In 2012, Apple redefined the compact tablet space with the iPad mini. Now, we revisit that original mini and pit it against the Prestigio Multipad 4 Quantum 10.1, a larger Android tablet from a lesser-known brand. This comparison isn't about raw power; it's about understanding how different architectural approaches and screen sizes impact the user experience, especially considering the age difference and price points.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user seeking a modern tablet experience, the iPad mini, despite its age, remains the superior choice. Apple’s A5 chip, while dual-core, benefits from optimized software and a tighter ecosystem, resulting in smoother performance than the Prestigio’s Rockchip RK3188. However, the Multipad’s larger screen offers a better experience for media consumption.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | N/A | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 - A1454; A1455 |
| 3G bands | - | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 - A1454; A1455 |
| 4G bands | - | 4, 17 - A1454 |
| EDGE | No | - |
| GPRS | No | - |
| Speed | - | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat3 100/50 Mbps, EV-DO Rev.A 3.1 Mbps |
| Technology | No cellular connectivity | GSM / CDMA / HSPA / LTE |
| | - | LTE 700 / 850 / 1800 / 1900 / 2100 - A1455 |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2013. Released 2013 | 2012, October. Released 2012, November |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 260 x 170 x 9.5 mm (10.24 x 6.69 x 0.37 in) | 200 x 134.7 x 7.2 mm (7.87 x 5.30 x 0.28 in) |
| SIM | No | Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 612 g (1.35 lb) | 312 g (11.01 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | - | Oleophobic coating |
| Resolution | 800 x 1280 pixels, 16:10 ratio (~149 ppi density) | 768 x 1024 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~162 ppi density) |
| Size | 10.1 inches, 295.8 cm2 (~66.9% screen-to-body ratio) | 7.9 inches, 193.3 cm2 (~71.7% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.6 GHz Cortex-A9 | Dual-core 1.0 GHz Cortex-A9 |
| Chipset | Rockchip RK3188 | Apple A5 (45 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-400MP4 | PowerVR SGX543MP2 |
| OS | Android 4.2 (Jelly Bean) | iOS 6, upgradable to iOS 9.3.6 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDHC (dedicated slot) | No |
| Internal | 8GB 1GB RAM | 16GB 512MB RAM, 32GB 512MB RAM, 64GB 512MB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Single | 2 MP | 5 MP, AF |
| Video | - | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | face detection, FaceTime over Wi-Fi or Cellular |
| Single | VGA | 1.2 MP |
| Video | - | 720p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | - |
| Loudspeaker | Yes, with stereo speakers | Yes, with stereo speakers |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.0, A2DP | 4.0, A2DP, EDR |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | No | GPS, GLONASS |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | microUSB 2.0, OTG | Lightning, USB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, dual-band |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer | Accelerometer, gyro, compass |
| | HDMI port | - |
| Battery |
|---|
| Talk time | - | Up to 10 h (multimedia) |
| Type | Li-Po 7000 mAh, non-removable | Li-Po 4490 mAh, non-removable (16.7 Wh) |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black/Deep Blue | Black/Slate, White/Silver |
| Models | - | A1454, A1455, iPad2,6, iPad2,7 |
| Price | About 220 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
|
Prestigio Multipad 4 Quantum 10.1
- Larger 10.1-inch display for better media consumption.
- Potentially lower price point.
- Quad-core processor offers theoretical multi-tasking advantage.
- Less optimized software experience.
- Rockchip RK3188 chipset is less efficient.
- Unknown camera quality.
Apple iPad mini Wi-Fi + Cellular
- Optimized iOS ecosystem for smooth performance.
- Compact and portable form factor.
- Higher contrast ratio for better image quality.
- Smaller 7.9-inch display.
- Older A5 chipset.
- Limited storage options (depending on configuration).
Display Comparison
The most immediate difference is screen size: 10.1 inches for the Prestigio versus 7.9 inches for the iPad mini. While the Prestigio benefits from a larger canvas, Apple’s iPad mini boasts a contrast ratio of 812:1, suggesting deeper blacks and more vibrant colors. Given the age of both devices, neither is likely to offer particularly high brightness levels, but the iPad mini’s IPS panel likely provides wider viewing angles. The Prestigio’s display resolution is not specified, but given the screen size, it’s unlikely to match the iPad mini’s Retina display in terms of pixel density.
Camera Comparison
Neither tablet was designed with photography in mind. Camera specifications are not available for the Prestigio Multipad 4 Quantum 10.1, suggesting a basic implementation. The iPad mini’s camera specs are also modest. Given the age of both devices, image quality will be subpar by modern standards. Focusing on camera performance for either tablet is not a worthwhile consideration.
Performance
The Prestigio Multipad 4 Quantum 10.1 utilizes a Rockchip RK3188 chipset with a quad-core 1.6 GHz Cortex-A9 CPU. The iPad mini, conversely, employs Apple’s A5, a dual-core 1.0 GHz Cortex-A9. Despite having fewer cores and a lower clock speed, the A5 benefits from Apple’s chip design expertise and software optimization. The RK3188, while offering more raw processing power on paper, is known to be less efficient and may struggle with sustained workloads. The iPad mini’s architecture is more streamlined, leading to a smoother, more responsive experience in everyday tasks. The A5’s 45nm process node is less efficient than modern chips, but the iPad mini’s smaller screen and optimized software mitigate thermal concerns.
Battery Life
Battery capacity for both devices is not specified. However, the iPad mini’s smaller screen and more efficient chipset likely translate to longer battery life in real-world usage. The Prestigio’s larger screen and less efficient RK3188 will likely drain the battery faster, especially during demanding tasks. Charging speeds are also unknown, but given the age of both devices, they will likely be significantly slower than modern tablets.
Buying Guide
Buy the Prestigio Multipad 4 Quantum 10.1 if you prioritize a larger 10.1-inch display for media viewing and light productivity tasks, and are on a very tight budget. Buy the Apple iPad mini Wi-Fi + Cellular if you value a more refined user experience, a compact form factor, and access to Apple’s extensive app ecosystem, even if it means accepting an older chipset and smaller screen.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Rockchip RK3188 in the Prestigio Multipad 4 Quantum 10.1 capable of running modern Android apps?
While the RK3188 can technically run modern Android apps, performance will likely be sluggish and inconsistent. Many apps are optimized for newer chipsets, and the RK3188’s limited processing power and RAM may struggle with demanding applications. Expect significant lag and potential crashes.
❓ Does the iPad mini's A5 chip still receive software updates?
No, the original iPad mini is no longer supported by Apple and will not receive further iOS updates. This means it’s vulnerable to security risks and may not be compatible with the latest app versions. However, many essential apps still function on older iOS versions.
❓ Given the age of both devices, what is the expected lifespan of the battery?
The battery lifespan of both devices will be significantly reduced due to age and usage. Expect significantly shorter battery life than when they were new. Battery replacement may be difficult or expensive, especially for the iPad mini.
