When the iPad mini with Retina display launched alongside the iPad Air in 2013 the biggest choice you had to worry about was whether or not you wanted a 7.9-inch or a 9.7-inch screen. The message from Apple was clear: you get the same power either way.

Great size; good screen; TouchID integrated

Same as last year; iPad mini 2 offers far better value for money

We give our expert verdict on the iPad mini 3, with its super-compact design, powerful 64-bit processor and 7.9-inch screen, and find out if this miniature tablet delivers a big impact.

Fantastic build quality; iOS 8 operating system; Touch ID fingerprint reader

Price is high compared to some rivals; The iPad mini 2 is still available for much less

Excellent

Apple's iPad mini has always been a firm favourite tablet in the Wired.co.uk office. With the iPad mini 3 Apple has kept almost everything from the previous Retina display iPad mini 2 , but added a TouchID fingerprint sensor and now offers a gold finish.

Amazing display; excellent battery life; fast processor; great 3D graphics; easy to use; app store still number one for quality and variety

The addition of TouchID and gold colour option just doesn't seem to justify such a premium over the iPad mini 2; cameras and processor not improved in line with other iPads

The yearly upgrade cycle is now an accepted – if occasionally frustrating – part of being a technophile in today's constantly moving market. Once a year (or sometimes even sooner – yes, we're looking at you Sony), a product line will undoubtedly get refreshed or replaced; some updated specs, maybe...

Superb screen; Good colour balance; Rhythmic sound; Strong app selection; Premium design; ‘Touch ID

Very similar spec to last year

One of the nicest compact tablets you can buy, the iPad Mini 3 bears all the quality hallmarks of the iPad line, and it won't disappoint iOS-faithful buyers with the cash to spare. But the now-cheaper previous-gen Mini 2 model is a better value for most folks.

Undeniably attractive design; Touch ID fingerprint-sensing authentication; Carrier-switchable SIM on cellular-capable models

Not a compelling value for many buyers; with iPad Mini 2 at $100 less

A beautiful little Tablet.

Boring update brings TouchID, not much else.

great Apple product as expected.we are Ipad gen 1 owners and this was the obvious step up.this is the best functioning and quickest device we've ever used.

App Availablity; Battery Life; Easy To Customize; Operating System; Screen; Web Browsing

It works without problems. This is why so many people love Apple! The screen is bright, the sound is good. Wish there were more innovative cases and accessories but the device does the job.