Switched from iPad Pro to iPad Mini - here's what I learned

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

Just in case anyone was rubbing your screen during this....yes, I had a big smudge on my lens. Do not adjust your sets. 😜

[@KevInTheAlps]

😂 I actually did rub my screen thinking it was mine! 🤣

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

@@KevInTheAlps It's on my a-roll but none of the b-roll. By the time I'd noticed I was too late to go back and re-record it all!

[@wisconsinbound2123]

thought maybe you were using the mini lol kidding. Wonder do you think it worthwhile upgrading from mini 6 to 7

[@wisconsinbound2123]

ohhh btw I bought Ipad pro 11 inch m4 could not wait till mini 7 came out. Think I will wait for next mini generation with more improvements coming out

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

Only 2 reasons to upgrade from the mini 6 a) If you like the enhanced drawing features that you get with Apple Pencil Pro b) If you care about having Apple Intelligence

[@aux-box]

This was a more honest and awesome review aimed at the average consumer and even working professional. Lots of reviewers lose that human touch and go full geek mode

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

Ah, thanks mate. I try to be honest and awesome in everything I do. 😁

[@Crazyworldd160]

The 11-inch iPad is the ideal size for me. After trying various iPad sizes over the years, I've found this one to be the most comfortable and practical. It strikes a perfect balance between portability and usability, making it my favorite choice for everyday tasks.

[@irfarf201]

You’re probably the first reviewer talking about the “big picture” when buying apple device. I always say my perfect setup is an iPhone mini and iPad mini, for other more demanding tasks, I already have a MacBook and a Mac mini. If I need the processing power I’ll also need full keyboard and mouse to be productive. So the other devices target are to be as light and as easy to move possible.

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

@@irfarf201 Thanks! I’m all about portability over power when the differences are this tiny!

[@hipidipi20157max]

You have too many devices. You only need a basic ipad and a macmini.

[@thaitran1178]

i'm using ipad mini and iphone 13 mini too. Love them so much

[@irfarf201]

@@hipidipi20157max can’t really do that, I use the MacBook for work on-site, the Mac mini for media server and personal projects / media use. The iPad for content consumption and jotting down notes (I work in it, too long not writing and my handwriting starts to look like alien language) and the phone is basically just for communication

[@Mohtellawi]

⁠@@irfarf201 Hey, I loved your setup Ive got the iPhone mini and the ipad mini Can you explain to me why did you decide to have a mac mini besides the MacBook, while you could just have had the MacBook and used a monitor for it and used it as a desktop? Or having the Mac mini for your setup and used the ipad mini at work site? Can you explain the reasoning behind having both? And thank you

[@shaneomac8289]

i went from my 2020 pro to the new mini that just came out, i love it. i found like most people that i'm by no means a pro user at all and didn't need half the features that i had on the pro.

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

To take a phrase one of my previous videos: it's like having a jet engine in a ford fiesta.

[@janoschii]

"Half the features" typical Apple language. I am so happy, that I jumped off the train.

[@shaneomac8289]

@@janoschii so.. did you want me to explain every single one of them? respectfully what is your reply supposed to mean lol

[@vicgutierrez707-z3d]

Same thing happened to me, loved the pro but I hardly use it now it only serves for KZbin and playing games as it failed to fulfill my productivity needs even with the Apple Pencil and keyboard, so I went back to the MacBook and I’m looking for an iPad mini as a way to take notes and do those basic things without being too expensive or not really that portable

[@HighLifeWorkout]

The Mini is one of the greatest products Apple makes. It totally retired My iPad Pro. It’s perfect a work productivity and even gaming.

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

Got a dedicated iPad Mini gaming video in the works- watch this space!

[@pea1973]

I’ve been waiting for a video breakdown like this since the A17 Pro mini dropped! I also have the M4 iPad Pro 11” and I’ve been secretly side eyeing the mini too… thanks for this.

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

Glad I could help!

[@Regantdarcy]

I didn’t switch from the iPad Pro to the iPad mini. As an artist, my iPad Pro is still my main content creation device. But when I really wanna travel light, I always grab my iPad mini. It’s the perfect size digital sketchbook when on the go. The iPad Pro & iPad mini really compliment each other well. I ditched my macbook back in 2018 for an iPad only workflow & haven’t looked back. For me the iPad Pro does EVERYTHING better than my MacBook pro used to do…and MORE. I prefer editing 4k video & photos on my ipads, i enjoy surfing the web & writing on my iPad compared to a laptop. The iPad is also a much better media consumption device than a laptop. Plus as an artist, a laptop cannot even compete with my iPad Pro for drawing on. I do all my professional art work on iPads now. Drawing, video editing, photo editing, illustration & graphic design. I know some people feel laptops are better. And that may be true for them. But for more & more professionals, the iPad only workflow is so much better than using a laptop.

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

That's really interesting. Maybe I've been too binary in my thinking. So you use the Pro and Mini together as part of the same setup?

[@Regantdarcy]

@ I’m not saying you or anyone personally can or should abandon your MacBook for an iPad only workflow. It’s not for everyone, but it has worked for me since 2018. Admittedly, at first, it was an adjustment with lots of compromises, but now it’s not. I’ve fully embraced it & could never go back. But yeah, about the iPads, i do enjoy having both the iPad Pro & the iPad mini. Even tho, like you my iPad Pro is the 11” model, there are times when I don’t want to carry it around. Like when walking around NYC or traveling. That’s when I grab my iPad mini. It fits in my jacket pocket easily. Any work or sketches i do on it are uploaded to the cloud and waiting for me on my 11” iPad at home. While at home, the 11” does most of the heavy lifting when doing creative work. Not gonna lie, the extra screen space is nicer to work on. While still being more holdable than the 13” iPad Pro. To me, a tablet is meant to be held. But I will use my iPad mini at home as well on occasion. And I will take my 11” out with me too when traveling as well. They really do compliment each other nicely. I switch back & forth constantly. And since I don’t have a laptop anymore & my old iMac is literally collecting dust now at home… having two iPads is not really a big deal. It actually makes sense for me. On top of that, my iPhone has for the most part replaced my dslr for most of my photography & videography needs. So i’ve truly transitioned to an iOS only workflow. 👍🏼

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

Thank you for an awesome video idea. 101 folk out there trying iPad only, but I’ve never seen someone go for just iOS only setup. Watch this space!

[@fredlong3236]

I'm in a similar situation. I've done almost all of my photo editing on an iPad Pro since about 2018. Working directly on the screen is the most natural way for me to work. I don't use a laptop anymore. I have an older Mac Mini with a pen display, but it's not the same. It's mainly used for keeping organized archives and mass storage. What the iPad Mini can't do that the Pro can, is be big. Oh, and the Pro display is gorgeous and amazingly accurate for something that I can't properly calibrate. All that being said, I am looking at the new Mini as an easier to carry, bigger than a phone, review in the field, quick edit and share, casual use, fits in a small everyday carry bag option when I don't want or need the 13" Pro.

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

@@fredlong3236 'Be big' is an absolutely fair use case!

[@Janknitz1]

Personally I’m fed up with all the content creators pushing iPad Pro. You hit the nail on the head that you really do not need or use the higher powered things you can do on the pro. Personally my basic 7th gen iPad does everything I need, even though I use it for business. A basic iPad, or the air (better screen, magnetic pencil charging) or the mini is fine for 99% of the iPad users.

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

@@Janknitz1 Cheers buddy. Even when I do use the high powered stuff, of course the Pro handles it easily, but I also get them done just fine on the mini.

[@hdtravel1]

These influencers are pushing whatever device they are paid to push - pay attention to average Joe users that bought the item with their own hard earned money and give honest actual unbiased reviews - beware of the paid influencers and professional content creators on here which do not give real sincere honest reviews of products.

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

@hdtravel1 🙋🏻‍♂️ Bought both these iPads with my own money. My wallet is still cursing me.

[@pug_63]

Just upgraded from the 2019 5th to the 7th Gen Mini. It’s the size that works for me, and really complements my iPhone 13 Mini. Anything bigger would probably spend its life in a drawer. (Including the trade-in, it actually cost me slightly less than my 5th Gen - unbelievable!) Thanks for the content.

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

What a bargain!

[@peterzimmer9549]

I’ve been using iPads exclusively since iPad 1 was introduced. I bought an 11” iPad Pro a couple years ago. I was finding it was tiring my arms more and more so I thought I would look at the mini 6 just to read books. I always hated minis, but was surprised at how large the screen was on the mini 6. It quickly became my fultime iPad leaving my iPad Pro to collect dust. Being a heavy user, I jumped at pre ordering the new A17pro mini. I don’t care about all the whining, I love the mini 7 as I loved the mini 6 and would not trade it for any larger iPad despite screen specs etc.

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

Thanks for sharing Peter - I can relate to all of this!

[@josephmatthews1887]

The iPad Mini 7 is my laptop and everyday computer. I do not have another iPad or laptop, but I do have an M2 MacMini for the heavy lifting I need for my Astronomy work, But the mini is just perfect for everything else I do.

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

That’s cool. Do you use a keyboard / mouse with it or just handheld?

[@ROG956]

@@ThatMarkGilroywhat keyboard do you recommend?

[@Oneverythangilove]

Love the video but isn’t it crazy how some KZbinrs complain about what the mini doesn’t have when they’re is already a device that has all that and a bag of chips that apple does make. But cost more money? If apple added all the features that the KZbin community wants they would then be complaining about how the cost of the mini went up. On another note I own the new iPad Pro 13 and the new mini and I still have my mini 5 and I love them all.

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

You're absolutely right. We're never happy!

[@Testimony201]

Exactly

[@sysavanemo]

You’re missing the point They want the pro in a mini form factor

[@stuboy13]

Is the mini 5 worth it in 2024 in your opinion? (For someone who didn't have a tablet and needs a small tablet)

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

@@stuboy13 If it's just to watch content on, absolutely. My son has one to play games on and watch films whilst travelling.

[@WannyPena]

I have an M4 IPad Pro 11 inch and an M3 MacBook Pro. Ordered the Mini 7 to try and replace the iPad Pro. Ill give it a good 2 weeks. We'll see how it goes.

[@Aryankingz]

same. I also have an m1 Mac mini. I bought Bothe the M4 iPad Pro 11 inch and Mini 7 at the same time , have been testing for a week, so far im leaning to the iPad mini...

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

@@Aryankingz Interesting!

