# Apple Introduces the Redesigned M4 Mac Mini: 9 Essential Features You Should Know
Apple has rolled out its latest version of the Mac mini, equipped with the revolutionary **M4 chip**. The 2024 edition boasts major improvements, including a complete overhaul in design, superior performance, and additional features that cater to both experts and casual users. Below, we outline the nine vital features of the new **M4 Mac mini** that you need to be aware of prior to its official launch next week.
## 1. **Completely Redesigned Compact Form**
The 2024 Mac mini showcases a **comprehensive redesign**, significantly reducing its dimensions. With measurements of only **five-by-five inches**, it is under half the size of the former model. At approximately **1.5 pounds**, this exceptionally compact design not only conserves space but is also effortlessly portable. Despite its reduced size, Apple has integrated an **advanced thermal architecture** to keep the device cool even during demanding tasks, thus avoiding any overheating issues.
## 2. **Repositioned Power Button**
In an unusual design move, Apple has moved the **power button** to the **bottom of the device**. While it might require a brief adjustment period, this modification contributes to preserving the sleek, minimalist look of the Mac mini’s exterior.
## 3. **M4 Chip: Enhanced Performance**
At the core of the new Mac mini is the **M4 chip**, which provides a remarkable performance increase compared to the earlier M1 version. As stated by Apple, the M4 chip is capable of:
– **1.8x faster CPU efficiency**
– **2.2x faster GPU efficiency**
This makes the M4 Mac mini perfect for a variety of tasks spanning from routine computing to demanding activities such as video editing, 3D rendering, and gaming.
## 4. **M4 Pro: The Ultimate Power Option**
For users requiring even greater capability, Apple provides an **M4 Pro** variant. This chip can be outfitted with up to **14 cores** (10 performance cores and 4 efficiency cores), enhancing **multithreaded performance** for resource-heavy applications. The **M4 Pro GPU** is also incredibly powerful, offering up to **20 cores** and presenting **twice the graphical capability** of the standard M4 chip. Both M4 and M4 Pro chips support **hardware-accelerated ray tracing**, making them ideal for graphics-intensive tasks like gaming and 3D modeling.
## 5. **Expanded Memory Choices**
The basic model of the M4 Mac mini now features **16GB of RAM**, a considerable upgrade from the previous model’s 8GB. For those requiring additional memory, Apple offers configurations with **24GB**, **32GB**, and even **64GB** of RAM, ensuring that the Mac mini can seamlessly manage even the most demanding memory tasks.
## 6. **Support for Multiple Monitors**
Among the impressive capabilities of the M4 Mac mini is its support for numerous high-resolution displays. With the **M4 Pro chip**, users can connect:
– Up to **three displays** with **6K resolution** at 60Hz
– Or two displays, one at **6K resolution** and another at **8K resolution** at 60Hz or **4K resolution** at 230Hz
This feature makes the Mac mini an excellent choice for creative professionals in need of multiple monitors for tasks such as video editing, graphic design, or programming.
## 7. **Upgraded Thunderbolt 5 Connectivity**
Apple has also enhanced the connectivity features of the M4 Mac mini. The **M4 Pro version** now includes **Thunderbolt 5 ports**, which provide quicker data transfer capabilities and better connectivity than the Thunderbolt 4 ports available in the previous iteration. This upgrade simplifies the connection of high-performance peripherals, external storage units, and numerous displays.
## 8. **Elevated Thermal Management**
Despite its more compact design, Apple has prioritized ensuring that the new Mac mini remains cool under stress. The **cutting-edge thermal architecture** incorporates advanced cooling solutions that prevent overheating, even during high-intensity tasks. This is especially critical for users intending to maximize the machine’s potential through activities such as video rendering, gaming, or multitasking.
## 9. **Elegant and Minimalistic Design**
Along with its reduced size, the new Mac mini embodies Apple’s commitment to minimalist aesthetics. The device features a streamlined, unibody aluminum chassis that not only exudes style but is also exceptionally durable. The repositioned power button on the bottom of the device aids in maintaining the exterior’s clean lines, while its smaller footprint facilitates easier incorporation into any workspace.
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### Final Thoughts
The new **M4 Mac mini** represents a substantial upgrade from its predecessor, providing a **more compact form**, **enhanced performance**, and a wealth of features.
