
Apple Mac Mini M4 Pro review: The compact and frugal desktop PC with top performance and expensive upgrades
Pricey powerhouse.
With its new M4 Pro processor, the Apple Mac Mini M4 delivers impressive performance and energy efficiency inside a compact case. In this review, we took a closer look at the Mac Mini with an M4 Pro SoC, 64 GB RAM and a 2-TB SSD which costs around $2,600.Sebastian Bade, 👁 Sebastian Bade (translated by Daisy Dickson) Published 🇩🇪 🇫🇷 ...
Verdict - The Mac Mini M4 Pro with lots of performance and a high price
The Mac Mini with an Apple M4 Pro (12 cores) SoC shows just how powerful and versatile a mini PC can be. Apple's latest ARM-based processor combines exceptional computing power, impressive energy efficiency and innovative architecture, making it one of the leading desktop computers in its class. We have already seen the same in the base model of the Apple Mac Mini M4. Its powerful processor is joined by an extremely potent Apple M4 Pro 16-core GPU, which is superior to the well-known iGPUs from AMD and Intel.
Its unified memory consisting of up to 64 GB and its ultra-fast SSD with a speed of 7.6 GB/s guarantee that even demanding multitasking tasks and data-intensive applications can be processed without any problems. However, as is usual with Apple, its unified memory is permanently soldered on and can't be upgraded. Users should therefore select sufficient capacity when configuring their device to make sure they are set for the future. The computer's SSD can be swapped out, but Apple has installed a proprietary module, which also quickly drives up the price during configuration.
A further highlight is its quiet and efficient cooling. The Mac Mini stays virtually silent even under average load, as its fan isn't activated often and runs at a low speed. At the same time, the M4 Pro boasts extremely low energy consumption, making it ideal for continuous use. The Mac Mini with the M4 Pro is an impressive mini PC that is visually and technically far ahead of the majority of other mini PCs on the market. In addition to its internal power supply unit, it also features a loudspeaker whose quality is impressive.
Anyone who is already well versed with the Mac universe will have no problem finding their way around the system. Those planning to switch from a Windows environment to macOS should think carefully in advance about what the system will be used for. Many well-known programs are not available on macOS, so you'll have to seek out alternatives. However, this doesn't necessarily have to be a bad thing, as specially optimized applications generally work more efficiently and stably.
Pros
Cons
Price and availability
Possible alternatives compared
Image | Model / Review | Price | Weight | Height | Display |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Apple Mac Mini M4 Pro Apple M4 Pro (12 cores) ⎘ Apple M4 Pro 16-Core GPU ⎘ 64 GB Memory, 2048 GB SSD | Amazon: 1. $1,599.95 Apple Mac mini Desktop Compu... 2. $1,999.96 Apple 2024 Mac Mini Desktop ... 3. $1,199.95 Apple 2024 Mac Mini Desktop ... List Price: 2811€ | 729 g | 50 mm | x | |
Apple Mac Mini M4 Apple M4 (10 cores) ⎘ Apple M4 10-core GPU ⎘ 16 GB Memory, 256 GB SSD | Amazon: 1. $569.00 Apple 2024 Mac Mini Desktop ... 2. $1,599.95 Apple Mac mini Desktop Compu... 3. $989.00 Apple 2024 Mac Mini Desktop ... List Price: 699€ | 648 g | 50 mm | x | |
Aoostar GEM12 AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS ⎘ AMD Radeon 780M ⎘ 32 GB Memory, 1024 GB SSD | Amazon: 1. $399.95 AOOSTAR GEM12 AMD R9 6900HX ... 2. $389.00 AOOSTAR GEM12 8845HS Mini PC... 3. $499.00 AOOSTAR GEM12 Mini PC, AMD R... List Price: 649 US-Dollar | 653 g | 60 mm | x | |
Minisforum MS-A1 AMD Ryzen 7 8700G ⎘ AMD Radeon 780M ⎘ 32 GB Memory, 1024 GB SSD | Amazon: 1. $255.99 MINISFORUM MS-A1 Mini Workst... 2. $319.99 MINISFORUM MS-A1 Workstation... 3. $255.90 MINISFORUM MS-A1 Mini Workst... List Price: 829 EUR | 1.7 kg | 48 mm | x | |