[@CarlosMendezCarlos-mr7ib]

M4 ipad pro 11 inch 120 hertz is the way to go….. ipad mini is outdated with that crap 60hertz

[@lumbini5000]

@@CarlosMendezCarlos-mr7ibis m4 11 pro portable enough?

[@kaderosman23]

Awesome video, man!! Thanks for your thoughts! You helped me finally decide about which iPad to get. I'm going with the mini 7. I've only had one iPad and it was the first one, and I barely used it. But now a days I need a platform that I can study, read, watch YT channels and so on. I hope it suits my needs. Thank you so much again.

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

You’re welcome mate!

[@michaelakubas]

Thanks for video. I changed my iPad PRO 11" 2.gen for iPad mini 6, I love it, I can take it with me anywhere. And I found that I can't switch from macbook to iPad PRO because of work. So I dont need iPad PRO because I can edit photos in lightroom in iPad mini 6 too, watch videos too, email check too. So iPad mini 6 is love on first touch 😀. And I dont miss Face ID, it is better Touch ID for me and I dont see different screen between Macbook Pro 14" M3 PRO and iPad mini 6. This iPad will be with me until battery dead. 😀

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

Yeah, I'm fine with touch ID too. With a device this small the difference is less than a second.

[@Thedimka]

Totally agree with all the points. I have my new 16" MacBook Pro M4 Pro, 11" M4 iPad Pro and even though all of them are amazing, I find often grabbing my iPad mini 6th gen, just because of it's size. But I am really tempted to get a new gen 7 mini and kep iPad Pro. I have 1 use case, I am using iFontMaker and it just much better working in it on the bigger screen. I finally got my setup with VS Code to run on iPad too, so it opens more scenarios when I can work on iPad instead of the mac, and then again, having a good iPad Pro Magic Keyboard is an advantage again. So usually my strategy is to keep on iPad pro only work/hobby related apps, so keep me away from entertainment temptations, and mini is for casual stuff. Thank you very much for illustrating really well what I often struggle to explain to others about Pro vs mini dynamics.

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

@@Thedimka Thanks, glad it was helpful!

[@dmoster]

Just pulled the trigger on an iPad mini 7 after owning an M4 iPad Pro 11” for 6 months and using it almost not at all. Still trying to decide what to do with the Pro at this point. But I really feel like the mini’s form factor will be perfect for some reading, light video editing, and content consumption just like you said. Might even station it in my sound booth for some voiceover work. Just really bummed they didn’t do more to update the screen with it this year. A 90-120 Hz OLED would make it the best iPad ever made.

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

I've plugged an audio interface into the iPad Mini via USB and recorded vocals - works a treat.

[@BTeamNerd]

I have an iPad mini six and an iPad Pro. I use the mini to read while I have KZbin videos on the pro in the background. I was very fortunate to be gifted both so it didn’t set me back any money. I honestly don’t need any of the specs that people keep demanding for the seven, it’s just the price I can’t justify when my six still works really well. Now, if I can get a really good deal for the seven, then I will probably buy it.

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

Yep, totally understand this! You could probably get a decent trade-in price for the 6 when the time comes.

[@tri0xin]

I bought an Amazon renewed IPad mini 6 a year ago for around $300.. it's been fantastic as a little compact companion device. For me it's been all about the size.

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

Absolutely. Size really matters!

[@christianfuller1847]

Great video and I totally agree that us average consumers with limited budgets need to make the right decision. I’m considering switching to the mini so I’ll test and will see if I convert. On a side note, where can I find that Apple Pencil skin? I really liked it

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

It’s cool eh? It’s from dbrand. You can’t buy them as seperates annoyingly, but if you buy an iPad skin they pop up as add ons. It’s the ‘Deadquarters’ design.

[@lavelezjr]

Have a Macbook Air for most of my computer stuff, but the iPad Mini is used a lot more by me. The Mini is good as a tablet for reading, music, and so many other things.

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

Absolutely - nice setup!

[@jimtipton8888]

Hi Mark! Great video as always! I would have a hard time giving up my personal favorite iPad of all time, the 11" M4 Pro. For what I do to pay the bills and as an away from my desk entertainment device it is my go to. For me, Stage Manager is brilliant in the context of buyer meetings or being on the selling side of a convention. Being able to access a multitude of apps and files quickly on a hand held device is crucial. Having had it, I don't think I could go without the Magic Keyboard in my work flow. I'm with you though, the iPad will never replace my MBP and for a lot of people the Mini may be the ticket.

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

Cheers Jim! And thank you for adding some balance to my mini bias

[@jimtipton8888]

@@ThatMarkGilroy Have a great week Mark!

[@fjphoto23]

Best mini review, emphasizing what it is for and not what it should be. 👍💯

[@ipyakuza]

I moved from Pro -> Mini as well and love it. Pro was too big and didn't meet my higher performance/productivity requirements (at that point might as well have been on a powerful laptop or workstation). Mini is a step up from my mobile and with cellular I use it for 85% of my daily needs now (mostly schedule keeping, comms, news, stock/crypto market data, etc etc). Phone is just text and calls but given most calls for work are Teams/Zoom its made the mobile phone even more obsolete.

[@Mrpotatoheady]

The iPad Pro is a professional tool for artists/creators of a specific kind. That’s who the tool is made for. Most of those creators are also Mac users too because they work in multiple sectors. Some aren’t though. Some just use iPad. It really depends on what one does. As for me I can do all of my work on either device (video editing, design, drawing, music)- so when I travel with iPad I know It can do everything I need.

