Apple's iPad range offers something for everyone - from the compact iPad mini to the versatile standard iPad. But which device is really the right one for you? Whether you want to work on the move, be creative or multitask in everyday life depends not only on the display size, but also on performance, accessories and your usage style. In this article, we take a closer look at the iPad ranges and clarify what advantages they offer - and where their limitations lie. At the end, you will know which iPad best meets your requirements and which range really suits you.
design and size
- iPad mini: With its 8.3-inch display and a weight of around 300 grams, the iPad mini is the most compact iPad. It is ideal for on the go and fits easily into backpacks or handbags. The narrow edges and angular design make it particularly modern.
- iPad: The standard iPad has a display size between 10.2 and 10.9 inches and weighs around 450-480 grams. This means it offers a larger work surface, but is less handy. It is particularly suitable for stationary use or longer sessions at the desk.
- In short: If you're looking for a lightweight, portable device, the iPad mini is the way to go. For those who need a lot of screen space, the standard iPad is better.
display and gaming suitability
- iPad mini: The compact 8.3-inch display impresses with sharp Retina quality (326 ppi), which means that games, videos and apps appear razor-sharp. The compact size may be unusual for some when gaming, but it is ideal for fast-paced games like "Call of Duty Mobile" or "Genshin Impact" because the device is easy to hold. In addition, the high pixel density supports impressive graphics quality.
- iPad: With a pixel density of 264 ppi on a larger display, the iPad does not offer better sharpness, but it does offer more overview - especially in games with many interface elements. It is therefore better suited for strategy games or creative applications where the larger screen is an advantage.
- In short: The iPad mini is perfect for action-packed games that rely on performance thanks to its portability. The iPad scores points for games that benefit from a large overview.
performance
- iPad mini 6 and 7: Both models are equipped with the A15 Bionic or A17 Pro chip. This chip offers outstanding performance for gaming, multitasking and demanding apps. Even compared to the latest standard iPads (e.g. with A14 or older), the iPad mini is more powerful.
- iPad: Older generations of iPad (up to 9th generation) use less powerful chips like the A13 or A14 Bionic. The newer standard iPads (from 10th generation) offer the A14, which offers solid performance but doesn't come close to the A15 in the iPad mini.
- In short: The iPad mini in its current generation (6 and 7) is actually more powerful than the standard iPads.
accessories and flexibility
- iPad mini: Supports Apple Pencil (2nd generation), making it ideal for drawings or handwritten notes.The iPad mini 7 supports the Apple Pencil Pro and the USB-C Apple Pencil. However, it lacks keyboard support, making it less versatile for productive work.
- iPad: Compatible with Apple Pencil (1st or 2nd generation, depending on model) and keyboards such as the Magic Keyboard or Smart Keyboard.
purchase recommendation according to user profile
commuters and frequent travelers
The iPad mini is the perfect companion for anyone who travels a lot and likes to travel light. It fits in almost any bag and weighs hardly more than a book. Its portability means you can use it easily even in tight spaces - such as airplanes or trains. Whether you're checking emails, reading eBooks or playing games, the iPad mini masters these tasks with flying colors.
students and professionals
The iPad scores points here thanks to its larger screen and compatibility with keyboards such as the Magic Keyboard. It is ideal for writing reports, editing presentations or working with split-screen apps. With accessories, it becomes a real laptop replacement. If you are looking for a loyal companion for your day at university or the office without having to dig deep into your pockets, the standard iPad will suffice. However, if you have further demands on your iPad, the Air or Pro model is worth considering.
readers and multimedia lovers
The iPad mini is perfect for eBooks, magazines or streaming videos. It is light, handy and the ideal size to use comfortably on the couch or in bed. With its battery capacity, it can last a day without having to recharge it. The display also ensures a pleasant reading or streaming experience.
creatives
The compact size and support for Apple Pencil 2 make the iPad mini a great device for quick notes or sketches on the go. However, for detailed work like drawing or video editing, the iPad mini is not the best choice.
The standard iPad also has limitations. The display is larger than the iPad mini, but not as high quality as the Air or Pro models. It also lacks features such as ProMotion (120 Hz) and a powerful chip, which would be important for smooth drawing or precise animations.
If you work creatively and value precision, you should go for a iPad Air or Pro The standard iPad and iPad mini are more suitable for simple creative tasks.
Conclusion
The iPad mini and the standard iPad address different needs, so it all depends on your intended use. The iPad mini impresses with its compact size and powerful performance - perfect for on the go, whether reading, playing games or working quickly. It is an excellent choice especially for gamers who are looking for a handy device with impressive graphics quality, or for frequent travelers who value mobility.
The standard iPad, on the other hand, scores with its larger display, which is ideal for creative work, multitasking and use as a laptop replacement. With its wide range of accessories and versatile uses, it is ideal for anyone looking for a universal device at an affordable price.
If you are still wondering which generation of iPad mini or standard iPad suits you best, please read our buying guide.