Asus NUC 14 Pro+ Intel Core Ultra 9 185H ⎘ Intel Arc 8-Core iGPU ⎘ 32 GB Memory, 1024 GB SSD | Amazon: 1. $909.00 ASUS NUC 14 Pro AI Mini Pc, ... 2. $593.66 ASUS NUC 14 Pro Slim Barebon... 3. $779.00 ASUS NUC 14 Pro AI Mini Comp... List Price: 1250 EUR | 622 g | 41 mm | x | |
Geekom AX8 Pro AMD Ryzen 9 8945H ⎘ AMD Radeon 780M ⎘ 32 GB Memory, 2048 GB SSD | Amazon: 1. $579.00 GEEKOM AX8 Pro Ai Mini PC,AM... 2. $749.00 GEEKOM AX8 Pro Ai Mini PC,AM... 3. $66.99 PowerHOOD 19V AC/DC Adapter ... List Price: 999 EUR | 548 g | 37 mm | x |
Table of Contents
- Verdict - The Mac Mini M4 Pro with lots of performance and a high price
- Specifications
- Case - The Mac Mini is more compact than a lot of other mini PCs
- Connectivity - Thunderbolt 5 with up to 120 Gbit/s
- Performance - The Apple M4 Pro (12 Cores) with 64 GB RAM
- Emissions & energy - Frugal and quiet
- Notebookcheck total rating
Having already looked at the base configuration of the Mac Mini M4 with an M4 processor, it's now time to turn our attention to the significantly more powerful model based on an M4 Pro with twelve cores, which is additionally equipped with the equally powerful Apple M4 Pro 16-core GPU. This extensive redesign of the tiny mini PCs from Apple is now significantly more compact and lighter than ever. The new base model—with the M4 SoC, 16 GB RAM and a 256 GB SSD—is available for an MRSP of $599, although our test sample (M4 Pro with 12 CPU cores, 64 GB RAM, 2 TB storage) costs a good $2,600. However, this is by no means the maximum. In its top configuration, you can easily spend up to $4,699 (M4 Pro with 14 CPU cores, 64 GB RAM, 8 TB storage, 10 Gbit/s Ethernet) on the device.
Specifications
Case - The Mac Mini is more compact than a lot of other mini PCs
The Mac Mini 2024 always uses the same case, regardless of its configuration. Its footprint of 12.7 x 12.7 cm is extremely compact in relation to its performance. Visually, the Mac Mini is more reminiscent of an Apple TV. With a height of 5 cm, the mini PC has become slightly thicker, but this doesn't stand out negatively at all. As is typical for Apple, its build quality is excellent and the power supply unit is integrated into the device. Compared to the entry-level configuration, the M4 Pro model is slightly heavier.
Despite its compact size, the Mac Mini 2024 dissipates heat just fine, ensuring quiet operation. Its timeless design and well-thought-out construction make it a versatile choice for a wide range of applications. Still, you'll have to get used to the placement of the power button, which is located on the underside of the device. Most Apple users probably only rarely actually switch off their devices, which does justify Apple's decision a little. Its case can be opened via the underside using the appropriate tools. After removing the large fan, the proprietary SSD module becomes visible. Theoretically, it is possible to replace the storage device. It remains to be seen to what extent Apple will offer corresponding upgrades in the future. Its RAM, on the other hand, is permanently soldered on and cannot be replaced or upgraded.
Connectivity - Thunderbolt 5 with up to 120 Gbit/s
The Mac Mini M4 Pro boasts a modern and versatile selection of connectivity options that ensures both flexibility and ease of use. There are two USB-C ports on the front: ideal for quick access, for example for connecting external storage media or mobile devices. There are also three Thunderbolt 5 ports on the back: These enable ultra-fast data transfers, connecting external storage solutions and support for up to two 6K displays at 60 Hz. It also features an HDMI port and a Gigabit Ethernet port. The Mac Mini can optionally be equipped with 10 Gigabit Ethernet for faster network connections.
The same as with the current MacBook Pro models, its Wi-Fi module supports Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, but it doesn't support the latest Wi-Fi 7 standard. Its speed and stability were excellent during our test using our reference router from Asus and gave no cause for criticism.
