and interface elements.

The result is that the programs are less convenient to work with. I don’t have the largest hand, and it’s more comfortable to work in programs on the iPad Air.

What's good about the iPad Mini? For example, in photography or video shooting. Abroad, I've seen a lot of tourists taking photos on iPads. And the iPad Mini looks good in this quality. But a person taking pictures on an iPad Air looks rather comical.

The iPad Mini is good in public transport - take it out of your bag and read/play/watch movies (underline as appropriate).

iPad Air 2

iPad Air is exactly the classic form factor that it was originally. The first iPad was 9.7 inches, and so is the iPad Air 2.

As I wrote above, the iPad Air 2 is a little more powerful than the iPad Mini 4. Apparently, Apple has finally figured out this issue: the Air will be slightly ahead of the mini. I predict that in iPad performance Air 3 and iPad Mini 5 will remain about the same big difference.

The iPad Air is very convenient to play on, but difficulties are already arising in some games where the controls are not entirely successful or the control buttons are scattered all over the screen (all sorts of RPGs, strategies and action games). The weight of the iPad Air 2 is 437 (444 Cellular models), which is one and a half times more than the iPad Mini, so holding the iPad Air in your hands is less comfortable than a mini. The difference in grams is small, but if you think about it, the whole iPhone 5S fits into this difference.

But the resolution of 2048x1536 pixels on the 9.7 screen looks the most organic. Details in programs do not seem so small, the keyboard normal size even in order to long time print texts. Comparing my experience, I will say this: I definitely don’t feel any discomfort when typing on the iPad Air (I even write articles on it sometimes), but on the iPad Mini I try to do this as little as possible.

In terms of technical characteristics, the iPad Air 2 is almost identical to the iPad Mini 4, so you don’t have to get attached to them. Everything you can do on the iPad Mini, you can do without any problems on the iPad Air, just on a larger screen.

iPad Pro is Apple's largest tablet. From the point of view of convenience, holding it suspended is inconvenient! iPad Pro weighs 713 grams. You can see that the very first iPad weighed about the same. But now, when you pick up the iPad 1 (after the iPad Air 2), there is a feeling of dissonance. Thoughts like this: “Did I really once admire the mobility of this monster?!”

Today I went to MVideo specifically to use the iPad Pro to my heart’s content. That rare case when 15 minutes was enough for me to realize that I definitely would not buy an iPad Pro.

Judge for yourself: it’s very uncomfortable to play. Perhaps if game developers take care and move and reduce all buttons in the settings, it will be somehow better.

Print on system keyboard- that’s still torment. The length of the fingers is simply not enough, and constantly holding the tablet with one hand (this in itself is inconvenient), and typing with the other becomes annoying after a minute. There is only one way out - external keyboard. With it there will be a logical transformation of the iPad Pro into a laptop.

One more iPad problem Pro lies on the surface - the valiant programmers from Cupertino were too lazy to adapt iOS 9 to a higher resolution (2732x2048). Design flaws stick out in every place of the system. Spotlight search, settings, camera. Look at the screenshot below. I'm no Jony Ive - but these terrible fields look ugly.

It can be seen that the system was tightened anyhow according to the principle: “to change something less.”

After the tests, I wondered who would choose the iPad Pro? Who can I recommend this tablet to? And he calculated the following categories of citizens:

a) tall two-meter people whose fingers are larger and objects seem smaller to them. I'm 178 cm tall - this tablet is too big for me.

b) those who need an iPad to display photos and presentations. Photos on this screen look very cool. It’s also cool to edit media content on it.

d) those who want to use the iPad Pro as a laptop replacement. In principle, the capabilities of the iPad Pro are enough for the average person. The iPad Pro screen diagonal is 12.9, I work on a 13-inch laptop. That is, if it were not for working on it and many years of habit, then as a replacement iPad laptop Pro is a good idea.

As for traveling, my opinion is this: in principle, I don’t care which iPad to take, I throw it in my backpack and that’s it. Watch yourself some movies somewhere in Paris. Therefore, size is not a barrier. But for city walks and public transport iPad Pro is clearly too big.

What if not an iPad?

There are two more edge devices that can be thought of as replacements for tablets. The iPhone 6S Plus could theoretically replace the iPad Mini. Although the smartphone has a smaller screen, it is also combined with the phone function. Therefore, it may be preferable as a single gadget.

Well, since an iPad Pro with a keyboard can in some cases replace a laptop, then a laptop can replace an iPad Pro. If there was a choice between taking a MacBook 13 or an iPad Pro, then no one knows how many people would prefer a laptop... I suspect that a certain percentage of citizens would choose the iPad Pro, despite its shortcomings.

Question of price

Let’s take one configuration for comparison (128 gigabytes + Cellular):

iPad Pro — 86,990 rubles
iPad Air 2 — 66,990 rubles
iPad Mini 4 — 58,990 rubles

If the difference between the iPad Air 2 and iPad Mini 4 is not so significant (8000), then the iPad Pro costs 20,000 thousand more. Based solely on price, there must be a very good reason to prefer the iPad Pro.

Conclusion

Think for yourself - decide for yourself. In the article above, I gave advice based on several years of experience using Apple tablets.

Ideal for me personally golden mean— iPad Air, on the second place iPad Mini, and on the third iPad Pro iPhone 6 Plus. My wife says the iPad Mini is just right for her, but my Air seems big. You may have completely different priorities and values.

After the release of Apple's new tablet, many owners of already outdated gadgets began to think about replacing them with a more advanced model. However, there are those who are sure that this does not make much sense. To figure out whether it's worth spending money on new model, you can read this article, where we will compare iPads of all generations.

First issue

The very first generation of iPad, the comparison of which models is our main task, was very successful and marked the beginning of a whole “dynasty” of smart tablets. The iPad was released in April 2010. The first version did not support 3G; only Wi-Fi was available to users (the built-in modem appeared in the gadget a little later, when the model was re-released). And only three memory options were offered: 16, 32 and 64 GB. For 2010, this was quite enough, given that the applications did not take up much space. The body color was only silver, but this suited many buyers. The most latest version The operating system supported by the iPad is iOS 5.1.1. All subsequent updates are unavailable, since the tablet’s hardware simply no longer meets the requirements put forward by the manufacturer. The screen diagonal is 9.7 inches. It was this size that marked the beginning of the era of the famous Apple tablets. As well as the screen, which practically does not leave fingerprints. The iPad had neither a front nor a main camera. This flaw was corrected in later versions. To date, purchase a completely new iPad first generation is not possible, since it was discontinued in 2011. There are only used devices on sale, the cost of which is very low. However, it makes no sense to spend money on them, because they are very outdated in terms of hardware and software installed on them.

Second issue

If we're going to compare the iPad, we can't help but mention the iPad 2. The start of sales began immediately after the production of the first generation of iPads ended. In March 2011 Apple company released the second iPad. He already has appearance there have been some changes. Something appeared that was not in the first 2 (the comparison will only be based on these two models) acquired an external panel of black and white flowers. But the body remained unchanged - silver. By the way, the second iPad also supports the current version of the operating system - iOS 9.2. The volume has doubled RAM, instead of 256 MB it became 512. And taking into account the fact that the system itself takes on very little, this is enough for the most necessary applications. The tablet also acquired cameras - a rear one of 0.69 megapixels and a front one of 0.3 megapixels. The amount of internal memory is available in three versions, as in the first generation iPad. The second edition tablet was discontinued from sales in 2014. To those who have in their use this model, it’s still worth thinking about purchasing a new device - outdated hardware has great difficulty keeping up with the operating system’s requests.

