A technical comparison of the 2024 and 2026 iPad mini hardware iterations, detailing architectural shifts in the A20 Pro processor, display brightness increases to 1,200 nits, IP67 ingress protection standards, and scaling price tiers from $699 up to $1,149.
The price is going up.
The 2024 iPad mini launched at $499 for the 128-gigabyte version. Earlier in 2026, Apple raised its price to $599, citing increased component costs. The 2026 iPad mini starts at $699 for the same capacity. The 256- and 512-gigabyte versions cost $799 and $999, respectively.
Cellular connectivity costs an additional $150, regardless of capacity, bringing the most expensive version to $1.149 — more than the MacBook Neo and as much as some versions of the MacBook Air.
Thinner, lighter and more durable
The two models have a similar design and the same basic button and port locations. The 2026 model is thinner and weighs 0,56 pounds, compared to 0,65 pounds for the 2024 model.
The new model is dust and water resistant, a first for an iPad, and it also lacks the four speaker grilles on the short sides of the device.
↳
READ ALSO
HACKS.GR / RELATED
Smartphones, Wearables & Gadgets
Apple unveils new MacBook Pro with touchscreen, starting at $2.899
↗
There are fewer color options. The 2026 iPad mini comes in Midnight and Starlight, while the 2024 model came in Blue, Purple, Space Gray, and Starlight.
Bigger and brighter screen
The screen has grown from 8,3 to 8,5 inches, and its maximum brightness has been increased from 500 to 1.200 nits. It can also be dimmed to 1 nit. The screen still refreshes 60 times per second. For an extra $100, you can opt for a special surface that reduces reflections.
Faster processor
The 2026 iPad mini has the A20 Pro processor, while the 2024 model has the A17 Pro. According to the comparison, the A20 Pro performs basic calculations 60% faster. Graphics are 2,7 times faster, and AI tasks are completed 4,5 times faster.
Battery rating remains the same
Apple estimates the battery will last up to 10 hours on Wi-Fi or 9 hours on cellular — the same as the 2024 model. In my testing, the previous model lasted 7 hours and 23 minutes on a single charge.
The new iPad mini supports 35-watt charging and is expected to reach 50% charge in about 30 minutes.
The front camera is now in the center of the long side. The author believes this placement makes video calls easier when holding the tablet horizontally. The rear camera looks largely the same as the 2024 model, but sample photos are needed for a safe comparison.
G
HACKS.GR / GOOGLE SEARCH
Hacks.gr on Google
Set Hacks.gr as a preferred source.
Preferred source
↗
end of article
Top comments (0)