Connectivity - USB 3.x / USB4 / TB - AS SSD Seq Read Test (1GB) | |
Apple Mac Mini M4 Pro | |
Minisforum MS-A1 | |
Khadas Mind 2 | |
Average of class Mini PC (1611 - 3809, n=8, last 2 years) | |
Geekom GT1 Mega |
Networking | |
Apple Mac Mini M4 Pro | |
iperf3 receive AXE11000 6GHz | |
iperf3 transmit AXE11000 6GHz | |
Apple Mac Mini M4 | |
iperf3 receive AXE11000 | |
iperf3 transmit AXE11000 | |
Aoostar GEM12 | |
iperf3 receive AXE11000 | |
iperf3 transmit AXE11000 | |
Minisforum MS-A1 | |
iperf3 receive AXE11000 6GHz | |
iperf3 transmit AXE11000 6GHz | |
iperf3 receive AXE11000 | |
iperf3 transmit AXE11000 | |
Asus NUC 14 Pro+ | |
iperf3 receive AXE11000 6GHz | |
iperf3 transmit AXE11000 6GHz | |
iperf3 receive AXE11000 | |
iperf3 transmit AXE11000 | |
Geekom AX8 Pro | |
iperf3 receive AXE11000 6GHz | |
iperf3 transmit AXE11000 6GHz | |
iperf3 receive AXE11000 | |
iperf3 transmit AXE11000 | |
Sustainability
Apple doesn't treat the topic of sustainability lightly, as numerous points are advertised on the Mac's product page. In addition to the extensive information on the use of recycled materials that are predominantly used in the Mac Mini, the entire topic surrounding its production is touched on. In short, we can state that its production can be classified as climate-neutral. The long service life of Apple devices and the long supply of product updates also contribute positively to this.
Performance - The Apple M4 Pro (12 Cores) with 64 GB RAM
Even the base model with the M4 chip and 16 GB RAM already delivered an excellent result during our test. However, if you want 64 GB RAM, then you'll have to go for the M4 Pro chip. As an intermediate step, Apple also offers its M4 Pro models with 24 or 32 GB RAM. The SSD, on the other hand, comes with at least 512 GB.
Testing conditions
The Mac Mini with the M4 Pro SoC doesn't feature any energy profiles—only the familiar power-saving mode.
Processor - M4 Pro with 12 CPU cores
The M4 SoC is a new SoC that has already been installed in the current MacBook Pro 14 models. Our test sample contains a 12-core SoC that is designed for efficiency and multi-core performance. The M4 Pro with twelve cores delivers outstanding performance for everyday tasks such as office programs, web browsing and video streaming. Even with several parallel applications, the system stays smooth. Compared to the base configuration of the Apple Mac Mini M4, its performance has been significantly increased once again. However, this increase in performance is only limited to the multi-core benchmarks, although its single-core performance is almost identical.
The M4 Pro with twelve cores is a versatile processor that offers strong multi-core performance and good energy efficiency. It is perfect for all-round systems that need to work reliably both during everyday use and for more demanding tasks. Apple remains unbeaten, especially when it comes to efficiency. The Apple M4 Pro (12 cores) additionally requires very little power in idle mode and under load. The system only needed 60 watts on average during a Cinebench R23 Multi run.
Geekbench 6.3: Multi-Core | Single-Core
Cinebench R23: Multi Core | Single Core
System performance
The Mac Mini with the M4 Pro (12 cores) delivers impressive performance inside a compact case. Supported by 64 GB of fast unified memory and an SSD with 7.4 GB/s write speeds, the mini PC is perfect for demanding tasks, smooth multitasking, software development and 4K video editing.
Its integrated GPU with up to 16 cores ensures excellent graphics performance for creative applications and Metal-optimized games. Thanks to the close integration of hardware and macOS, the system works extremely efficiently and stays nice and quiet even under heavy load. The Mac Mini M4 Pro outperformed many of the competitors with its top values in the benchmarks and extremely low energy consumption, and it is ideal for professional users and demanding users. Thanks to its integrated Neural Engine, it also supports Apple Intelligence—although the new iPhone synchronization is not yet available in some countries.
