Apple’s Mac Mini has consistently offered a compact desktop solution that balances affordability with impressive performance, and the latest Mac Mini M4 takes that legacy to new heights. Sporting Apple’s latest M4 chip, this model promises to be an ideal choice for those wanting the power of Apple Silicon in a desktop without breaking the bank. But how does it stack up against other mini-PCs in the market, and is it truly worth its price? Let’s dive into a closer look.
The Mac Mini M4: What’s New?
Apple’s 2024 Mac Mini M4 is a minimalist marvel, packing remarkable power into a chassis that measures just 5x5x2 inches. Inside, it houses Apple’s M4 chip, boasting a 10-core CPU and a 10-core GPU, with 16GB of RAM as the standard configuration. With the ability to handle complex tasks such as photo editing and 4K video playback seamlessly, this model shows just how far Apple Silicon has come in revolutionizing the Mac lineup.
The 2024 Mac Mini starts at $599, making it one of the most budget-friendly entry points into Apple’s ecosystem. This makes it accessible to users wanting high performance for everyday tasks without paying the premium associated with Apple’s Pro lineup. However, like other Apple devices, upgrades for RAM or storage come at a steep price—upgrading to 32GB of RAM or 1TB of storage quickly sends the price into MacBook territory.
Design and Build
Apple has embraced a more compact design with the Mac Mini M4, cutting down on its footprint significantly compared to older Intel-based models. The new Mini is sleek, with a design that harmonizes with modern minimalist aesthetics, making it perfect for work-from-home setups where desk space may be limited.
In a welcome shift, Apple added some front-facing ports: two 10Gbps USB-C ports and a headphone jack, which is a significant upgrade over the older model that had only rear ports. Around back, users get three Thunderbolt 4 (USB 4) ports, an HDMI slot, and an Ethernet jack that’s upgradable to 10Gbps. For connectivity, it also features Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, ensuring the latest in wireless tech. Missing is an SD card slot, a minor downside for photographers or media professionals who rely on this feature.
Performance in Practice
Thanks to Apple’s M4 chip, this Mac Mini delivers remarkable performance across a wide range of tasks. From handling Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom with ease to seamless 4K video playback, it feels as powerful as many pricier machines. Users can even run up to three displays simultaneously, a boon for those needing multi-monitor setups.
Benchmarks showcase its competitive performance. For instance, it matches or even outperforms many Intel and AMD chips in both single and multi-core performance in common tasks like video rendering, web browsing, and software development. The Mini runs smoothly even when loaded with demanding applications, largely due to its efficient thermal system, which keeps it cool and quiet under pressure.
How It Compares: Competitors in the Market
The Mac Mini M4 faces strong competition from other mini-PCs, notably from Intel’s NUC lineup and popular options like the HP EliteDesk and Lenovo ThinkCentre Tiny. Each has unique advantages, so let’s explore how the Mac Mini M4 measures up against some of these alternatives:
Intel NUC 13 Extreme
Intel’s NUC series has long been a favorite among tech enthusiasts for its compact form factor and strong performance. The NUC 13 Extreme offers similar specs to the Mac Mini M4 but with more customization options, such as easily upgradeable RAM and storage. However, these models tend to be pricier (often $800-$1000 for equivalent configurations) and don’t match Apple Silicon’s efficiency or thermal performance. For users needing versatility in an ultra-compact form factor, the NUC offers solid value but with a higher power draw and noise level.
HP EliteDesk 800 G6 Mini
The HP EliteDesk series provides another robust alternative, particularly for business users. While it doesn’t quite match the Mac Mini’s performance in creative applications, it excels in professional environments with strong security features, ample port options, and Windows-specific software integration. Starting at around $700 for comparable configurations, it’s close to the Mac Mini’s price point but lags behind in graphics power and Apple’s M4 chip efficiency.
Lenovo ThinkCentre M90q Tiny Gen 3
Lenovo’s ThinkCentre Tiny series is favored by enterprise users who need reliability in a small package. The M90q Tiny Gen 3 is well-suited for office tasks and multitasking, thanks to Intel’s Core i5 or i7 processors, and supports more extensive storage and RAM upgrades. Priced slightly above the Mac Mini M4, it’s geared toward businesses rather than consumers and lacks the same seamless creative performance. Windows users might appreciate its compatibility and upgrade flexibility, but Apple’s silicon still outperforms it in media editing and energy efficiency.
Beelink SER6 Pro
For those on a budget, the Beelink SER6 Pro is a compelling option, offering AMD Ryzen-based power at an affordable price, often around $450. While it’s a great choice for light workloads and casual use, it doesn’t offer the same level of performance or long-term support as the Mac Mini M4. Additionally, it lacks the polish and integration of macOS, making it less attractive for creative professionals or those invested in Apple’s ecosystem.
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Pros and Cons: Why Choose the Mac Mini M4?
The Mac Mini M4’s performance and design make it stand out, especially for users in creative fields. Apple’s ecosystem and macOS provide seamless integration with other Apple devices, allowing users to transfer files, take calls, or mirror their iPhone screens effortlessly.
However, the price for upgrades in RAM and storage could deter budget-conscious buyers. External SSDs can address storage limitations, but the RAM is non-upgradable post-purchase, meaning you’ll need to choose carefully when configuring your Mac Mini.
Pros:
- Compact and elegant design
- Impressive performance with the M4 chip
- Front-facing ports for easier access
- Affordable entry price at $599
Cons:
- Expensive upgrades for RAM and storage
- No SD card slot
- Power button location may be inconvenient
Final Verdict
For users needing a powerful, compact desktop, the Mac Mini M4 offers substantial value at a lower price than most competing mini-PCs with comparable performance. It’s an ideal choice for creatives, home office users, or anyone looking for a reliable desktop without the clutter of a tower PC.
While Apple’s memory and storage upgrade costs may feel excessive, the Mini M4 still stands out for its processing power, efficient design, and macOS experience. If you’re invested in the Apple ecosystem or value energy efficiency and compactness, the Mac Mini M4 could be the best desktop investment in 2024.
