Mac Mini M4 Vs M4 Pro – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

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Mac Mini M4 & M4 Pro share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Mac Mini M4 Pro rather than the Mac Mini M4. 

Why Do I Recommend The Mac Mini M4 Pro

  • The Mac Mini M4 Pro has 14-core CPU (10P + 4E cores) for better performance and multitasking. In contrast, the Mac Mini M4 has 10-core CPU (4P + 6E cores).
  • Mac Mini M4 Pro has 20-core GPU for delivering powerful performance for demanding tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, gaming, and AI/ML applications compared to the Mac Mini M4 has 10-core GPU.
  • It has Up to 8 TB of storage to provide ample space for large files, including 4K/8K videos, extensive photo libraries, complex 3D projects, software development files, and backups, ensuring smooth workflows. In contrast, the Mac Mini M4 has up to 2 TB Storage.
  • The Mac Mini M4 Pro features 273 GB/s Memory Bandwidth to ensure ultra-fast data transfer between the CPU, GPU, and RAM, enabling seamless performance compared to the Mac Mini M4’s 120 GB/s.
  • Mac M4 Pro offers more flexibility with higher resolution support, accommodating more advanced multi-display setups compared to the Mac Mini M4.
  • It has Thunderbolt 5 ports for significantly faster data transfer speeds compared to the Thunderbolt 4 ports on the M4 model.

Maybe the Mac Mini M4 price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Mac Mini M4 Pro. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

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Side By Side Comparison

FeatureMac Mini M4 ProMac Mini M4
Processor (CPU)Up to 14-core CPU (10P + 4E cores)10-core CPU (4P + 6E cores)
Graphics (GPU)Up to 20-core GPU10-core GPU
Memory (RAM)24 GB unified memory (max 64 GB)16 GB unified memory (max 32 GB)
Memory Bandwidth273 GB/s120 GB/s
Storage OptionsStarts at 512 GB SSD, max 8 TBStarts at 256 GB SSD, max 2 TB
Thunderbolt PortsThunderbolt 5Thunderbolt 4
Display SupportUp to three 6K displays at 60Hz or 8KUp to two 6K displays at 60Hz + one 5K
Weight1.6 lbs1.5 lbs
PriceCheck M4 Pro PriceCheck M4 Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • Design Dimensions: Both models share a compact form factor, measuring 5 inches in width and depth, and 2 inches in height. This sleek design makes them suitable for various workspace setups.
  • Operating System: Both Mac Mini M4 and M4 Pro run macOS 15.0 Sequoia, ensuring users have access to the latest features and security updates provided by Apple.
  • Neural Engine: Equipped with a 16-core Neural Engine, both models excel in machine learning tasks, enhancing performance in applications that utilize AI and computational photography.
  • Wi-Fi 6E: Both devices support Wi-Fi 6E, offering faster wireless connectivity, reduced latency, and improved performance in environments with multiple connected devices.
  • Bluetooth 5.3: With Bluetooth 5.3, both Mac Minis provide enhanced wireless communication with peripherals, ensuring stable connections and improved energy efficiency.
  • Front Ports: Each model features two front-facing USB-C ports and a 3.5 mm headphone jack, facilitating easy access for connecting devices and audio equipment.
  • Rear HDMI Port: An HDMI 2.1 port on both models allows for high-resolution video output, supporting up to 8K displays, making them suitable for professional and entertainment purposes.
  • Ethernet Connectivity: Both Mac Minis come with Gigabit Ethernet, configurable to 10Gb Ethernet, providing flexible and high-speed wired network connectivity options.
  • Audio Output: The inclusion of support for high-impedance headphones ensures that audiophiles and professionals can enjoy superior audio quality without the need for additional amplifiers.
  • Environmental Impact: Apple has designed both models to be carbon-neutral, reflecting the company’s commitment to reducing environmental impact through sustainable materials and energy-efficient manufacturing processes.

Common Features

FeatureMac Mini M4 ProMac Mini M4
Design Dimensions5.0 in (W) x 5.0 in (D) x 2.0 in (H)5.0 in (W) x 5.0 in (D) x 2.0 in (H)
Operating SystemmacOS 15.0 SequoiamacOS 15.0 Sequoia
Neural Engine16-core Neural Engine16-core Neural Engine
Wi-FiWi-Fi 6EWi-Fi 6E
BluetoothBluetooth 5.3Bluetooth 5.3
Front Ports2 x USB-C, 1 x 3.5 mm headphone jack2 x USB-C, 1 x 3.5 mm headphone jack
Rear HDMI PortHDMI 2.1HDMI 2.1
EthernetGigabit Ethernet (configurable to 10Gb)Gigabit Ethernet (configurable to 10Gb)
Audio OutputSupport for high-impedance headphonesSupport for high-impedance headphones
Environmental ImpactCarbon-neutral designCarbon-neutral design
Price Check M4 Pro Price Check M4 Price

FAQ

Q: Do both Mac Mini models run the same operating system?
A: Yes, both the Mac Mini M4 and M4 Pro come pre-installed with macOS 15.0 Sequoia. This ensures users have access to the latest software features, optimizations, and security updates from Apple.

Q: Is the Neural Engine the same in both models?
A: Yes, both models are equipped with a 16-core Neural Engine, which provides advanced machine learning capabilities. This is particularly beneficial for applications that use AI, like image processing, language recognition, and computational photography.

Q: What connectivity features are shared between the two models?
A: Both models include Wi-Fi 6E for high-speed wireless connectivity, Bluetooth 5.3 for efficient communication with peripherals, and Gigabit Ethernet (configurable to 10Gb Ethernet). These features ensure fast and reliable connections, whether wired or wireless.

Q: Are the front and rear ports identical on both models?
A: Yes, both models feature two front-facing USB-C ports and a 3.5 mm headphone jack. At the rear, they both include an HDMI 2.1 port, which supports high-resolution displays, making both models suitable for professional and entertainment use.

Q: Do both models support high-quality audio output?
A: Yes, both the Mac Mini M4 and M4 Pro support high-impedance headphones, ensuring exceptional audio quality for users without requiring additional equipment.

Q: Are there any differences in environmental impact between the two models?
A: No, both models are designed with a carbon-neutral footprint. Apple uses sustainable materials and energy-efficient manufacturing processes for both the Mac Mini M4 and M4 Pro, reflecting their commitment to reducing environmental impact.

Q: Is the display support the same for both models?
A: Both models support up to three external displays; however, the M4 Pro has additional flexibility, including support for 8K displays, which is a distinction rather than a similarity. Both models excel in multi-display setups.

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