Mac & MacBook Buying Guide 2024 - Don't Waste Your Money!

Summary

This video provides a comprehensive look at Apple's Mac Mini lineup, focusing on the M4 and M4 Pro models. The Mac Mini offers impressive performance for both consumers and professionals, with excellent connectivity and affordability. The reviewer emphasizes the value of upgrading storage over memory, given the limited upgradeability of Apple’s hardware. Additionally, they highlight Apple’s certified refurbished store as a way to save money on high-end models. Offering practical advice on when to buy, the video encourages users to make thoughtful purchasing decisions without waiting too long for the next refresh cycle.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Mac Mini is a compact and affordable entry-level Mac with great connectivity and performance options, ideal for both consumers and professionals.
• 😀 The Mac Mini offers two chip options: the M4 chip (with a 10-core CPU and GPU) for general users and the M4 Pro chip (with a 12-core CPU and 16-core GPU) for those requiring more power.
• 😀 The base model starts at $599, which is a budget-friendly way to enter the Mac ecosystem, especially for users who already own peripherals like monitors and keyboards.
• 😀 Storage upgrades are essential: the base model comes with only 256 GB of SSD storage, which may not be enough for many users. The $200 upgrade to 512 GB is recommended for future-proofing.
• 😀 The M4 Pro version offers higher specs with 512 GB of SSD, 24 GB of unified memory, and the M4 Pro chip, but starts at $1,399, making it more suited for professional work.
• 😀 Apple's certified refurbished products are an excellent option for saving money while still getting the performance of a brand-new device, complete with warranty.
• 😀 Refurbished Macs are indistinguishable from new devices and can be significantly cheaper. For example, M2 Ultra Max Studios are available at $600 less than new models.
• 😀 Macs have a nearly annual refresh cycle, so it’s important to consider whether you need the latest model or if buying now is still a good choice depending on your needs.
• 😀 Buying a Mac with future-proofing in mind is key: SSD upgrades are more crucial than memory upgrades since the memory is typically fixed and non-upgradable.
• 😀 While Apple Silicon has advanced performance, it has also limited upgradeability, so it's important to choose wisely and invest in more storage if possible for long-term use.

Q & A

What are the key differences between the Mac Mini and the Mac Studio?

The Mac Mini is smaller and more affordable, aimed at both consumers and professionals. It sits between the Apple TV 4K and the Mac Studio in terms of size. The Mac Studio is larger and more powerful, designed for more intensive professional use.

How does the M4 chip in the Mac Mini compare to the M4 Pro?

The M4 chip in the base Mac Mini offers a 10-core CPU and GPU, making it powerful for general use. The M4 Pro, found in higher-end Mac Minis, includes a 12-core CPU and 16-core GPU, offering significantly better performance, especially for demanding tasks like video editing or 3D rendering.

Is the base storage of 256GB in the Mac Mini sufficient for most users?

The base 256GB SSD might not be enough for users who store a lot of data or work with large files. It’s recommended to upgrade to the 512GB model if you want more storage and a longer-lasting experience, though it comes at an additional cost.

What are the main advantages of the Mac Mini for someone entering the Apple ecosystem?

The Mac Mini is an affordable entry point into the Apple ecosystem, offering excellent connectivity and powerful M4 chip performance in a compact size. It’s ideal for users who already own peripherals like a monitor, keyboard, and mouse.

What is the advantage of choosing a certified refurbished Apple product?

Certified refurbished products from Apple are thoroughly inspected, refurbished, and sold with an Apple warranty. They are nearly indistinguishable from new products but come at a lower price. This is a good option for those looking to save money without sacrificing quality.

How does the availability of certified refurbished Apple devices work?

Apple's certified refurbished store offers real-time stock updates. You can't customize your order, so availability varies. Some devices may be in stock for a limited time, such as specific models of MacBooks or Mac Studios, often at a significant discount.

Why should someone prioritize SSD upgrades over memory upgrades when buying a new Mac?

With Apple's current architecture, the SSD is non-upgradable, while memory upgrades are relatively expensive. Focusing on a larger SSD ensures you have enough storage for the lifespan of the device, while 16GB of memory is usually sufficient for most tasks.

What is the recommended strategy when considering whether to buy a new Mac now or wait for the next release?

It's generally a good idea to buy what suits your needs now, especially if you're not waiting for a specific upcoming model. While new releases happen annually or semi-annually, waiting for the next version may not always be necessary, especially if your current needs are met.

What future-proofing considerations should be kept in mind when buying a Mac?

When purchasing a Mac, consider upgrading the SSD storage to ensure long-term usability. Since Apple’s devices have non-upgradable storage, investing in more storage upfront helps prevent running out of space as software and files grow over time.

Is it worth upgrading to the M4 Pro model if I need a Mac for work or content creation?

Yes, the M4 Pro model offers superior performance with a more powerful CPU and GPU, making it a great choice for professionals working on demanding tasks such as video editing, 3D modeling, or software development. It’s more expensive but may be worth the investment for heavy-duty work.