The M4 Mac mini has generated significant buzz, proving that good things come in small packages. This update, following the previous chip upgrade in January 2023, has revitalized a machine that was long overdue for some attention. The Mac mini has always been a niche product, almost a well-kept secret, often serving as an entry point into the Mac ecosystem. Its compact size belies its capabilities.
The Mac mini, a stalwart in many server centers, has shaken things up. Since the introduction of Apple silicon, there hasn’t been as much excitement and positivity surrounding a Mac product. Everyone seems to be impressed with the new Mac mini.
Let’s dive into what makes the M4 Mac mini so impressive. While a fully specced-out model can get expensive, let’s explore the key features and configurations to consider.
M4 Mac mini: Storage Considerations
The M4 Mac mini can offer excellent value, but the base model with 256GB of SSD storage might be a limiting factor. This entry-level price point is appealing, but users may quickly find themselves needing more space. The SSD storage is integrated, making upgrades impossible after purchase.
While some reports suggest that the storage is swappable, this is not the case. Attempting to open the Mac mini for DIY upgrades can lead to damage. Therefore, opting for at least 512GB or even 1TB of storage is highly recommended. Apple’s storage upgrades come at a premium, with each step costing extra. Although external SSDs are a more affordable alternative, they might not be ideal for demanding tasks.
While external SSDs connected via Thunderbolt 4 (or 5 on M4 Pro Mac minis) offer decent speeds, internal storage provides faster and more streamlined performance. Apple quotes 120GB/s transfer speeds primarily for display purposes. Data transfer speeds will be around 80GB/s, and this requires a Thunderbolt 5 cable and a Thunderbolt 5 SSD, which are still relatively scarce.
To determine the necessary storage capacity, assess your current usage on your existing Mac and factor in some extra headroom for future needs.
M4 vs. M4 Pro: Which Chip is Right for You?
For most users, the standard M4 chip will be more than sufficient. Benchmarks indicate that the base M4 performs as well as the M3 Pro chip with a 12-core CPU and 18-core GPU. The M4 boasts a 10-core CPU and 10-core GPU, highlighting the chip’s efficiency.
The M4 Pro starts with a 12-core CPU and 16-core GPU, configurable to 14 and 16 cores, respectively. However, upgrading to the M4 Pro entails a significant price jump. If you require extra processing power, the M4 Pro could be worthwhile, but the base M4 Mac mini will satisfy the needs of most users.
Memory (RAM): How Much Do You Need?
Apple initially suggested 8GB of memory as a baseline for Apple Intelligence. However, all new Macs now come standard with 16GB of memory, including the M2 & M3 MacBook Airs. This change raises questions about Apple Intelligence’s memory demands. If Apple Intelligence requires more processing power than initially anticipated, 16GB might not be sufficient for future-proofing.
Users who tend to keep numerous browser tabs or resource-intensive applications open simultaneously may find 16GB limiting. Therefore, upgrading to 24GB of unified memory is a worthwhile investment. This extra memory will provide more headroom and ensure optimal performance, especially considering the unknown memory demands of Apple Intelligence.
The 10GB Ethernet port is another upgrade to consider. While not essential for everyone, it’s a relatively inexpensive option. If you plan to use a Synology setup or have gigabit Ethernet, the 10GB port will enhance your network capabilities.
A Well-Spec’d M4 Pro Mac mini
One example of a powerful configuration is:
- M4 Pro upgraded to the 14-core CPU & 20-core GPU chip
- 1TB SSD storage
- 48GB of unified memory
- 10GB Ethernet
This configuration would be suitable for demanding tasks such as Lightroom, Photoshop, Audition, and Final Cut Pro.
The M4 Mac mini: The Sweet Spot
For those seeking the best value for money, consider the following configuration:
- M4 chip
- 512GB SSD storage
- 24GB unified memory
- 10GB Ethernet
This configuration provides a great balance of performance, longevity, and usability at a reasonable price.
While there are some unanswered questions regarding thermals and the lack of an SSD card slot, the excitement surrounding the M4 Mac mini is palpable. Apple has revolutionized the computing landscape with Apple silicon. Will the M4 chip usher in another era of innovation? Time will tell.
