iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) vs iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series)
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iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series)
Starting at
£316.24£669.00 new
iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series)
Starting at
£474.38£599.00 newWhat's the difference between the iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) and iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series)?
iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) vs iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series) comes down to the screen size and weight. Refurbished, the iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) starts at £316.24, £158.14 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
Screen size
Weight
- The iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) has a bigger screen: 10.9 inch vs 8.3 inch.
- The iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series) has a lighter build: 293 g vs 462 g.
iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) vs iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series) specs
The iPad Air 5 features a larger 10.9 inch Liquid Retina display with a higher resolution, making it well suited for productivity and media consumption where screen space matters. The iPad mini 7 is more compact at 8.3 inches with a higher pixel density, appealing to those who want a pocketable device with sharp detail. Storage options start at 64 GB for the iPad Air 5 and 128 GB for the iPad mini 7, which suits users needing more space. The Air has the M1 chip, while the mini uses the A17 Pro, each catering to different performance preferences. Both devices support Apple Pencil but different versions, which may influence accessory choices.
iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) vs iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series) price
Colour
iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) vs iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series) battery life and software updates
They run on the same operating system and remain compatible with current software developments.
Operating System Support
This keeps each device current for everyday use and app compatibility.
Maximum operating system supported
Software updates
Year of release
iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) vs iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series) performance
Performance depends on the processor, RAM, and storage. Both iPads have 8 GB of RAM, which keeps everyday apps running smoothly. Differences in processors and storage may influence your choice based on tasks and space needs.
Processor Options
The iPad Air 5 runs on the Apple M1 chip, while the iPad mini 7 uses the Apple A17 Pro processor. Each offers strong performance but may suit different workflows or preferences for processing power.
Storage Capacity
The iPad Air 5 starts with 64 GB of storage, with a 256 GB option available, suitable for users with moderate storage needs. The iPad mini 7 begins at 128 GB and also offers 256 GB and 512 GB options, catering to those who require more local space for apps, media, or files.
Processor
RAM
iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) vs iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series) screen
Screen size and display details affect how you experience content. Both have Liquid Retina displays with the same brightness and True Tone technology, but differ in size, resolution, and pixel density.
Screen Size and Resolution
The iPad Air 5 provides a larger 10.9 inch screen with a resolution of 2360 by 1640 pixels. This makes it a good choice if you want more room for multitasking, reading, or watching videos. The iPad mini 7 has an 8.3 inch screen with a resolution of 2266 by 1488 pixels, offering a smaller but still sharp viewing experience.
Pixel Density
The iPad mini 7 has a higher pixel density at 326 pixels per inch, which means it delivers crisper detail on its smaller display. The iPad Air 5's 264 pixels per inch suits users who prefer a larger screen with good clarity.
Brightness
Display glass
Pixel density
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
True tone
iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) vs iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series) camera
Both iPads include front and rear 12 megapixel cameras and stereo speakers, but video recording capabilities and speaker orientation differ, which may matter depending on your usage.
Video Recording Quality
The iPad Air 5 supports 4K video recording at 60 frames per second, suitable for capturing high-resolution videos with smooth motion. The iPad mini 7 records video at 1080p and 30 frames per second, which is standard for everyday video use.
Speaker Configuration
The iPad Air 5 features stereo speakers, while the iPad mini 7 has stereo speakers designed for landscape use. This may affect audio experience when watching videos or gaming in different orientations.
Front camera definition
Rear camera definition
Speakers
Video recording
iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) vs iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series) size and design
Additional features include Apple Pencil compatibility, connectivity, size, and weight, all of which influence daily use and portability.
Apple Pencil Compatibility
The iPad Air 5 is compatible with the Apple Pencil 2nd generation and Apple Pencil with USB-C, making it suitable for note-taking and drawing with those accessories. The iPad mini 7 supports the Apple Pencil Pro and Apple Pencil with USB-C, giving access to a different set of stylus options.
Connectivity and SIM Options
Both devices have USB Type-C connectors and are unlocked for carrier use. The iPad Air 5 uses a Nano SIM format, while the iPad mini 7 supports eSIM, which may appeal to those who prefer a digital SIM solution.
Size and Weight
The iPad Air 5 measures 247.6 mm in height, 178.5 mm in width, and 6.1 mm in depth, weighing 462 grams. It suits users who want a larger device for productivity. The iPad mini 7 is smaller at 195.4 mm tall, 134.8 mm wide, and 6.3 mm deep, weighing 293 grams, making it easier to hold and carry for extended periods.
Bluetooth and Wi-Fi
The iPad Air 5 supports Bluetooth 5.0 and Wi-Fi 6 802.11ax, while the iPad mini 7 offers Bluetooth 5.3 and the same Wi-Fi standard. The newer Bluetooth version on the mini may provide improved wireless connectivity with compatible accessories.
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 Air 5 (2022, M1 series) or iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series): which should you buy?
Buy the iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £316.24, £158.14 less than the iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series)
- you want a bigger screen (10.9 inch vs 8.3 inch)
Buy the iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series) if
- you want a lighter build (293 g vs 462 g)
- you want the newer model (2024)
What our customers say
Customers who have bought the iPad Air 5 praise its like-new condition and smooth performance thanks to the M1 chip and 8 GB of RAM. They highlight the sharp Liquid Retina display and stable Wi-Fi. Many note the value in buying refurbished, appreciating that the battery holds charge well and the device works fast with multiple apps. Some recommend pairing it with the Apple Pencil for note-taking or drawing. The iPad Air 5 is often described as a great device for productivity and media use, with many users satisfied with its overall condition and functionality.
Customers of the iPad mini 7 also report excellent condition, often describing it as like new with minimal charge cycles. Users enjoy its compact size and responsive performance with the A17 Pro chip and 8 GB of RAM. The display is noted for its sharpness and brightness, making it ideal for users wanting a small, light tablet for everyday tasks or as a complement to other devices. The eSIM support and Bluetooth 5.3 are also appreciated. Many highlight the environmental benefits of choosing certified refurbished and express satisfaction with its reliability.
Both devices suit different needs: the iPad Air 5 is well suited to those who prefer a larger screen and strong performance for multitasking, while the iPad mini 7 appeals to users looking for portability with sharp display quality and newer connectivity features.
iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) vs iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series) FAQs
iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) vs iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series) comes down to the screen size and weight. The iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) has a bigger screen: 10.9 inch vs 8.3 inch. The iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series) has a lighter build: 293 g vs 462 g.
The iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) is cheaper refurbished, from £316.24 compared with £474.38 for the iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series).
The iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) is still supported and can run iPadOS 27. The iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series) is still supported and can run iPadOS 27.
The iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series) adds a lighter build (293 g vs 462 g). Refurbished, it costs £158.14 more (from £474.38 vs £316.24).
Refurbished, the iPad Air 5 (2022, M1 series) comes in 64GB and 256GB, and the iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series) in 128GB, 256GB and 512GB.
