should i buy ipad 2 or mini ipad for my mom?

The mini.

Well, depends what she likes, if she likes big devices, then the iPad, or if she likes small devices, then the iPad mini.

They are the same, only the mini is mini.

The iPad mini, I think, is better for the iBook app, since it is easier to carry, etc.

The iPad mini is exactly the same as its younger, bigger brother: The iPad 2.

...But better. It is half the weight, half the size and has the exact same processing power. The iPad mini is fantastic to use and the feel in your hands is magnificent. My mum can read text on the mini just as well as the bigger iPad. You can sit, walk... Even run with the iPad mini holding it in one hand. So, I think that the iPad mini is definatley a good idea to buy for your mother.

Hope this helps! :)

http://www.apple.com/uk/ipad-mini/overview/#video-ipad-mini-features

NO I MADE THE HORRIBLE MISTAKE OF BUYING ONE FOR MYSELF AND IT WONT PLAY MUSIC FROM YOUR LIST OFFLINE. I CANT GET HELP NOTHING HAS WORKED. SAVE YOUR MONEY

Please do not use all caps here; it is considered shouting and we can hear you just fine.

I got an iPad Mini 2 because I wanted something that I could slip in my purse and take with me. I loved it!

Then I got an iPad Pro 9.7" (which is the same size as the iPad and iPad Air). HUGE difference in ease of use, without even addressing the performance differences. It's easier to see, which may be a factor depending upon your mother's age and vision.

I'd buy a iPad Air 2 16GB. At $399 it's the same price as a mini 4 and as TMHahm has already pointed out the difference in screen size makes a huge difference.