Xiaomi Mi Pad 2 prices and specs

Xiaomi shows the possibilities for a tablet fromthe entry-level price range with its 2nd generation MiPad. The aluminum casingadds a certain degree of quality and stability. It is pleasant to hold with itscompact dimensions and a weight of 322 grams. The connectivity is also generousfor this price range: USB OTG, status LED, Fast Charge and USB 3.1 Type-C arepresent. Furthermore, the cameras are useful and the speakers are exceptionallyloud for a device of this size. Only the installed 2 GB of working memory (RAM)and non-expandable storage of 16 GB (ROM) seem a bit undersized - particularlyfor a tablet. Xiaomi does not incorporate either a GPS module or NFC.

On the other hand, the screen is absolutely convincing.Good black level, high contrast and very good viewing angles characterize theIPS panel in the MiPad 2. Content also looks pleasantly sharp with 324 PPI.

“Despite, or perhaps just for, the multiplesimilarities with Apple's iPad Mini, Xiaomi has done many things right in theMiPad 2. A successful total package.”

Due to the lack of availability on the Germanmarket, Xiaomi's MiPad 2 is, and will likely remain to be, a rare tablet here.The affordable tablet from the Far East could be a real alternative for themore expensive Android rivals like the ZenPad S 8.0 or even for Apple's iPad Mini 4 for buyers who venture ordering via importcompanies.

Xiaomi products aren't easily come by in the UK but the firm is making a name for itself by making top-spec devices at budget prices. With Apple setting the standard for many, the Chinese firm's latest tablet is its answer for the iPad mini.

To whet your appetite, the Xiaomi Mi Pad 2 is a 7.9in high resolution tablet with a metal design, Intel Atom processor and runs Android or Windows. It may mirror the iPad mini in many ways but it's much more affordable, starting at just £144. But can Xiaomi really offer a decent alternative to Apple at such a low price?

Whether Xiaomi intended to or not, the Mi Pad 2 is an Android tablet disguised as an iPad mini. This may disgust you or be exactly what you're looking for. Either way, we can't deny that this is a well-made, stylish tablet with decent specs for the price. You're best off getting the 64GB model and if the iOS style user interface is a turn-off, remember that Android is highly customisable.

Inmany aspects of retail there is an absolutely true statement, “you get what youpay for.” The Xiaomi MiPad 2 is a wonderful device in the budget segment, butis not exactly the bang for the buck device you might be hoping for. Pleasekeep in mind we are only speaking of the Android version for now, we do not yethave our hands on the Windows 10 powered option.

Forthose that like to see a numeric value applied to their reviews, I would give the XiaomiMiPad 2 a final rating of 6.5 out of 10 stars. That’s 8 stars for the hardware, atleast for the look, materials and feel in the hand, but only 5 stars forsoftware and overall performance. Just please keep in mind that this ispersonal preference more than anything – I am still new to MiUI, and those few performanceissues are not always present, it is just that when they do pop up, theyruin the overall experience for me.

With astarting price of 999 yuan, or about US$155, the Xiaomi MiPad 2 is a fun device for themoney. We highly recommend you try before you buy, if possible. There is nomistaking that the MiPad 2 is a curious device, seemingly offering the best ofboth Android and iOS in one package, or Windows, if you opt for the Windows 10version. Please note, however, that you should expect to pay a little more thanjust US$155, it was closer to $200 by the time ours arrived with lengthyshipping times and costs.