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Deal.ai › Apple › Tablets
Apple
Apple iPad Mini (2021) 256GB

Apple iPad Mini (2021) 256GB

4.7(573 ratings)

Best price now

$649.99at TargetChecked 19 h ago

Compared across 2 stores. Prices are checked against each store and labelled with when. Store links may earn us a commission. Price via Klarna.

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Price facts

  • Last seen at $649.99 at Target on Nov 9.
  • Checked at 2 stores.

Our take on the Apple iPad Mini (2021) 256GB

The iPad Mini (2021) is Apple's smallest tablet, built around an 8.3-inch Liquid Retina screen with 2266x1488 resolution and 326 ppi. It runs the A15 Bionic chip, the same class of silicon as the iPhone 13, and moves to USB-C, so it charges and connects with the same cables as most laptops and Android gear. At about 10.3 oz it fits in one hand and in a jacket pocket, which is the main reason people pick it over the 10.9-inch iPad Air. Reviewers call it the best small tablet for reading, note-taking and travel, though some find the screen refresh rate and the price of the 256GB tier hard to justify against the Air.

Best forReading and note-taking on the goTravel and commutingOne-handed use in bed or on a couchStudents who want a light tablet for class
Pros
  • A15 Bionic handles games, editing and multitasking smoothly
  • 8.3-inch size is light enough to hold in one hand for long stretches
  • USB-C charging and data, shared with most modern devices
  • 256GB storage leaves room for offline video, photos and apps
  • Touch ID in the top button works reliably
  • Good rear and front cameras for scanning documents and video calls
Cons
  • 60Hz screen feels less smooth than 120Hz rivals
  • No keyboard included and no Smart Connector for Apple's keyboard cases
  • No headphone jack
  • 256GB model costs close to a larger iPad Air
  • No water resistance and no microSD expansion

Apple iPad Mini (2021) 256GB prices at every store

  • TargetNew

    In stock

    $649.99Free shippingChecked 19 h ago
    Visit Target
  • QuillNew

    Out of stock

    $600.29Free shippingChecked 19 h ago
    Visit Quill

Store links may earn us a commission. Some prices via Klarna.

Apple iPad Mini (2021) 256GB price history

$600.29$600.29
Nov 9Nov 10

Lowest price we've seen: $600.29 on Nov 9 at Quill. Tracked across 2 stores since Nov 9.

What reviewers say

  • 4.7 / 5573 ratings

Owners rate it highly, praising the compact size, fast A15 chip and USB-C. Common complaints are the 60Hz display and the lack of a headphone jack, plus the value question against the bigger iPad Air.

What people mention
  • SizePraisedOwners say the 8.3-inch body is easy to hold one-handed and fits in a jacket pocket.
  • PerformancePraisedThe A15 chip runs games, drawing apps and split-screen multitasking without stutter.
  • DisplayMixedThe screen is sharp and bright, but the 60Hz refresh rate feels less smooth than 120Hz tablets.
  • PortsPraisedUSB-C is welcomed for charging and moving files from cameras and drives.
  • AccessoriesCriticisedNo keyboard is included and Apple Pencil 2 is sold separately, which adds to the total cost.
  • BatteryMixedMost get a full day of reading and browsing, but heavy gaming drains it faster than expected.

Specifications

Connections
USB-CSource
Active Digitizer (Stylus pen)
NoSource
Bluetooth
YesSource
Camera Resolution (front) (MP)
12.0Source

Questions and answers

Is the iPad Mini (2021) still worth buying?
Yes, if you want a small tablet. The A15 chip still runs current iPadOS well, and USB-C keeps it compatible with modern accessories. If you need a bigger screen or a 120Hz display, the iPad Air is the better fit.
Does it work with the Apple Pencil?
It works with the second-generation Apple Pencil, which attaches magnetically to the side to charge. The first-generation Pencil does not fit.
How does it compare with the iPad Air?
The Mini is smaller and lighter and uses the same class of chip, but the Air has a larger 10.9-inch screen, a Smart Connector for keyboards and a slightly faster M1 chip. Choose the Mini for portability, the Air for typing and drawing space.
Is 256GB enough?
For most people, yes. It holds large app libraries, offline video and photo edits with room to spare. There is no microSD slot, so buy the storage you expect to need.
Does it have cellular?
This version is Wi-Fi only. A cellular model exists separately, so check the listing if you need mobile data.
What is in the box?
The iPad Mini, a USB-C charging cable and a power adapter. No keyboard, pencil or case is included.
Where is the Apple iPad Mini (2021) 256GB cheapest?
At Target, for $649.99, as of our latest check.
What do buyers say about the Apple iPad Mini (2021) 256GB?
Rated 4.7 out of 5 from 573 ratings.
Where can I buy the Apple iPad Mini (2021) 256GB?
2 stores we checked sell it, including Quill, Target.

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System on Chip (SoC)
Apple A15Source
Pixel Density (PPI)
326Source
Miracast (Screen Mirroring)
NoSource
Keyboard Included
NoSource
Telephoto Camera
NoSource
NFC
NoSource
No. of Back Cameras
1Source
Depth (")
0.248Source
No. of Front Cameras
1Source
Memory Card Reader
NoSource
Video Resolution (max)
1080p (Full HD)Source
Water Resistant
NoSource
Fingerprint Reader
YesSource
Processor Cores
Hexa CoreSource
OS Version
Apple iPadOSSource
Weight (oz)
10.335Source
Release Year
2021Source
Mobile Networks
NoSource
Height (")
7.693Source
Operating System
iPadOSSource