Apple launched its much-rumored iPad Mini on Tuesday, Oct. 23, as expected, aiming to siphon sales away from Google's Nexus 7 tablet.
As with any Apple event, the Cupertino giant made bold statements about how its product stands up to the competition, and in how it is better in so many ways. The iPad Mini makes no exception, and Apple jumped the gun to point out how its smaller iPad outperforms the Nexus 7.
Display
Apple put significant effort into pointing out the obvious: its new iPad Mini has a larger screen than the Asus-made Nexus 7. That's a 7.9-inch screen for the iPad Mini vs. the 7-inch screen of the Nexus 7.
On the other hand, Apple failed to mention that Google's Nexus 7 actually has a higher resolution. Google's offering sports a 7-inch display with a resolution of 1280 x 800 at 216 pixels-per-inch (ppi), while the iPad Mini's 7.9-inch screen has a resolution of 1024 x 768, at 163 ppi.
Processor
In terms of processing power, the Nexus 7 boasts a quad-core processor under the hood, while the iPad Mini packs last year's dual-core A5 model - essentially the same processor found in the iPad 2.
Micro USB vs. 'Lightning' Port
When it comes to connectivity, the iPad Mini only supports Apple's new proprietary "Lightning" connector, while the Nexus 7 has a standard micro USB port. This gives Google's tablet a slight edge, as a standard micro USB port means users can plug the tablet into any charger or PC without having to purchase an expensive proprietary adapter. In also means users can plug in any USB device into the tablet and have it work instantly.
Price
Another very important aspect for many consumers is pricing. The Nexus 7 currently comes with a $199 price tag for the 8GB model and $249 for the 16GB version. Google is expected also to launch a new 32GB model next week and drop the price of the lower-storage model to roughly $149. Meanwhile, the iPad Mini starts at $329 for the 16GB version and goes up to $459 for a 32GB model. It's definitely cheaper than the full-size iPad, but significantly more expensive than the Nexus 7.
It is worth noting, however, that none of the differences listed above are intended to determine which tablet is better than the other. The iPad Mini and the Nexus 7 are two different types of devices, with two very different platforms and ecosystems, and each bears its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
The Nexus 7 may be cheaper and win at some categories, but the iPad Mini is bound to sell well nonetheless. Apple has its big and loyal fan base, and Apple enthusiasts are generally excited about any new iDevice. Still, those expecting the iPad Mini to "kill" the Nexus 7 may be in for a disappointment. The two tablets play in very different leagues, and Google's offering can definitely hold its own. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference.
