The iPad mini 2 has arrived and, as with most of Apple’s high-profile devices, does not fall short in features and performance. Its long-awaited Retina display certainly hogged the spotlight, though its other specs are noteworthy, too. But the question in everyone’s mind is: does it really stack up to its fiercest rival, Google’s Nexus 7 2013?

Price

Let’s start with how much each tablet will set customers back:

Apple iPad mini 2

Wi-Fi only: 16GB – $399; 32GB – $499; 64GB – $599; 128GB – $699
Wi-Fi + Cellular: 16GB – $529: 32GB – $629; 64GB – $729; 128GB – $829

Google Nexus 7 2013

Wi-Fi only: 16GB – $230; 32GB – $270
Wi-Fi + Cellular: 32GB – $350

Clearly, the Nexus 7 is the sweeter choice for those looking for a cheaper device.

Display

The iPad mini 2 wins this round for having a slightly larger 7.9-inch display (2048×1538), allowing users to view more content. By comparison, the Nexus 7 has—as the name implies—a 7-inch screen (1920×1200). Both offer high pixel densities, with a very negligible difference.

Size and Weight

Though the petite version offered by Apple, the iPad mini with Retina display (135x200mm) is still larger than the Nexus 7 (120×199). The former, however, is one of the thinnest out there at 7.5mm, whereas the latter is 8.65mm thick.

New Nexus 7 Multi Angle

Perhaps because of its smaller display, Nexus 7 beats the iPad mini 2 for weighing at only 290g (Wi-Fi version). Its cellular variant just adds a further 9g. On the other hand, Apple’s small tablet starts at 331g for its Wi-Fi model and goes as heavy as 341g for models with mobile connectivity.

Battery Life

Tests done by playing a looping high-def video have shown that the Nexus 7 can last some minutes short of 9 hours. Apple, meanwhile, claims its slate can endure up to 10 hours of general use before requiring a recharge.

Operating System

Here comes the tricky part. The iPad mini 2 runs iOS, while the Nexus 7 is powered by Android. Both have an abundance of features—as well as disadvantages—so the choice here is really down to user preference.

iPad mini with Retina display

Conclusion

So what’s our final say on this iPad mini 2 vs Nexus 7 comparison? In all fairness, both tablets are good. If you’re a little bit sensitive on price, then Google’s offering is your best choice for a high-quality, budget device. On the other hand, you can’t go wrong with the mini, as long as you’re willing to spend more for it.

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4 Comments

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  1. It was clearly stated that both tablets are good and only the product names has the difference. But for me, all of the said comparison seems to be most likely they same for both and it can be efficiently useful to us.

  2. Ok na sana yung N7 kaso andaming complaints sa touchscreen, nakakatakot bumili.
    Yung isa naman overpriced, $100 ang difference sa 16 at 32 gb langya holdap na holdap.

      1. And why wouldn’t he? He has the right to. In fact, we all do as customers. When buying, you weigh all options and that’s what Rk77 is doing. Unless you’re an Ayala, etc., then plopping down hard-earned cash needs to be well though out.

        @Rk77:

        Not all N7s are affected by the touchscreen malady. I’d get that over Apple any day. It has more value for money, IMHO. Although I’m really blown away that the iPad Mini has a 128GB option!