Apple M4 Mac Mini: Perfect Desktop?

The M4 Mac Mini is Apple's latest compact desktop computer, designed to deliver powerful performance in a small form factor. It comes in multiple variants, each catering to different user needs, from casual computing to professional workflows. Here's a detailed overview of the M4 Mac Mini, its variants, pricing, and a comparison of the models and against a custom built pc.

Overview of the M4 Mac Mini

The M4 Mac Mini is powered by Apple's M4 chip which is a 3-nanometer technology, which represents a significant leap in performance and efficiency. The M4 chip integrates a 10-core CPU with 4 performance cores and 6 efficiency cores, a 10-core GPU, and a 16-core Neural Engine. This combination ensures smooth multitasking, fast app launches, and excellent graphics performance. The M4 chip also supports hardware-accelerated ray tracing, making it ideal for gaming and 3D rendering.

The M4 Mac Mini is designed with sustainability in mind, being Apple's first carbon-neutral Mac. It features a compact design with dimensions of 12.70 x 12.70 cm (5" x 5") and weighs just 0.67 kg (way smaller than the previous Mac Minis). The device includes a variety of ports, including Thunderbolt 5, HDMI, USB-C, and Ethernet, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of peripherals.

Variants of the M4 Mac Mini

The M4 Mac Mini is available in two main variants:

1. M4 Mac Mini: This base model is equipped with the standard M4 chip, offering up to 32GB of unified memory and up to 2TB of SSD storage. It is suitable for everyday tasks, light gaming, and creative projects.
2. M4 Pro Mac Mini: This upgraded model features the M4 Pro chip, which includes up to 14 CPU cores (10 performance cores and 4 efficiency cores) and up to 20 GPU cores. It supports up to 64GB of unified memory and up to 8TB of SSD storage. The M4 Pro variant is designed for professionals who require high performance for tasks like video editing, software development, and AI-based workflows.

Comparison of M4 Mac Mini Models

The M4 Pro Mac Mini offers significantly more power and storage options, making it ideal for demanding professional tasks. In contrast, the M4 Mac Mini is a more budget-friendly option for general use.

Comparison Against A Custom Built PC

When comparing the M4 Mac Mini to a custom-built Windows PC, the choice often boils down to specific use cases, personal preferences, and budget. Each has its strengths and trade-offs. Its much more than using Windows or macOS. Here's a detailed breakdown:

Performance Comparison

To compare the both, its best to look at the fundamentals like Processor/ Graphics Performance and the Multitasking functionality.

1. Processor and Graphics: For raw GPU power (like the new Nvidia RTX 5000 series) and gaming, a custom-built PC can outclass the M4 Mac Mini. However, the M4 chip excels in optimisation and efficiency for Apple-specific workflows.
   • M4 Mac Mini: The Apple M4 chip integrates a 10-core CPU, 10-core GPU, and a 16-core Neural Engine. The unified architecture ensures seamless performance, especially for tasks like video editing, app development, and machine learning. These chipsets are very well optimised to be used with Apple's own softwares like Final Cut Pro, Logic X Pro, building iOS application using Swift Language.
   • Custom Windows PC: Depending on your choices, you can pair a high-end CPU (like Intel Core i9-13900K or AMD Ryzen 9 7950X) with a dedicated GPU (like NVIDIA RTX 4090 or AMD Radeon RX 7900 XTX), which generally offers superior performance for gaming and graphic-intensive tasks.
2. Multitasking: Windows PCs can handle more demanding multitasking loads, but the Mac Mini's architecture ensures smooth performance with less memory.
   • M4 Mac Mini: Unified Memory Architecture (UMA) allows the CPU and GPU to share memory, reducing latency. It supports up to 64GB of unified memory (on the M4 Pro variant), making it efficient for multitasking and creative projects.
   • Custom Windows PC: Supports higher memory configurations (e.g., up to 128GB or more DDR5 RAM) and faster memory speeds, which can benefit professional-grade workloads like 3D rendering and simulation.

Operating System and Software

1. macOS 15 Sequoia (M4 Mac Mini):
   • Offers excellent integration with Apple devices and software like Final Cut Pro, Logic Pro, and Xcode.
   • Prioritizes user experience with fewer compatibility issues but limited customization compared to Windows.
2. Windows 11 (Custom PC): macOS is ideal for creative professionals and Apple ecosystem users, while Windows excels in software versatility and gaming.
   • Offers unparalleled software compatibility, including support for many games, legacy applications, and professional tools.
   • Greater customization options but may occasionally experience driver or compatibility issues.

Graphics and Gaming

1. M4 Mac Mini:
   • Supports hardware-accelerated ray tracing and excellent performance for 3D rendering, but its gaming library is limited.
   • macOS lacks the optimization and support for many AAA games.
2. Custom Windows PC: If gaming is your priority, a custom Windows PC is the clear winner.
   • Equipped with dedicated GPUs and supports Ray Tracing, DLSS (NVIDIA), or FSR (AMD), making it the go-to choice for gaming.
   • Access to a massive library of games via platforms like Steam, Epic Games Store, and Xbox Game Pass.

Build and Design

1. M4 Mac Mini:
   • Its is as compact as a tiffin box, quiet, and energy-efficient with a sleek aluminum design.
   • Easy to set up but has limited upgradability such as components like memory and storage are soldered.
2. Custom Windows PC: The Mac Mini is excellent for minimalistic setups, while a custom PC offers unparalleled flexibility.
   • Size and design can range from compact builds to large, with custom RGB-lit setups.
   • Highly customisable and upgradeable, allowing users to swap out GPUs, CPUs, and other components as needed.

Cost and Value

1. M4 Mac Mini:
   • Starts at ₹59,900 INR for the base model in India, going up based on configuration.
   • Offers great value for Apple ecosystem users but may seem overpriced for gamers or those needing extensive hardware options.
2. Custom Windows PC: A custom-built PC offers better bang for your buck if you select the right components.
   • Costs vary widely depending on components but can be tailored to fit any budget. It can start as low as ₹60,000 INR to has high as upwards of ₹4,00,000 INR.
   • Offers better cost-to-performance ratios, especially for gaming or high-end professional tasks.

The choice between an M4 Mac Mini and a custom-built Windows PC largely depends on your priorities:

• Opt for the M4 Mac Mini if you're invested in the Apple ecosystem, prefer a compact and energy-efficient setup, or work with macOS-exclusive tools.
• Choose a custom-built Windows PC if you're a gamer, need extensive customisation, or require a machine for hardware-intensive tasks like 3D rendering or simulations.

Conclusion

The M4 Mac Mini series provides a versatile range of options for users, from casual consumers to professionals. Its compact design, powerful performance, and eco-friendly features make it a standout choice in the desktop market. Whether you need a reliable machine for everyday tasks or a powerhouse for professional workflows, the M4 Mac Mini has a model to suit your needs.

If you'd like to explore more about the M4 Mac Mini or need help choosing the right configuration, feel free to check us out. We have something intersting to offer coming soon.