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Rory76

macrumors regular
Original poster
Apr 24, 2017
201
174
So, I readily admit it. I’m an Apple junkie. Just in terms of tablets/computers, I have a 12” MacBook, 6th generation 9.7” iPad with 1st generation pencil, 2018 11” Pro with 2nd generation pencil, and the XS Max. Also have a new iPad mini that I just recently preordered. I use them all for different purposes but it truly seems like the device I reach for and use the most for media consumption (90% of the time), is my XS Max. Mainly because it’s always on me and just easier to access than getting up to grab my MacBook or iPad. (Yes, I’m also lazy). Plus, the size is just really nice in terms of holding it to use. But, as I’m getting older, the smaller screen (as compared to the iPads) is starting to hurt my eyes.

So, I ordered the new mini thinking that since it’s the closest in size to my Max, yet still a larger screen, that I would start using it in place of it. Has anyone else tried/done this and how did it work out for you? I guess I’m just feeling kind of stupid and guilty having all these different devices. Do any other folks have this many different devices? And if you have a Plus or Max phone (but no Mini) do you find yourself using your phone more than your other devices for media consumption?
 
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Personally, the phone will NEVER replace a Mini. Even the largest sizes are just too small. Yeah, they’re great for “quick” access, but still just too small. For me, the Mini is the PEFECT balance in terms of size, functionality, and capability, even more so now with the Mini 5 and the Pencil.

To each their own for what they use.

Edit:
Yes, I do own multiple devices and even though they have overlapping functionality, each has it’s own use case. I would only feel guilty if it’s completely superfluous (and even then, I don’t feel bad about it).
 
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Personally, the phone will NEVER replace a Mini. Even the largest sizes are just too small. Yeah, they’re great for “quick” access, but still just too small. For me, the Mini is the PEFECT balance in terms of size, functionality, and capability, even more so now with the Mini 5 and the Pencil.

To each their own for what they use.

Edit:
Yes, I do own multiple devices and even though they have overlapping functionality, each has it’s own use case. I would only feel guilty if it’s completely superfluous (and even then, I don’t feel bad about it).
Thanks for sharing your experience. I’m hoping that I’ll find the Mini to be my new “go to” device. I guess the reason I feel guilty is because I’m so frugal with my money in every way except for when it comes to Apple stuff. It’s sort of my one big luxury though.
 
This guy reviews the new iPads and does a good job explaining why a large phone’s tall and narrow form factor works at a disadvantage for displaying contact compared to the mini’s 4x3 display. You can jump to about the 1:45 mark for the demo

 
Can you imagine how awesome it would’ve been if they made the mini bezel-free, pro style?

Anyways, I totally get you, OP. I currently have a Mac Pro, MacBook Pro, iPad Pro11” and iPhone X and yet I’m dreaming and checking every day prices for the 2018 12.9” on eBay... I so want that bigger screen, but when I’m on the go I just want the 11”. I don’t really have enough money to justify buying another iPad Pro, but ahhhhh!
 
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