WebXPRT 3: Overall
WebXPRT 4: Overall
Mozilla Kraken 1.1: Total
CrossMark / Overall | |
Apple Mac Mini M4 Pro | |
Apple Mac Mini M4 | |
Aoostar GEM12 | |
Minisforum MS-A1 | |
Geekom AX8 Pro | |
Asus NUC 14 Pro+ |
CrossMark / Productivity | |
Apple Mac Mini M4 Pro | |
Apple Mac Mini M4 | |
Aoostar GEM12 | |
Minisforum MS-A1 | |
Geekom AX8 Pro | |
Asus NUC 14 Pro+ |
CrossMark / Creativity | |
Apple Mac Mini M4 Pro | |
Apple Mac Mini M4 | |
Minisforum MS-A1 | |
Geekom AX8 Pro | |
Aoostar GEM12 | |
Asus NUC 14 Pro+ |
CrossMark / Responsiveness | |
Aoostar GEM12 | |
Minisforum MS-A1 | |
Geekom AX8 Pro | |
Apple Mac Mini M4 | |
Apple Mac Mini M4 Pro | |
Asus NUC 14 Pro+ |
WebXPRT 3 / Overall | |
Apple Mac Mini M4 Pro | |
Apple Mac Mini M4 | |
Minisforum MS-A1 | |
Geekom AX8 Pro | |
Aoostar GEM12 | |
Asus NUC 14 Pro+ |
WebXPRT 4 / Overall | |
Apple Mac Mini M4 Pro | |
Apple Mac Mini M4 | |
Minisforum MS-A1 | |
Geekom AX8 Pro | |
Aoostar GEM12 | |
Asus NUC 14 Pro+ |
Mozilla Kraken 1.1 / Total | |
Asus NUC 14 Pro+ | |
Aoostar GEM12 | |
Geekom AX8 Pro | |
Minisforum MS-A1 | |
Apple Mac Mini M4 | |
Apple Mac Mini M4 Pro |
* ... smaller is better
Storage device
The Mac Mini M4 Pro boasts an ultra-fast mass storage device that enables seamless working. Equipped with a proprietary PCIe SSD, it offers capacities ranging from 256 GB to 2 TB, depending on the selected configuration. If an Apple M4 Pro chip is to work in the system, you can expect at least 512 GB of storage space. For even more storage space, you'll still have to dig deep into your pockets. Apple demands a surcharge of $600 if you want the 2 TB model of our test sample. The Mac Mini M4 can even be equipped with a maximum of 8 TB. However, you'll then have to pay an absurd $2,400 as a surcharge for that model. There is nothing to complain about in terms of the SSD's performance. Our test device achieved excellent values for sequential reading and writing data.
Graphics card
The Mac Mini M4 Pro's graphics performance varies depending on the installed SoC. The version we tested features an Apple M4 Pro 16-core GPU. For a surcharge of $200, you can get an Apple M4 Pro 20-core GPU in addition to a slightly more powerful processor, which should achieve even better performance values. It could easily beat the performance of current iGPUs from AMD or Intel during our test. Even an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050 Laptop was within reach.
The Mac Mini M4 isn't our first choice for pure gaming. Lots of games can't be run on macOS and this massively limits your choice. Thanks to its close integration with macOS and the Metal API, the hardware is optimally utilized. Games that use this interface generally run well, and the performance of the Apple M4 Pro 16-core GPU is sufficient to display games with high to maximum details. Due to the aforementioned limitations, the Mac Mini M4 is not recommended as a gaming PC. The Asus ROG NUC 14 deserves recognition as a gaming alternative.
Geekbench 6.3: GPU OpenCL | GPU Metal
GFXBench: 3840x2160 4K Aztec Ruins High Tier Offscreen | 2560x1440 Aztec Ruins High Tier Offscreen | 1920x1080 Car Chase Offscreen
3DMark / Steel Nomad Light Score | |
Average NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 Laptop GPU () | |
Apple MacBook Pro 14 2024 M4 Pro Entry | |
Apple Mac Mini M4 Pro | |
Apple Mac Mini M4 | |
Asus ProArt P16 H7606WI | |
Asus Zenbook S 14 UX5406 Core Ultra 9 | |
Minisforum EliteMini AI370 | |
Asus NUC 14 Pro+ | |
Aoostar GEM12 | |
Geekom AX8 Pro | |
Minisforum MS-A1 | |
Samsung Galaxy Book4 Edge 16 X1E-84-100 |
3DMark / Wild Life Extreme Unlimited | |
Apple Mac Mini M4 Pro | |
Average NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 Laptop GPU (9394 - 16529, n=9) | |
