Finally, it’s confusing and bizarre that the new Mini this uses the older Apple Pencil instead of the new one. That means it still charges awkwardly in the Lightning port, instead of on the side of the iPad, like on the iPad Pros.
Make sure you buy the first-generation Apple Pencil instead of the second-generation version, which has the same name, or it won’t charge. If you’re buying from Apple’s web site, use the “Select” function and make sure you’re buying the version that supports the Mini. If you’re buying in a store, make sure you get help from a knowledegable salesperson — and save your receipt!
I don’t have many other complaints. I think the price is right given what you get here. It’s a better buy for most people than the regular 9.7-inch iPad, which is larger but slower, with a worse screen.