X
CNET logo Why You Can Trust CNET

Our expert, award-winning staff selects the products we cover and rigorously researches and tests our top picks. If you buy through our links, we may get a commission. Reviews ethics statement

Apple iPad Mini 2 is an oldie, but a goodie

The oldest iPad Mini is also the most affordable iPad model available.

Xiomara Blanco
Xiomara Blanco is an associate editor for CNET Reviews. She's a Bay Area native with a knack for tech that makes life easier and more enjoyable. So, don't expect her to review printers anytime soon.
Xiomara Blanco
apple-ipad-mini-8901-001.jpg
1 of 12 Josh Miller/CNET

Older, but not wiser

The Apple iPad Mini 2 is an old model, but it's managed to stick around.

If you're interested in an iPad, but are strapped on cash, the Mini 2 is your best bet.

apple-ipad-mini-8901-001.jpg
2 of 12 Josh Miller/CNET

Same aluminum design

From the back, the iPad Mini 2 could pass for the Mini 4.

apple-ipad-mini-8901-001.jpg
3 of 12 Josh Miller/CNET

Same resolution

Though it has the same screen resolution as the iPad Mini 4, the Mini 2 doesn't have as wide of a color range.

apple-ipad-mini-8901-001.jpg
4 of 12 Josh Miller/CNET

Thicker design

It's also thicker than the newer iPad.

apple-ipad-mini-8901-001.jpg
5 of 12 Josh Miller/CNET

iOS 10 ready

When iOS 10 rolls out later this year, the iPad Mini 2 will support it.

apple-ipad-mini-8901-001.jpg
6 of 12 Josh Miller/CNET

No TouchID

It doesn't have the fingerprint scanner that newer iPads have.

apple-ipad-mini-8901-001.jpg
7 of 12 Josh Miller/CNET

No complaints here

While using the iPad Mini 2, despite its lack of high-end features, it still satisfied for casual web browsing, video streaming and gaming.

apple-ipad-mini-8901-001.jpg
8 of 12 Josh Miller/CNET

Lightning charger

It uses the same charger as the iPhone 6.

apple-ipad-mini-8901-001.jpg
9 of 12 Josh Miller/CNET

Two cameras

It has a rear and front-facing camera. Neither are very impressive.

apple-ipad-mini-8901-001.jpg
10 of 12 Josh Miller/CNET
apple-ipad-mini-8901-001.jpg
11 of 12 Josh Miller/CNET
apple-ipad-mini-8901-001.jpg
12 of 12 Josh Miller/CNET

More Galleries

My Favorite Shots From the Galaxy S24 Ultra's Camera
A houseplant

My Favorite Shots From the Galaxy S24 Ultra's Camera

20 Photos
Honor's Magic V2 Foldable Is Lighter Than Samsung's Galaxy S24 Ultra
magic-v2-2024-foldable-1383

Honor's Magic V2 Foldable Is Lighter Than Samsung's Galaxy S24 Ultra

10 Photos
The Samsung Galaxy S24 and S24 Plus Looks Sweet in Aluminum
Samsung Galaxy S24

The Samsung Galaxy S24 and S24 Plus Looks Sweet in Aluminum

23 Photos
Samsung's Galaxy S24 Ultra Now Has a Titanium Design
The Galaxy S24 Ultra in multiple colors

Samsung's Galaxy S24 Ultra Now Has a Titanium Design

23 Photos
I Took 600+ Photos With the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max. Look at My Favorites
img-0368.jpg

I Took 600+ Photos With the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max. Look at My Favorites

34 Photos
17 Hidden iOS 17 Features You Should Definitely Know About
Invitation for the Apple September iPhone 15 event

17 Hidden iOS 17 Features You Should Definitely Know About

18 Photos
AI or Not AI: Can You Spot the Real Photos?
img-1599-2.jpg

AI or Not AI: Can You Spot the Real Photos?

17 Photos