The iPad mini 3 is a compact tablet device from Apple that offers a powerful performance in a small form factor. With its sleek design, high-quality display, and robust features, the iPad mini 3 has gained popularity among users who seek a portable and versatile tablet for various tasks. In this article review, we will delve into the details of the iPad mini 3, exploring its design, display, performance, features, and overall user experience.
Design
The iPad mini 3 features a premium design that is sleek, slim, and lightweight, making it easy to carry and handle. It has a unibody aluminum construction, which not only gives it a premium look but also makes it durable and sturdy. The tablet has a 7.9-inch display, which is smaller than the standard iPad but offers a compact and portable form factor. It features the iconic home button with a built-in fingerprint sensor for convenient and secure authentication.
Display
The iPad mini 3 boasts a high-quality Retina display with a resolution of 2048 x 1536 pixels, delivering sharp and vibrant visuals. The display has excellent color accuracy, wide viewing angles, and ample brightness, making it suitable for multimedia consumption, web browsing, and productivity tasks. The smaller size of the display compared to the standard iPad makes it more convenient for one-handed use and on-the-go productivity.
Performance
Under the hood, the iPad mini 3 is powered by Apple's A7 chip with a 64-bit architecture and M7 motion coprocessor, which delivers smooth and lag-free performance. It can handle multitasking, browsing, and multimedia tasks with ease, making it suitable for both casual and productivity-oriented users. However, it's worth noting that the iPad mini 3 is an older model and may not offer the same level of performance as the newer iPad models with more powerful chips.
Features
The iPad mini 3 runs on iOS, Apple's intuitive and user-friendly operating system, which provides access to a wide range of apps from the App Store. It supports features such as Touch ID fingerprint authentication for secure unlocking and Apple Pay for convenient online purchases. The tablet also has a front-facing FaceTime HD camera and a rear-facing iSight camera, both of which capture decent quality photos and videos. Additionally, the iPad mini 3 offers a decent battery life, allowing for hours of usage on a single charge.
User Experience
The iPad mini 3 offers a smooth and seamless user experience with its responsive touch screen, intuitive interface, and powerful performance. The compact size and lightweight design make it convenient for on-the-go usage, whether it's for browsing, watching videos, reading, or working on documents. The high-quality display provides a visually pleasing experience, and the Touch ID fingerprint sensor adds an extra layer of convenience and security. However, the lack of some newer features, such as Apple Pencil support and the latest chip technology, may be a downside for users who require more advanced functionalities.
Color Variants
The iPad mini 3 is available in three color options: Silver, Space Gray, and Gold. These color options provide users with a choice to personalize their device based on their preferences and style.
Specifications
- Display: 7.9-inch Retina display with a resolution of 2048 x 1536 pixels
- Processor: Apple A7 chip with 64-bit architecture and M7 motion coprocessor
- Storage: 16GB or 64GB internal storage (no option for higher storage capacities)
- Rear Camera: 5MP iSight camera with autofocus, HDR, and Full HD video recording
- Front Camera: 1.2MP FaceTime HD camera with HDR and HD video recording
- Touch ID: Fingerprint sensor for secure authentication and Apple Pay
- Operating System: iOS (upgradable to the latest compatible version)
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11a/b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth 4.0, Lightning connector, 3.5mm headphone jack
- Battery Life: Up to 10 hours of web browsing, video playback, or music playback
- Dimensions: 7.87 x 5.3 x 0.3 inches (200 x 134.7 x 7.5 mm)
- Weight: 0.73 pounds (331 grams) for Wi-Fi model, 0.75 pounds (341 grams) for Wi-Fi + Cellular model
- Other Features: Siri voice assistant, App Store access, iCloud integration, Apple Pencil not supported
Please note that specifications may vary based on the region and model, and it's always recommended to refer to the official Apple website or product documentation for the most up-to-date and accurate information.
Price
The iPad mini 3 was released in October 2014, and its pricing may vary depending on the region and availability. As of my knowledge cutoff date in September 2021, the starting price for the iPad mini 3 in the United States was around $399 for the 16GB Wi-Fi model, and $529 for the 16GB Wi-Fi + Cellular model. However, please note that prices may have changed over time and it's always best to check the official Apple website or authorized retailers for the most up-to-date and accurate pricing information.
It's important to note that the iPad mini 3 is an older model, and Apple has released newer iPad mini models with updated features and specifications since then. As such, it's advisable to consider the latest iPad mini models and compare their features, performance, and pricing before making a purchase decision to ensure that you are getting the best value for your money.
The iPad mini 3 is a compact and powerful tablet that offers a premium design, high-quality display, and smooth performance. Its small form factor makes it highly portable, and its robust features make it suitable for a wide range of tasks. While it may lack some of the newer features found in the latest iPad models, it can still deliver a satisfying user experience for those who prioritize portability and convenience. If you're in need of a compact tablet with solid performance, the iPad mini 3 is worth considering, especially if you can find it at a discounted price as it is an older model in Apple's tablet lineup.