Embracing the iPad Mini as my EDC device

I’ve made a decision to get an iPad Mini as my go-to device before the end of 2024. I waited for Apple to upgrade the processor to an M-series, but it ended up with the next best thing, the iPhone 15 Pro processor, A17 Pro. With this upgraded processor, Apple Intelligence now works on the iPad Mini. This iPad Mini is replacing my 11” M1 iPad Pro with Magic Keyboard that I carry to work every day.

I paired it with the USB-C Apple Pencil (since I only use the Pencil to sign and scribble, not for art). I also got a foldable, external keyboard for long-form typing (I got the iClever Foldable Keyboard with trackpad since there’s no Apple Magic Keyboard for the iPad Mini). The overall weight is still lighter than the 11” iPad Pro and Magic keyboard combo. Adding a pocket MiFi with GOMO SIM to the iPad Mini mix is still lighter (I got a WiFi-only iPad Mini). The iPad Mini combo is a lifesaver for my shoulders and back.

With the A17 Pro processor, I can run all the applications on the iPad Pro on the Mini, with the only obvious downside being the screen size (and lack of ProMotion). I could have opted for the iPhone 16 Pro Max instead, but the iPhones don’t support the Apple Pencil.

The iPad Mini’s smaller screen size might not be ideal for writing or using productivity apps, but it’s perfect for consuming content. Sure, it doesn’t have the same screen technology as the e-book readers, but the convenience makes up for it (no need to carry two devices). Reading PDFs and e-books on the Mini is a much better experience than on an 11-inch screen (and imagine the weight!). Playing casual games on the Mini is also super convenient - I can hold it comfortably when I’m standing in line. Watching movies or TV shows on the iPad (even with the 11-inch screen) is rare, but when I do, I tether it to the TV or projector for a much better experience. Yeah, of course I can AirPlay it, too.

For other tasks that require more from a device, I wait until I get home to work on them either on my MacBook Pro or Mac Mini, or I connect remotely to these devices (including a Raspberry Pi) from the iPad Mini - problem solved.

The price of the iPad Mini, plus the convenience, is totally worth it as a replacement for the much heavier iPad Pro, at least for an everyday carry device. Don’t get me wrong, I still love using the iPad Pro - in fact, I always use it at home (the iPad Mini takes a break).

I wish Apple would come up with a Magic Keyboard for the iPad Mini. This model is just a temporary solution until Apple comes up with a foldable iPad that expands to provide an 11-inch display.