iPad mini 6 (2021, A15 series) vs iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series)
Shop iPad
iPad mini 6 (2021, A15 series)
Starting at
£312.06£569.00 new
iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series)
Starting at
£474.38£599.00 newWhat's the difference between the iPad mini 6 (2021, A15 series) and iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series)?
iPad mini 6 (2021, A15 series) vs iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series) comes down to the RAM and weight. Refurbished, the iPad mini 6 (2021, A15 series) starts at £312.06, £162.32 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
Weight
- The iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series) has more RAM: 8 GB vs 4 GB.
- Weight: 297 g on the iPad mini 6 (2021, A15 series), 293 g on the iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series).
iPad mini 6 (2021, A15 series) vs iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series) specs
The iPad mini 6 and iPad mini 7 share many features like screen size, brightness, and software support, but they differ in processor power, RAM, camera video recording, and storage options. The iPad mini 7 offers a newer Apple A17 Pro processor and doubles the RAM to 8 GB, which suits users who run demanding apps or multitask often. It also supports higher storage capacities, ideal if you need more space. The iPad mini 6 has 4 GB RAM and the Apple A15 Bionic, fitting everyday use well. Both have similar displays and cameras, but the iPad mini 6 records video at 4K 60FPS while the iPad mini 7 records at 1080p 30 FPS. Your choice will depend on whether you prioritise processing power and storage or video recording quality.
iPad mini 6 (2021, A15 series) vs iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series) price
Colour
iPad mini 6 (2021, A15 series) vs iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series) battery life and software updates
Durability covers software support and release context. Both devices support iPadOS 18 and will receive updates up to iPadOS 27, ensuring they stay current with new features and security patches.
Software Support
Both the iPad mini 6 and iPad mini 7 support the same maximum operating system, iPadOS 18, and will continue to receive software updates up to iPadOS 27. This means both tablets will stay supported with new features and security updates for a similar duration, keeping them reliable for everyday use.
Release Year
The iPad mini 6 was released in 2021, while the iPad mini 7 came out in 2024.
Maximum operating system supported
Software updates
Year of release
iPad mini 6 (2021, A15 series) vs iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series) performance
Performance differences come down to processing power, memory, and storage options. These affect how smoothly the device runs apps, multitasks, and handles storage needs.
Processor Power
The iPad mini 6 runs on the Apple A15 Bionic, a capable processor for everyday tasks and most apps. The iPad mini 7 features the Apple A17 Pro, which offers more advanced performance, suited for users running demanding applications or multitasking extensively.
Memory Capacity
With 4 GB of RAM, the iPad mini 6 handles everyday use well, such as email, browsing, and streaming. The iPad mini 7 doubles this to 8 GB RAM, making it better for keeping more apps active and running more complex tasks smoothly.
Storage Options
The iPad mini 6 comes in 64GB and 256GB models, which fit typical needs for apps, photos, and media. The iPad mini 7 starts at 128GB and goes up to 512GB, offering more space for users who store larger files or more apps.
Processor
RAM
iPad mini 6 (2021, A15 series) vs iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series) screen
Both devices share the same screen size and quality, which means the visual experience is similar for viewing content and interacting with apps.
Display Features
The iPad mini 6 and iPad mini 7 both have an 8.3 inch Liquid Retina display with 500 nits brightness and 326 pixels per inch. They also support True Tone for colour accuracy indoors. This makes either device suited for sharp, bright visuals and comfortable viewing.
Refresh Rate and Resolution
Both tablets offer a 60 Hz refresh rate and a resolution of 2266 by 1488 pixels. This ensures smooth scrolling and clear images, suitable for reading, streaming, and everyday use.
Brightness
Display glass
Pixel density
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
True tone
iPad mini 6 (2021, A15 series) vs iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series) camera
Audiovisual differences focus on cameras, speakers, and video recording capabilities. These affect video calls, photography, and media playback.
Camera Resolution
Both the iPad mini 6 and iPad mini 7 have 12 megapixel front and rear cameras. This pixel count supports detailed photos and video calls for either device.
