[iPad Mini 6 Review] Fits Perfectly in Outer Pocket~ Overwhelming 'Portability'

Shorter Length but Larger Screen Size
True Tone Support for Natural Colors
Enhanced Performance with A15 Chipset

Apple 'iPad Mini 6th Generation'

[Asia Economy Reporter Eunmo Koo] Apple's tablet PC, the 'iPad Mini 6th Generation (Mini 6),' is a product with a clear reason for existence. The Mini 6 was created targeting a definite demand group, not broad but specific, for those who find the typical tablet's size and weight burdensome. The Mini 6's attempt to deliver maximum satisfaction with minimal size seems largely successful. Above all, it deserves high marks for achieving overall functional improvements while preserving portability as its top priority.

Compared to its predecessor, the 'iPad Mini 5th Generation,' the Mini 6 has a shorter vertical length and has succeeded in slimming down to under 300g. Thanks to its small size, it can be easily carried in an outer pocket, and its light weight makes it comfortable to hold and use with one hand in various places, from the subway to the bed. Users who frequently carry a tablet for work are likely to find it highly satisfying.

Apple 'iPad Mini 6th Generation'

Although the vertical length has shortened, the top and bottom bezels have been significantly reduced, resulting in a screen size increase from 7.9 inches to 8.3 inches. Despite carrying the name Mini and the recent trend of large-screen smartphones like the iPhone 13 Pro Max growing up to 6.7 inches, it still offers a noticeably more spacious and comfortable screen. The display supports True Tone, which adjusts the screen to the surrounding color temperature, giving a natural impression of color expression, and stereo speakers provide a sense of space, making it more than adequate for watching videos.

It is not just small and light. The Mini 6 is equipped with the A15 Bionic chipset as its application processor (AP), which outperforms the chips found in the iPad 9 and iPad Air 4. Throughout use, there was no performance degradation due to heat, and it appears to be a model capable of handling demanding graphic work or high-spec games with sufficient performance.

Apple 'iPad Mini 6th Generation'

Support for the 'Apple Pencil 2nd Generation' was also a compelling factor for purchase desire. Because the screen is small, various menus and tabs are relatively small, making finger-only use somewhat inconvenient, but using the Apple Pencil allowed for smooth and fast operation. The response speed was also smooth without delay. However, since it must be attached and stored on the side, there is concern about the risk of loss when carrying it around, as the dedicated cover (Smart Folio) does not have a separate storage compartment.

It is not without weaknesses. The limitations due to its small size are clear. While it can handle everything from handwriting and drawing to various productivity tasks, the panel itself feels cramped for smooth operation. It seems more suitable for reading documents or e-books rather than complex handwriting or editing work. Also, the lack of support for a 120Hz refresh rate is a regrettable point considering recent trends in mobile devices.

Apple 'iPad Mini 6th Generation'

One thing that kept drawing attention during use was the volume buttons moved to the top in portrait mode. It seems they were relocated to accommodate attaching the Apple Pencil on the long horizontal side, but perhaps due to unfamiliarity, I often found myself fumbling to find the volume buttons while using it. The usability itself was not bad, and the up and down buttons changed intuitively depending on the tablet's grip direction rather than being fixed, which was user-friendly.

The camera was also noticeably upgraded. The rear camera improved from 8 megapixels to 12 megapixels and now supports 4K 60fps video recording. The 12-megapixel front camera features Center Stage, which helps keep the user centered in the frame during calls or video conferences even when moving. However, optical image stabilization (OIS) is not included. Additionally, the switch from Lightning to USB-C connector and the inclusion of a 20-watt charger are also welcome changes.

Apple 'iPad Mini 6th Generation'

The price starts at 649,000 KRW for the 64GB Wi-Fi model and goes up to 1,029,000 KRW for the 256GB cellular model. Considering its portability and overall performance, the Mini 6 is a model with clear advantages and sufficient purchase incentives. Personally, it was a product I desired as a second tablet. However, as mentioned earlier, despite being a relatively high-spec model, the absolute price itself is on the higher side, which may act as a limitation to demand.