Xiaomi’s New Compact Tablet Targets iPad Mini Market
Xiaomi has officially announced the launch of the Xiaomi Pad Mini, a compact Android tablet priced from $429 in the United States. The company is positioning this new device as a direct competitor to Apple’s iPad Mini, but with a focus on performance and affordability. Its starting price makes it one of the most aggressively priced premium small tablets currently on the market.
The Xiaomi Pad Mini features an 8.8-inch display with a 3K resolution and a 165 Hz refresh rate, a specification that stands out among small tablets. This high refresh rate promises a smoother user experience, especially when scrolling through content, gaming, or multitasking. Xiaomi is clearly targeting tech-savvy users who want a portable device without compromising on screen quality.
Under the hood, the tablet runs on the MediaTek Dimensity 9400+ processor paired with LPDDR5X RAM and UFS 4.1 storage. These are high-end components that bring flagship-level performance to a smaller form factor. This makes the Pad Mini capable of running demanding apps and games, positioning it as a productivity and entertainment device in one.
Battery life is another highlight, with a 7,500 mAh cell supporting 67W HyperCharge fast charging. Xiaomi claims this will allow users to quickly top up the tablet and stay productive throughout the day. The inclusion of dual USB-C ports is an uncommon but welcome feature, giving users more flexibility for charging and connecting accessories simultaneously.
Although Xiaomi announced U.S. pricing, availability is still uncertain. The Pad Mini is confirmed to roll out first in select Asian and Middle Eastern markets. If it does not officially launch in the U.S., American buyers may need to rely on importers or third-party sellers to get their hands on one.
At $429, the Xiaomi Pad Mini undercuts several competing tablets while offering flagship-grade specifications. If it becomes widely available in the U.S., it could challenge Apple’s dominance in the small-tablet market and give Android users a compelling alternative. For now, its combination of power, display quality, and competitive pricing makes it one of the most exciting compact tablets to watch this year.
