The iPad mini is down to $399, a $100 discount that's too good to forget

Sometimes smaller is better, and right now, the price is smaller, too. As of Dec. 22, the Apple iPad mini (128GB, WiFi, Space Grey) is on sale at Amazon for just $399, down from its standard list price of $499.

That's a solid $100 savings, representing a 20% discount. One quick note: Amazon's listing says you'll be notified when they have a delivery estimate. If you need it sooner, Mashable points out that Best Buy is matching the $399 sale price and offers delivery by Dec. 24.

The compact form factor is ideal for travelers, students commuting to campus, or anyone who prefers a lightweight device. Its portability makes it a go-to for on-the-go productivity and entertainment without the bulk of a larger tablet.

The iPad mini truly shines as a reading device. Mashable Shopping Reporter Samantha Mangino called it their top choice, explaining that larger models like the iPad Air can feel like "a lot of screen when you just want to flip through your book." She notes, however, that it's more than just a fancy e-reader: "you can also stream your favorite shows — a level of flexibility that a Kindle simply can't match."

This 7th generation model features a crisp 8.3-inch display and 128GB of storage. Apple claims it has an "all-day battery life," which translates to about 10 hours of web surfing on WiFi. In a review for Mashable, Senior Editor Stan Schroeder confirmed, "If you're new to the iPad, and you want the most compact one around... the new iPad mini 7 is the best choice."

**PRISM Insight:** In an era of ever-expanding phones and laptop-sized tablets, the iPad mini's sustained popularity highlights a key consumer demand: focused portability. This deal isn't just a holiday discount; it's a testament to the enduring appeal of the "just right" form factor that excels at immersive tasks without the bulk.

If your plans for 2026 could be improved by a lightweight and powerful tablet, this $399 deal is the perfect opportunity to grab one.