Is the ipad mini too small? All explained

The iPad mini, one of the best portable tablet in the mobile industry, but the question being asked is whether the ipad mini too small.

As someone who owns an iPad mini, I will explain everything you need to know, especially regarding note-taking and drawing.

Let’s jump in.

is the ipad mini too small

Is the ipad mini too small?

The iPad mini is not too small, though it depends on what you intend to use it for, like note-taking or drawing.

Asking if the iPad mini is too small, first you need to ask yourself what you intend to use the iPad for: note taking, drawing, media consumption, gaming, etc.

If you plan to use the iPad mini for note-taking, it may not be the best option compared to other iPads.

I will further answer this question based on these categories.

1. Note taking

If you plan to take lots of notes on your iPad, I would not recommend the iPad mini for note taking.

For note-taking, I recommend something bigger and better, like the 11-inch iPad Pro or the 10-inch iPad (10th or 11th generation).

With such inches display, you will feel very comfortable taking notes on your iPad. However, you can still take notes on your iPad mini, but you will not feel very comfortable, especially if you have large hands.

For note taking, I don’t recommend the iPad mini simply because it is too small.

2. Drawing

is ipad mini too small for drawing

If you are into art and looking to buy the iPad mini for your work or drawings, please do not purchase the iPad mini.

It is definitely not suitable for drawing unless you are doing it for fun.

For drawing, I always prefer the 12.9-inch or 13-inch iPad Pro. However, the 11-inch iPad or even a 10-inch iPad would be good for drawing.

When it comes to drawing, please choose something larger and avoid the iPad mini unless you don’t mind.

3. For media consumption

For media consumption, the iPad mini is good enough, even with the screen display.

You will enjoy media consumption on the iPad mini, even with its 8.3-inch display. This is the best display size for travel by road or air as long as it’s for media consumption. 

To stream movies online, watch Netflix, YouTube videos, etc., you will surely enjoy it on the iPad mini.

No need for complaints here.

4. For gaming

Gaming on iPad mini

This is where i so much love the iPad mini especially the iPad mini 7.

For gaming. 

Talking about gaming, I mean gaming on an iPad mini with a telescopic controller that works perfectly with it.

I would say the iPad mini is the best iPad for gaming, especially with a telescopic controller, giving you a console-like feeling. 

Having Apple A17 Pro chipset makes it possible for you to enjoy high graphics realistic console port games like the Sniper Elite, Resident Evil 3, and the Grid Legends Deluxe Edition. These are new games you can play with a controller and best with a telescopic controller

If you plan to buy the iPad mini for media consumption and gaming, or entertainment, it is a good choice, especially given its display size.


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5. For editing

For editing, the iPad mini isn’t so good due the chipset which is the Apple A17 Pro.

The chipset is quite powerful, but not as powerful as the M4 chipset in the iPad Pro, or the M2 and M3 chipsets in the iPad Pro and iPad Air.

If you plan to use the iPad mini for editing, I don’t think you will enjoy it, mainly because of the display size and chipset.

6. For reading

For reading, the iPad mini is so good.

I am not the type who loves to read very often, but the few times I have, I really enjoyed it, though I prefer to read on paper due to my poor eyesight.

Looking for ipad to read books? Sure the ipad mini is your best option thanks to it’s portable size though the 11-inch and the 10-inch iPad display are good as well for reading.

Once again, is the iPad mini too small for note taking? Maybe, because it may be difficult for those with large hands to comfortably write notes on the iPad mini.

Is the iPad mini too small for movies? No. The iPad mini is not too small for movies; it is quite nice watching movies or videos on it.

iPad mini good features

Below are good iPad mini features using the latest model, the iPad mini 7.

Compact and Portable Design

  • Why it’s good: With an 8.3-inch display and light build (around 293 grams), it’s easy to carry around in a small bag or even a large pocket.

  • Ideal for: Reading, gaming and one-handed use.

Powerful A15 Bionic Chip

  • Why it’s good: The same chip used in the iPhone 13 lineup, offering fast performance for gaming, multitasking, and creative apps.

  • Smooth experience: Handles heavy apps and multitasking without lag.

Apple Pencil (2nd Gen) Support

  • Why it’s good: Lets you draw, take notes, and markup documents with precision.

  • Bonus: The Pencil magnetically attaches and charges on the side of the iPad mini.

USB-C Port

  • Why it’s good: Replaces the Lightning port with USB-C, which means faster charging, quicker data transfers, and wider accessory compatibility.

All-Screen Liquid Retina Display

  • Why it’s good: Sharp and vibrant with True Tone and wide color, perfect for reading, media consumption, and editing photos.

  • Size: 8.3 inches with thin bezels and no Home button.

Touch ID in the Power Button

  • Why it’s good: Secure and fast authentication without needing Face ID. Convenient and intuitive placement.

5G and Wi-Fi 6 Support

  • Why it’s good: Faster wireless performance, great for streaming, downloads, and video calls on the go (cellular models).

12MP Ultra Wide Front Camera with Center Stage

  • Why it’s good: Keeps you centered during video calls by automatically adjusting the frame, making calls more engaging.

iPadOS Features

  • Why it’s good: Split View, Slide Over, Quick Notes, and app multitasking turn the mini into a tiny productivity machine.

Great for Entertainment and Gaming

  • Why it’s good: Its stereo landscape speakers and high-res screen make it immersive for watching videos and gaming.

In terms of entertainment, sure you will enjoy your iPad mini especially the latest model which is the ipad mini 7.

About Kennedy

I'm Amaechi Uchenna by name, a mobile tech enthusiast who love writing articles about tips and tutorials especially relating to gadgets.