The Mac mini has always been one of Apple's most compact and efficient desktop computers. In 2025, Apple introduced two variants — the M4 Mac mini and the M4 Pro Mac mini — offering different options to meet the varying needs of users. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll compare these models to help you decide which one is right for you based on price, performance, design, and more.
1. Introduction: Why Choose the Mac mini?
The Mac mini has evolved into an impressive small-form-factor desktop, delivering powerful performance in a compact size. In 2025, the M4 Mac mini and M4 Pro Mac mini both offer unique configurations that cater to different types of users. Whether you're looking for a simple, cost-effective machine or need pro-level performance, there's a Mac mini for you.
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Shop Now2. Price Comparison : Is the Extra Cost of the M4 Pro Worth It?
- The Mac mini with M4 chip starts at $599. This entry-level model features a 10-core CPU, 16-core GPU, 16GB of RAM, and 256GB SSD.
- The M4 Pro Mac mini is priced at $1399 and comes with a 14-core CPU, 20-core GPU, 24GB of RAM, and 512GB SSD.
If you're on a budget, the M4 Mac mini offers excellent value for daily tasks, while the M4 Pro model is aimed at users requiring more power for professional workloads.
3. Performance Comparison: M4 vs. M4 Pro
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M4 Mac mini: The M4 chip comes with a 10-core CPU (8 performance cores and 2 efficiency cores) and a 10-core GPU. This model is ideal for basic tasks such as web browsing, document editing, and media consumption. The standard 16GB RAM configuration offers plenty of memory for multitasking.
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M4 Pro Mac mini: The M4 Pro features a 14-core CPU (10 performance cores and 4 efficiency cores) and a 20-core GPU. It also offers up to 64GB of RAM, which is perfect for demanding tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, and high-end gaming.
| Feature | Mac mini M4 | Mac mini M4 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | 12-core CPU (8P + 4E) | 14-core CPU (10P + 4E) |
| Graphics | 16-core GPU | Up to 20-core GPU |
| Memory | Starts at 24GB, max 32GB | Starts at 24GB, max 64GB |
| Storage | Up to 2TB SSD | Up to 8TB SSD |
4. Design and Ports
Design:
The 2024 M4 Mac mini is smaller and more compact than previous models. The new design measures just 5 inches x 5 inches x 2 inches, a significant reduction from the 7.8 inches x 7.8 inches x 1.4 inches of the M2 model. One key change is the removal of USB-A ports, leaving behind three Thunderbolt 4 ports, one HDMI, and an Ethernet port (optionally supporting 10Gbps). It also supports Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3.
Ports:
- Front: Both M4 and M4 Pro feature two USB-C ports and one headphone jack. The USB-C data transfer speed is 10Gb/s.
- Back: The M4 features three Thunderbolt 4 ports (max 40Gb/s), while the M4 Pro comes with three Thunderbolt 5 ports (120Gb/s), offering 3x faster speeds for data transfer.
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Shop Now5. External Display Support
M4 Mac mini:
- Up to 3 displays: Two 6K displays at 60Hz via Thunderbolt, one 5K display at 60Hz or one 4K display at 60Hz via HDMI.
M4 Pro Mac mini:
- Up to 3 displays: Three 6K displays at 60Hz via Thunderbolt or HDMI. Additionally, it can support one 8K display at 60Hz or one 4K display at 240Hz.
- Thunderbolt 5 supports DisplayPort 2.1 output for the highest video resolutions.
Both models support native DisplayPort 1.4 via USB-C for high-quality video output, but the M4 Pro significantly outperforms in handling more advanced display setups.
6. Mac mini: M4 vs. M4 Pro — Which One Should You Choose?
The M4 and M4 Pro differ significantly in GPU performance, with the M4 Pro offering a larger number of GPU cores, better GPU performance, and greater graphics capabilities.
- M4: Ideal for everyday office work, learning, and light tasks. While it handles standard tasks well, it may struggle with demanding graphical tasks.
- M4 Pro: Designed for high-performance needs such as video editing, 3D design, and game development. If your work involves heavy graphical processing, the M4 Pro will provide a smoother, more efficient experience.
Choosing Between M4 and M4 Pro:
- If you're looking for a computer for basic computing (web browsing, word processing, media consumption), the M4 Mac mini offers the best value.
- For professional users requiring superior graphics performance, the M4 Pro Mac mini is the better choice, especially for creative professionals and those using resource-intensive software.
Why the M4 Mac mini Power Button is Located on the Bottom
The 2024 Mac mini features a power button located on the bottom, which has sparked some user frustration due to its inconvenient placement. However, Apple executives Greg Jozwiak and John Ternus explained that this design decision was driven by the compact size of the new Mac mini. The device is almost half the size of its predecessor, and the bottom placement of the power button was the most practical solution given the internal space constraints.
ZEERA MacForge Gen2: The Perfect Cooling Case for 2024 Mac mini M4
If you're one of the users who finds the power button placement inconvenient, or if you're simply looking for an upgrade to your 2024 M4 Mac mini, ZEERA MacForge Gen2 might be the solution you need. Inspired by the iconic Mac Pro, the ZEERA MacForge Gen2 is a high-quality cooling case designed specifically for the 2024 M4 Mac mini.
Here’s why it’s a game-changer:
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Solves the Power Button Problem: The ZEERA MacForge Gen2 case design addresses the frustration of the bottom-positioned power button. It offers easy access and a more user-friendly experience, allowing you to power on your Mac mini without any awkward positioning.
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Better Cooling: The ZEERA MacForge Gen2 is built with a stand-up design, which improves airflow. The M4 Mac mini's ventilation system is located at the bottom of the device, and with the new case's design, the air circulation is significantly enhanced. This ensures better cooling and prevents overheating, keeping your Mac mini at optimal performance.
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Transform Your Mac mini into a Mac Pro: The sleek, professional look of the ZEERA MacForge Gen2 elevates your Mac mini to resemble a Mac Pro. This stylish design not only improves functionality but also enhances the aesthetics, turning your Mac mini M4 into a more powerful and visually appealing machine.
With ZEERA MacForge Gen2, you get improved cooling, better ergonomics, and a design that aligns with Apple’s professional-level hardware, making it a perfect match for the 2024 M4 Mac mini.
Conclusion: Which One Should You Buy in 2025?
Ultimately, your choice between the M4 Mac mini and M4 Pro Mac mini will depend on your needs and budget. The M4 is perfect for those looking for a budget-friendly, compact machine for everyday tasks. The M4 Pro is tailored for those who need a more powerful machine for professional workloads, offering better graphics performance, more RAM options, and greater display support.
No matter which model you choose, the Mac mini M4 and M4 Pro are powerful and versatile machines that cater to a wide range of users, from casual users to professional creators.
