The 2026 iPad Mini is a better tablet at a higher price

Apple’s 2026 iPad Mini brings a larger OLED screen, a newer processor and IP67-rated dust and water protection. The Verge reviewer David Pierce calls it the best iPad Mini yet, but says its price is hard to justify for buyers who are not already committed to the small tablet.

The display measures 8.5 inches, up from 8.3 inches, and uses a 2316 x 1512 OLED panel instead of LCD. Pierce found it brighter and more contrast-rich than the previous model. The tested tablet also had an optional nano-texture matte coating that reduced glare, though he thought it slightly dulled the screen. That option costs an extra $100 and requires at least 256GB of storage.

The Mini’s refresh rate remains capped at 60Hz, while many recent Apple devices offer 120Hz. Pierce noticed blurrier scrolling and less smooth Apple Pencil movement compared with a 120Hz screen. He also said the tablet’s IP67 rating means dust protection and protection against temporary immersion in water, while cautioning that it is not as rugged as the iPhone 18 Pro.

The reviewed configuration had cellular service, 512GB of storage and the nano-texture coating, and cost $1,249. The Wi-Fi model with 128GB starts at $699, which Pierce describes as the highest starting price for an iPad Mini. He says it is a substantial upgrade, but that other iPads may suit people who are not specifically seeking a Mini.