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

Thanks for sharing. I was in a tattoo studio at the weekend and they were using a 13" iPad Pro to sketch and scale a design exactly to someone's arm using the LIDAR scanner. Such a cool way to see the tech being used.

[@helidrones]

It is pretty much the same as it has been with cameras back then. The best camera is the camera that you have readily available.

[@JabroniJimmy]

I think the lack of Face ID is more noticeable than the 60hz display coming from my iPhone 14 Pro and m1 MacBook Pro. But overall this is an amazing device for me moving around the house . I’m able to leave my phone away charged for the majority of my time in the house and just use my phone on the go. Also the size is great for two handed use of the keyboard. Perfect size for consuming text. Although 120hz and a refresh to image quality would be great. I couldn’t imagine going larger. Also the speakers could use an upgrade in future models. I really hope apple keeps this size in their lineup

[@stacycreates24]

The iPad is so helpful for certain on the go activities

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

It is. I have a train journey this week and I won't be taking my laptop with me - my iPad will do just fine for occasional work, notes and catching-up with content on the move.

[@DeanAllman]

I made this switch earlier this year and totally agree with you. Trying to make the iPad Pro a content creation device was stupefying. I much prefer taking the perspective that it is best for consuming content. Only wish the battery life was longer. Maybe a reason to go for the newest model.

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

@@DeanAllman It’s so frustrating because it feels like it’s NEARLY there.

[@ChMACH]

Oh I was waiting for your video. I am not a content creator only a normal physiotherapist. I have the IPad Air m2 for work in the practice. The kids are using the m1 iPad Air and mini 6. I love the mini. Might get the new MacBook Pro and the mini 7. But the iPad Pro 11 inch is also very light and portable. Thanks for your refreshing videos. Greetings from Switzerland

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

Thanks for commenting! The new MacBook Pro and iPad Mini is an awesome combo 🙌🏻 Hope you didn’t mind my Swiss chocolate joke in there.

[@ChMACH]

@@ThatMarkGilroy All good. Swiss chocolate is fine. Better than a cheese smelling paper like...... maybe .....

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

@ 😂 I nearly said that but thought Paperlike would have had me killed.

[@ChMACH]

@@ThatMarkGilroy probably 😅. Are you lucky you did not.

[@chris]

I had the previous gen iPad mini -- returned it after deciding that iPadOS wasn't well suited for it. Everything (mainly text) looked pretty small. Have they improved iPadOS for it? I'll have to stop by an Apple Store to see. I bought the M4 iPad Pro 11" when it came out and actually just recently upgraded it to the 13" (the opposite direction you went!) BTW for anyone wondering about his iPad skin, it's the Sea Breeze from dbrand.

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

iPad OS has come on a bit but it’s still pretty flawed!

[@jebaker2]

As always… KZbinrs only look at the iPad as a content creator - which 99% of us are not. For the rest of us, an iPad can easily be a laptop replacement. I know it’s not the main theme of this video but the sentiment is still there.

[@hipidipi20157max]

Exactly. I dont even know any content creator on real life. as if every person was a youtuber

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

Would it be helpful to see a video about using an iPad for non-content-creation purposes? I run a consulting business when not making videos and I'd be doubtful about being able to do that from an iPad-only setup....but happy to give it a try (in the name of content LOL).

[@ariyayaya957]

@@ThatMarkGilroyyes

[@buzzrenren]

Actually thank you for creating this free content. I have used the Ipad pro and mini and the macbook pro as an educator. I think the Ipad mini and MacBook pro combo is sufficient.

[@Teresaanns]

I have the pro and thinking of downgrading. I rarely use any of the pro features. Thanks for this.

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

@@Teresaanns No problem Teresa. Good luck with the downgrade. Saying goodbye to that amazing screen is hard, but if it’s not working for you, it’s the right thing to do.

[@Chillboyx]

Is that a case on your iPad? Looks cool. Where can I get it?

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

It’s a skin from dbrand. Search for ‘sea breeze’. Tell them they need to sponsor me already 😉

[@JudiChristopher]

I want to know that too.

[@HeyLauraVan]

If you use Procreate, particularly its animation features, you need to pay attention to specs (larger iPad, Pro vs Air/Mini, more RAM) in order to maximize how large a canvas with how many layers you can use

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

Thanks for the tip Laura! How is the animation on Procreate? I saw the Apple demo and it looked pretty wild.

[@HeyLauraVan]

@@ThatMarkGilroy I’m just wading into the shallow end of Procreate animation & trying to get my bearings

[@GlockamoleG17]

I am using my iPad Air m2 as a desktop replacement. It does 95% of what my gaming laptop does. That last 5% is video editing / AAA gaming. It can do video editing, but it becomes memory limited with 4k video. I am getting a mini 7 as living room device. Cheers!

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

I sometimes wonder if I should have tried an iPad Air instead of the Pro....

[@GlockamoleG17]

@@ThatMarkGilroy It’s a compromise between the iPad 10 and the Pro series. I traded my iPad 10 in for the M2 and paid $263 USD for it. I’ve debated about just 100% iPad and dropping my gaming laptop. I just don’t have time to game anymore and ok with only 1080 video editing. Cheers!

