The next-generation small tablet from Apple and Google, the iPad Mini 2 and the Nexus 7 2, are landing later this year and many shoppers will have a tough time choosing which device best merits their investment.

Judging from specs so far leaked out, the iPad Mini and Nexus tussle seem a square match as the two are poised to deliver equal amounts of power plus solid affordability. Experts believe the second Nexus 7 will carry on with last year's starting price of $US199 while the Mini 2 will retail at $US249.

While Apple asks $50 more for the Mini 2, making the Nexus 7 2 an easy choice for many, experts are convinced that outside of the price question, it is the former which offers the better overall deal for tablet users.

And here are the three reasons why:

Apple's iOS 7 is better than Google's Jelly Bean

One thing is certain about the iPad Mini 2 - it will be powered by the improved iOS 7. Beta version of the platform has been garnering positive feedbacks from early reviewers for its optimal UI and features that work equal wonders on smartphones and tablets.

This means that tablet experience will level up thanks to iOS 7 on the iPad Mini 2. The bump ups that Apple will rollout actually extend the already impressive tablet rendition of Apple's mobile operating system, which boasts off a wider app choices that are authored specifically for tablet use. Translate that to satisfaction, production, compatibility and stability for the millions of iPad Mini users.

The same cannot be said of Android, which actually matches the number of application found on Apps Store but lags behind in one crucial department - solid application deployment for tablet. Although it would have been a different case had Google decided to let out Key Lime Pie much earlier.

Awesome iPad Mini upgrades, inside and out

From the software, we go to hardware upgrades and they are nothing short of impressive. According to NPD DisplaySearch analyst Richard Shim, the iPad Mini 2 may skip out Retina this year but fans will surely its redesigned body and faster processor.

Mr Shim suggested that the Mini 2 body would be slimmer than before, giving it more sex appeal as if the former is lacking with the same potion. The muscle is will be injected with more testosterone, courtesy of a likely jump to A6 chips or even A7.

Less tablet issues

Apple is famed for ensuring that its device products reflect the tight integration of hardware and software. The result of this unimpeachable production approach is the creation of gadgets that are almost free of technical glitches. Almost because bugs still emerge but Apple deals with them swiftly.

As for the Nexus 7 2, its predecessor is reportedly suffering some serious meltdowns and a report by Apple Insider put the blame on cheap components and maybe even shoddy workmanship. There is no assurance that such similar episodes will not be encountered by future Nexus 7 2 buyers.