[If you're buying an iPad mini now, this is it!!] Which one actually has the best value? I've found the answer.

Hello everyone, it's Shakamiki!!

Lately, I've been asked this so many times by my friends.

Which iPad mini should I buy?

From colleagues, on social media, and from real-life friends. For some reason, the number of consultations spiked between late November and December. lol

And what I realized while talking to them is this.

Ah, I think everyone has their 'action-taking switch' turned on right now!!!

With bonuses coming in and reflecting on the year,
isn't it the perfect time to think,
'I want to get my environment ready for next year!'
'I want to grow even more in 2026!'

Among those, the iPad mini is so influential that it makes it into the
Top 3 gadgets that will change your life if you buy them. Personally, it's number one!!!!

So this time, I've put together a ranking from the perspective of,
If I were choosing from scratch right now, which one would I pick?

Of course, the optimal solution differs from person to person, but I'm leaving here my own answer,
based on having used the iPad mini for 4-5 years straight.

Well then, let's get started.

▼ If you only want to know the results, look here 💁

🥇 1st Place: Refurbished iPad mini 6 (The cheapest option that can still compete)

'I want to buy it as cheaply as possible. But I don't want it to lack performance!'

This is perfect for those people.

The mini 6 isn't quite at the level of the A17 Pro, but
it can handle everything you'd typically use an iPad mini for.

・E-books
・Researching
・Social media
・Writing notes
・Watching videos
・Simple image editing

All of this is stress-free.

Conversely, if you go for an older model like the mini 5,
the screen is smaller, the performance is a step down, and it's a bit worrying in the long run.
That's why at the very least, the '6' is the sweet spot.

'Cheapest x Still usable x No regrets'
This is the one that strikes that balance.

This is the model I'm using right now, and it's seriously the best!!!

🥈 2nd Place: iPad mini (A17 Pro) Wi-Fi Model

For those who want to buy the latest model as cheaply as possible.

If you're the type who says, "I don't need the freedom of cellular!" or "I don't want to regret it later!!", then this is the optimal solution.

The performance is even better than the 2nd place pick, as it's the latest generation!!!!

I believe the essence of the iPad mini is "whether you can use it outside"
but first and foremost, actually using it is the most important thing!!!!

So, honestly, I'm a cellular fan, but for people whose lives revolve around Wi-Fi, this one is just right.
I also started with a Wi-Fi model!!!
I started with a Wi-Fi model!!!

🥉 3rd Place: Amazon Renewed iPad mini (A17 Pro) Cellular Model

The best value model!

First of all, this.
It has the perfect trifecta of "price, performance, and freedom."

A17 Pro, latest generation, with cellular.
It costs over 100,000 yen new, but you can buy it much cheaper if it's Amazon Renewed.

And, as I've been saying, I am definitely a cellular fan.
The reason is simple.

The biggest advantage of the iPad mini is its mobility!

At a cafe, while commuting, traveling, or during spare time at work.
Being able to "connect to the internet the moment you feel motivated"
eliminates a bit of stress!

I'm currently using a Wi-Fi model, but I want to upgrade soon... lol

Cellular × latest chip.
Getting this at this price is truly a miracle.

However, I'll share this just in case, as there were comments like this!

Let's check this before making a purchase!
However, since it's a product that hasn't been out for long,
I think it's a good time with fewer issues or battery degradation!!

🟣 Finally

If you have even the slightest feeling right now of,
"I want to change something" or "I want to push myself harder in 2026,"
the iPad mini is a tool that will truly support you.

It feels close to buying a new notebook, but
what you can do with it is about 100 times broader.
Seriously, let's take that step "within this year"!!!

*Note regarding Apple Certified Refurbished products

By the way, refurbished products are strictly first-come, first-served.
Sometimes they are available, sometimes they aren't.
Especially during times when demand increases,
like bonus seasons, the end of the year, or near long holidays,
they are often out of stock every year, so if you're aiming for one, act fast!

▼It looks like they are still available for now.

I would be super happy if this article
could serve as a reference for that first step!!!

If you're interested, please take another look here 💁

I'd be happy if you could feel free to leave a like, comment, or question!
I'd be moved to tears if you followed me.
Almost at 1,000 followers!

I will continue to update this with articles based on my real-life experience of using the iPad mini to its full potential.
If you'd like, please follow me and read more.

Your support is greatly appreciated!

If you want to know more, check here 💁