With the launch of its Mac Mini M4, Apple clearly redefines what to expect from its line of compact desktop computers. Engineered to be more powerful and versatile than its predecessors, this new model merges a sleek design with remarkable performance, all at a relatively competitive price. How does this ultra-compact machine truly stand up to the expectations of both professionals and everyday users?
Andrew Cunningham from Ars Technica mentions a resemblance to the Apple TV or the Mac Studio, a comparison that highlights the evolution in Apple’s design approach. Of course, all note a questionable design choice: the power button is now located underneath the device, which can complicate access.
Performance and Power of the M4 and M4 Pro: A Real Step Up
In terms of performance, the M4 impresses with its efficiency, especially for office and multimedia creation tasks. Jason Hiner from ZDNET describes the M4 as a solid advancement, offering increased performance over the M3
. Brian Heater from TechCrunch highlights that the M4 Pro model with its 14 CPU cores and 20 GPU cores is capable of competing with much more expensive machines, even for complex workloads.
The M4 Pro version also features a High Power
mode to boost graphics performance, an addition that, according to Devindra Hardawar from Engadget, allows you to push the GPU without compromise
, although this mode generates some fan noise. Andrew Cunningham notes, however, that the performance improvement is minimal for most tasks, making it primarily useful for intensive and prolonged work.
Connectivity and Ports: Between Innovations and Restrictions
The Mac Mini M4 stands out for its improved connectivity, with three Thunderbolt 4 ports and two USB-C ports on the front, a feature widely appreciated by the press. Devindra Hardawar from Engadget is pleased with the front accessibility of the ports, allowing to avoid fumbling blindly
behind the device. However, the Mac Mini has omitted certain elements, like the SD card reader, a point of disappointment for Chris Welch, who reminds us that this addition is crucial for creatives.
Jason Hiner from ZDNET praises the inclusion of Thunderbolt 5 in the M4 Pro model, with transfer speeds three times faster, but notes that only users with demanding needs will truly benefit from it. As for HDMI and Ethernet connections, they meet expectations, although it’s unfortunate that the USB-A port has been removed, a decision that may require the use of adapters for some peripherals.
Pricing and Positioning in the Mac Lineup
Finally, the pricing of the Mac Mini M4 elicits mixed reviews. With a starting price of 699 euros, the standard model is praised by Chris Welch as the best value for money in the entire Mac lineup
. Andrew Cunningham from Ars Technica sees this price as an incentive for those who haven’t yet made the leap to Apple. However, once high-end configurations are added, the prices quickly climb, reaching over 5000 euros for a fully equipped M4 Pro model, which brings it dangerously close to the Mac Studio.
Devindra Hardawar tempers the enthusiasm by noting that the Mac Mini isn’t for everyone. According to him, creatives would do well to consider the Mac Studio
, while those looking for an economical workstation will find what they need with the base version. Jason Hiner encourages users who already own a recent Mac Mini (M1 or M2) to evaluate their real needs before upgrading to the M4, especially if no performance drop is observed.
The Mac Mini M4 captivates with its compact power, modernized connectivity, and excellent value for money at the entry level, while facing limitations for the most demanding uses. Whether you’re looking for a discreet and powerful computer or a model for intensive work, the Mac Mini M4 proves to be an intriguing option.
You’ll also soon have our first impressions of this machine that we are eagerly awaiting too! We should receive them tomorrow, just like you, if you’ve preordered early enough!