Reviews of the second iPad

Perhaps, according to experts and users, this is the most bad version"Apple" tablet. And there are reasons for this. If we compare the iPad from the first to the third generation, then the second version is extremely unsuccessful. First of all, the cameras here are too low quality, so it’s better without them at all than with such low-quality ones. Secondly, although the weight of the tablet has become smaller, the dimensions have not changed at all. As are the viewing angles. The image quality is also significantly inferior to the next model if we compare the iPad 3 with the iPad 2. Therefore, many users choose a more advanced model, although its price at the start of sales was much higher.

Third issue

Comparing the iPad by model, we cannot help but mention the innovative release for 2012 - iPad 3. It was in it that the voice assistant- Siri. But the color of the case, if the iPad 3 is compared with previous models, has not changed - only silver. The RAM was pleasing - 1024 MB. The main camera has gained as much as 5 megapixels, which is enough in good lighting conditions. The operating system is supported and the most modern one is 9.2. At the same time, the processor handles it quite successfully, and all software is installed without problems. If you compare the iPad 3 with the second generation device, it becomes obvious that the third version of the tablet turned out to be more advanced and successful.

Reviews of the third iPad

According to users and experts, it was the third generation of Apple tablets that became the most successful and marked the beginning of the iPad boom. Enough large number RAM makes the device so fast and responsive that owners simply do not notice any minor flaws. In addition, all users unanimously agree that the third generation iPad is much more pleasant to hold (and use) than the previous two models.

First mini version

In 2012, immediately after the start of sales of the third iPad, sales of a smaller version of the Apple tablet started in November. It was called iPad Mini. And the distinguishing feature was precisely the size - 7.9 inches. So to speak, a pocket option. The tablet seems to have little RAM - only 512 MB. But even with such a “brain” the gadget simply “flies”. If we compare the iPad Mini with its full-size brother, then it is similar to the iPad 2. However, it has a better camera - 5 megapixels, and a front one - 1.2 megapixels. Therefore, the gadget, despite its relatively low cost today (about 10-13 thousand rubles), is truly a worthy representative in its category. Modern operating room iOS system 9.2 supports without lags or brakes.

Second mini version

The iPad Mini and iPad Mini 2 (the comparison in this section will be based solely on these two models) would seem to be very similar to each other. However, the mini version of the second generation has become more advanced, despite the fact that the resolution of both cameras remains exactly the same. The RAM has doubled - 1024 MB, and for such a “baby” this is already a serious claim to the device’s performance. In addition, the gadget received more capacious battery- instead of 4400 mAh of the first generation, as much as 6471 mAh. This is enough to use the tablet all day long. fully loaded, and it’s not a fact that you’ll have to recharge at night. And, of course, the choice has increased internal memory. If in the first generation iPad mini the choice was limited to 64 GB (16, 32 and 64), then the second generation also acquired a 128 GB version, so that everything necessary files were always at hand.

Fourth mini version

There is no need to talk about the third, since it differs little from the second in terms of basic criteria. But the fourth iPad Mini was truly a breakthrough in the field of Apple mini-gadgets, sales of which started in September 2015. The first thing that catches your eye is the internal memory of the device. The buyer is somewhat limited in choice: there are options for 16, 64 and 128 GB. But the usual 32-gigabyte version does not exist. It is worth noting that 16 GB is negligible for a tablet of this level. The battery capacity has become slightly smaller - 5124 mAh. However, the manufacturer assures that the charge will be consumed more economically, which is why they sacrificed the treasured mAh. The tablet has become thinner - only 6.1 mm instead of 7.5 mm for the second and third mini-iPad. The amount of RAM has increased - 2048 MB. result for a pocket version! The rear main camera has 8 megapixels for pictures. But the front one remained unchanged (1.2 megapixels).