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

I’ve got an iPad gaming video in the works. Spoiler - I’m in the same position in being able to only fit in micro gaming these days and the iPad is great for gaming on the go (or in my case, hiding from my kids while in bed).

[@davidbell4949]

Switched from mini to pro and love it.

[@wisconsinbound2123]

I have a pro and love mine and use it every day. I just could not wait till ipad mini 7 come out

[@davidbell4949]

@ as much as would like one can’t justify the mini aswell

[@ronaldcampbell17]

As a pilot, the mini makes much more sense. I wish the screen was touch brighter, but that’s really it.

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

I know it's a HUGELY favoured tool for pilots. Makes perfect sense given the form factor and the size of a typical cabin.

[@stacycreates24]

Wish the mini7 came out at the same time as the Pro, mini is best size for throwing in a purse or bag and it’ll do some graphics

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

The timing was certainly interesting!

[@mixmix1487]

This video is just what I needed, thank you!

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

@@mixmix1487 You’re welcome!

[@waltbutk]

As a musician I use my iPad pro for reading music. I need the larger size to see the notes.

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

I used to work as a semi-pro musician and my iPad Pro was a gamechanger for reading music/lyrics in dark environments.

[@mtwooscar2]

This video came out at the right time for me. Thank you!!

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

You’re welcome mate 👍🏻

[@noreply-mp]

I liked your review bro, tempting me more to get the ipad mini

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

Go for it!

[@jobutl]

Still using my iPad Mini 5th gen from 2019 and it does everything I need (and more). Still waiting for a new killer feature that will make me want/need to buy a new one.

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

What would it take. Better screen I’m guessing?

[@syn010110]

haha I went exactly the opposite direction bought the new mini, returned it immediately. jelly scrolling not fixed, still 60Hz, forced me to replace my pencil 2, the magnet change for the new stylus mean my existing folios don't close all the way and float above the edge of the display, runs worse than my snapdragon 8 gen 2 phone. went whole hog for the 11" M4 Pro. I enjoy it SO much more, and it's actually big enough to use for my horrible scrawlings.

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

Yeah, can totally empathise with all of that. Bricking the 2nd gen apple pencil and existing folios was just mean.

[@kafi-monae3629]

Same

[@mysticalnat]

I'm currently in a huge dilemma over the current iPad models... I'm a budding digital artist with big projects on the horizon involving drawing. I love the form factor of the Mini, but i'm wondering if the 60hz displays on that and the Air will feel obsolete in 3-4 years time? The Pro will do absolutely everything I want and more, but obviously a larger price tag even if financed. My plan is to try all 3 in a shop and decide based off that, but this video was a useful insight to someone's own experience with the two!

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

I get the dilemma. And you’re probably right about the 60hz display and future proofing on the Mini & Air. I suspect Pro is the way to go. As a drawing/design tool the other iPads can’t really hold a candle to it.

[@mysticalnat]

@ Thanks! I appreciate the input. Also keep up the great videos:)

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

@ Thanks Nat! Keep on…being mystical?!

[@StratoPL]

I’ve got myself an 11 inch iPad and… I’ve sold it. I found myself not using it that much as it was too bulky. For test purposes Ive got a cheap android tablet M9 from Lenovo and am using it almost all the time (though its crap :) ) so it passed the test and now I will get the iPad mini.

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

This is my kind of experiment!

[@commonwunder]

The iPad range is such a contrasting field of tools... for peoples differing needs and requirements. Those that call themselves artists for instance, can inform you to only use the larger, more powerful and better screened - iPad Pros... if you exclusively want to use bitmap painting tools. Yet some creatives ( designers, vector illustrators, etc. ) use a desktop as their daily driver, but enjoy sketching roughs and ideas down on an iPad mini. So two different sets of 'creatives' will offer you completely opposite conclusions. As to which iPad to buy. This probably mirrors itself... within other fields and real world uses too. There's a range of sizes and 'power' for a reason. There is no standard iPad user.

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

Yep. In a previous video I made the argument that iPads are a solution in search of a problem. I wonder if these different conclusions are because Apple simply offered up a device without an obvious use case and allowed people to try and make the connection.

[@playingindies6730]

I have a M1 16gb ram pro and a 2024 mini and the mini is able to do everything I do on the pro. It all works fine. However, where I use the mini more while I'm out, I use the pro way more at home.

[@JudiChristopher]

EXCELLENT VIDEO Thank You for sharing this video I wanted to buy a iPad... but I needed one to be able to use FCP... Now... you can use FCP on the iPads? Can you use Final Draft... for Screenplays?

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

Thanks Judi! And yes, you can use FCP on iPads - it behaves slightly differently, and you can't add things like custom LUTs or audio effects beyond what's included, AND it's a $5/month subscription. But it works. And yes, Final Draft Go is available on iPads.

[@JudiChristopher]

@@ThatMarkGilroy Thank YOU for taking the time to answer me... YOU are very kind.

[@JudiChristopher]

@@ThatMarkGilroy Another silly question What is the difference between Final Draft and Final Draft Go?

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

I don’t know for sure, but I THINK the Go version is what works on phones/tablets.

[@DanielPacheco-o4q]

I have the iPad pro and I'm tempted to switch to the iPad mini because of the form factor. But the oled screen on the iPad pro is just way too beautiful to switch

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

@@DanielPacheco-o4q it’s a beautiful thing, that’s true!!

