In November 2024, Apple released a new Mac mini with the “M4” chip.
The higher-end models, such as the Mac Studio and Pro, still use the “M2” chip from two generations ago. Therefore, the Mac mini currently offers the best cost performance among the latest models.
This article will explain in detail what the new Mac mini can do and what it is best suited for, so please read until the end.
Basic Information on Mini PCs
A Mini PC refers to a product that minimises the size of a desktop computer case down to palm-sized dimensions.
Due to its compactness, a Mini PC can be placed under a screen or table, allowing for space-saving without compromising the layout of the room. Unlike desktops, Mini PCs are easy to carry, making them suitable for people who move frequently or work in various locations, such as rental offices equipped with peripherals.
While not as small as laptops, Mini PCs offer comparable performance at a lower cost and, like desktops, they provide a certain level of expandability, making them devices with intermediate characteristics.
Advantages of Mini PCs
- Space-saving: Due to their compact size, they can be installed behind a desk or monitor.
- Easy to carry: Being small and lightweight, they can be easily moved.
- Cost performance: Since they are not as miniaturised as laptops, they offer better performance for the cost.
Given these points, Mini PCs are well-suited for those who prioritise space efficiency and usability, as well as those who value cost performance.
Disadvantages of Mini PCs
- Peripheral requirements: Monitors, keyboards, and mice need to be purchased separately.
- Not suitable for outdoor use: If used outside, carrying a separate battery and monitor is necessary, making it practically exclusive for home or office use.
- Limited expandability: Due to its small size, it may not comply with desktop standards, making it difficult to add or replace parts.
On the other hand, the Mac mini may not be recommended for those who want to perform demanding tasks such as video editing on the go, due to the product’s characteristics.
What is a Mac mini?
Many people wonder what can be done with a Mac mini and what it is like.
The Mac mini is a palm-sized compact desktop computer offered by Apple, priced at about $769 to $1,538. Among the Mac series, it is a model designed with the concept of being the lowest priced and smallest size.
Considering that the company’s flagship model, the iMac, is priced at about $1,538 to $ 2,308, the Mac mini feels very affordable at about half the price.
The Mac mini is an ideal product for “light users who perform office tasks or light video editing” and for those who “want to try using MacOS.”
Click and Read More about: Why These Windows Mini PCs Beat the Mac Mini
What is the performance of the Mac mini? The 4 latest models
In October 2024, the latest Mac mini was announced with four models available.
| Category | Model 1 | Model 2 | Model 3 | Model 4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price (Lowest Price) | Approx. $ 599 | Approx. $799 | Approx. $999 | Approx. $1,399 |
| Chip | Apple M4 Chip | Apple M4 Chip | Apple M4 Chip | Apple M4 Pro Chip |
| CPU & GPU | 10-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 120GB/s Memory Bandwidth, 16-core Neural Engine | Same as Model 1 | Same as Model 1 | 12-core CPU, 16-core GPU, 273GB/s Memory Bandwidth, 16-core Neural Engine |
| Memory | 16GB Unified Memory (changeable: 24GB, 32GB) | 16GB Unified Memory (changeable: 24GB, 32GB) | 24GB Unified Memory (changeable: 32GB) | 24GB Unified Memory (changeable: 48GB, 64GB) |
| Storage | 256GB SSD (changeable: 512GB, 1TB, 2TB) | 512GB SSD (changeable: 1TB, 2TB) | 512GB SSD (changeable: 1TB, 2TB) | 512GB SSD (changeable: 1TB, 2TB, 4TB, 8TB) |
For under $769, equipped with high processing speeds and 16GB of memory, it is capable of handling basic video editing. It has excellent overall specifications and is the most affordable product with macOS, making it ideal for those who are unsure what the Mac mini can do but want to try something creative. It is the most suitable for beginners with such aspirations.
Comparison of performance with the traditional M2 Mac mini:
| Product Name | M2 Mac mini | M4 Mac mini |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Height: 3.6 cm Width: 19.7 cm Depth: 19.7 cm | Height: 5.0 cm Width: 12.7 cm Depth: 12.7 cm |
| Weight | 1.2 kg | 0.67 kg |
| Chip Performance | Apple M2: 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU | Apple M4: 10-core CPU, 10-core GPU |
| Ports | 2 Thunderbolt 4 ports<br>2 USB-A ports<br>1 HDMI port | 3 Thunderbolt 4 ports<br>2 USB-C ports<br>1 HDMI port |
| Memory | Up to 24GB | Up to 64GB |
| Price (incl. tax) | Approx. $729 | Approx. $729 |
In the new series, the device is equipped with Apple’s M4 chip, achieving up to twice the processing speed compared to the M2 model from two generations ago. Additionally, the M4 chip includes a 16-core Neural Engine, significantly enhancing AI processing capabilities. The design has also been revamped; while it is slightly taller, the overall volume is smaller and more compact than the previous model. It now includes additional Thunderbolt 4 ports and USB-C ports, making it more convenient. The internal structure has also been extensively updated with a new thermal design and heat dissipation mechanism, maintaining cooling performance while further reducing size.
