NEW M4 Mac Mini Base Model vs M4 Pro Mac Mini Stress Test: DON'T REGRET Your Purchase! 16GB vs 24GB

Summary

In this detailed comparison, Dave reviews the $599 base model and $1,400 Pro model of the M4 Mac Mini, highlighting their performance across various tasks such as video editing, 3D modeling, gaming, and thermals. While the base model offers impressive value for everyday use, the Pro version excels in speed, efficiency, and handling more demanding workloads, especially for professionals and those running businesses. Dave explains the trade-offs, emphasizing that the base model is ideal for casual users, while the Pro version is suited for heavy multitaskers and content creators looking to future-proof their setups.

Takeaways

• 😀 The $599 base M4 Mac Mini (16 GB RAM) impressed with its performance in multitasking, video editing, and light 3D modeling, making it a solid choice for most users.
• 😀 After two weeks of usage, the M4 Mac Mini proved capable for general productivity but showed limitations when pushing heavy workloads, particularly for YouTubers and content creators who need faster export times.
• 😀 The $1,400 M4 Pro Mac Mini demonstrated better performance, particularly in tasks like video export, where it completed exports up to 10 minutes faster than the base model.
• 😀 For most casual users, the base M4 Mac Mini is sufficient for video editing, with smooth performance, but the Pro model offers a noticeably smoother timeline experience with less stuttering.
• 😀 The $1,400 Pro Mac Mini outperforms the base model in photo editing, especially when batch exporting large numbers of images or using noise reduction.
• 😀 Gamers will find a significant difference between the two models: the M4 Pro can handle 4K gaming at high settings with 30-40 FPS, while the base model struggles to maintain 30 FPS, even at lower settings.
• 😀 The base M4 Mac Mini can still handle 1440p or 1080p gaming at better frame rates (35-50 FPS), making it a good budget option for gamers who don't need 4K.
• 😀 In 3D modeling software like Blender, the base M4 Mac Mini struggles with complex geometry, whereas the M4 Pro model handles these tasks more smoothly, with faster exports.
• 😀 Thermals are generally well-managed on both models, even under heavy use, with both Mac Minis staying cool to warm under normal workloads and only heating up during graphically intense tasks like gaming.
• 😀 For most users, the base $599 Mac Mini offers excellent value for general use, but those involved in content creation or business workflows may find the $1,400 M4 Pro Mac Mini better suited to their needs for performance and future-proofing.

Q & A

How does the base $599 M4 Mac Mini compare to the $1,400 M4 Pro Mac Mini for video editing?

The base $599 M4 Mac Mini performs well in video editing, handling timelines smoothly and exporting 4K footage, but the $1,400 M4 Pro Mac Mini offers a smoother editing experience with fewer micro stutters. It also exports video about 10 minutes faster for 10-minute 4K footage, making it a better choice for those needing higher efficiency in professional editing.

Is the $599 M4 Mac Mini sufficient for heavy multitasking and productivity tasks?

Yes, the base $599 M4 Mac Mini handles multitasking well for most users, including running 50–70 Chrome tabs, using Google Sheets and Docs, and doing light photo and video editing. However, for power users with heavier workloads, the $1,400 Pro model provides better overall performance and smoother multitasking.

How does the $599 M4 Mac Mini handle gaming, particularly at 4K resolution?

The base $599 M4 Mac Mini struggles to maintain a consistent 30 FPS at 4K resolution with high settings. It can run games at 4K, but the settings need to be lowered, and performance is less smooth compared to the M4 Pro model. For 1440p or 1080p gaming, the base model performs much better, reaching 35-50 FPS depending on the game.

What kind of professional users would benefit from the $1,400 M4 Pro Mac Mini?

Professional users like content creators, video editors, and 3D modelers who require fast processing speeds, smoother timelines, and faster export times will benefit from the M4 Pro. It is also suited for business owners looking to future-proof their setup and scale their workflows efficiently.

What is the main difference between the $599 and $1,400 Mac Mini models in terms of export speeds?

The main difference is that the $1,400 M4 Pro Mac Mini exports 4K footage about 10 minutes faster than the $599 M4 Mac Mini for a 10-minute video. This time difference can be significant for professionals who need to optimize their workflows and save time during the editing process.

How does the $599 M4 Mac Mini perform with 3D modeling in software like Blender?

The $599 M4 Mac Mini can handle basic 3D modeling tasks, but as the complexity of the scene increases (more geometry, meshes, etc.), performance starts to suffer. It may become less smooth when navigating complex scenes, whereas the $1,400 M4 Pro Mac Mini can handle these tasks more efficiently and with less lag.

What does the $1,400 M4 Pro Mac Mini offer in terms of thermals and noise under heavy use?

Under heavy use, like gaming or rendering, the $1,400 M4 Pro Mac Mini generates more heat and fan noise compared to the base model, but it remains manageable and doesn't reach concerning temperatures. It still stays within a safe range, remaining cool enough for extended use without significant discomfort.

How do the thermals of the $599 M4 Mac Mini compare under similar workloads?

The $599 M4 Mac Mini also manages heat well during everyday use, staying cool to slightly warm. However, when pushed with demanding tasks like gaming or intensive video editing, the fans may kick in, but the system still operates within acceptable temperature limits and doesn't become overly hot.

Is the $599 M4 Mac Mini a good choice for casual users or small businesses?

Yes, the $599 M4 Mac Mini is a great choice for casual users or small businesses that need a budget-friendly option for daily productivity tasks, basic content creation, and light multitasking. It's ideal for those who don't require high-end performance but still need a capable machine for day-to-day operations.

Should I upgrade to the $1,400 M4 Pro Mac Mini if I mainly do light photo and video editing?

If you're only doing light photo and video editing, the $599 M4 Mac Mini will likely suffice. However, if you're looking for faster export times, smoother video editing, and better performance in demanding tasks (like batch processing or 3D rendering), upgrading to the $1,400 M4 Pro may be worth it in the long run.