iPad (A16) vs. iPad mini: Apple’s most affordable models now at all-time lows from $299 – which is the better buy?

As of right now, both of the most affordable latest-model iPad releases are currently sitting at all-time low pricing – the new 11-inch iPad (A16) and the iPad mini (A17 Pro). For folks looking to land a new iPad right now on the most affordable end of the current-generation the spectrum, these are the two models you’ll be looking at. The iPad (A16) that released earlier this year is now starting at the $299 Amazon all-time low and the latest iPad mini (A17 Pro) that debuted last fall is now starting at $399, or $100 off. But which is the better buy?

iPad mini vs. iPad (A16)

Well, like all of these sorts of questions it’s really going to come down to what you use the iPad for the most and which size you prefer. While not an exhaustive comparison, let’s take a look at some main comparison points between the two models to help the cause.

The new iPad (A16) is 11-inches and the mini is, well mini, at an ultra-manageable 8.3-inches. One offers more screen restate for drawing, writing, typing, and watching movies, whereas the other is ultra-compact and a little easier to hold in the hands. 

Another aspect to consider in the size department is the keyboard. Apple and other brands make keyboard cases for the less powerful iPad (A16) that make transforming it into a casual workspace, let’s say, a more elegant proposition. Whereas with the mini, you’ll likely have to deal with the on-screen keyboard or some kind of un-attached Bluetooth deck you’ll have to carry with you that will in some ways negate its portability advantage. 

If you want to use an Apple Magic Keyboard-like device, the iPad (A16) is likely a better option. It is also worth noting that buying Apple’s Magic Keyboard for the A16 will have you spending more than the price of the iPad mini right now ($99 more)

Now, if it wasn’t already obvious by the naming scheme and price here, the iPad mini (A17 Pro) is a more powerful machine, but not so much so that it will even be all that noticeable for folks not making use of resource intensive applications. And most folks considering these two models likely aren’t doing all that much of that – the mini has more RAM and a more powerful chip allowing it to remain a little bit more snappy an responsive the going gets tough though.  

Where this might matter to you is with Apple Intelligence. If you like Apple Intelligence on your phone, or perhaps believe it makes more sense to invest in a machine that will support it as it gets better down the line, the iPad mini (A17 Pro) is the machine for you – the iPad (A16) does not support Apple Intelligence at all. 

For me, as someone who has used both models, it’s the mini all the way…but I just happen to prefer the smaller form-factor in my hands and appreciate the portability. I also do not use an iPad for typing tasks – that’s what the MacBook/desktop machines are for in my case. In my experience, and in talking to folks that do use an iPad for typing – school work, typing/filling out documents for work, and so on – the mini just doesn’t cut it the way they need it to. 

iPad mini (A17 Pro) deals:

• iPad mini A17 Pro 128GB $399 (Reg. $499)
• iPad mini A17 Pro 256GB $499 (Reg. $599) 
• iPad mini A17 Pro 256GB $699 (Reg. $799) 

iPad (A16) deals:

• 128GB iPad (A16) from $299 (Reg. $349)
• 256GB iPad (A16) from $399 (Reg. $449)
• 512GB iPad (A16) from $599 (Reg. $649)

And lastly, the price – the iPad (A16) is $100 less with the current all-time low Amazon pricing. For casual users they are both great buys, but if you like the idea of a more full size display for video and the more roomy typing setup, save the $100 and go for the $299 A16. Prefer the ultra-compact setup and don’t need a keyboard case, or perhaps want to dabble in Apple intelligence, the iPad mini (A17 Pro) seems to be the way to go. 

Subscribe to the 9to5Toys YouTube Channel for all of the latest videos, reviews, and more!