I prefer the Mini over the full-size iPad in every single regard other than display resolution
So now even Gruber admits that the 7" form factor is better for most use cases. With the latest crop of Android 7" tablets providing a lot more bang for the buck than the Mini I think pretty soon we're going to stop calling it the "iPad" market.
The strike against the sub-10" tablets has been that their aspect ratios have consistently been closer to 16:9, rather than the 4:3 of the iPad. In my usage of the Nexus 7, I found that meant I could only comfortably use the device in portrait – landscape was physically awkward and made all the software look goofy. Which meant I eventually went back to the iPad. 90% of my tablet usage seems to be landscape.
The thing the iPad mini gets right is maintaining the broader aspect ratio while trimming down the size and weight of the iPad.
The narrower bezels, the ones on top and bottom when it is held in landscape, make the mini hard to hold (or prop on your stomach when reclining) in landscape.
I ask because I find that unlikely with a smart cover. I use one with my iPad 3 and, with the smart cover rolled up, propping it up requires little more than my finger tips supporting the back edge.
In landscape I hold my Nexus 7 by the sides though, so I found it not to be such a hindrance as I first thought. I suppose this will hold true for the iPad Mini.
I would guess a lot of the initial customers for the iPad Mini won't be too sensitive to the price difference between the iPad Mini and a comparable Android device. They may base their purchase decision on other factors such as aesthetics, or specific features, or app availability.
Also, it looks like "tablet market" outstripped "ipad market" in late 2010[1]!
It's odd that you imply that Gruber is one of the last hold-outs, and his change of heart finally shows that 7" is better. I still prefer the 10" form factor, and while I never knew Gruber was my last celebrity proponent, I can't say I care.
I prefer the 10" Retina because it beautifully renders scientific papers in their native PDF format, and with Papers 2, the IT of research verges on genuinely pleasant.
So now even Gruber admits that the 7" form factor is better for most use cases. With the latest crop of Android 7" tablets providing a lot more bang for the buck than the Mini I think pretty soon we're going to stop calling it the "iPad" market.