Mac mini |
The 2024 Mac mini redesign offers a striking compact look paired with Apple’s powerhouse M4 and M4 Pro chips, pushing desktop performance to new heights. For users seeking compactness without compromising on power, this Mac mini overhaul delivers impressive specs and refined connectivity. Here’s everything you need to know about Apple’s latest powerhouse.
A New Era for Mac mini Design
This Mac mini release marks Apple’s first major design overhaul since the M1 debut. Taking inspiration from the Mac Studio, the updated chassis is remarkably compact, with a footprint of 12.7 cm on each side. Despite its smaller frame, it’s a bit taller than previous models at 5 cm. At just 670 grams for the M4 and 730 grams for the M4 Pro, it’s lightweight, making it Apple’s most portable desktop powerhouse to date.
Mac mini |
Unleashing M4 and M4 Pro Performance
Apple has outfitted the new Mac mini with two powerful silicon options: the base M4 and the high-performing M4 Pro. The standard M4 includes a 10-core CPU and 10-core GPU, boasting nearly double the CPU speed and over twice the GPU power of the original M1, providing the ultimate balance for everyday users and prosumers alike. The M4 Pro, on the other hand, introduces a 12-core CPU and up to a 20-core GPU, making it a top pick for users tackling graphic-intensive or AI-driven workloads. Enhanced with ray tracing for more accurate lighting and shadows, the M4 Pro is ideal for creative professionals and gamers.
Apple’s neural engine is also over three times faster than the M1, allowing smoother use of AI applications and creative software. With this level of processing power, the new Mac mini is ideal for multitasking, media editing, and graphics-heavy gaming.
Configurable Memory and Storage Options
Starting with 16GB unified memory, the M4 Mac mini can be configured up to 32GB, while the M4 Pro allows up to 64GB, doubling the potential of prior models. Storage choices range from a baseline 256GB SSD up to 8TB, giving users ample space for projects, data, and media. This flexibility makes it a competitive option even for power users requiring extensive storage and RAM.
Connectivity and I/O Updates
The M4 Mac mini has expanded connectivity, with 2 USB-C ports on the front and multiple Thunderbolt 4 ports on the back for seamless connectivity to high-res displays and peripherals. Notably, the M4 Pro model features Thunderbolt 5 support, making it future-proof for upcoming tech advancements. Additional connectivity includes HDMI, Gigabit Ethernet (with 10Gb optional), and a headphone jack. Apple has also introduced Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 to ensure lightning-fast data transfer and smooth Bluetooth connections.
Pricing and Availability
Available for pre-order, the M4 Mac mini starts at $599, with options reaching $1,399 for the M4 Pro version with 24GB RAM and 512GB storage. This expanded lineup provides configurations for both casual users and professionals needing higher performance.
Is It Worth the Upgrade?
Whether you’re a Mac mini enthusiast or new to the lineup, this release combines portability with performance, making it an appealing choice across user types. If you’re using an older model, especially an M1 or earlier, this revamped design and enhanced performance could be game-changing. Are you considering the new Mac mini? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.