Click and Read More about: Apple M4 Vs M3: A Full Analysis of Apple’s Latest CPUs
Top 5 Benefits of the Mac Mini
In the section below, we will introduce five selected benefits of what the Mac Mini can do.
1. Use MacOS at the Lowest Price Ever
Among its sibling series like the Mac Studio and Mac Pro, which still use the “M2 chip,” the new Mac mini is equipped with the latest “M4” chip.
Compared to the previous model, the processing speed has doubled, and a model with 16GB of memory is available starting at $599, making it the most cost-effective computer among current Apple products.
Therefore, for those considering using macOS for the first time, this Mac mini is particularly suitable as an introduction for beginners.
2. Highest Specs Among Mac Products
The M4 Mac mini is a desktop that incorporates the latest technology with the “M4” chip, offering an exceptional balance between price and performance.
Even when compared to other Apple products like the iMac, MacBook Pro, and iPad, it boasts overwhelming cost performance.
- Appeal of Price and Performance: The M4 Mac mini can be purchased starting at approximately $600 for the most affordable model. It offers higher performance than iMacs in the same price range, yet can be bought for about three-quarters of the price, making it an ideal model for everyday office tasks as well as creative work such as editing.
- Comparison with Other Mac Products: While the iMac and MacBook Pro are known for their high performance, their prices often exceed $1,100. In comparison, the M4 Mac mini, which offers equivalent performance, is more affordable. Additionally, the M4 Mac mini can be customised with up to 32GB of memory and 8TB of storage, making it highly attractive for those who engage in video editing or other tasks that require specific configurations.
The Mac mini, equipped with the latest “M4” chip and offered at an affordable price, is the ideal computer for those who are seeking high performance while wanting to keep costs down. This combination of advanced technology and cost-effectiveness makes it a compelling choice for both personal and professional use, catering to a wide range of computing needs from basic tasks to more demanding applications such as graphic design and video editing.
3. Compact and takes up no space at all
Unlike traditional desktop PCs, the Mac mini fits in the palm of your hand, so it hardly takes up any space on your desk.
The M4 model weighs just 0.67 kg, making it extremely light and easy to carry around. You can move it from your home workspace to the living room and use it as a streaming player.
Additionally, because it is small and lightweight, you can install it behind a desk or attach it to the back of a monitor, allowing you to use the computer without compromising the layout of your room.
4. It has a very high noise reduction performance and is also resistant to overheating
Due to its compact chassis, mini PCs often face challenges such as low heat dissipation efficiency and loud fan noise.
However, the M4 Mac mini has further enhanced the excellent noise reduction characteristic of Apple products, making it almost silent even during high-load tasks.
With the introduction of the M4 chip, the internal structure of the Mac mini has been completely revamped, incorporating the latest cooling system. This achieves a level of quietness where the fan noise is barely noticeable, even during high-load tasks.
Furthermore, efficient heat management by the internal computer allows for the prevention of overheating during extended use. Even during demanding tasks such as video editing or 3D rendering, the design maintains both silence and low heat generation effectively.
5. Compatible with all Mac products, including the iPhone
The M4 Mac mini can achieve high compatibility, which is both a major feature and an appeal of Apple products.
If you are an iPhone or iPad user, you can seamlessly transfer tasks between devices with Handoff and quickly share files using AirDrop or Universal Clipboard, allowing for a stress-free transfer of data and work.
Top 3 Disadvantages of the Mac mini
We have discussed what the Mac mini can do and its appealing features.
However, some limitations and disadvantages exist, which we will introduce.
1. Average GPU Performance
While the GPU of the Mac mini excels as a Mini PC, it falls short compared to desktops equipped with standard graphics cards. Therefore, it is not highly recommended for gaming purposes or advanced graphics processing.
