QUOTE(westlife @ Nov 12 2017, 01:04 PM)
not really that huge difference from 2 or 3 to 4. Screen wise mini 4 is better but it is not something that noticeable from day to day usage.
performance wise, A8 chip is only one gen better than A7 but it is not going to make a big difference now since the chip has been 3 years old from now.
unless apple is really not going to keep iPad mini this product line which it may be worthwhile to buy and keep the mini 4 for collection now.
If Apple is really not going to refresh the mini. Then I may consider the next gen or next few gen of iPad Pro 10.5 if it is going to be lighter or with thinner bezel. Provided my mini has retired though. As of now, it still serves me rather well. I think to use it for another few more years will not be an issue.
Its not only processor difference, amount of RAM also played crucial role on the performance difference, hence more multitasking option are enabled on iPad mini 4 compared to earlier generations. As I bought every iteration of ipad mini, the difference is noticeable.
However you are right, it's using an already outdated processor. Judging on pattern on how Apple launched its products, the earliest launching of mini (if there is any, watch any rumour-going website for clarification) will be first quarter of 2018, nothing earlier. So my advice is you may wait till then if it is not urgent for your needs. Or if you really need it now, no harm getting ipad mini 4 now, it will serve you well unless you really needs fast GPU for gaming and heavy 3D apps. On normal usage (browsing, reading ebook) it should be more than sufficient.
Some people may advice to skip mini and go straight for iPad Pro 10.5 due to its performance. I did that and back to mini 4 for second time. Why? Size do matter, in my case I prefer smaller mini, easier on my hand.
There is a rumour of iPad with smaller bezel and notch on top like iPhone X for Face ID tech. If they can shrink it to size of mini, then I'm all in. However it wont happen earlier than Feb/March 2018, so there still few more months to enjoy mini4 rather than to be tabless, again its all based on your current needs, can wait or not.