Pro version

Making a comparison iPad tablets, one cannot help but say about the new product, the cost of which is simply prohibitive, by modern standards. So what's so special about this iPad? The cameras in it are exactly the same as in the fourth mini-tablet from Apple. Therefore, the owners do not receive anything new in this case. In terms of internal storage, there are only three versions available - 16GB, 32GB and 128GB. At the same time, the manufacturer seems to force you to purchase a device with a larger volume, because less is absolutely not enough. It is possible that this shortcoming will be corrected in the future, since sales began only in November 2015. Unfortunately, the usual memory capacity of 64 GB is not yet available. The battery has become very powerful - 10307 mAh. And with 4096 MB of RAM, the tablet becomes a full-fledged entertainment and work center. Despite the fact that the capacious screen takes up quite a lot of battery power, it still lasts for a long time. And the most important thing that appeared in the iPad Pro is the large display diagonal. It is 12.9 inches. This is a truly huge yet lightweight tablet that is easy to use for work and play. Many buyers note that the iPad Pro has completely replaced their desktop computer.

Comparison with Android tablets

Of course, making such a comparison is not entirely correct. Firstly, price category devices are different. Apple gadgets almost always turn out to be somewhat more expensive than any other. And if we compare the iPad and Samsung, we can only talk about image quality. And this is not the case for all models. For example, in the production of most Samsung tablets, Ammoled glass is used, which conveys amazingly absolutely all colors, tones and halftones. But at the same time, it is not even close to the retina display of the Apple gadget.

The cost of Samsung tablets is slightly less than that of Apple tablets. But at the same time operating system Many users like Android much more than the closed and somewhat limited iOS. What to choose? Which model should I choose? Here everyone decides for himself.

When Apple introduced the 4th generation iPad, many were outraged at how quickly Cupertino decided to update its tablet computer. Previous version lasted on the market for only six months - this is a real anti-record for the duration of a product’s stay on the market. Buyers around the world were faced with a choice: to upgrade their “three”, bought for 5-6 hundred dollars, to a little different “four” or not. It was a very difficult dilemma.

But with the iPad 4, Apple introduced iPad mini- a product that, on the one hand, gave us more opportunities to choose, and on the other hand, it became more difficult for us to make this very choice.

We have prepared a guide to help you decide whether to buy a tablet. What to take - a large iPad 4 with a Retina screen or a mobile iPad mini? Ultimately, it all comes down to what exactly you want to get out of your device. And we will help you understand what you really want.

Similarities

First, you must understand what you will get from both iPad Retina, and from iPad mini. As for the place on disk drive, you can purchase versions with 16, 32 or 64 GB of internal memory. Recently, you can buy an iPad Retina with 128 GB of internal memory.

Although the iPad mini is relatively small device, it is not without good photography opportunities. The iSight camera for iPad and iPad mini boasts a 5-megapixel sensor, autofocus, face detection, backlight, hybrid infrared filter and aperture f/2.4. The FaceTime HD camera lets you take 1.2-megapixel photos and videos in HD resolution. The main camera of the iPad and iPad mini shoots video in Full HD 1080p resolution.

Both devices are available from mobile operators AT&T, Sprint and Verizon and have the same wireless interfaces and opportunities cellular communications, including Bluetooth technology 4.0. iPad and iPad min work up to 10 hours on one fully charged while surfing the Internet, watching videos and listening to music.

Each device is equipped with a Lightning connector, with which you can connect your tablet to a computer or power supply. Siri is also available on both devices.

And finally, on iPad and iPad mini you can run any application from App Store- however, due to screen sizes and hardware, the user experience may vary.

Screen

The biggest difference between the iPad and iPad mini is pixel density. The iPad mini display is 7.9 inches with a resolution of 1024x768 pixels. Its density is 163 pixels per inch. The Retina iPad comes with a 9.7-inch screen with a resolution of 2048 x 1536 pixels and a density of 264 pixels per inch.

For everyday use, the 2-inch difference between screens isn't significant, but the user experience may vary on some items. So, if you use your tablet as a media player - watch movies, edit photos, then the iPad Retina will be the best choice. The reason is simple: on big screen you will see more content. Moreover, this best choice In terms of performance, and for navigation, such a tablet is better suited.

