The new 2026 iPad mini is worth a look if you want a better screen in a small tablet. If you already own the 2024 A17 Pro model and mostly read, browse,, or take notes, you have less reason to rush an upgrade.
Apple announced the iPad mini with A20 Pro on October 26, 2026. Pre-orders start October 28, and it reaches customers and stores on November 6. The main changes are an OLED screen, a thinner body, and a newer chip. This comparison uses Apple’s published specifications, rather than hands-on testing.
iPad mini 2026 vs. 2024: the main differences
Here is how the new model compares with the 2024 iPad mini with A17 Pro. The older model is often called the iPad mini 7; searches for the new one also use iPad mini 8.
| Feature | 2026 iPad mini | 2024 iPad mini |
|---|---|---|
| Chip | A20 Pro | A17 Pro |
| Screen | 8.5-inch OLED | 8.3-inch LCD |
| Brightness | 600 nits full screen; up to 1,200 nits peak for HDR | 500 nits |
| Thickness | 5.4 mm | 6.3 mm |
| Weight, Wi-Fi model | 255 g | 293 g |
| Front camera | 12MP Center Stage, on the landscape edge | 12MP Center Stage |
| Storage options | 128GB, 256GB or 512GB | 128GB, 256GB or 512GB |
| Apple Pencil support | Pencil Pro and Pencil (USB-C) | Pencil Pro and Pencil (USB-C) |
The new model’s figures come from Apple’s current technical specifications. The 1,200-nit figure is a peak for HDR content, not its normal full-screen brightness.
The OLED screen is the biggest reason to upgrade
The new iPad mini’s OLED display can control light at each pixel. That gives it deeper blacks than the older LCD, which is especially useful for films, photos, and dark scenes. The screen also grows slightly while the tablet stays compact.
If you’re happy with the old mini’s screen, this may be a welcome improvement rather than a reason to replace a working tablet. If you watch a lot of video or dislike bright black areas in dark scenes, it matters more.
Does OLED mean 120Hz or ProMotion?
Do not buy it assuming OLED means 120Hz. Apple does not list ProMotion or a 120Hz built-in display in its current mini specifications. OLED describes how the screen produces light; refresh rate describes how often it updates. Those are separate features.
The 60Hz figure Apple lists under external display support is for a connected monitor. It doesn’t apply to the tablet’s own screen. If very smooth scrolling is your main requirement, check that feature explicitly when comparing iPads.
What is the nano-texture option?
Apple offers nano-texture glass on the 256GB and 512GB versions to reduce glare. It is an optional finish, not a different screen size. Consider it if reflections regularly get in your way, especially outdoors or under strong lighting. For mostly indoor use, standard glass is the straightforward starting point.
Price and storage: check which A20 Pro you are buying
The new mini starts at $699 in the U.S. for Wi-Fi or $849 for Wi-Fi + Cellular. Those are Apple’s starting prices, before tax. Its launch announcement confirms the dates and starting prices.
For context, the A17 Pro mini launched in 2024 at $499 for 128GB Wi-Fi. That is its historical launch price, not a claim about today’s remaining stock or discounts.
The new range also has a chip difference. These are the standard-glass Wi-Fi options on Apple’s U.S. store:
| Storage | U.S. price | A20 Pro CPU |
|---|---|---|
| 128GB | $699 | 5 cores |
| 256GB | $799 | 5 cores |
| 512GB | $999 | 6 cores |
Choose storage around the apps, games, and downloads you expect to keep. Do not pay for 512GB only because the core count is higher: that number alone does not tell you how much faster your own apps will feel. Real performance and battery comparisons will need independent testing.
What changes beyond the screen?
The front camera moves to the long edge, which makes more sense when holding the tablet horizontally for a call. Apple also adds IP67 water and dust resistance. Treat that as protection against accidents, rather than a reason to use the mini underwater. Apple says resistance can wear down, and its warranty doesn’t cover liquid damage.
The A17 Pro model already supports Apple Intelligence. Buying the new mini isn’t the only way to get Apple’s AI features, though availability can vary by feature, software, language, and region. If features are missing on your current device, work through our Apple Intelligence settings checks before assuming you need new hardware.
Should you buy the new mini or keep the old one?
- Keep a working A17 Pro mini if its screen, speed, and storage still suit you. You can keep using it for reading, email, and notes if it still feels comfortable and responsive.
- Consider the 2026 mini if the OLED display, lower weight, or landscape camera solves something you notice often.
- Consider discounted A17 Pro stock if the savings matter to you. Compare the same storage and connectivity, and check the seller, condition, warranty, and return policy.
- Also compare a larger iPad if you mainly want more room for documents or several apps. A newer small tablet will still be small. Our iPad guides cover other ways to use the range.
Before ordering accessories, check the exact model name. The new body’s dimensions have changed, so don’t assume a case that fits the 2024 mini will work.
Specifications, U.S. prices, and availability checked October 27, 2026. Retail offers and availability can change.
Frequently asked questions
Is the new iPad mini called iPad mini Pro?
Apple calls it iPad mini with A20 Pro. The word Pro is part of the chip’s name; it does not make this an iPad Pro model.
Does the new iPad mini have a 120Hz screen?
Apple does not specify 120Hz or ProMotion for the built-in screen on its current product pages. Do not treat OLED as confirmation of either feature.
When can I buy the new iPad mini?
Apple lists October 28, 2026 for pre-orders and November 6, 2026 for availability. Check your local store for regional dates and stock.
Is nano-texture glass worth paying for?
It is worth considering when glare is a regular problem. It is optional on the 256GB and 512GB models. Compare the full configuration price with standard glass before deciding.
Can I keep my Apple Pencil and case?
Both generations support Apple Pencil Pro and Apple Pencil (USB-C). Do not assume other Pencil models are interchangeable. For cases, look for a listing that explicitly names the A20 Pro mini.
Is the 2024 iPad mini still worth buying?
It can be, if you find the right price and it’s in good condition. If you don’t need the new screen or design changes, compare the savings with the warranty and return coverage you would get.