Apple Mac Mini M4 | |
Apple MacBook Air 15 M3 | |
Asus ProArt P16 H7606WI | |
Apple Mac Mini M2 | |
Samsung Galaxy Book4 Edge 16 X1E-84-100 | |
Apple MacBook Air 13 M3 8C GPU |
Geekbench 6.3 / GPU Metal | |
Apple MacBook Pro 14 2024 M4 Pro Entry | |
Apple Mac Mini M4 Pro | |
Apple Mac Mini M4 | |
Apple MacBook Air 15 M3 | |
Apple Mac Mini M2 |
GFXBench / 4K Aztec Ruins High Tier Offscreen | |
Apple Mac Mini M4 Pro | |
Apple MacBook Pro 14 2024 M4 Pro Entry | |
Average NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 Laptop GPU () | |
Apple Mac Mini M4 | |
Apple MacBook Air 15 M3 | |
Apple Mac Mini M2 | |
Apple MacBook Air 13 M3 8C GPU | |
Asus ProArt P16 H7606WI | |
Asus Zenbook S 14 UX5406 Core Ultra 9 |
GFXBench / Aztec Ruins High Tier Offscreen | |
Apple Mac Mini M4 Pro | |
Apple MacBook Pro 14 2024 M4 Pro Entry | |
Average NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 Laptop GPU () | |
Apple Mac Mini M4 | |
Apple MacBook Air 15 M3 | |
Apple Mac Mini M2 | |
Apple MacBook Air 13 M3 8C GPU | |
Asus ProArt P16 H7606WI | |
Asus Zenbook S 14 UX5406 Core Ultra 9 |
GFXBench / Car Chase Offscreen | |
Apple Mac Mini M4 Pro | |
Apple MacBook Pro 14 2024 M4 Pro Entry | |
Average NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 Laptop GPU () | |
Apple Mac Mini M4 | |
Apple MacBook Air 15 M3 | |
Apple Mac Mini M2 | |
Asus Zenbook S 14 UX5406 Core Ultra 9 |
Geekbench 6.3: GPU OpenCL | GPU Metal
GFXBench: 3840x2160 4K Aztec Ruins High Tier Offscreen | 2560x1440 Aztec Ruins High Tier Offscreen | 1920x1080 Car Chase Offscreen
Cyberpunk 2077 2.1 Phantom Liberty - 1920x1080 Ultra Preset (FSR off) | |
Apple MacBook Pro 14 2024 M4 Pro Entry | |
Apple Mac Mini M4 Pro | |
Asus Zenbook S 14 UX5406 Core Ultra 9 | |
Minisforum EliteMini AI370 | |
Asus ProArt P16 H7606WI | |
Minisforum MS-A1 | |
Aoostar GEM12 | |
Asus NUC 14 Pro+ | |
Geekom AX8 Pro | |
Apple MacBook Pro 14 2024 M4 | |
Samsung Galaxy Book4 Edge 16 X1E-84-100 |
Total War Pharaoh - 1920x1080 Ultra Preset | |
Aoostar GEM12 | |
Asus ProArt P16 H7606WI | |
Apple MacBook Pro 14 2024 M4 Pro Entry | |
Apple Mac Mini M4 Pro | |
Apple MacBook Pro 14 2024 M4 | |
Apple MacBook Air 15 M3 |
Shadow of the Tomb Raider - 1920x1080 Highest Preset AA:T | |
Apple Mac Mini M4 Pro | |
Apple MacBook Pro 14 2024 M4 Pro Entry | |
Apple MacBook Pro 14 2024 M4 | |
Aoostar GEM12 | |
Apple Mac Mini M2 | |
Apple MacBook Air 15 M3 | |
Samsung Galaxy Book4 Edge 16 X1E-84-100 |
The Witcher 3 - 1920x1080 Ultra Graphics & Postprocessing (HBAO+) | |
Asus ProArt P16 H7606WI | |
Aoostar GEM12 | |
Asus Zenbook S 14 UX5406 Core Ultra 9 | |
Apple MacBook Air 15 M3 | |
Samsung Galaxy Book4 Edge 16 X1E-84-100 |
low | med. | high | ultra | QHD | 4K | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Shadow of the Tomb Raider (2018) | 198 | 99 | 89 | 78 | 51 | 26 |
Borderlands 3 (2019) | 92.9 | 70.2 | 53.8 | 39.9 | 31.6 | 17.6 |
Baldur's Gate 3 (2023) | 84 | 71 | 53 | 51 | 36 | 18 |
Cyberpunk 2077 2.1 Phantom Liberty (2023) | 53.5 | 47.5 | 39.8 | 35.1 | ||
Total War Pharaoh (2023) | 64.8 | 53.5 | 49.3 | 49.9 | 46.2 | 23 |
Emissions & energy - Frugal and quiet
Noise emissions
The Mac Mini's noise emissions are an impressive example of the excellent interplay between energy-efficient design and optimized cooling. Thanks to the frugal M4 processors, the device generates very little waste heat when idling and under partial load, resulting in extremely low noise levels. The device runs almost silently over long distances, although the fan is always spinning. This is not reflected in our reports, but at least 1,000 rpm was always present during readout. Under load, the Mac Mini is clearly audible, reaching up to 46.1 dB(A). However, we thankfully didn't detect any unpleasant whirring noises.
