Apple's iPad Mini drops under £30 and arrives next day
It's small enough to take on-the-go yet it's still powerful enough to run most apps without any issue
Apple's iPad tablets are remarkable devices, capable of substituting some laptops depending on your work requirements. However while the robust iPad Pro models can reach a whopping 12.9 inches, some tech enthusiasts prefer a smaller, more portable alternative.
Enter the iPad Mini, offering the familiar iPad design and functionality but in a compact size that could fit into a large pocket. With a screen size of 7.9 inches, Wowcher is currently offering a deal on a refurbished iPad Mini model for just £29.99, a significant drop from its usual price of £129.99.
The model available here is the first generation of the iPad Mini, which was initially launched in 2012. As such, it may not deliver the performance of contemporary models, but it can still be utilised for certain tasks devised by creative tech users. For money-saving tips, sign up to our Money newsletter here
One common use for this older iPad is to transform it into a permanent digital photo frame.
Simply upload your favourite photos, mount it near a constant power source, and you have a vibrant display that can automatically cycle through all your cherished images.
Another popular application for this tablet is to serve as a control centre for smart home devices. Mount the iPad on a wall and equip it with the necessary apps to manage light switches, thermostats or video doorbells, and you've got a dedicated smart home hub at your disposal, reports the Manchester Evening News.
However, it's crucial to ensure that the apps you wish to utilise are compatible with this iPad model. Apple ceased its support in 2015, and it only accommodates iOS 9 - some applications necessitate a more recent software version, so it's advisable to do your homework before acquiring one.
The good news is that if you need a newer model of iPad, Wowcher has plenty of other deals that might strike your fancy. Here are some of the best ones available right now:
Out of all the deals, the iPad Air 5th Gen likely offers the best value for money. This is due to its compatibility with Apple's latest iOS update and its likelihood of remaining updated for several years owing to its M1 chip, which is still sufficiently robust for everyday tasks.
If you're hesitant about shelling out £359, the iPad 8th Gen also presents a reasonable budget alternative. It may perform tasks slightly slower than the iPad Air, but it's still compatible with iOS 18, which remains the most recent software until Apple releases iOS 26 later this year.
Online feedback suggests that those who have attempted to use the iPad Mini 1st Gen in 2025 have encountered numerous issues when trying to load contemporary apps like Netflix and YouTube. Some users also report that while Safari does launch as expected web pages can take significantly longer to load compared to the speed we've become accustomed to with modern hardware.
However some users on the MacRumours forums have mentioned that they continue to use their device as a dedicated eReader for digital books. Another iPad Mini owner utilises it solely for streaming music through his home speakers.
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The 1st Generation iPad Mini does hold some appeal for those willing to experiment a bit, and at £30, it certainly offers value in these scenarios. Nonetheless, if you're after something with a bit more capability, it might be worth opting for a more contemporary model.
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