The Apple iPad mini, in its original 2012 iteration, remains a surprisingly capable device for basic tasks. However, comparing two units reveals a peculiar situation: they are, for all intents and purposes, identical. This analysis dives deep into the specifications to uncover any nuance, however small, between these two iPad mini Wi-Fi + Cellular models.
🏆 Quick Verdict
There is no clear winner. Both iPad mini models share the exact same specifications – Apple A5 chipset, 1.0 GHz dual-core CPU, and 812:1 contrast ratio display. The choice between them will come down to price, condition, and cosmetic factors, not performance.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 - A1454; A1455 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 - A1454; A1455 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 - A1454; A1455 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 - A1454; A1455 |
| 4G bands | 4, 17 - A1454 | 4, 17 - A1454 |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat3 100/50 Mbps, EV-DO Rev.A 3.1 Mbps | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat3 100/50 Mbps, EV-DO Rev.A 3.1 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / CDMA / HSPA / LTE | GSM / CDMA / HSPA / LTE |
| | - | LTE 700 / 850 / 1800 / 1900 / 2100 - A1455 |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2012, October. Released 2012, November | 2012, October. Released 2012, November |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 200 x 134.7 x 7.2 mm (7.87 x 5.30 x 0.28 in) | 200 x 134.7 x 7.2 mm (7.87 x 5.30 x 0.28 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 312 g (11.01 oz) | 312 g (11.01 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Oleophobic coating | Oleophobic coating |
| Resolution | 768 x 1024 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~162 ppi density) | 768 x 1024 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~162 ppi density) |
| Size | 7.9 inches, 193.3 cm2 (~71.7% screen-to-body ratio) | 7.9 inches, 193.3 cm2 (~71.7% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Dual-core 1.0 GHz Cortex-A9 | Dual-core 1.0 GHz Cortex-A9 |
| Chipset | Apple A5 (45 nm) | Apple A5 (45 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR SGX543MP2 | PowerVR SGX543MP2 |
| OS | iOS 6, upgradable to iOS 9.3.6 | iOS 6, upgradable to iOS 9.3.6 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | No | No |
| Internal | 16GB 512MB RAM, 32GB 512MB RAM, 64GB 512MB RAM | 16GB 512MB RAM, 32GB 512MB RAM, 64GB 512MB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP, AF | 5 MP, AF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | face detection, FaceTime over Wi-Fi or Cellular | face detection, FaceTime over Wi-Fi or Cellular |
| Single | 1.2 MP | 1.2 MP |
| Video | 720p@30fps | 720p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | - |
| Loudspeaker | Yes, with stereo speakers | Yes, with stereo speakers |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.0, A2DP, EDR | 4.0, A2DP, EDR |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS | GPS, GLONASS |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | Lightning, USB 2.0 | Lightning, USB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, dual-band | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, dual-band |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, gyro, compass | Accelerometer, gyro, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Talk time | Up to 10 h (multimedia) | Up to 10 h (multimedia) |
| Type | Li-Po 4490 mAh, non-removable (16.7 Wh) | Li-Po 4490 mAh, non-removable (16.7 Wh) |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black/Slate, White/Silver | Black/Slate, White/Silver |
| Models | A1454, A1455, iPad2,6, iPad2,7 | A1454, A1455, iPad2,6, iPad2,7 |
| Price | About 300 EUR | About 300 EUR |
| Tests |
|---|
| Audio quality | - |
Noise -82.8dB / Crosstalk -80.8dB |
| Display | - |
Contrast ratio: 812:1 (nominal) |
| Loudspeaker | - |
Voice 68dB / Noise 65dB / Ring 75dB
|
Apple iPad mini Wi-Fi + Cellular
- Compact and portable design
- Cellular connectivity for on-the-go access
- Adequate performance for basic tasks
- Outdated A5 chipset struggles with modern apps
- Limited storage options (likely)
- Display quality is adequate but not exceptional
Apple iPad mini Wi-Fi + Cellular
- Compact and portable design
- Cellular connectivity for on-the-go access
- Adequate performance for basic tasks
- Outdated A5 chipset struggles with modern apps
- Limited storage options (likely)
- Display quality is adequate but not exceptional
Display Comparison
Both iPad mini models feature a display with a nominal contrast ratio of 812:1. This indicates a good, but not exceptional, level of black depth and color vibrancy for its time. Given the identical specification, image quality will be indistinguishable between the two devices. The 7.9-inch display size, while compact, was a key selling point, and the lack of any difference in panel technology means both offer the same viewing experience.
Camera Comparison
The context data does not provide camera specifications. However, given the age and market segment of the original iPad mini, it's reasonable to assume both models feature a similar, basic camera setup. Expect limited low-light performance and image quality compared to modern smartphones. The absence of any specification difference suggests identical camera capabilities.
Performance
The core of both devices is the Apple A5 chipset, fabricated on a 45nm process. This dual-core 1.0 GHz Cortex-A9 CPU provides adequate performance for basic tasks, but will struggle with modern, resource-intensive applications. The identical chipset and CPU configuration guarantee identical performance; there will be no measurable difference in app launch times, multitasking, or overall responsiveness. Thermal management will also be identical, as the A5 is not a particularly power-hungry chip.
Battery Life
Battery capacity is not specified. However, given the identical hardware, battery life will be virtually the same. Expect several hours of light use (reading, web browsing) on a single charge. Charging times will also be comparable, though the original iPad mini does not support fast charging technologies. The 45nm A5 chip's power efficiency contributes to reasonable battery endurance for its time.
Buying Guide
Buy the Apple iPad mini Wi-Fi + Cellular if you need a compact tablet for light tasks like reading, web browsing, and basic productivity. Its cellular connectivity offers portability. Buy the Apple iPad mini Wi-Fi + Cellular if you prefer a cost-effective entry point into the Apple ecosystem, understanding its limitations in modern, demanding applications. Both are ideal for users seeking a retro Apple experience or a dedicated e-reader.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the iPad mini (A5) run the latest iPadOS?
No. Apple has ceased software support for the original iPad mini. The latest iPadOS versions are not compatible with the A5 chipset, meaning you'll be limited to older operating systems and app versions. This impacts security and access to new features.
❓ Can I use this iPad mini for modern mobile games like Genshin Impact or Call of Duty Mobile?
While technically possible to launch some games, the A5 chipset is severely underpowered for modern mobile gaming. Expect extremely low frame rates, significant lag, and a generally poor gaming experience. It's best suited for older, less demanding games.
❓ Is the cellular connectivity on this iPad mini still functional with current cellular networks?
Cellular connectivity *should* still function, but compatibility with newer cellular technologies (5G, etc.) is absent. It will likely connect to 3G or 4G networks, depending on your carrier and region. Check with your carrier for specific compatibility details.
