# Apple’s Latest Mac Mini: Compact Design, M4 Performance, and Improved Features
Apple’s most recent announcements regarding the Mac lineup have unveiled a major refresh for the Mac mini, the company’s least expensive desktop option. The updated Mac mini, equipped with the robust M4 and M4 Pro processors, showcases a newly designed, more space-efficient shape alongside numerous enhancements, making it an attractive choice for casual users and professionals alike.
## Fresh Aesthetics: Smaller and Stylish
The updated Mac mini unveils a new design, signifying its first substantial visual overhaul since the original aluminum model launched in 2010. The latest version is more compact, measuring 5×5 inches, a reduction from the earlier 7.75×7.75 inches. Nonetheless, it stands a bit taller at 2 inches as opposed to the previous 1.4 inches. This gives the new Mac mini a look that blends elements of both the Mac Studio and an Apple TV unit.
Even with its reduced size, the new Mac mini preserves an internal power supply along with an active cooling mechanism that includes a fan and heatsink. This ensures that the device maintains optimal temperatures and operates effectively, even under demanding conditions.
## Connectivity: Additions and Omissions
A striking change in the new Mac mini is its port arrangement. For the first time, the Mac mini features front-facing connections: two USB-C ports and a headphone jack. This enhancement is beneficial for those who regularly require swift access to ports for various peripherals.
However, the new design presents some drawbacks. The Mac mini no longer includes USB-A ports, which might inconvenience users dependent on older hardware. The rear now houses three Thunderbolt/USB-C ports (an upgrade from two in the prior M2 version), a full-size HDMI port, and a gigabit Ethernet port. Although the absence of USB-A may require additional adapters, the overall selection of ports remains flexible, particularly with the inclusion of front-facing USB-C options.
## M4 and M4 Pro: Driving the New Mac Mini
### M4 Chip: Entry-Level Powerhouse
The basic iteration of the new Mac mini is powered by Apple’s M4 chip, boasting 10 CPU cores (four performance cores and six efficiency cores) along with 10 GPU cores. This setup allows the Mac mini to accommodate up to three external displays—an enhancement from the dual-display limit seen with the M1 and M2 models.
Starting at $599, the M4 Mac mini comes with 16GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. This marks the first increase in base RAM for Apple’s entry-level Macs since 2012, positively impacting overall performance. For those needing greater storage, a $799 variant provides 512GB SSD storage, while a $999 configuration includes 24GB of RAM.
### M4 Pro: Connecting to Mac Studio
For individuals requiring added power, the M4 Pro version of the Mac mini begins at $1,399. The M4 Pro chip delivers up to 14 CPU cores (10 performance cores and four efficiency cores) alongside up to 20 GPU cores. The standard M4 Pro variant comes equipped with 12 CPU cores and 16 GPU cores, but users can opt for the fully unlocked version for an extra $200.
Additionally, the M4 Pro supports a wider range of memory and storage options. It starts with 24GB of RAM, with the possibility of upgrading to a maximum of 64GB of RAM. Storage configurations range from 1TB to 8TB, although higher storage choices come at a significant premium, with the 8TB upgrade adding an additional $2,400.
### Thunderbolt 5: Accelerated Connectivity
A key feature of the M4 Pro Mac mini is its compatibility with Thunderbolt 5, boasting a theoretical transfer rate of 80 Gbps—double that of Thunderbolt 4. This makes the M4 Pro particularly suitable for users needing high-speed data transfers, such as video editors and creative professionals. Furthermore, Thunderbolt 5 ports support DisplayPort 2.1, allowing the Mac mini to handle up to three 6K displays at 60 Hz.
## Adaptability and Personalization
The Mac mini continues to be a “bring your own” device, requiring users to provide their own monitor, keyboard, and mouse. This design renders the Mac mini exceedingly adaptable, as it can be paired with anything from Apple’s premium Studio Display to an economical 1080p screen. This versatility enables users to customize their setup according to their specific requirements and budget.
Despite its more compact dimensions, the new Mac mini remains a powerful desktop solution capable of managing a broad array of tasks, from routine computing to more intensive professional projects. Its streamlined design also facilitates easier integration into any workspace, whether that be a home office or a professional studio.
## In Summary: A Significant Upgrade