However, iPad screen mini also displays content quite well, and it can be the best option, if you'll be using it more often on the go. iPad mini is better suitable for games because it is more mobile-like game console than the relatively bulky iPad Retina.

Keep in mind that according to some reports, at the end of this Apple of the Year may release an iPad mini with a Retina display, so it might make sense to wait for this version of the tablet. But most likely they won’t do this in Cupertino.

Power and speed

The iPad Retina uses a dual-core A6X processor with quad-core graphics, and this hardware is undoubtedly stronger than the iPad mini with its A5. But this shouldn’t surprise you too much, that’s why iPad mini and mini. If speed and performance are the most important thing for you, then choose the iPad Retina.

However, it is worth saying that the mini has the same capabilities as its larger brother, but it does not perform some operations as quickly as the Retina.

Physical Dimensions

Naturally, the iPad mini is much smaller than its older brother. It's more of a "mobile" device than the iPad Retina. It fits easily in your pocket, bag or backpack. If you're concerned about the smaller screen than Retina, you can always connect the mini to your TV via AirPlay and Apple TV.

Physical size is a very interesting aspect that contains a lot interesting moments. Some people, for example, even compare the mini to the iPhone - the iPad can do the same thing as the iPhone, but it can’t make calls. And if you compare the iPad mini with Samsung Galaxy Note, It turns out that the difference between them is only 2 inches. This is amazing and it shows how much more logical the Apple product ecosystem is.

iPad Retina has classic iPad dimensions and the main difference between it and mini, as already mentioned, is the screen.

Price

For many buyers, the price difference will be the most important argument when choosing a tablet. iPad mini starts at $329 Wi-Fi model with 16GB of storage and ends at $659 for the Wi-Fi and 4G model with 64GB of storage on board. iPad Retina prices range from $499 to $929.

You need to ask yourself: Are those $170 and $270 worth the sacrifice you'll make in exchange for performance and display? In many cases, the answer to this question will help you make right choice, but again, it all depends on exactly how you plan to use your iPad.

Ultimately, the iPad mini is a product for those Apple customers who are already familiar with the iOS ecosystem, but consider the iPad Retina to be too large a device. iPad Retina is created for those who want to get a full experience from working with tablet computer, With big screen and maximum productivity.

Third option

Even though Apple has stopped producing the third generation iPad, you can still buy an iPad 2. Many people say that the iPad 2 is no longer suitable for serious tasks, and in principle they are right. But it is quite enough to decide standard tasks. I myself had an iPad 2, and you don’t have to worry - it’s quite enough for viewing email, Internet surfing and simple games.

iPad 2 comes with an A5 processor - the same one found in the iPad mini. It's only available in a 16GB version and is slightly thinner and lighter than the iPad Retina, but lacks many photography capabilities. But you must admit, this is not the most important thing for a tablet.

The new iPad 2 is priced at $399 and $529 for Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi + 3G variants, respectively. You can find an iPad 2 on the secondary market for much less money.

Bottom line

We hope this guide helps you make the right purchase and that you get everything you expect from the device. Share your thoughts in the comments about which tablet you should choose, which one you use and why.

Sales of iPad Air and iPad mini will begin later.
Apple Pencil (1st and 2nd generations), smart keyboards Keyboard and Smart Keyboard Folio sold separately.

