The iPad Mini 2 was released in November 2013 and is one of the older models in the iPad lineup. However, despite its age, it is still a popular choice among Apple fans looking for a more affordable option or a smaller form factor.

So, is it worth buying or upgrading to an iPad Mini 2? Let’s take a closer look at its features and compare them to newer models in the lineup.

Design and Display

The iPad Mini 2 has a 7.9-inch display with a resolution of 2048×1536 pixels. This results in a pixel density of 326 ppi, which is comparable to the iPad Air and iPad Mini 3. The device also weighs just 0.73 pounds (331g), making it comfortable to hold for long periods.

However, the biggest downside of the iPad Mini 2’s design is its thick bezels. Compared to newer models, it has a less immersive display, with a larger border surrounding the screen.

Performance and Battery Life

The iPad Mini 2 is powered by the A7 chip, paired with M7 motion coprocessor. This makes it capable of running most apps and games smoothly, although you may experience some lag or slower loading times compared to newer models with more powerful hardware.

Battery life on the iPad Mini 2 is also decent, with up to 10 hours of web browsing or video playback. However, this may vary depending on your usage and the age of your device.

Camera and Audio

The iPad Mini 2 has a 5-megapixel rear camera and a 1.2-megapixel front camera. While these specs may seem low compared to newer models, the cameras are still capable of taking decent photos and videos. Additionally, the device has stereo speakers and a 3.5mm headphone jack for audio playback.

Software and App Support

The iPad Mini 2 was released with iOS 7 and is currently compatible with up to iOS 12. However, it may not receive future software updates beyond this version. This means that you may miss out on new features and security updates in the future.

In terms of app support, the iPad Mini 2 can still run most apps available on the App Store. However, newer apps may not be optimized for its hardware and may run slower or experience glitches.

Should You Buy or Upgrade to an iPad Mini 2?

If you are looking for a more affordable option in the iPad lineup or prefer a smaller form factor, the iPad Mini 2 may be a good choice. Its design, display, and performance are still capable of meeting most users’ needs, and it is compatible with most apps available on the App Store.

However, if you are looking for the latest hardware, features, and software updates, you may want to consider a newer iPad model. The iPad Mini 4, released in 2015, offers a thinner design, more powerful A8 chip, and support for the latest software updates.

Overall, the decision to buy or upgrade to an iPad Mini 2 depends on your budget and priorities. If you can live with slightly older hardware and software, it may be a good choice for you. However, if you want the latest features and support, a newer model may be worth the investment.