Video Recording
The iPad mini 6 records video at 4K resolution with 60 frames per second, which suits users who want higher quality and smoother video capture. The iPad mini 7 records at 1080p resolution and 30 frames per second, fitting those who prioritise standard definition video for casual use.
Speakers
Both devices feature stereo speakers in landscape orientation. This setup delivers good audio for watching videos or video calls when holding the tablet horizontally.
Front camera definition
Rear camera definition
Speakers
Video recording
iPad mini 6 (2021, A15 series) vs iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series) size and design
Miscellaneous features include pen compatibility, connectivity, physical dimensions, and sim options, influencing how you use the device daily.
Apple Pencil Compatibility
The iPad mini 6 works with the Apple Pencil 2nd generation and Apple Pencil (USB-C), catering to users who want note taking or drawing capabilities. The iPad mini 7 supports the Apple Pencil Pro and Apple Pencil (USB-C), which may offer additional features for creative or precise input.
Bluetooth and Connectivity
Bluetooth 5.0 on the iPad mini 6 supports common wireless accessories. The iPad mini 7 offers Bluetooth 5.3, which can enhance connection stability and efficiency with compatible devices. Both use USB-C connectors and support Wi-Fi 6 for fast wireless internet.
Sim Format
The iPad mini 6 uses a physical Nano SIM, while the iPad mini 7 features eSIM support. eSIM allows you to activate cellular service without a physical card, which can be more convenient if you switch carriers or travel frequently.
Dimensions and Weight
Both tablets share the same height of 195.4 mm, width of 134.8 mm, and depth of 6.3 mm, making their size comparable. The iPad mini 7 is slightly lighter at 293 g compared to 297 g for the iPad mini 6, a minor difference in hand feel.
Double SIM and Other Features
Both devices support dual SIM functionality, enabling the use of two mobile plans simultaneously. Neither device has Face ID, and both support touch input.
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 mini 6 (2021, A15 series) or iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series): which should you buy?
Buy the iPad mini 6 (2021, A15 series) if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £312.06, £162.32 less than the iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series)
Buy the iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series) if
- you want more RAM (8 GB vs 4 GB)
- you want the newer model (2024)
What our customers say
Customers who chose the iPad mini 6 appreciate its compact size and smooth performance for everyday tasks like emails, browsing, and video calls. Many mention that the device looks nearly new, with sharp screens and good battery life that lasts through a typical day. Some note slight warmth during demanding apps but find it manageable. Storage sizes around 256GB suit users who keep photos and work files on the device. Overall, users find the touchscreen responsive and colours vibrant, making it a reliable choice for travel and daily use.
Users of the iPad mini 7 praise its like-new condition and excellent battery health, often at 100 percent. The device is described as quick and responsive, fitting well between smaller phones and larger laptops. Buyers value the smooth setup experience and the environmental benefits of choosing refurbished. The iPad mini 7 meets needs for a small, light tablet with enough power for school or general use. Some appreciate the larger storage options and newer Bluetooth version, which support a range of wireless accessories.
Both iPads suit buyers looking for a portable tablet with strong performance and quality displays. The iPad mini 6 fits well for everyday use and solid video recording, while the iPad mini 7 suits those who want more memory, higher storage choices, and convenient eSIM support.
iPad mini 6 (2021, A15 series) vs iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series) FAQs
iPad mini 6 (2021, A15 series) vs iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series) comes down to the RAM and weight. The iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series) has more RAM: 8 GB vs 4 GB. Weight: 297 g on the iPad mini 6 (2021, A15 series), 293 g on the iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series).
The iPad mini 6 (2021, A15 series) is cheaper refurbished, from £312.06 compared with £474.38 for the iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series).
The iPad mini 6 (2021, A15 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 more RAM (8 GB vs 4 GB). Refurbished, it costs £162.32 more (from £474.38 vs £312.06).
Refurbished, the iPad mini 6 (2021, A15 series) comes in 64GB and 256GB, and the iPad mini 7 (2024, A17 series) in 128GB, 256GB and 512GB.