Device displays are rectangles with rounded corners. The display diagonal is measured without taking into account the curves and is 12.9 inches for the 12.9-inch iPad Pro and 11 inches for the 11-inch iPad Pro. The actual viewing area is smaller.
The amount of available space is less than stated and depends on various factors. The standard configuration (including iOS and pre-installed apps) takes approximately 10 to 12 GB depending on the device model and settings. Pre-installed applications occupy about 4 GB; they can be deleted and downloaded again. Cellular plan must be purchased separately.
Size and weight vary depending on device configuration and manufacturing process.
Battery life depends on device settings and usage. More details on the page.
To communicate using FaceTime, both users must have FaceTime-enabled devices and be connected to a Wi-Fi network. FaceTime availability by cellular network depends on the conditions of the telecom operator; Data charges may apply.
Data plan required. Gigabit Class LTE, 4G LTE Advanced, 4G LTE, and Wi-Fi calling are not available in all regions or with all carriers. Speed calculated based on theoretical bandwidth and depends on local conditions. Detailed information about support LTE networks Available from your carrier or from .
Cellular plan must be purchased separately. The model you purchase is configured to work with a specific cellular network technology. For availability information tariff plan cellular service and compatibility, please contact your carrier.
Not all carriers support apple cards SIM and eSIM. Check with your carrier for details. Not available in mainland China. eSIM is supported on the 11-inch iPad Pro, 12.9-inch iPad Pro (3rd generation), iPad Air (3rd generation), and iPad mini (5th generation). Technology Apple SIM Supported on iPad Pro 9.7-inch, iPad Pro 10.5-inch, iPad (5th generation or later), iPad Air 2, iPad mini 3, and iPad mini 4.

Apple tablets are becoming increasingly popular. However, today it is becoming fashionable to try new products from a world-famous company appearing on the market and compare them with each other.

For example, in front of many fans of Apple products in lately a new question arises: which tablet to choose for yourself, or as a gift for a loved one - a standard iPad, which everyone is used to, or an iPad mini, which is just gaining popularity.

In today's article, we will compare both tablets and look at their main characteristics, so that, based on this data, you can make a more responsible choice.

Apple iPad mini: main differences from iPad

First iPad difference mini from a regular iPad is, of course, its size. Imagine having all the features of a large iPad packed into a much more compact body. Its thickness is only 7.2 millimeters! Plus, this device is incredibly lightweight.

You can take it with you at any time; you don’t need large bags or briefcases for this - it will fit in the smallest handbag. So you can always have this iPad at hand. The iPad mini's resolution is 163 pixels/inch.

The large iPad has 132 pixels/inch. However, this does not fundamentally change the picture and does not spoil the impression of viewing photos and videos. While the regular iPad can record HD video at 720p resolution, the iPad mini offers 1080p resolution. Moreover, in addition to standard touch focusing when shooting video, it allows you to stabilize the video, and recognize the face of the person being filmed.

The tablet also has a light sensor on the rear panel. You can use these same features when taking photos from your iPad mini. And the iSight camera allows you to take pictures with a resolution of 5 megapixels. At the same time, the large iPad has rear camera with a resolution of 960x720 pixels.

It all depends on your preferences and, perhaps, habits. No less important iPad specifications is a SIM card. When choosing a tablet, you need to remember that the iPad mini is equipped Nano-SIM SIM card, and Micro-SIM cards, which are so popular in standard device, does not support.

But it is the iPad mini that has a built-in assistant, with which you can send messages or create reminders solely using your voice. For many this will be very convenient, since typing text message fingers are not always convenient.

Which is better: iPad mini or regular iPad?

Of course, everyone is able to decide for themselves which specific iPad they would like to have. However, the name iPad mini itself speaks volumes. For example, its display is in no way inferior, except for size, of course, to the large display of the standard iPad. You can also use the Maps app on it to find out where you are.

You can view photo albums and videos, and the detail will not be inferior large tablet. Plus, iPad display mini has as equipment LED backlight(the large iPad also has it), which allows you to display the picture clearly, expressively and brightly. You can also use the “small” iPad to work with a huge number of other applications that are also available for the “big brother”.

Active users global network will be able to spend up to ten hours on the Internet from any device Wi-Fi mode. At the same time, they will be able to watch movies or listen to music. Both tablets will work over a cellular network for up to nine hours. Well, you can also charge them either from a computer via a USB drive or using a regular power adapter.