Apple iPad mini 3

Quick Facts

Specification	Details
Launch year	2014
Display	7.9-inch Retina IPS display
Resolution	2048 × 1536 pixels at 326 ppi
Processor	Apple A7 chip with M7 motion coprocessor
Memory	1GB RAM
Storage	16GB, 64GB or 128GB
Rear camera	5MP
Front camera	1.2MP FaceTime HD
Battery	23.8Wh; up to 10 hours of web browsing or video playback
Connectivity	Wi-Fi 4, Bluetooth 4.0 and optional 4G LTE
Charging port	Lightning
Security	Touch ID
Weight	331g for Wi-Fi; 341g for Wi-Fi + Cellular
Colours	Silver, Gold or Space Grey

Overview

The Apple iPad mini 3 is a compact tablet intended for reading, video playback, basic web browsing and other light activities. Its 7.9-inch Retina display offers sharp text and images in a body that is easier to carry than a full-size iPad.

Its A7 processor and 1GB of RAM are considerably dated by current standards. The model is limited to iOS 12, meaning many newer applications and online services may be unavailable or offer limited functionality.

When buying a used iPad mini 3, inspect the screen, battery, cameras, speakers, microphones, Lightning port and physical buttons. Confirm that Touch ID works properly and that the tablet has been removed from the previous owner’s Apple Account without an Activation Lock.

Key Highlights

Compact Retina display

The 7.9-inch Retina display has a sharp 2048 × 1536 resolution at 326 pixels per inch. Its compact dimensions make the tablet convenient for reading, casual entertainment and travel.

Why it matters:

Sharp text for ebooks and webpages
Compact enough for smaller bags
Comfortable for handheld reading
Suitable for casual video playback
IPS technology provides consistent viewing angles

Portable aluminium design

At approximately 331g for the Wi-Fi version, the iPad mini 3 is lighter than full-size iPads from the same period. Its aluminium enclosure provides a slim and practical design for use at home or while travelling.

Why it matters:

Easy to carry throughout the day
Takes up less space than a full-size tablet
Comfortable to hold during shorter sessions
Suitable for commuting and travel
Available in three familiar Apple colours

Touch ID and optional cellular connectivity

The iPad mini 3 introduced Touch ID to Apple’s compact tablet range, allowing fingerprint authentication through its Home button. Cellular versions also support compatible 4G LTE networks for mobile data access.

Why it matters:

Fingerprint unlocking is convenient
Supported purchases can use Touch ID
Cellular models can connect away from Wi-Fi
Wired headphones work without an adapter
Lightning accessories remain widely available

Key Features Explained

Feature	What it means for buyers
Apple A7 chip	Handles simple activities but is slow by current tablet standards
1GB RAM	Provides limited multitasking and may struggle with heavier webpages or applications
7.9-inch Retina display	Produces sharp text and images in a compact format
5MP rear camera	Suitable for basic photographs and document scans in good lighting
1.2MP front camera	Supports basic FaceTime and other compatible video calls
Touch ID	Provides fingerprint unlocking through the Home button
Optional 4G LTE	Allows compatible cellular models to access mobile data
Lightning connector	Used for charging, data transfer and supported accessories
3.5mm headphone jack	Supports standard wired headphones without an adapter
No Apple Pencil support	The model does not support any Apple Pencil generation
iOS 12 limit	Many newer apps may require a later, unsupported operating system
No expandable storage	The built-in storage cannot be increased with a memory card

Compare Related Models

Model	Launch year	Display	Processor	Rear/front camera	Battery	Storage	Network	Weight
iPad mini 2	2013	7.9-inch Retina, 2048 × 1536	A7	5MP / 1.2MP	23.8Wh	16GB–128GB	Wi-Fi 4, optional LTE	331g / 341g
iPad mini 3	2014	7.9-inch Retina, 2048 × 1536	A7	5MP / 1.2MP	23.8Wh	16GB–128GB	Wi-Fi 4, optional LTE	331g / 341g
iPad mini 4	2015	7.9-inch laminated Retina, 2048 × 1536	A8	8MP / 1.2MP	19.1Wh	16GB–128GB	Wi-Fi 5, optional LTE	298.8g / 304g
iPad mini 5	2019	7.9-inch Retina, 2048 × 1536	A12 Bionic	8MP / 7MP	19.1Wh	64GB or 256GB	Wi-Fi 5, optional LTE	300.5g / 308.2g

Weights show Wi-Fi / Wi-Fi + Cellular models.

Which Model Should You Choose?

Choose this model	Best suited for
iPad mini 2	Buyers considering a very inexpensive tablet for extremely basic offline use
iPad mini 3	Buyers who specifically want Touch ID in a low-cost compact iPad
iPad mini 4	Buyers wanting a lighter body, laminated display and slightly better performance
iPad mini 5	Buyers wanting much faster performance, Apple Pencil support and broader app compatibility
iPad mini 6	Buyers wanting a modern design, USB-C, faster performance and optional 5G

Alternatives

If you are comparing before buying, you may also want to check these related SellUp Marketplace pages:

Common Questions

Is the iPad mini 3 suitable for everyday use?

It may handle reading, offline media and basic browsing through compatible applications. However, its A7 processor, 1GB of RAM and iOS 12 software limit make it unsuitable for demanding apps, heavy websites, intensive multitasking or buyers who need continuing app compatibility.

Does the iPad mini 3 support 5G?

No. Wi-Fi + Cellular versions support 4G LTE but not 5G. Actual mobile performance depends on your Singapore telco plan, SIM compatibility, network coverage and whether the required LTE bands remain supported.

Is the iPad mini 3 better than the iPad mini 4?

Generally, no. The iPad mini 4 is lighter and has a faster processor, twice the RAM, a fully laminated display, a better rear camera and support for newer software. The iPad mini 3 may appeal only when it is considerably cheaper and Touch ID is required.

Does the iPad mini 3 support wireless charging?

No. It charges through its Lightning connector and does not support Qi or MagSafe wireless charging.

Is the iPad mini 3 water resistant?

Apple does not provide the iPad mini 3 with an official IP water- or dust-resistance rating. Keep it away from rain, spills and high-moisture environments.

Is the iPad mini 3 worth buying?

It is difficult to recommend for general use because of its age, limited performance and outdated software. It may still be considered at a very low price for simple offline tasks. Check the battery, screen, cameras, speakers, microphones, charging port, buttons, Touch ID and Activation Lock status before buying.

Why Buy a Used iPad mini 3?

A used iPad mini 3 can provide an inexpensive compact tablet for reading stored content, playing downloaded media and completing other simple tasks. Its Retina display, headphone jack and Touch ID remain useful when compatible software is available.

Condition and price are especially important because of the model’s age. Compare storage capacity, cosmetic condition, battery performance and cellular compatibility carefully, and choose a professionally inspected unit whenever possible.

Compare Apple iPad mini 3 listings on SellUp Marketplace to find the condition, storage size, and price that suits your budget.