2. High-End Models Are Somewhat Expensive
The high-end models equipped with the M4 Pro are high-performance but are priced at a minimum of approximately $1,399, making them quite expensive. Configurations with 64GB of memory or 8TB of storage can be particularly burdensome on the budget, and may not seem cost-effective to users who prioritise value for money.
3. Upgrading Specs After Purchase Is Not Possible
With the Mac mini, it is not possible to upgrade the CPU or GPU after purchase. While you can choose your memory and storage at the time of purchase, the main hardware components are fixed, and unlike desktops, you cannot enhance performance by swapping in the latest chips, which is a disadvantage.
Recommended for Mac mini Users!
So far, we have detailed the advantages and disadvantages of the Mac mini.
In the following section, we will explain what you can do with the Mac mini and specifically who it is recommended for.
1. For Those Seeking a High-Spec, Low-Cost macOS Machine
If you’re simply looking for a macOS computer, the Mac mini is recommended even for beginners.
Currently, it is the most affordable computer equipped with macOS. Featuring the latest “M4” chip, it has high GPU and memory performance, making it suitable for creative tasks such as editing.
With specifications that can handle most daily tasks, it is the ideal computer for those who prioritise cost-performance.
2. For Those Who Want to Edit Videos on a Mac mini
As mentioned earlier, due to its good GPU and memory performance, the Mac mini can handle high-load tasks such as video editing.
Additionally, its efficient heat dissipation allows for stable performance even during long work sessions, making tasks like rendering smoothly achievable.
3. For Those Who Want a Desktop in Addition to a Mac Notebook
The Mac mini also excels as a secondary PC. Data worked on devices like a MacBook can be seamlessly transferred using Handoff or AirDrop.
It allows for switching devices depending on the nature of the work, whether it’s for long hours or high-load tasks, making it possible to choose the device based on the type of work being done.
GEEKOM MiniPC: Performance and Compatibility Surpassing the Mac Mini
So far, we have discussed what the Mac mini is capable of, but there are numerous Windows-based Mini PCs on the market with similar specifications.
The company we’re introducing today, GEEKOM, specialises in Mini PCs and has over 20 years of history.
While it may not have the brand power of Apple, GEEKOM utilises existing computer components to create Windows products that not only offer high performance but also excel in cost-performance and expandability.
Here, we will compare the GEEKOM MiniPC with the Mac Mini and introduce their specifications.
| Product Name | M4 Mac mini | GEEKOM AI PC NUC GT1 Mega 14th Gen |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Height: 5.0 cm / Width: 12.7 cm / Depth: 12.7 cm | Height: 4.69 cm / Width: 13.5 cm / Depth: 13.2 cm |
| Weight | 670g | 700g |
| Processor | Apple M4 | Intel® Core™ Ultra7-155H or Ultra9-185H |
| Graphics | – | Intel® Arc™ Graphics |
| Memory | 16GB (up to 32GB) | 32GB (up to 64GB) |
| Storage | 256GB (up to 2TB) | 1 x M.2 2280 PCIe Gen 4 x 4 SSD (supports up to 2TB) |
| Front Ports | 2 x USB-C ports (up to 10Gb/s), 3.5mm headphone jack | 4 x USB3.2 Gen2 Type-A, 1 x 3.5mm stereo headset jack |
| Rear Ports | 3 x Thunderbolt 4 ports, 1 x HDMI port | 2 x USB 4.0, 1 x USB3.2 Gen2 Type-A, 1 x USB 2.0 Type-A, 2 x HDMI 2.0, 2 x RJ45 (2.5 Gbps), 1 x SD Card 4.0, 1 x DC in, 1 x Kensington lock |
| Wireless | Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax) / Bluetooth 5.3 | Intel® Wi-Fi 7 / Bluetooth 5.4 |
| Price | M4 entry model: $799, M4 top model: $1,399 | Ultra7-155H model: $845.38, Ultra9-185H model: $1,076.15 |
GEEKOM’s latest MiniPC model is designed specifically for AI, equipped with the Intel AI Boost NPU, supporting over 500 AI models.
It features “Intel® Arc™ Graphics,” which significantly enhances video processing speeds, and can drive up to four 4K displays. It also supports up to 64GB DDR5 RAM and 2TB SSD, providing excellent expandability.
While the Mac mini can be customised to significantly enhance its performance, it falls short in terms of cost-performance when compared to GEEKOM’s products.
