iPad Mini 2021 Review: Pocketable Power!

The iPad Mini 2021 refresh marks a notable redesign that shifts to a smaller, more pocketable form factor while adopting many of the iPad Air design cues. Marques Brownlee explains how the new unibody aluminum chassis arrives in four new colors and features squared-off edges that improve grip, making the tablet easier to hold with one hand. The removal of the home button brings back Touch ID integrated into the top power button, and the device now includes a USB-C port at the bottom alongside a 12 megapixel rear camera bump. Apple Pencil 2.0 support magnetically attaches to the side, which aligns with the compact footprint and leaves little room for traditional volume buttons at that edge. The display remains 8.3 inches with bezels that feel large at first, but actual use demonstrates that this is about as small as you can go for a comfortable hold and finger access. The overall package suggests a device that aims to be a bite-sized, highly portable iPad that still leverages the same iPadOS experience as the larger models, including multitasking and app library features. The result is a versatile tablet that is praised for portability and a strong feature set, while not aiming to replace larger iPads for every user’s needs.

Topics · technology · tablets · consumer electronics · apple products