Should You Buy the Mac mini M4? A Complete Buying Guide (2025)

 

The Mac mini M4 is Apple's latest entry-level desktop computer, offering a powerful upgrade over the M2 model. But with multiple configurations, pricing concerns, and Apple discounts available, you might be wondering: Is the Mac mini M4 the right choice for you?

This guide will help you decide by breaking down performance, pricing, discounts, and real-world use cases.

Who Should Buy the Mac mini M4?

Before diving into the details, let’s clarify who the Mac mini M4 is best suited for:

Ideal for:

• Everyday users who need a compact, affordable macOS desktop
• Students & professionals looking for a budget-friendly yet powerful Mac
• Developers & content creators needing a quiet, efficient workstation
• Users who already own a monitor, keyboard, and mouse (since Mac mini doesn’t include them)

Mac mini M4 vs. Mac mini M2 Performance: How Much Faster Is It?

Apple typically adjusts the pricing of previous-generation products after launching new ones to attract more consumers. For budget-conscious users, the Mac mini M2 may seem like a more appealing option, as it is now more affordable compared to the latest Mac mini M4. However, the price difference between the two is not substantial, and the M4 offers significant improvements in performance and efficiency. If your budget allows, opting for the M4 might be a smarter decision.

As of March 21, 2025, the Mac mini M2 base model (8-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 256GB SSD) is priced at $499 on Apple’s U.S. website, while the Mac mini M4 base model (10-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 256GB SSD) costs $599, making the price gap $100.

Specification	Mac mini M2	Mac mini M4
CPU	8 cores (4 performance + 4 efficiency)	10 cores (4 performance + 6 efficiency)
GPU	10-core graphics processor	10-core graphics processor
Memory	8GB unified memory	16GB unified memory

 

✅1. Is the extra $100 worth it?

The M4 features a 10-core CPU, compared to the 8-core CPU in the M2, delivering noticeable performance gains, especially in multi-threaded workloads. The additional cores, combined with architectural improvements, allow the M4 to handle parallel tasks more efficiently, making it a better choice for users running demanding applications.

Additionally, the M4 includes an upgraded Neural Engine, significantly boosting AI computing capabilities. This improvement makes the M4 better suited for machine learning tasks, such as image processing, automatic subtitle generation, and other AI-driven applications, enhancing overall user experience and productivity.

✅2. Better Power Efficiency

The M4 is built on TSMC’s advanced 3nm process, whereas the M2 uses a 5nm process. This translates into a higher efficiency ratio, meaning the M4 can deliver more power without increasing energy consumption. As a result, it offers better thermal performance, lower power consumption, and reduced heat generation, contributing to a quieter and more efficient system.

✅3. More Memory for a Smoother Experience

Another key advantage of the Mac mini M4 is that its base model includes 16GB of unified memory, whereas the Mac mini M2 only comes with 8GB. More RAM allows for smoother multitasking, enabling users to run more applications simultaneously without experiencing slowdowns or crashes. This makes the M4 a more reliable option for users handling large datasets, running memory-intensive applications, or working on professional workflows.

Overall, the Mac mini M4 shows significant improvements over the M2 in both CPU core count and base memory, promising a smoother user experience and more robust performance.

Why You Should Buy the 2024 Mac Mini M4

Apple's new Mac Mini benefits from the M4 chip, delivering a significant performance boost. The M4 SoC (System on a Chip) enhances the capabilities of Apple's compact desktop, featuring much-needed 16GB of RAM in the base model, while the Pro variant supports up to 64GB of RAM. This ample memory ensures faster workflows, improved processing power, and reduced loading times.

1. Powerful Performance for Content Creation

The 16GB RAM in the base M4 Mac Mini allows for multitasking across various tasks, making it a great option for content creators. Apple specifically highlights that the M4 chip enables “33x faster image upscaling” in Photomator and “4.9x faster panoramic image merging” in Adobe Lightroom Classic.

Meanwhile, the Mac Mini M4 Pro offers even faster processing power. According to Apple, it renders 3D models in Blender 2.9x faster and applies “1.8x more audio effect plugins” in Logic Pro compared to the M2 Pro.

2. Compact and Lightweight Design

The M4 Mac Mini retains its compact form factor, with the base model weighing 1.5 lbs (0.67 kg) and the Pro variant slightly heavier at 1.6 lbs (0.73 kg). This lightweight design makes it an ideal choice for those who need a powerful yet portable desktop solution.

3. Upgraded Connectivity and Display Support

The M4 Mac Mini introduces two front-facing USB-C ports and a 3.5mm audio jack. On the back, it supports three Thunderbolt 4 ports, offering data transfer speeds of up to 40Gb/s. Meanwhile, the M4 Pro model upgrades to three Thunderbolt 5 ports, boosting speeds to 120Gb/s. Additionally, the M4 Mac Mini lineup supports up to three 6K 60Hz displays, making it a versatile choice for professionals.

Cooling & Noise: Is It Quiet?

Many users ask, Does the Mac mini M4 overheat? Is it noisy?

🔹 Mac mini M4 remains nearly silent under normal use.
🔹 For heavy workloads, its single-fan cooling may struggle—a cooling solution like the Zeera MacForge Gen2 aluminum case can help with airflow and aesthetics.

Enhance Your Mac Mini M4 with the Zeera MacForge Gen2 CNC Aluminum Case - Inspired by the Mac Pro Design

If you're looking to further elevate your 2024 Mac Mini M4, the Zeera MacForge Gen2 CNC Aluminum Case is a fantastic addition! This sleek and durable case is designed to fit the Mac Mini M4 perfectly, providing improved heat dissipation and protection for your device. The aluminum construction ensures superior durability and aesthetics, while the CNC precision machining provides a perfect fit and enhanced ventilation. This case also adds a premium touch, transforming your Mac Mini into something that looks and feels even more professional.

Mac mini M4 Pricing & Apple Discounts (2025)

The Mac mini M4 starts at $599, but pricing varies based on configuration:

💰 How to Save on the Mac mini M4:

• 🎓 Apple Education Discount: Save $50-$100 if you’re a student or teacher
• 🔄 Apple Trade-In Program: Get up to $200 off when trading in an older Mac
• 🛍 Best Buy, Amazon, and Retailer Deals: Sometimes offer $50-$150 discounts or free gift cards

📢 Best Time to Buy?

• If you need it now: Get education discounts or trade-in credits
• If you can wait: Expect better deals in late 2025 (Black Friday & Back-to-School sales)

Final Verdict: Should You Buy the Mac mini M4?

✅ Buy if you need a budget-friendly, powerful macOS desktop

💡 Best Buying Strategy:

• Use Apple’s discounts (education, trade-in) to save money
• Check Best Buy, Amazon for extra deals
• Consider external cooling solutions like Zeera MacForge Gen2 for better airflow

📌 Would you buy the Mac mini M4? Let us know in the comments!