The Apple iPad mini 4 (2015), also known as the iPad mini with Retina display, marked a significant leap in Apple’s mini-tablet lineup. Launched in September 2015, this lightweight yet powerful device was designed to provide portability without compromising performance. With a sleek aluminum body, the iPad mini 4 sports a 7.9-inch Retina display, an Apple A8 chipset, and an impressive camera setup for a mini tablet. Despite being discontinued, this device is still relevant due to its compatibility with the latest iPadOS 15.8.1 update, making it a solid option for users seeking a budget-friendly yet functional Apple tablet.
Apple iPad mini 4 Specifications
Below is a detailed responsive table of the Apple iPad mini 4 (2015) specifications:
| Category | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Network | GSM / CDMA / HSPA / EVDO / LTE |
| 2G Bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900, CDMA 800 / 1900 |
| 3G Bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700 / 1900 / 2100, CDMA2000 1xEV-DO |
| 4G Bands | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 28, 29, 38, 39, 40, 41 (A1490) |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps, EV-DO Rev.A 3.1 Mbps |
| Dimensions | 203.2 x 134.8 x 6.1 mm |
| Weight | 299 g (Wi-Fi), 304 g (3G/LTE) |
| Build | Glass front, aluminum back, aluminum frame |
| SIM | Nano-SIM, eSIM |
| Display Type | IPS LCD |
| Display Size | 7.9 inches, 1536 x 2048 pixels (~324 ppi density) |
| Protection | Scratch-resistant glass, oleophobic coating |
| OS | iOS 9, upgradable to iPadOS 15.8.1 |
| Chipset | Apple A8 (20 nm) |
| CPU | Dual-core 1.5 GHz Typhoon |
| GPU | PowerVR GX6450 (quad-core graphics) |
| Internal Memory | 16GB/32GB/64GB/128GB, all with 2GB RAM |
| Main Camera | 8 MP, f/2.4, HDR, 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie Camera | 1.2 MP, f/2.2, HDR, 720p@30fps |
| Sound | Stereo speakers, 3.5mm jack |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, hotspot |
| Bluetooth | 4.0, A2DP, EDR |
| GPS | Yes (3G/LTE model only) |
| USB | Lightning, USB 2.0 |
| Battery | Li-Ion 5124 mAh, non-removable (up to 10 hours) |
| Colors | Space Gray, Silver, Gold |
| Price | About 360 EUR |
Apple iPad mini 4 Review
Design and Build Quality
The Apple iPad mini 4 maintains a sleek design with its aluminum body and glass front, making it durable yet elegant. It’s impressively thin, with dimensions of 203.2 x 134.8 x 6.1 mm, and it weighs only 299 grams for the Wi-Fi version and 304 grams for the LTE model. The small form factor is ideal for portability, fitting comfortably in one hand for reading or browsing on the go.
Display Quality
One of the standout features of the iPad mini 4 is its 7.9-inch Retina display. The IPS LCD panel provides vibrant colors and sharp details thanks to the 1536 x 2048 resolution. With a pixel density of ~324 ppi, users can enjoy high-quality visuals, whether watching movies or reading ebooks. The screen is also protected by scratch-resistant glass with an oleophobic coating, reducing fingerprint smudges.
Performance and OS
Despite being launched in 2015, the iPad mini 4 performs remarkably well for its age. Powered by the Apple A8 chipset with a dual-core 1.5 GHz Typhoon CPU, the device handles everyday tasks like web browsing, streaming, and light gaming with ease. It supports iPadOS 15.8.1, which brings many modern features to the device, including improved multitasking and app compatibility.
Camera Quality
For a mini tablet, the 8 MP rear camera performs decently, producing clear images with HDR support. It’s capable of recording 1080p video at 30fps, which is sufficient for casual photography or video recording. The 1.2 MP front-facing camera might not match modern standards, but it still works for FaceTime and other video conferencing needs.
Battery Life
The 5124 mAh battery offers up to 10 hours of usage, which is great for long trips or a full day of work without needing to recharge. Whether you’re watching videos or browsing, the iPad mini 4’s battery is efficient and reliable.
Connectivity
The iPad mini 4 supports multiple network bands, making it versatile for various carriers worldwide. It has Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, which ensures fast internet connectivity, and Bluetooth 4.0 for connecting peripherals like headphones or keyboards.
Storage Options
The device comes with four internal storage options: 16GB, 32GB, 64GB, and 128GB. While the lower storage variants might feel limited by today’s standards, the 128GB version provides ample space for apps, media, and documents. However, the lack of a microSD card slot may limit your options for expanding storage.
Conclusion
Even though the Apple iPad mini 4 (2015) has been discontinued, it remains a solid choice for users who want an affordable, lightweight, and capable tablet. Its support for the latest iPadOS updates makes it relevant in 2024, and it performs well for casual users. However, for power users or those looking for more modern features, newer models may be a better fit.
Disclaimer
We cannot guarantee that the information on this page is 100% correct.