Furthermore, when comparing both entry-level models, the performance difference is clear, with the “GEEKOM AI PC NUC GT1 Mega” being superior in terms of specifications. This should help you understand the advantages of GEEKOM’s offerings over the Mac mini.
- Weight: It weighs only 30g more than the Mac mini.
- CPU: The Apple M4 excels in single-core performance and power efficiency, but the Intel Core Ultra 7-155H is nearly equivalent in multi-core performance and significantly surpasses in memory capacity.
- Graphics Card: Equipped with Intel® Arc™ Graphics, it supports AI training, ray tracing, and 8K resolution.
- Ports: Includes approximately twice as many ports overall, including HDMI and USB.
- Memory: Comes standard with at least 32GB of memory, which is double that of the Mac mini.
CPU Performance Comparison between GEEKOM MiniPC and Mac Mini
We conducted a detailed CPU performance comparison between the “GEEKOM AI PC NUC GT1 Mega 14th Generation” and the “M4 Mac mini.”
The CPU is a crucial component as it affects the processing speed of all operations.
Please refer to the performance comparison chart using “CINEBENCH” that we have provided below.
| Model | Core Type | CINEBENCH 2024 | CINEBENCH R23 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mac mini M4 (16+256GB) | Single Core | 175 pts | 2219 pts |
| Multi-Core | 980 pts | 13932 pts | |
| GT1 Mega Ultra9-185H (32+2TB) | Single Core | 101 pts | 1703 pts |
| Multi Core | 895 pts | Multi-Core |
The characteristics of the CPUs for the two products are as follows:
The Mac mini M4 excels in single-core performance, making it capable of handling a wide range of tasks from everyday activities to high-demand operations.
On the other hand, the GT1 Mega Ultra9-185H leads in multi-core performance, making it ideal for tasks that require parallel processing, such as video editing and 3D rendering.
Its single-core performance is also considered high overall.
Top 5 Advantages of the GEEKOM MiniPC
In the following section, we will provide a detailed introduction to the advantages of the MiniPCs sold by GEEKOM.
1. Performance Surpassing Mac Mini
GEEKOM MiniPC offers superior specs compared to the Mac Mini, yet it is priced around $750, making it cost-effective.
While the Apple M4 excels in single-core performance and power efficiency, the Intel Core Ultra 7-155H surpasses multi-core performance and memory capacity. The unit is 95g lighter than the Mac mini, has approximately twice as many ports, and comes with at least 32GB of memory, doubling the capacity.
It also features “Intel® Arc™ Graphics,” supporting AI training, ray tracing, and up to 8K video.
2. Better Cost-Performance than Mac Mini
As mentioned above, GEEKOM MiniPC, while being in the same price range, significantly outperforms the Mac mini in terms of memory, SSD, and whether it includes a graphics card.
GEEKOM’s flagship model, even at its lowest price, offers double the memory and four times the SSD capacity (1TB) compared to the Mac mini, making it ideal for those who need to handle high-load tasks within the same budget.
3. Incredible 1TB Storage in Lower Models
The most affordable model of the Mac mini comes with a “256GB SSD.”
Despite its price range, even the lowest-priced model of GEEKOM MiniPC comes equipped with a “1TB SSD.”
4. 7-Day Price Guarantee, 30-Day Product Warranty
Unlike the Mac mini, which offers “Apple Care” as an optional purchase, GEEKOM MiniPC provides a 7-day price guarantee and a 30-day product warranty, enhancing customer confidence and satisfaction.
On the other hand, GEEKOM offers three robust after-sales services for free with their products:
- 7-Day Price Guarantee: If the price of the product purchased drops within 7 days, you can request a refund of the difference.
- 30-Day Return and Exchange: Within 30 days, if the model you purchased does not meet your expectations, you can return it, exchange it, or upgrade by paying the difference.
- 3-Year Warranty: If the product fails due to natural causes within three years, you can receive a repair or a replacement with a new product.
5. More Compact and Comprehensive Port Options than Mac
The Mac mini is equipped with five ports supporting HDMI and USB-C.
In contrast, GEEKOM MiniPC features two HDMI ports and eight USB ports, in addition to a plug for headsets, providing about twice as many ports as the Mac mini, enhancing connectivity options for users. This makes it particularly suitable for users who need to connect multiple devices simultaneously, offering greater flexibility and efficiency in both work and entertainment setups.
Disadvantages of the GEEKOM MiniPC
So far, we have introduced the advantages of GEEKOM’s MiniPC. While it is in the same price range as the Mac mini, it surpasses the main specifications, but of course, there are also disadvantages.
