iPad mini (2026) review: great OLED display, it's waterproof and dustproof, and the A20 Pro is fast, but it's expensive, has no 120Hz display, and lacks Face ID

The iPad Mini now offers enhanced durability and a better screen at a higher starting price, making it a more practical tool for demanding environments.

Apple's new iPad Mini (2026) features an upgraded 8.5-inch OLED display, a faster A20 Pro chip, and an IP67 water and dust resistance rating. The device is also thinner and lighter than its predecessor. However, it retains a 60Hz refresh rate, lacks Face ID, and carries a significantly higher price tag, with the base 128GB Wi-Fi model starting at $699 and the reviewed 512GB cellular model with a matte display costing $1,249. The move to OLED and improved durability are highlighted as key advancements, but the absence of ProMotion technology and the elevated cost are noted as significant drawbacks.

The iPad Mini's new IP67 rating and Acoustic Display design signify Apple's strategic pivot toward positioning the device as a ruggedized 'Field iPad' for professional use in environments like construction sites and medical offices, rather than solely a consumer media device. This durability upgrade is presented as the most impactful change, enabling greater user confidence in diverse conditions and altering usage patterns for tasks ranging from kitchen recipes to shower-time viewing.

Despite significant internal upgrades like the A20 Pro chip and a superior OLED display, the decision to omit ProMotion (120Hz refresh rate) and Face ID, coupled with a starting price of $699, positions the iPad Mini as a niche product. This pricing strategy, which is at least $100 higher than some observers deem reasonable, suggests Apple is prioritizing its target professional user base and maintaining differentiation within its broader iPad lineup, even at the risk of alienating some existing fans.