iPad mini 2 and its best alternatives

Ever since the first model's introduction, Apple has been selling iPads by the truckloads, and the latest models are likely to be in high demand as well. The iPad mini 2, in particular, is expected to land in the hands of millions of buyers once it is released. What makes Apple's smaller slate so sought after? Well, brand recognition and image aside, the iPad mini 2 is definitely shaping as one of the best small-sized tablets under the sun. It doesn't only look great. The iPad mini 2 has been blessed with a gorgeous Retina display, while the beefed up hardware under its hood makes the tablet just as capable as its larger sibling. 

But as is often the case with smartphones and tablets, there's a number of alternatives one should take into account before spending $400 on a second-gen iPad mini. And the best among them can be found right here, in the slideshow we've compiled below.