I own neither and own both Apple and Android products, so I think it’s time for a side-by-side factual comparison of these recently launched tablets…

In a nutshell, the facts show the following “pros”…

Apple iPad Mini

• Larger display dimensions
• Smaller overall dimensions
• Less weight
• Rear camera
• Dual band WiFi

 Google Nexus 7

• Higher screen resolution (and, as a result, PPI)
• NFC
• GPS
• Magnetometer
• Built-in microphone
• Price

This excludes what facts don’t show. Everyone, without exception, will talk about the quality of the iPad Mini. The Nexus 7 isn’t bad, but just not to the same level as the Apple (as is usually the case with their products).

I also note that the smaller size of the iPad means a small bezel. This isn’t necessarily a good thing as tablets are held by hand, not by fingertip was with a phone. A small bezel may mean often launching apps or flipping through a page of a book by mistake (Apple say they’ve accomdated this with software that will take this into account – none-the-less I’ve read many reports of people having such a problem anyway).

The iPad Mini lacking a retina screen is odd, but probably just a marketing ploy to get you to buy the “New iPad Mini” next year. However, it is difficult to avoid those prices. Yes, you pay for the quality of the product. But you also need to take into account what you don’t get too – a high resolution screen and GPS for a start.

Yes, the Nexus 7 lacks a rear camera but, personally, people taking pictures with tablets really do look stupid. Stick to your phone. Or a camera. It’s a little heavier, but not by a great deal.

If I had the money now to buy either, it would be the Nexus 7.

Although published mid-December the above was actually written a month previous. I have now purchased a Nexus 7 – I guess I found the benefits too beneficial 😉