The Apple Mac Mini M4, released in 2025, features the powerful M4 chip within its sleek, minimalist design. Here’s a brief overview of its key features and what sets it apart in the mini PC market.
Key Specifications
Processor: Apple's M4 chip has a 10-core CPU (4 performance and 6 efficiency cores) and a 10-core GPU, offering excellent performance for everyday tasks and demanding workloads.
Neural Engine: 16-core Neural Engine enhances productivity and supports advanced AI features.
Memory: Starts with 16GB of unified memory (non-upgradable), with options for 32GB in the M4 and 64GB in the M4 Pro.
Storage: SSD options range from 256GB to 8 TB. However, the base models may not be enough for users who have large files.
Ports: The device has Thunderbolt, HDMI, and Gigabit Ethernet connections. For the first time, it includes front-facing USB-C ports and a headphone jack. This setup makes it easier to connect to other devices.
Media Engine: This device helps video professionals by supporting hardware-accelerated decoding for H.264, HEVC, ProRes, ProRes RAW, and AV1.
Power Efficiency: This desktop uses only 2.6 to 2.7 watts when idle, making it one of the most energy-efficient options in its class.
Performance
The M4 chip demonstrates significant enhancements in single-core and multi-core performance compared to earlier models. Benchmark tests indicate it outperforms the AMD Ryzen 5 5600X and some higher-end processors. This makes the Mac Mini with the M4 chip highly responsive for everyday tasks, creative work, and light gaming, as well as suitable for professional video editing.
User Experience and Ecosystem Integration
Speed and Responsiveness: Users say that the Mac Mini M4 is quiet and fast. It can handle tasks like web browsing and heavy creative work without any slowdowns.
Apple Ecosystem: You can easily connect your iPhone and iPad. This includes features like mirroring your iPhone screen, using the Universal Clipboard, and improved support for Microsoft 365 and Adobe Creative Cloud.
AI Features: Apple Intelligence uses the Neural Engine for on-device AI. It helps users organize tasks, write, and manage information securely, while also protecting their privacy.
Design and Build
The Mac Mini M4 keeps its small size of 5x5 inches and has high build quality with a simple design. It now includes front-facing USB-C ports and a headphone jack, making it easier for users to connect their devices.
Drawbacks
Non-upgradable RAM and Storage: When you buy this product, remember that you cannot upgrade the memory and storage later. Choose your configurations carefully to make sure it meets your future needs.
No USB-A or SD Card Reader: The lack of legacy ports like USB-A and SD card readers may be a problem for users with older accessories.
Base Storage: The 256GB SSD is small for some users, but you can easily add external storage.
Benchmarks and Efficiency
The M4 Mac Mini is very efficient, using much less power than similar Windows mini PCs while still providing excellent performance. In tests like Geekbench and Cinebench, it often ranks at the top for single-core performance and performs well in multi-core tasks. In many scenarios, it outperforms the previous M2 Mac Mini by more than 50%.
Conclusion
The Apple Mac Mini M4 is a powerful and efficient small desktop computer. It provides strong performance, uses little energy, and works well with other Apple products. This makes it great for people who need a quiet and compact computer for work, creative projects, or family use. However, you need to choose the right memory and storage when you buy it, as these options are limited. Overall, its features and performance make it one of the best mini PCs available in 2025.