The iPad mini is more portable that the regular iPads, offering virtually the same specs apart from lacking a Retina. Starting at just £269 for the 16gb WiFi-only iPad it's the cheapest iPad to date, and it's also my favourite model.

The 7.9-inch mini's screen is the same pixel count as the iPad 2, only the pixels are smaller, giving the mini a higher pixel density: 163ppi, an increase over the iPad 2's 132ppi. Not only is it cheaper than the iPad 2, it's thinner and lighter too with a much thinner bezel framing the screen.

Out the box the my iPad was charged to 80%, giving me a few hours to play before charging. Included in the box is just a small document pack and the charger consisting of the USB cable and plug.

As with any of the latest Apple mobile devices and iTunes account is required, and in my case I needed to upgrade to the latest version before I could transfer any content on to the iPad.

The tablet is very comfortable to hold, unlike the larger iPads, the mini is great for holding in one hand while tapping away at it with the other much like a phone.

I bought the white model, with matt aluminium back and polished sides. It's cool to the touch. I chose this version based on durability, the black version features anodised back and edges, which as on the iPhone 5 is prone to scratching. The white and alu version likely hide those markings a better.

The 5-megapixel iSight is a notable upgrade from the iPad 2 capable of shooting good video at 1080p, and an improved front-facing 1.2-megapixel FaceTime HD camera. Both are capable of recording as well as taking photos.

Independent tests show that the Mini's battery life is the best on the market, giving users around 12 hours of wi-fi usage - which I've found to be about right. Charging can be done with either the plug or direct USB cable into a computer or car charger.

To summarise the iPad mini is remarkably thin, incredibly light and well-constructed tablet with a good camera, battery and fast performance. If you're used to an iPhone 5 Retina display you might want to wait for the Retina mini, but if not it's the tablet for you.