[@jodajackson4489]

It’s not the size of the device, it’s what you do with it😊

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

@@jodajackson4489 I keep telling my wife this.

[@gurtana]

I've been umming and ahhing about just this dilemma. I want an iPad but I'm torn on the mini 7 or the M4 Pro 11 inch. I've been to the Apple store several time and tried each with the Pencil Pro. I found myself gravitating towards the M4 Pro - simply for it's larger screen - thinking this would suit me better for note taking with the pencil, as it's more A4 sized. I must also admit that I like the idea that it's the most powerful of the iPads. But I went in there wanting something small and compact, with the pencil compatibility. I haven't made up my mind yet as I think both have their use case scenarios. I think there is something to be said for the ability to hold the Mini 7 in one hand more comfortably. But I'm also turned off by reviewers describing the Mini 7 as the "ultimate consumption machine". Consumption of media is not the direction I want to go with either or any of my choices. For power use I can borrow a family member's Macbook Pro (intel) whenever I choose, but it's not my device and I find the battery performance shockingly bad. I did want something relatively powerful and portable with pen and touch screen. I do think it's a shame that Apple did not give us a iPad Mini Pro.

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

I think Apple have utterly failed to understand that people would be making this exact comparison between two devices at such opposite ends of the pricing/specs spectrum. I use my Mini almost all of the time at the moment - the only time the iPad Pro gets my focus is if I need to spend time writing/typing and for whatever reason my Macbook isn't available.

[@jpoviedr]

Thanks for the video! This brings me closer to decide between these two

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

You're welcome buddy. Where's your head at?

[@jpoviedr]

@@ThatMarkGilroy more inclined to the mini as I prefer form factor, it’s more aligned with my budget and I already have a MacBook Pro; besides I’m a regular user I don’t really produce content or do super Pro work, I was considering it because I’m usually an iPad first person and if need more jump to my MacBook . My problem with apple is that they treat things such as OLED and Face ID like pro features on the iPad line, if the mini had at least one of those two, I wouldn’t feel so tempted by the iPad Pro. It bothers me that features like this are in the base model iPhones but not on the iPads lower than the Pros.

[@johnnyquest2651]

I appreciate this video. For a company that doesn't do foldables you would think that they would do an ipad mini pro or mini gaming. It wouldn't even need an m chip. Just oled, high refresh and nicer speakers. For those who prefer the bigger ipad have at it but the mini could increase in price and I'd let apple stick their hands in my pocket to take it.

[@richard-davies]

I really like the mini overall, I swapped from an iPad Pro 12.9 M1 2TB which I used from launch to the Mini A17 Pro 512GB because I just wanted a smaller tablet mainly and the larger iPad just wasn't getting much use these days. The last time I had a Mini was when the iPad Mini 3 came out, so it's been a very long time. I love the smaller size and compared to the larger one, and it pretty much weighs nothing in comparison, so it's much more comfortable to hold. I really do miss the better quality screen, dropping from 120hz to 60hz is extremely noticeable to me, literally a night and day difference as most of my screens are 120hz+ so the 60hz refresh rate really is jarring when going from my PC or iPhone plus I really miss Face ID. I haven't used Touch ID in many years, not since the iPhone X came out so it's really annoying to go back to that again after 7yrs of only Face ID, it's just slow and inconvenient. Why the hell have they not added Face ID to it by now is a mystery. The Apple Pencil compatibility annoyed me as I had to spend £129 just to replace a perfectly working pencil, so that's money down the drain for no reason. Will say though that the new features on Pro one are pretty cool, ended up making the squeeze gesture a shortcut back to the home screen, and it works great. I just wish Apple made a Mini Pro that has all the features of the larger tablet but sticks to using the best iPhone chip at the time if they can't make an M CPU work due to power usage and heat, I bet that thing would sell amazingly well. Overall though I'm extremely happy with the iPad Mini 7, it's lightweight, fast and far more portable and I'll definitely be using this one more.

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

@@richard-davies Trust me, I’ve been as surprised as anyone with how much I’ve enjoyed spending more time with the Mini format again. Warts and all. Turns out I’m happy to forgive the lack of FaceID, and faster/brighter screen in exchange for the form factor.

[@MattTurvey]

I have both and the Mini is used far more out of the two. The 13 inch M4 iPad Pro is great - for specific things. That said, I can’t do as much on it versus my Mac when I’m doing work (AI models) or heavy production with Logic Pro (where having 64GB RAM and MacOS makes a big difference). That said, my iPad Mini is always within reach and is charged pretty much every day. It’s like my triage device and fits that category. The screen time and power usage tells a story…

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

‘Triage device’ is a great term. I can definitely relate to that!

[@MattTurvey]

@ keep up the great work Mark - great content, and great hats from a fellow Brit ❤️

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

@@MattTurvey [tips hat] 😉

[@Crslawncare13]

I think the 11 inch iPad Pro does it all better … not to mention the speakers are a hell of a lot better .. Face ID is awesome..

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

Good point about the speakers....I'm almost always using headphones with content but you're right - the 4 speaker setup on the Pro is incredible.