Noise Level
Idle |
| 25.1 / 25.1 / 25.1 dB(A) |
Load |
| 25.1 / 46.1 dB(A) |
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30 dB silent 40 dB(A) audible 50 dB(A) loud |
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min: ![]() ![]() ![]() |
Apple Mac Mini M4 Pro M4 Pro (12 cores), M4 Pro 16-Core GPU | Apple Mac Mini M4 M4 (10 cores), M4 10-Core GPU | Aoostar GEM12 R7 8845HS, Radeon 780M | Minisforum MS-A1 Ryzen 7 8700G, Radeon 780M | Asus NUC 14 Pro+ Ultra 9 185H, Arc 8-Core | Geekom AX8 Pro R9 8945H, Radeon 780M | Apple Mac Mini M2 M2, M2 10-Core GPU | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Noise | 5% | -8% | -27% | -22% | -21% | 8% | |
off / environment * | 25.1 | 24.1 4% | 24.3 3% | 24.8 1% | 24.6 2% | 24.9 1% | 24.7 2% |
Idle Minimum * | 25.1 | 24.1 4% | 27.5 -10% | 33.9 -35% | 24.7 2% | 24.9 1% | 24.7 2% |
Idle Average * | 25.1 | 24.1 4% | 27.6 -10% | 34 -35% | 29.6 -18% | 24.9 1% | 24.7 2% |
Idle Maximum * | 25.1 | 24.1 4% | 27.6 -10% | 34 -35% | 29.8 -19% | 24.9 1% | 24.7 2% |
Load Average * | 25.1 | 24.1 4% | 36 -43% | 41.1 -64% | 45.7 -82% | 50.1 -100% | 24.7 2% |
Cyberpunk 2077 ultra * | 35.1 | 30.3 14% | 35.4 -1% | 42.2 -20% | 47.7 -36% | 50 -42% | |
Load Maximum * | 46.1 | 45.1 2% | 38.2 17% | 46.2 -0% | 47.4 -3% | 50.2 -9% | 29.4 36% |
Witcher 3 ultra * | 35.4 |
* ... smaller is better
Temperature
Our test sample's surface temperatures turned out to be slightly higher than those of the base model. Even so, we were unable to identify any critical hotspots during our test. On the underside, however, the device heated up noticeably in the area of the fan outlet. On the top, the heat was distributed very evenly thanks to the metal cover. The M4 SoC gets significantly hotter, easily exceeding 100 °C. Still, the fan has plenty of room to maneuver, which means that Apple intentionally allows these temperatures to be hit.
(+) The maximum temperature on the upper side is 36.2 °C / 97 F, compared to the average of 35.8 °C / 96 F, ranging from 24 to 69.5 °C for the class Mini PC.
(±) The bottom heats up to a maximum of 42.7 °C / 109 F, compared to the average of 36.1 °C / 97 F
(+) In idle usage, the average temperature for the upper side is 29.1 °C / 84 F, compared to the device average of 32.4 °C / 90 F.
Speakers
The Mac Mini has one built-in speaker designed for basic audio tasks. It delivers a clear but basic sound quality that is sufficient for system notifications, video calls and occasionally listening to music or videos. For more demanding audio applications, the Mac Mini offers numerous expansion options. Wired speakers or headphones can be connected via the 3.5 mm jack connection. Bluetooth enables a wireless connection to external audio devices, while the HDMI port transmits audio to monitors with integrated speakers or home theater systems. The integrated speaker fulfills basic requirements, but is not a substitute for high-quality external audio solutions. For a better sound experience, we recommend using external speakers or headphones.
