Q: iPad 2 vs iPad mini

Yes. The Air is newer, as such more expensive, and hardly entry level.   The 2 is not the entry level iPad.

If you don't plan on her having many movies, or music, the iPad 2 should do nicely. Currently Apple ony;l seels the 16GB iPad 2.

While you can get the iPad Air in different storage sizes.  16,32,64,128 GB. 

Also of note is that the iPad 2 is nearing End of Life.  So no guarantee it will continue to be supported for very much longer.

Cellular or WiFi: which iPad model should I buy?

http://www.iphonehacks.com/2013/10/cellular-wifi-ipad-model-buy.html

iPad mini Vs iPad 4 Vs iPad 2 – A Detailed Comparison

http://www.redmondpie.com/ipad-mini-vs-ipad-4-vs-ipad-2-a-detailed-comparison/

iPad Air vs. Retina iPad Mini: Which tablet is right for you?

http://reviews.cnet.com/8301-31747_7-57610252-243/ipad-air-vs-retina-ipad-mini-w hich-tablet-is-right-for-you/

16GB vs 32GB vs 64GB: Which new iPad storage capacity should you get?

http://www.imore.com/2012/03/08/16gb-32gb-64gb-ipad-capacity/

How much content will fit on my iPod or iPhone?

http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1867

How Much iPad Memory Do You Need?

http://ipad.about.com/od/iPad-Tutorials/a/How-Much-iPad-Memory-Do-You-Need.htm

 Cheers, Tom

To correct my previous statements, (no idea what I was saying, or had read)

Phil0124 wrote:

 

Yes. The Air is newer, as such more expensive, and hardly entry level.   In terms of under the hood hardware, they are essentially the same. The 2 is NOW the entry level full sized iPad.

 

While the Mini is the entry level for the smaller form factor version.

 

If you don't plan on her having many movies, or music, the iPad 2 should do nicely. Currently Apple only sells the 16GB versions of either iPad.

 

While you can get the iPad Air Mini in different storage sizes.  16,32,64,128 GB. 

 

Also of note is that the iPad 2 is nearing End of Life.  So no guarantee it will continue to be supported for very much longer. While the Mini may still have a little while longer to go. 

 

Your main difference will be the Screen Size. You get almost 2 more inches of screen on the iPad 2 than that mini, but its also noticeably heavier.