[@Crslawncare13]

@ have a blessed day, brother.. also I would like to add if you have Apple Music pay subscription you get lossless and bit perfect audio if you choose… Apple Music, it’s about the best service

[@nikkic36]

My mini 7 is paired with luma fusion and it’s an excellent editing tool

[@JudiChristopher]

I am so new to all of this... I have had a MBP for 13 years and need to update. I am a writer.... but I am starting to write Screenplays and need so I will be using Final Draft... and will later want to use Final Cut Pro... I am used to using a 17" MBP... so I'll probably go with the 16" MBP... My question to you is... if and when I get an iPad.... can we do the Final Cut Pro and the Final Draft on the iPad? and the iPad Mini? Thank you so much for your help.

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

Using Final Cut on iPad is probably the only time I'd advise hooking up the Mini to a screen for mirroring. You'll get more done, faster.

[@JudiChristopher]

@@ThatMarkGilroy Good to know. Thank you... again.

[@danielmahathir4001]

great video. i have been trying to justify my air m2 11’. and i cudnt. ive learn the costly way is that all i need in my workflow is a iphone = mini= macbook air

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

Yep, I think it becomes a harder decision if you have a macbook as part of your ‘big picture’ as the amount of overlap between them with iPads makes it quite confusing to decide what's best.

[@gregoriocreates]

I did the same and don't regret it at all!

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

No regrets for me either!

[@GageMoncada]

Yo, thanks for making the video I’ve been looking for one

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

You’re welcome mate

[@EbsImagination]

I have the iPad Pro M4 and iPad Pro M2 and MacBook Pro M4, I am watching all these Mini 7 videos to see if I can use it for my case. I’ve been contemplating on getting the Mini 7 since it came out. Do I need it? I’m asking myself. Haha. I got the Pencil Pro and I use it often, especially for work. Arrrggghhhhh.

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

It’s worth trying out for sure….if you’re used to the iPad Pro M4 you may find the screen size/brightness too much of a shift. But I really like it!

[@kerstinjansen6041]

What are you doing with your pro ? Will you keep it and use both ?

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

For now I'm keeping both but I'm leaning towards selling it.

[@kerstinjansen6041]

Ahhh here it is 🎉 I was waiting the whole weekend for this video 😅. I will buy the iPad mini 7. for me I only use it for social media and journaling, diary etc. I don’t have any other iPad just a normal Lenovo Notebook. But I don’t need a fancy pro for what I use it and because of the light weight and my jointpain I will go with the mini 7🎉🎉🎉

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

I should have talked about journalling as a use case but for me journalling is a superb experience on the Mini 7. Whether it's handwritten or something like Day One, you'll be grand. Thanks for waiting Kerstin!

[@kerstinjansen6041]

@ thanks Mark. You was really helpful 🥰🥰🥰

[@PavelVoronenkoPhotography]

How would you rate iPad Air 11" between the Pro and mini today?

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

@@PavelVoronenkoPhotography it has the same brightness and refresh rate on the screen as the Mini so if you need a larger/better screen it’s probably easier to skip the iPad Air and just get the 11” Pro model.

[@alanrowoth1975]

I have 4 iPads. 3 MacBooks and 3 iPhones (one for USA, India , and Nepal) The iPad mini is where I do 90% of my work. It’s the perfect size. All my other iPads are too heavy. It’s bright enough. It’s loud enough. I wish it had an M4 and a promotion screen. I’ll use my Mini6 until they ship the IPad mini Pro or iPad mini 8

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

That’s quite the arsenal!

[@jasonlittle2666]

I have a macbook pro 14” and iphone 15 pro max i really want an iPad, but I don’t know whether to get the iPad mini 7 or the iPad Air 6 11”… it seems like the mini wouldn’t be really that much bigger at all than my pro max phone? I would mainly be using the mini for content consumption. Is the mini that much better than the promax for content consumption?

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

It’s almost exactly double the size of the pro max phone. But I get your dilemma. When my phone is next due for an upgrade I’m going down to the regular size iPhone as I prefer the mini for content.

[@octaviogandara6643]

Where can I find that skin for the iPad

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

@@octaviogandara6643 dbrand - look for ‘Sea Breeze’.

[@nickmortis8229]

Can I ask what screen protector you have on the mini?

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

It’s a Paperlike 😉

[@blumchue]

I miss Face ID and the oled screen it’s so beautiful I love drawing on it a lot

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

Oh no! Did you sell yours?

[@ItsOnPaper]

I think you’ll survive

[@michaelsheehan3735]

So well said. Spot on!

[@thisiskc]

You literally just described a situaiton I have. About to sell pro and maybe have an iPad Air for the first time since I have a mac studio for heavy lifting in my office.

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

@@thisiskc That sounds like an awesome setup!

[@unimatrix82]

I got rid of my ipad pro 11 inch because its battery life was terrible. I may get a mini because i like the size.

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

Good point about the battery. That amazing screen takes a toll!

[@bill5740]

Apple could've sold on me on the mini if it had a 90hz at least but it serves a purpose to others

[@simobonev4511]

Great review video! Well done:)

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

Thanks mate 👍🏻

[@sellwithmanuel]

Lol this is just the video i was looking for… i just switched from the pro to the mini

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

How are you finding things?

[@sellwithmanuel]

Went back to the pro within 2 days lol

[@forestpkguy]

I love my new mini. But do notice the battery life is not as good 😮

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

As the previous version? I've found (so far) it's a little better than the Mini 6. But overall, yeah, it's not great. A battery bank is an essential accessory if you're out and about!

