In November 2020, Apple introduced a new generation of Macs powered by the M1 chip, including the redesigned Mac Mini during its special digital event. This review dives into the M1 Mac Mini, examining its features, performance, and what it offers users.
M1 Mac Mini: A Significant Upgrade
The Mac Mini is the first Apple desktop to feature the powerful, Arm-based M1 chip. This Apple Silicon chip integrates the CPU, GPU, RAM, and other components for enhanced efficiency and performance.
The M1 Mac Mini starts at $699 and includes an 8-core CPU (four high-efficiency and four high-performance cores), an 8-core GPU, 256GB of storage, and 8GB of RAM. In comparison, the 2018 Intel Mac Mini with a 3.0 GHz Core i3 started at $799.
Key Features:
- M1 Apple Silicon chip with 8-core CPU and 8-core GPU
- Thunderbolt 3/USB 4 ports
- 8GB or 16GB of RAM
- Up to 2TB of storage
- Starting price of $699
What is the Apple Mac Mini?
The Mac Mini is a compact desktop computer that can be paired with existing peripherals. Apple sells it “solo,” allowing users to connect their own display, keyboard, and mouse. It includes built-in apps like iBooks, iTunes, Mail, and FaceTime, along with multiple ports, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. Its portability offers flexibility for users who need a powerful desktop for work or travel.
Apple Mac Mini (2020) Design
The M1 Mac Mini (2020) shares the same flat, square-shaped 1.4-inch x 7.7-inch aluminum design as its predecessor, but comes in a Silver finish. The 2018 Intel version was available in Space Gray.
A key internal design feature is the integrated fan, which keeps the system cool and quiet under load, similar to the 2020 MacBook Pro 13.
Apple Mac Mini M1 Ports
One of the main differences between the Intel and M1 Mac Mini is the port selection. The M1 Mac Mini has:
- Two Thunderbolt 3/USB 4 ports
- One HDMI 2.0 port
- Two USB-A ports
- One Gigabit Ethernet port
- One 3.5mm headphone jack
The 2020 M1-based Mac Mini has two Thunderbolt ports, while the 2018 version had four.
Apple Mac Mini M1 Display Support
The Mac Mini M1 2020 model supports a maximum of two displays:
- One display up to 6K resolution via Thunderbolt
- One display up to 4K resolution via HDMI 2.0
The previous generation supported up to two 5K displays. While this is sufficient for most users, creative professionals who rely on multiple high-resolution displays may find the Intel Mac Mini more suitable.
Apple Mac Mini 2020 Performance
The latest M1 chip is the most significant upgrade to the 2020 Mac Mini. This Apple Silicon processor is a system on a chip (SoC) that integrates the CPU, GPU, RAM, and security features.
The M1 chip delivers:
- Up to 3x faster CPU performance
- Up to 6x faster GPU performance (8-core GPU)
- Up to 15x faster machine learning (16-core Neural Engine)
Apps like Final Cut Pro leverage the M1’s Neural Engine for tasks like video editing, resulting in significantly faster performance.
Final Thoughts
The M1 chip represents a major performance leap for the Apple Mac Mini line. Starting at $699, the 2020 Mac Mini offers a compelling value compared to earlier, more expensive Intel-based models. Finally, if you consider an upgrade, Mac trade in with Gadget Salvation is a quick way to get some cash and reduce the cost of your new computer. Visit the website and calculate an instant offer on your pre-loved Mac.