1. Unable to use Handoff or AirDrop
Windows OS cannot utilise Apple-specific features such as Handoff or AirDrop. Instead, Windows products have the advantage of being equipped with Intel or AMD chips, allowing them to connect with a variety of devices.
2. Fan noise during heat dissipation
The GEEKOM Mini PC is less silent compared to the Mac mini. Caution is needed for users who use it in quiet environments or who are sensitive to noise.
Who Should Consider the GEEKOM Mini PC?
So far, we have discussed the advantages and disadvantages of the Mini PCs sold by GEEKOM. In the following section, we will highlight who would benefit most from using a GEEKOM Mini PC.
1. For those seeking the best cost-performance ratio
GEEKOM’s MiniPC, while in the same price range as the Mac mini, offers equal or superior performance. It is particularly focused on graphics, supporting 8K and ray tracing. Additionally, it comes standard with 32GB of memory, making it ideal for those involved in video editing.
2. For those who want to fully utilise a variety of ports
The Mini PC features eight USB ports. This makes it extremely convenient for users who need to connect multiple peripherals and displays simultaneously, such as an external graphics card.
3. For Mac users who want an easy Windows environment
The GEEKOM MiniPC offers a high-spec yet affordable compact desktop PC with Windows OS. It is ideal as a secondary PC for Mac users who want to use Windows-exclusive games and software, providing sufficient performance at an affordable price of around £589. Here are the products we recommend.
New Arrival!
- 12th Gen Intel® Core™ i9-12900H.
- Intel Iris Xe Graphics.
- Dual-channel DDR4-3200MHz, up to 64GB.
- Ultra-fast PCIe 4.0*4 SSD, up to 2TB.
- 2.5G Ethernet, WiFi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.2.
- Supports 4 displays, up to 8K.
Latest posts: Best Mini PC For Office Work 2024: Great Value For Money!
Testimonials from Mac mini Purchasers
After collecting reviews of the Mac mini through social media, the following opinions were commonly observed:
Positive Reviews:
- Compact and space-saving
- Exceptionally quiet compared to other Mini PCs
- High performance, smoothly handles everyday tasks
- macOS is user-friendly for creative tasks
- Seamless integration with iPhone and other devices via Handoff and AirDrop
Negative Reviews:
- The power button is hard to locate
- Only five USB-C ports, which is relatively few
- Graphics performance is unsatisfactory
- Parts cannot be replaced, making upgrades difficult
- Compared to similar Windows products, it is expensive
Positive reviews often appreciate the sophisticated design typical of Apple products, the smooth integration between devices, and the high level of quietness.
On the other hand, negative reviews of the Mac mini point out the limited number of USB ports and the lack of expandability due to the inability to replace parts.
Testimonials from GEEKOM MiniPC Purchasers
From Amazon and the official website, people who purchased GEEKOM‘s MiniPC have provided the following comments:
Positive opinions:
- Compact and portable, making it easy to carry around.
- Features a generous number of ports, allowing for the connection of many peripherals.
- High performance, suitable for a wide range of uses from business applications to video editing.
- Compared to the Mac mini, it offers very high performance for the cost.
Negative opinions:
- The fan noise can be bothersome during high-load situations.
- The initial setup language is English, which can be confusing for non-English speakers.
- Parts for the GEEKOM Mini PC are in limited supply, making it difficult to obtain replacements.
Positive reviews often highlight the performance and cost-effectiveness of the product.
Many users appreciate the numerous ports available, which allow for the use of various peripherals and the possibility of expansion. Some comments also mentioned that it is possible to play the latest games using an external graphics card.
On the other hand, there are some concerns about cooling, as the fan noise tends to increase during demanding tasks such as video editing. This indicates that while the device performs well in many respects, heat dissipation could be an area for improvement.
Summary | If you prioritise cost performance, the GEEKOM MiniPC is the way to go.
How did you find it?
We have introduced the basic information about “What is a Mac Mini?” and its product features.
The Mac Mini excels over other Mini PCs, and it has three unique features that set it apart from the rest.
- People who want a quiet PC
- People who want to use macOS
- People who want to utilise the integration between Apple products
For those who are not particularly concerned about the above points and are fine with using Windows as their operating system, we recommend the GEEKOM Mini PC.
Priced around $750, similar to the Mac Mini, it offers superior overall performance in terms of memory and graphics. Therefore, for those who prioritise cost performance, the GEEKOM Mini PC is the best choice.
