Apple Mac mini M4 (2024) Review: Compact Powerhouse with AI Smarts
Apple’s latest Mac mini, powered by the M4 chip, is a testament to how much performance can be packed into a small form factor. Launched in late 2024, this compact desktop offers significant upgrades over its predecessors, making it an attractive option for both casual users and professionals.
Specifications at a Glance
Dimensions: 5 x 5 x 2 inches; weighs approximately 1.5 pounds.
Processor: Apple M4 chip with a 10-core CPU (4 performance cores and 6 efficiency cores) and a 10-core GPU.
Memory: 16GB unified LPDDR5X RAM, configurable up to 24GB.
Storage: Starts at 256GB SSD, with options up to 2TB.
Connectivity:
Front: Two USB-C ports (USB 3.2 Gen 2, up to 10Gbps) and a 3.5mm headphone jack with support for high-impedance headphones.
Back: Three Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C) ports, HDMI 2.1 port, and Gigabit Ethernet (configurable to 10Gb Ethernet).
Wireless: Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3.
Performance and Features
The M4 chip brings a notable performance boost, with Apple claiming up to 1.8 times faster CPU performance and 2.2 times faster GPU performance compared to the M1 model. The 16-core Neural Engine supports advanced AI features, capable of performing up to 38 trillion operations per second.
AI Integration
The Mac mini M4 is among the first Macs to feature Apple Intelligence, integrating AI capabilities directly into macOS. This includes system-wide writing tools, enhanced Siri functionalities, and upcoming features like Image Playground and Genmoji.
Pricing and Availability in India
24GB RAM, 512GB SSD: ₹1,49,900
Mac mini M4:
16GB RAM, 256GB SSD: ₹59,900
16GB RAM, 512GB SSD: ₹79,900
24GB RAM, 512GB SSD: ₹99,900