[@Alexr8206]

Hello 👋🏻 where do I get that skin that you put on the iPad? Thanks

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

It's by dbrand - search for 'Sea Breeze'.

[@chris]

It's dbrand "Sea Breeze"

[@tommyv010]

I wish Apple would have upgraded the screen for the Mini 7 too.

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

@@tommyv010 I think Apple must have had all their mini workers beavering away on improving the Mac mini this year.

[@1c_redd]

Maybe you can accept the trade off of viewing quality for some Apple Pencil resistants but make no mistake…, Paperlike DOES degrade the viewing.

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

Yes, it reduces the brightness somewhat but the other side of the coin is that it reduces glare too when out and about.

[@jeorgemarvel4086]

Where can we get that apple pencil cover case ?

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

The grip is from Paperlike and the skin is from dbrand. You can only buy it as an add on to an iPad skin (bad), but they come in a pack of 3 to suit the different pencil types (good).

[@yippiecalle421]

I’m stuck between a Mac Mini & iPad Pro combo or get a MacBook and partner it with an iPad mini.

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

That's an interesting dilemma. How often will you be on the go/move with your device?

[@yippiecalle421]

@ depends if on the move counts as from home office to anywhere else in the house than all the time. I spend 8 hrs doing work I spend in home office but then things for church, personal entertainment, family things all done anywhere else in the home

[@T08y120]

What app are you using to make thumbnails?

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

I use Canva. Tried photoshop a long time ago but it made my head hurt.

[@willmcelroy6376]

iPad mini also can’t do 1064 buffer setting in Logic. Limited to max 512

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

Wow, that’s quite the handicap. I’m saying that, I don’t know what 1064 buffer is 🤪

[@PInoyHenyoRito]

Im selling my ipad 11 m4 my god the PWM hurts my eyes …oled of iphone causes eyestrain and head ache im decided to go the ipad mini 7 cellular

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

Not heard many people mention this but yes, there are many downsides to having a display that goes so bright. Especially given how many people use iPads in the dark/in bed.

[@RandyMosierN-GageCoach]

Apple has a way of making us long for the proverbial "new tech feel" or "fmo". I recently decided to trade in my iPad Mini last gen for this one. I did not do sue diligence and found my apple pencil did not work on the Mini 7. On the plus side Best Buy gave me $350 on a trade. I like having more power overhead and a few new features. However I believe keeping my previous iPad would of been okay. The one feature I would of liked was an upgrade on the screen. 500 nits is less than I'd like in an outdoor situation. I am currently still using an iPhone 13 pro max. Battery is at 81% so again theirs the temptation to upgrade. I have played with a new phone. It feels like a minor spec bump for my useage. I would say in our current economy good tech that meets your needs is worth keeping. Don't let the alure of new take the joy out of what you own.

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

Great points Randy.

[@nespressoman]

Great video, thank you. Subscribed.

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

Thanks and welcome aboard!

[@rekharampal1212]

How do you get that colour on the Back of iPad

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

@@rekharampal1212 it’s a skin by dbrand.

[@rolonow12]

If only Apple would add a phone facility to the mini, it would be perfect.

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

It’s weird that they haven’t!

[@AWMIDEA]

Sure it came into their mind, but likely phone-sales will drop to much.

[@fitnessjunger9659]

As Long as the iPad Mini has no M Chip i don‘t see it replace the iPad Pro

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

The problem is that the M-chip draws too much power. It'd obliterate the battery in the Mini form factor.

[@satori8626]

5:00 does the mini have larger bezels than the pro, or does it just look like it due to the screen size difference?

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

@@satori8626 You’re right, the bezels are definitely larger than the Pro.

[@TCamp72a]

Curious about the skin on your Apple Pencil! :-)

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

It’s from dbrand. If you buy an iPad skin from them you also have the option to buy a set of Apple Pencil skins.

[@TCamp72a]

@@ThatMarkGilroy Sweet! Thank you! Does the skin on the iPad or the pencil interfere with the iPad connecting to any magnetized cases?

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

@ nope not a bit.

[@TEZProd]

60 Hz comments incoming !

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

It didn't take long.

[@ItsOnPaper]

Every time 😭

[@jeremythepotato6321]

you can 3d scan on ipad pro

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

You're right - the LIDAR sensor in the Pro is unmatched. If you're an architect or using iPad for this kind of 3D scanning work, only the Pro will do.

[@Themeparkanxiety]

Can I do video editing on the mini?

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

100% You'll see me using Final Cut for iPad in this video. Davinci Resolve and CapCut also work fine!

[@hdtravel1]

Buddy - you failed to mention that a big difference is the screen size and screen quality - the iPad mini screen is small and much lower quality than the Pro - so if a user needs a bigger screen and higher quality screen than DO NOT buy an iPad mini. The iPad mini is for people that want the smallest iPad screen size for ultimate portability and don't mind the lower screen quality.

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

I make this exact point in the conclusion to the video.

[@dixieflatline1189]

Let's be honest. If you have bought an iPad Pro in the last 3 years - this isn't ever going to be a question. This is a "content creator" question.

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

@@dixieflatline1189 Tell me more?

[@pranav1576]

Great content.

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

Cheers Pranav!