Tech head-to-head
Apple iPad Air (5th generation, M1)vsApple iPad mini (6th generation)
Two Apple models that average 8.6 and 8.4. Apple iPad Air (5th generation, M1) takes Performance, 8.8 to 8.2.
An M1 tablet that costs far less used than new, and the floor for Apple Intelligence on iPad.
Price and availability change constantly, so we don't quote them here — the link opens current listings on eBay. eBay listings come from individual sellers: condition, battery health, and what's in the box differ from one to the next, so read the listing and the return terms before you buy.
8.4
The only small iPad with a modern design. Check the screen in person if you notice motion.
Price and availability change constantly, so we don't quote them here — the link opens current listings on eBay. eBay listings come from individual sellers: condition, battery health, and what's in the box differ from one to the next, so read the listing and the return terms before you buy.
Where they diverge
The widest gap is Performance, Apple iPad Air (5th generation, M1) ahead 8.8 to 8.2. They come closest on Ease of use, 8.6 to 8.4. Left of center is Apple iPad Air (5th generation, M1), right is Apple iPad mini (6th generation).
Which one to pick
Take the Apple iPad Air (5th generation, M1)
Leads on Performance, Value, Durability and Ease of use.
- You want Apple Intelligence and Stage Manager without paying for a Pro
- Notes and sketching with the magnetically charging Pencil are the main job
- A tablet you expect to keep updated for years
Take the Apple iPad mini (6th generation)
Leads on Design.
- Reading, maps, and notes in one hand or a jacket pocket
- Pilots, nurses, and field workers who need a tablet that fits a cargo pocket
- You want the Pencil 2 without a full-size iPad
What each one gets wrong
Apple iPad Air (5th generation, M1)
- You'd fill 64GB; the 256GB model is the one worth hunting for
- Smooth 120Hz scrolling matters to you; this panel runs at 60Hz
Apple iPad mini (6th generation)
- You're sensitive to the uneven refresh some reviewers call jelly scrolling
- You want Apple Intelligence; the A15 doesn't run it
Specs, side by side
| Spec | Apple iPad Air (5th generation, M1) | Apple iPad mini (6th generation) |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 10.9-inch Liquid Retina (LCD, 60Hz) | 8.3-inch Liquid Retina (LCD) |
| Chip | Apple M1 | A15 Bionic |
| Memory | 8GB | — |
| Unlock | Touch ID (top button) | Touch ID (top button) |
| Port | USB-C | USB-C |
| Pencil | Apple Pencil (2nd generation) | Apple Pencil (2nd generation) |
| Storage | 64GB, 256GB | 64GB, 256GB |
Rankings they both appear in
Questions
- Both are Apple. Which one do I want?
- Apple iPad Air (5th generation, M1) leads on Performance, Value, Durability and Ease of use. If Design matters more to you, take the Apple iPad mini (6th generation) instead. Apple iPad Air (5th generation, M1) averages 8.6 and Apple iPad mini (6th generation) averages 8.4, over the 5 axes Tech is scored on.
- Where do the two Apple models actually differ?
- Performance is the widest gap, Apple iPad Air (5th generation, M1) ahead 8.8 to 8.2. Every axis lands somewhere different, so the profile shapes differ as much as the totals.
- Which one ranks higher in "Used iPads on eBay: where M1 pays off and where it doesn't"?
- Apple iPad Air (5th generation, M1) sits at #1 in "Used iPads on eBay: where M1 pays off and where it doesn't", Apple iPad mini (6th generation) at #3.