Apple has just unveiled a redesigned Mac mini featuring a strikingly compact size, groundbreaking thermal architecture, and impressive performance upgrades thanks to the M4 Pro chip.

The new Mac mini is around half the size of its predecessor, measuring approximately 5×5 inches—roughly the same size as an Apple TV. Despite its reduced footprint, Apple has redesigned the cooling system, creating an innovative thermal architecture that channels airflow efficiently through the foot of the device, helping keep the Mac mini running cool even under heavy loads.

2024 Mac mini internals

Apple’s latest M4 chip powers the new Mac mini, and customers also have the option to upgrade to the more powerful M4 Pro, making this compact desktop a real powerhouse. The M4 Pro offers up to 14 CPU cores and 20 GPU cores, delivering substantial computing power for intensive tasks.

M4 Pro

Along with its chip enhancements, the new Mac mini has boosted its memory options, with a standard 16GB of RAM, configurable up to 32GB with the M4 or up to 64GB with the M4 Pro, providing robust multitasking capabilities. Storage options are also flexible, allowing configurations up to 8TB for users with extensive data needs.

For the first time, Apple has included support for ray tracing in the Mac mini, aiming to make the device more appealing to gamers and creative professionals alike. This move signals Apple’s renewed focus on the gaming community, positioning the Mac mini as a formidable option for those seeking high-quality graphics and immersive gameplay.

Connectivity has seen substantial improvements with the addition of the latest Thunderbolt technology. The base model with the M4 chip comes equipped with Thunderbolt 4, while the M4 Pro model includes the newer Thunderbolt 5, allowing for faster data transfers and smoother workflows.

The device features multiple ports for versatile connectivity:

  • Front ports: Two USB-C (Thunderbolt) ports and a 3.5mm audio jack.
  • Back ports: Three USB-C / Thunderbolt ports, HDMI, and Ethernet.
2024 Mac mini port

Though the traditional USB-A ports are no longer included, Apple has offered a 10-gigabit Ethernet option for those needing high-speed connectivity.

The new Mac mini is optimized for macOS Sequoia, seamlessly integrating Apple Intelligence features. Users will soon have access to powerful AI-driven tools like ChatGPT integration, expected to arrive in December, along with Apple’s image generation capabilities. These features are accessible across all Macs with M1 or newer chips, making Apple Intelligence widely available for users on the latest hardware.

Apple has ensured that the new Mac Mini aligns with its environmental commitments, making it Apple’s first carbon-neutral Mac. Built using over 50% recycled content, it utilizes 100% renewable electricity throughout its production process. Apple has also refined its impact extrusion manufacturing technique, reducing the required aluminum by 85%, further minimizing its ecological footprint.

Starting at $599 for the M4 base model and $1,399 for the M4 Pro, the new Mac Mini is available for preorder immediately. Shipping and in-store availability begin on November 8th.

Read more:

Categorized in: