At the start of 2026, the mini tablet market has gained a fresh competitor in the form of the HUAWEI MatePad Mini. This new model strongly challenges the iPad Mini 7 with its advanced specifications and features. Its premium design and comprehensive package make the iPad Mini 7 appear outdated in comparison.
HUAWEI targets both productivity and leisure users by equipping the MatePad Mini with a reading edition screen that mimics paper texture, reducing glare and eye strain during long reading sessions. The device comes boxed in a neat white case branded with the HUAWEI logo, running Harmony OS and supporting nearlink stylus input for enhanced user interaction.
Impressive Hardware and Package Contents
The MatePad Mini provides an impressive 12 GB of RAM and 256 GB of internal storage, ample to handle various multitasking and storage needs. A significant advantage lies in the included hard transparent case, a rarity among competitors. The package also contains a 66-watt fast charger with a USB Type-C to Type-C cable, plus a SIM ejector tool and a comprehensive user manual. Compared to Apple’s minimalist accessory approach, HUAWEI offers a notably more complete set.
The tablet’s design features smooth, rounded edges enhancing grip comfort. Dimensions measure at 161 x 65.5 x 5.1 mm, making it thinner than an iPhone or the iPad Mini 7. Lightweight at just 260 grams, it outclasses the iPad Mini 7’s 313 grams. The back surface is available in Desert Gold and Midnight Black with a clean finish, while Tidel Blue includes a unique patterned texture, emphasizing a premium feel.
Superior Display and Multimedia Experience
The MatePad Mini sports an 8.8-inch flexible OLED display, larger than the iPad Mini 7’s 8.3-inch IPS panel. It boasts a 2.5K resolution with 343 pixels per inch, a smooth 120 Hz refresh rate, and peak brightness hitting 1800 nits. Thin bezels yield a 92% screen-to-body ratio, delivering immersive visual quality ideal for reading, working, and media consumption.
In contrast, the iPad Mini 7’s IPS panel with thicker bezels and a smaller screen area appears less modern. Additionally, the MatePad Mini’s speaker system delivers superior audio quality, enhancing the multimedia experience.
Connectivity, Performance, and Gaming Prowess
Connectivity options include SIM card support and 5G networks, enabling phone calls and SMS functionality—a feature absent in the iPad Mini 7. The MatePad Mini also supports WiFi 7, ensuring fast, reliable internet access. At its core is the Kirin 9010B chipset, HUAWEI’s fastest to date and competitive with Snapdragon 8 Gen 1.
Gaming performance impresses with Mobile Legends running smoothly at 120 fps without frame drops. Genshin Impact offers stable 60 fps gameplay on high settings. This positions the MatePad Mini as a capable device for casual and serious gamers alike.
Camera and Audio Capabilities
The camera system is another key strength with a dual setup consisting of a 50 MP primary sensor and an 8 MP wide-angle lens. The front-facing punch-hole camera features an unusually high 32 MP resolution, suitable for clear video calls and online meetings. Rear video recording supports 4K at 30 fps with stable Full HD footage during movement. The front camera maxes out at Full HD.
Security is enhanced by a fingerprint sensor integrated into the power button. While stylus and keyboard accessories are available, they are sold separately.
Battery and Software Experience
A robust 6400 mAh battery powers the tablet, fast charging with the included 66-watt adapter. Users can expect about 60% charge after 30 minutes and a full charge within 55 minutes. Harmony OS Next 5.1 offers a seamless experience with fluid animations and efficient multitasking through split-screen and floating windows.
The dock panel, accessible via side swipe, facilitates quick access to favorite apps, improving user productivity.
Limitations and Market Outlook
One notable downside is the absence of Google Services, limiting app availability outside the App Gallery mainly populated with Chinese-developed apps. This restriction may affect users depending on their app ecosystem preferences. However, prices align closely with the iPad Mini 7, roughly around $400 for the high-end 12 GB RAM and 256 GB storage variant with 5G connectivity.
As of early 2026, the HUAWEI MatePad Mini represents a significant innovation in the mini tablet segment, combining premium hardware, superior display, and connectivity advancements. Its entry may prompt users and competitors to rethink value and performance standards in this category. With official availability hoped for in Indonesia and other markets, this device could become a new benchmark for mini tablets in the coming years.
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