iPad mini (1st gen)
2012 first 7.9" iPad mini.
The Apple iPad mini (1st gen) is a vintage Apple smartphone released Nov 2012, with a launch price of $329. It pairs the Apple A5 with a 7.9" 1024 x 768 display, a 5.0 MP main camera and a 4,440 mAh battery. In SpecEagle's editorial review it scores 78/100 — iPad mini (1st gen). Standout strengths: first ipad mini at 7.9". and 308 g featherweight. Main trade-off: non-retina display.
iPad mini (1st gen).
Apple's 2012 first iPad mini brought 7.9" form at 308 g — $329 affordable companion to full iPad.
Read the full review- First iPad mini at 7.9".
- 308 g featherweight.
- $329 affordable.
- Lightning connector.
Full specifications
Benchmarks
How the iPad mini (1st gen) compares
| iPad mini (1st gen) | Galaxy S25 Ultra | iPhone 13 mini | |
|---|---|---|---|
| SpecEagle score | 78 | 89 | 78 |
| Chipset | Apple A5 | SD 8 Elite | Apple A15 Bionic |
| Display | 7.9" 1024 x 768 | 6.9" LTPO AMOLED | 5.4" OLED 60 Hz |
| Main camera | 5.0 MP | 200 MP · f/1.7 | 12 MP · f/1.6 |
| Battery | 4,440 mAh | 5,000 mAh | 2,406 mAh |
| Launch price | $329 | $1,299 | $699 |
Frequently asked questions
When was the iPad mini (1st gen) released?
The iPad mini (1st gen) was released in Nov 2012.
How much does the iPad mini (1st gen) cost?
The iPad mini (1st gen) launched at $329 (manufacturer suggested price at release; street and second-hand prices vary by region, storage tier and time since launch).
What is the iPad mini (1st gen) screen size and type?
The iPad mini (1st gen) has a 7.9" 1024 x 768 display.
What chipset does the iPad mini (1st gen) use?
The iPad mini (1st gen) is powered by the Apple A5 chipset.
What is the iPad mini (1st gen) battery capacity?
The iPad mini (1st gen) has a 4,440 mAh battery.
What is the iPad mini (1st gen) main camera?
The iPad mini (1st gen) has a 5.0 MP main camera.
What colours does the iPad mini (1st gen) come in?
The iPad mini (1st gen) is available in 2 colours: Silver, Black.
Is the iPad mini (1st gen) worth buying?
Apple's 2012 first iPad mini brought 7.9" form at 308 g — $329 affordable companion to full iPad. SpecEagle gives the iPad mini (1st gen) an editorial score of 78/100.
Owner opinions
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