iPad 8 (2020, A12 series) vs iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series)
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iPad 8 (2020, A12 series)
Starting at
£107.75£350.00 new
iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series)
Starting at
£474.38£599.00 newWhat's the difference between the iPad 8 (2020, A12 series) and iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series)?
iPad 8 (2020, A12 series) vs iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series) comes down to the RAM, screen size and screen type. Refurbished, the iPad 8 (2020, A12 series) starts at £107.75, £366.63 less than the iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series). The iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series) is the newer model, released in 2024.
Refurbished from
RAM
Screen size
Screen type
Software updates
Weight
- The iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series) has more RAM: 8 GB vs 3 GB.
- The iPad 8 (2020, A12 series) has a bigger screen: 10.2 inch vs 8.3 inch.
- Screen type: Retina display on the iPad 8 (2020, A12 series), Liquid Retina display on the iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series).
iPad 8 (2020, A12 series) vs iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series) specs
The iPad 8 and iPad mini 7 both run iPadOS 18 but offer different experiences suited to distinct users. The iPad 8 provides a larger 10.2 inch screen with a Retina display and compatible storage starting at 32 GB, fitting those who prefer a roomier display and basic storage needs. The iPad mini 7 features a smaller 8.3 inch Liquid Retina display with higher pixel density and True Tone, offering a sharper, more colour-accurate screen for detailed viewing. Performance is stronger on the iPad mini 7 with an Apple A17 Pro processor, 8 GB RAM, and higher storage options from 128 GB upwards, suiting users who run more apps or want more space. The iPad mini 7 also offers better cameras and USB Type-C connectivity, while the iPad 8 uses Lightning. Choose the iPad 8 for a larger screen and simpler features, or the iPad mini 7 for power, portability, and a richer visual experience.
iPad 8 (2020, A12 series) vs iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series) price
Colour
iPad 8 (2020, A12 series) vs iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series) battery life and software updates
Their durability in terms of software is similar, making them both reliable choices for everyday use.
Operating System Support
This keeps either device current with software improvements for apps and system performance.
Maximum operating system supported
Software updates
Year of release
iPad 8 (2020, A12 series) vs iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series) performance
Performance differences between the iPad 8 and iPad mini 7 come down to processor power, memory, and storage capacity. These affect how smoothly apps run and how much data you can keep on the device.
Processor and RAM
The iPad 8 uses the Apple A12 Bionic processor paired with 3 GB of RAM, suitable for everyday apps and light multitasking. The iPad mini 7 has the Apple A17 Pro processor and 8 GB of RAM, which keeps more apps open and running smoothly, ideal for more demanding tasks or heavier multitasking.
Storage Capacity
The iPad 8 comes with 32 GB or 128 GB storage options, while the iPad mini 7 starts at 128 GB and goes up to 512 GB. If you need more space for apps, photos, or files, the iPad mini 7 offers higher capacity choices.
Processor
RAM
iPad 8 (2020, A12 series) vs iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series) screen
Screen size and quality are key differences between these iPads. Each has strengths that suit different viewing preferences and uses.
Screen Size and Type
The iPad 8 has a larger 10.2 inch Retina display, providing more room for video, reading, and work. The iPad mini 7 has a smaller 8.3 inch Liquid Retina display, which is more compact without sacrificing clarity.
Resolution and Pixel Density
The iPad mini 7 offers 326 ppi pixel density and a resolution of 2266 x 1488, which results in sharper and more detailed images. The iPad 8 features 264 ppi with a 2160 x 1620 resolution, which still delivers clear visuals but with less pixel density, making it suitable for general use.
True Tone Display
The iPad mini 7 includes True Tone, which adjusts the screen colour temperature to match ambient lighting. This helps reduce eye strain and gives a more natural viewing experience in varied light conditions.
Brightness
Display glass
Pixel density
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
True tone
iPad 8 (2020, A12 series) vs iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series) camera
Camera and speaker capabilities influence video calls, photography, and media playback. The two iPads offer different levels of detail and audio presentation.
Camera Quality
The iPad 8 has an 8 megapixel rear camera and a 1.2 megapixel front camera, suitable for basic photos and video calls. The iPad mini 7 features 12 megapixel cameras on both front and rear, capturing more detail for clearer photos and sharper video chats.
Speakers and Video Recording
Both devices have stereo speakers, with the iPad mini 7's speakers optimised for landscape use. Video recording is the same on both, supporting 1080p at 30 frames per second, which is standard for casual video capture and sharing.
Front camera definition
Rear camera definition
Speakers
Video recording
iPad 8 (2020, A12 series) vs iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series) size and design
Other features like stylus compatibility, connectivity, and physical dimensions round out the differences. These affect how you interact with the device and how portable it is.
Apple Pencil Compatibility
The iPad 8 supports the first generation Apple Pencil, allowing basic stylus input for notes and drawing. The iPad mini 7 works with Apple Pencil Pro and Apple Pencil (USB-C), offering more advanced stylus options.
Connectivity and Ports
The iPad 8 uses a Lightning connector and Bluetooth 4.2, while the iPad mini 7 has USB Type-C and Bluetooth 5.3, which can provide faster data transfer and more versatile connections with modern accessories.
Size and Weight
The iPad 8 measures 250.6 mm in height, 174.1 mm in width, and 7.5 mm in depth, weighing 490 g. The iPad mini 7 is smaller and lighter at 195.4 mm by 134.8 mm by 6.3 mm and 293 g, making it more portable and easier to hold for extended periods.
SIM and Network Compatibility
The iPad 8 does not have a SIM port, while the iPad mini 7 is unlocked and supports eSIM, offering more flexibility for mobile data use without physical SIM cards.
120hz
Apple pen compatible
Bluetooth version
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Double sim
Face
Generation number
Headphones connectivity
Height
Lidar scanner
Minimum system requirements mac
Minimum system requirements windows
Network
Promotion
Sim format
Touch
Weight
Width
Wifi technology
iPad 8 (2020, A12 series) or iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series): which should you buy?
Buy the iPad 8 (2020, A12 series) if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £107.75, £366.63 less than the iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series)
- you want a bigger screen (10.2 inch vs 8.3 inch)
Buy the iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series) if
- you want more RAM (8 GB vs 3 GB)
- you want a lighter build (293 g vs 490 g)
iPad 8 (2020, A12 series) vs iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series) FAQs
iPad 8 (2020, A12 series) vs iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series) comes down to the RAM, screen size and screen type. The iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series) has more RAM: 8 GB vs 3 GB. The iPad 8 (2020, A12 series) has a bigger screen: 10.2 inch vs 8.3 inch.
The iPad 8 (2020, A12 series) is cheaper refurbished, from £107.75 compared with £474.38 for the iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series).
The iPad 8 (2020, A12 series) is still supported and can run iPadOS 26. The iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series) is still supported and can run iPadOS 27.
The iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series) adds more RAM (8 GB vs 3 GB) and a lighter build (293 g vs 490 g). Refurbished, it costs £366.63 more (from £474.38 vs £107.75).
Refurbished, the iPad 8 (2020, A12 series) comes in 32GB and 128GB, and the iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series) in 128GB, 256GB and 512GB.