Apple Mac Mini M4 Pro audio analysis
(+) | speakers can play relatively loud (83.1 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(±) | reduced bass - on average 9.6% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (13.9% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(+) | balanced mids - only 3.1% away from median
(+) | mids are linear (5.6% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(±) | higher highs - on average 7.3% higher than median
(+) | highs are linear (3.2% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(+) | overall sound is linear (13.3% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 0% of all tested devices in this class were better, 6% similar, 94% worse
» The best had a delta of 13%, average was 26%, worst was 64%
Compared to all devices tested
» 12% of all tested devices were better, 3% similar, 86% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 24%, worst was 134%
Apple Mac Mini M2 audio analysis
(±) | speaker loudness is average but good (78.3 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(-) | nearly no bass - on average 19.5% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (9.1% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(±) | reduced mids - on average 6.4% lower than median
(±) | linearity of mids is average (11% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(+) | balanced highs - only 3.3% away from median
(+) | highs are linear (5.2% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(±) | linearity of overall sound is average (18% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 29% of all tested devices in this class were better, 6% similar, 65% worse
» The best had a delta of 13%, average was 26%, worst was 64%
Compared to all devices tested
» 34% of all tested devices were better, 8% similar, 58% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 24%, worst was 134%
Power consumption
When idling, the Mac Mini only requires 2.5 to 2.8 watts, making it extremely frugal compared to the competition. Even in standby mode or when switched off, its values are low and give no cause for criticism. When gaming, we measured around 70 watts—the same as during the beginning of the stress test. Due to the SoC's higher power consumption, our test sample loses some efficiency compared to the base configuration of the new Mac Mini.
Off / Standby | ![]() ![]() |
Idle | ![]() ![]() ![]() |
Load |
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Key:
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Apple Mac Mini M4 Pro M4 Pro (12 cores), M4 Pro 16-Core GPU | Apple Mac Mini M4 M4 (10 cores), M4 10-Core GPU | Aoostar GEM12 R7 8845HS, Radeon 780M | Minisforum MS-A1 Ryzen 7 8700G, Radeon 780M | Asus NUC 14 Pro+ Ultra 9 185H, Arc 8-Core | Geekom AX8 Pro R9 8945H, Radeon 780M | Apple Mac Mini M2 M2, M2 10-Core GPU | Average Apple M4 Pro 16-Core GPU | Average of class Mini PC | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Power Consumption | 11% | -186% | -221% | -140% | -287% | 14% | -70% | -240% | |
Idle Minimum * | 2.54 | 2.6 -2% | 8.2 -223% | 8.8 -246% | 4.2 -65% | 14 -451% | 2.2 13% | 2.57 ? -1% | 9.52 ? -275% |
Idle Average * | 2.59 | 10 -286% | 12.6 -386% | 7.2 -178% | 15.9 -514% | 7.2 ? -178% | 11.7 ? -352% | ||
Idle Maximum * | 2.79 | 2.7 3% | 14.6 -423% | 14 -402% | 13 -366% | 19.5 -599% | 2.6 7% | 7.5 ? -169% | 15.1 ? -441% |
Load Average * | 31.4 | 31.5 -0% | 73.9 -135% | 93.2 -197% | 68.5 -118% | 76.4 -143% | 28.7 9% | 31.4 ? -0% | 58.8 ? -87% |
Cyberpunk 2077 ultra external monitor * | 71.4 | 39.6 45% | 79.9 -12% | 102.1 -43% | 74.1 -4% | 54.3 24% | |||
Load Maximum * | 70.1 | 62.5 11% | 95.3 -36% | 105.4 -50% | 144.9 -107% | 99.1 -41% | 51.5 27% | 71.8 ? -2% | 100.4 ? -43% |
* ... smaller is better
Efficiency overview
Performance Rating - Percent | |
Apple Mac Mini M4 | |
Apple Mac Mini M2 | |
Apple Mac Mini M4 Pro | |
Geekom AX8 Pro | |
Asus NUC 14 Pro+ | |
Minisforum MS-A1 |
Power Consumption | |
Cinebench R23 Multi Power Efficiency - external Monitor | |
Apple Mac Mini M4 | |
Apple Mac Mini M2 | |
Apple Mac Mini M4 Pro | |
Geekom AX8 Pro | |
Asus NUC 14 Pro+ | |
Minisforum MS-A1 | |
Cinebench R23 Single Power Efficiency - external Monitor | |
Apple Mac Mini M4 | |
Apple Mac Mini M2 | |
Apple Mac Mini M4 Pro | |
Geekom AX8 Pro | |
Asus NUC 14 Pro+ | |
Minisforum MS-A1 |