The Mac mini M4 2024: A Revolution in Compact Design
Apple has reinvented the Mac mini with its October 2024 update, introducing not only the new M4 and M4 Pro chips but also the first significant redesign since 2010. The result is a desktop computer that redefines what it means to be compact without sacrificing power.
With a size 50% smaller than its predecessor, the new Mac mini proves that the best performance doesn't require large dimensions. It's undoubtedly the most important Mac mini update since the transition to Apple Silicon in 2020.
A Revolutionary Design
The new Mac mini measures just 12.7 x 12.7 cm, being almost 7 cm smaller on each side than the previous model. At just 5 cm tall and weighing only 680 grams, it takes up less desk space than ever.
Despite its reduced size, Apple has managed to include all the ports needed for a professional workflow. It's also the first carbon-neutral Mac, demonstrating that power and sustainability can go hand in hand.
M4 Chip Power
The base model comes equipped with the M4 chip, which includes:
- 10-core CPU: 4 performance + 6 efficiency cores
- 10-core GPU: Powerful graphics for any task
- 16-core Neural Engine: Optimized for Apple Intelligence
- 16GB unified memory: Now standard
The M4 chip offers CPU performance up to 1.8x faster and GPU up to 2.2x faster than the M1 model, easily handling everything from everyday tasks to demanding creative workflows.
M4 Pro for Professionals
For those who need even more power, the Mac mini with M4 Pro takes performance to another level:
- 12-core CPU: 8 performance + 4 efficiency cores
- 16-core GPU: Professional graphics performance
- Up to 64GB unified memory: With 273 GB/s bandwidth
- Thunderbolt 5: For the first time on a Mac, with 120 Gb/s
Complete Connectivity
Front:
- 2 USB-C ports (up to 10 Gb/s)
- 3.5mm headphone jack
Back:
- 3 Thunderbolt 4/5 ports (depending on model)
- HDMI 2.1 port (up to 8K)
- Gigabit Ethernet (10 Gb optional)
- Power connector
Technical Specifications
- Dimensions: 12.7 x 12.7 x 5 cm
- Weight: 680g (M4) / 730g (M4 Pro)
- Storage: 256GB to 8TB SSD
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3
- Displays: Up to 2 x 6K monitors (M4) / 3 x 6K monitors (M4 Pro)
Who is the Mac mini M4 For?
- Developers: Fast compilation, virtualization, containers
- Content creators: 4K/8K video editing, graphic design
- Musicians: Music production with multiple plugins
- Offices: The perfect Mac for small spaces
- Home users: More than enough power for any task
Price and Value
The Mac mini M4 starts at $599 USD, maintaining the same price as the previous M2 model but offering much more power and 16GB of RAM as standard. The M4 Pro model starts at $1,399 USD for those who need professional performance.
Conclusion
The Mac mini M4 2024 is undoubtedly the best compact desktop computer on the market. Its combination of minimalist design, exceptional performance, and competitive pricing makes it an irresistible choice for both home users and professionals.