Apple iPad mini reviews are in, here's what critics are saying

Apple's iPad mini in white. / Apple

The reviews are in for Apple's iPad mini and the critics seems to be impressed with the tech giant's smaller tablet computer.

The iPad mini is 7.2 millimeters thick, 0.63 pounds and comes in black or white. The iPad mini's screen is 7.9-inches at 1,024 x 768 display resolution.

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Some wondered if a smaller iPad would hurt Apple's bottom line. It's too early to tell, but if pre-sales and reviews are any indication, the iPad mini is off to a running start. Although the tablet hits stores on Friday, pre-orders currently indicate a shipping time of two weeks.  The mini tablet got high praises from tech journalists.

"If you want the full, polished Apple tablet experience in a smaller package, the iPad Mini is worth the premium price," says CNET senior editor Scott Stein. "Otherwise, good alternatives are available for less money."

The iPad mini's quality, for its size bracket, seems to be appealing to several reviewers.

"There's no tablet in this size range that's as beautifully constructed, works as flawlessly, or has such an incredible software selection," said Joshua Topolsky, editor in chief of The Verge.

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Being small has some disadvantages. The iPad mini doesn't have Retina display or the same processor as the fourth generation iPad. However, that wasn't a deal-breaker for critics.

"The iPad mini may not have the A6X processor of the new flagship fourth-gen iPad, but the A5 is sufficient to keep things moving smoothly without making a huge dent in battery life," said SlashGear editor in chief Vincent Nguyen.

Like the iPad 2, Apple's iPad mini does not come with Retina display.But, Engadget editor in chief Tim Stevens lists the tablets display as a "pro," pointing out that the smaller screen size means more pixel density.

"Colors are very pleasing to the eye and viewing angles, as ever with an Apple display, do not disappoint," Stevens said.

The iPad mini starts at $329 for a 16GB Wi-Fi only model, $429 for a 32 GB model and $529 for a 64 GB model.The Wi-Fi only models will ship on Nov. 2. However, pre-order ship dates have been pushed back for some models. The iPad mini models with Wi-Fi and 4G starts at $459 for 16GB, $559 for 32GB, and $659 for 64GB, and is available on Nov. 16.

[tomohuma]

compare samsung nexus and the ipad mini, the apple is a bite, my iPad MINI Protective Leather Rotary Case With Belt Buckle is also really cool
http://www.theideasforgift.com/en/290-ipad-mini-protective-leather-rotary-case-with-belt-buckle.html

[tobecontinue]

its sold out in sacramento. if anyone carries anything but a ipad is labeled as poor.

[einmd1]

It's obvious they'll come out with the Retina display in their next version, along with the faster chip. Who are they fooling? They certainly seem to be losing credibility.

[coreyvette]

I think the iPad Mini, as with any piece of technology, has it's pros and cons. The good: You get a more portable, inexpensive device compared to the full size iPad. It has an A5 chip- which has good enough power for smooth performance yet is able to keep a great battery life. It is beautifully designed, and has a good 5MP iSight camera that takes wonderful 1080P HD Video. The software is more fluent than Android, and simply feels more responsive and inituitive. The bad: It has a middle of the road display between the retina display of the fourth generation iPad and the non-retina display of the iPad 2. It does have the same display as an iPad 2, but the pixel density allows crisper text and better colors. Again, not a retina display, but very good for a 7.9 inch screen. It is underpowered compared to the 4th Generation iPad, and you can get that for only $170 more. Also, there are better spec'd tablets at a lower price, like the Google Nexus 7. All in all, it is a great tablet for anyone entering the tablet market. It is beautifully designed and has the right balance between specs and price range. I would recommend this tablet.

[fillim]

I am sad the retina display didn't make it in... Don't know if I can go back?

dan solo

www.fillim.com