Mac Mini M4 Review
Apple has unveiled the latest iteration of the Mac Mini, powered by the new M4 chip, and it’s making waves for several reasons.
This diminutive device, refreshed alongside other Mac products in a flurry of late-October press releases, is more than just an upgrade—it’s a redefinition of what desktop computing can be. Here, we dive into the key highlights, from its groundbreaking size to its impressive performance and value.
A Design Revolution: Smaller Than Ever
The first thing that catches your attention about the new Mac Mini is its size. With a footprint of just 5 inches by 5 inches and a height of 2 inches, this is one of the smallest desktop computers Apple has ever made. In fact, it’s:
- Smaller than a roll of duct tape
- Smaller than a camera with a lens attached
- Smaller than the new iPhone’s footprint
This redesign makes the Mac Mini look more like a scaled-down version of the Mac Studio than its predecessors.
Despite its size, the Mac Mini packs in all the essentials and more. The ports on the back include:
- Gigabit Ethernet
- Full-size HDMI
- Three Thunderbolt ports
- Two USB-C 3 ports
- A headphone jack
However, the device does away with USB-A and still lacks an SD card reader, decisions that might polarize some users.
One quirky design choice stands out: the power button is located on the bottom. While this decision might invite criticism, it’s unlikely to impact everyday usability significantly, as most users rarely need to access the power button directly.
Performance and Efficiency: Powered by the M4 Chip
At the heart of the Mac Mini M4 lies the latest Apple silicon chip, which brings remarkable improvements in power and efficiency. The base model comes equipped with:
- A 10-core CPU
- A 10-core GPU
- 16GB of unified memory (double the memory of its predecessor at the same entry price)
The M4 chip delivers a significant performance leap over earlier generations, particularly when compared to the Intel-based models of the past. For everyday tasks like:
- Web browsing
- Multitasking
- Media streaming
The M4 chip excels. It also handles medium-grade activities like:
- Coding
- Photo editing
- Moderate video editing
However, it may not be the best choice for graphically intensive gaming or heavy-duty video editing.
Synthetic benchmarks reveal the M4’s prowess:
- The highest single-core performance score of any Mac to date
- Tops multi-core scores on Geekbench, surpassing even models like the Mac Pro and Mac Studio in certain scenarios
Unbeatable Value: The Base Model Shines
Perhaps the most astonishing aspect of the Mac Mini M4 is its price. At $599, the base model represents one of the best deals in tech today. Students with a .edu email address can snag it for an even more impressive $499. For this price, you get a compact powerhouse capable of handling most everyday and professional tasks.
The value becomes even more apparent when compared to Apple’s other offerings:
- The refreshed M4 iMac features similar internal components but starts at $1,299.
By opting for the Mac Mini, users can save $700 and invest in a display of their choice.
However, potential buyers should approach upgrades with caution. Apple’s pricing for additional storage and features like 10-gigabit Ethernet can quickly inflate the cost:
- Upgrading to a 1TB storage option adds $400 (nearly the cost of another base model Mac Mini).
- Adding 10-gigabit Ethernet costs an additional $100.
A Portable Workstation: The Maxed-Out M4 Pro Model
For professionals seeking a portable yet powerful workstation, the Mac Mini M4 Pro offers an intriguing proposition. Starting at $1,399, this upgraded model includes:
- The M4 Pro chip
- Thunderbolt 5 ports (supporting up to three 6K displays)
The M4 Pro configuration achieves GPU benchmarks comparable to the M1 Max, demonstrating just how far Apple’s silicon has evolved.
This compact powerhouse is ideal for users who need to travel with a high-performance desktop. Unlike the Mac Pro or Mac Studio, which remain tethered to their locations, the Mac Mini M4 Pro can easily fit into a bag and deliver top-notch performance wherever needed.
Best Apps for the Mac Mini M4
The Mac Mini M4 is versatile and can be optimized for various tasks with the right apps. Here are some top recommendations across different use cases:
- Mailbird – Manage all your emails seamlessly with a unified inbox optimized for the Mac Mini M4.
- Trello – Visualize and organize tasks effortlessly with Kanban boards on your Mac Mini M4.
- 1Password – Securely store and auto-fill passwords for a safer, hassle-free login experience.
- Alfred – Automate workflows and navigate macOS faster with Alfred’s intuitive tools.
- MindNode – Map your ideas visually and brainstorm effectively with this creative app.
- Evernote – Capture notes, organize tasks, and sync ideas across all your devices.
- Google Workspace – Collaborate in real-time with Google’s suite of cloud-based productivity tools.
- Magnet – Snap and organize windows for a clutter-free multitasking experience.
- Fantastical – Simplify scheduling with natural language input and smart calendar integration.
- Backblaze – Keep your data safe with automatic, hassle-free cloud backups.
For an in-depth look at these apps, don't miss our comprehensive guide on the best apps for the Mac Mini M4.
Conclusion
The new Mac Mini M4 is a testament to Apple’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of desktop computing. Its compact design, powerful performance, and competitive pricing make it a standout product in Apple’s lineup. While it’s not without its quirks, such as the unconventional power button placement, these are minor drawbacks in an otherwise stellar package.
Whether you’re a casual user, a developer, or a professional in need of a portable workstation, the Mac Mini M4 offers something for everyone. This tiny titan is a remarkable achievement, proving once again that great things can come in small packages.
