Definitive Guide to Buying a Mac mini (and NOT wasting money)

Summary

In this video, the presenter provides a detailed buyer's guide for the M4 Mac Mini, exploring the best configuration options based on different use cases and budgets. The discussion covers memory upgrades, storage options, and the trade-offs between the base M4 model and the more powerful M4 Pro. The presenter shares personal experiences with different Mac Mini configurations, highlighting the value of 16GB of memory for general use and advising caution with expensive storage upgrades. External SSDs and other accessories are recommended for budget-conscious users, while also considering the practical use of upgraded CPUs and ethernet ports.

Takeaways

• 😀 The M4 Mac Mini offers great value for most users, but its value can vary based on the upgrades chosen.
• 💻 The base model of the M4 Mac Mini comes with 16GB of memory and 256GB of storage, which is sufficient for basic tasks like web browsing, email, and light gaming.
• 🔧 Upgrading memory to 24GB or 32GB is useful for users doing more intensive tasks like video editing, graphic design, or running virtual machines, but most people don't need more than 16GB.
• 💡 Apple's memory upgrades are expensive and may not provide noticeable benefits unless you're a power user with specific needs like large-scale video editing or development work.
• 💾 Storage upgrades are similarly overpriced, with external SSDs offering more affordable and faster storage options than Apple's internal upgrades.
• 📦 For basic users, the 256GB SSD may suffice, but those with large files like photo libraries or virtual machines might need to upgrade or use external storage.
• 🔌 The M4 Pro Mac Mini offers significant improvements in CPU, GPU, and Thunderbolt ports, but in some cases, the base M4 Mac Mini might perform just as well for certain tasks.
• ⚙️ The 10Gb Ethernet upgrade is primarily for users working with large networked storage (NAS) or video production environments, though it may not be necessary for most users.
• 🖥️ The M4 Pro Mac Mini with upgraded memory and storage is a good choice for video editing or power users, but for some, the extra cost may not yield noticeable performance gains.
• 🔋 External accessories like docks, additional monitors, and backup solutions (such as Backblaze) can enhance the Mac Mini's usability, especially for content creators and those with large storage needs.

Q & A

What are the key configurations available for the M4 Mac Mini?

The M4 Mac Mini comes in four main configurations: 16GB memory with 256GB SSD (base model), 16GB memory with 512GB SSD (mid-tier), 24GB memory with 512GB SSD (higher-end), and the M4 Pro model with 24GB memory and 512GB SSD, offering additional CPU and GPU cores along with Thunderbolt 5 support.

Is it worth upgrading to the M4 Pro model over the base M4 model?

The M4 Pro model offers extra CPU and GPU cores, which can benefit professionals working with video editing or other intensive applications. However, for most users, including those working with creative apps like video editing, the base M4 model should suffice unless you're doing intensive work daily, making the M4 Pro upgrade less justifiable for general use.

What’s the recommended amount of memory for most users?

For most users, 16GB of memory is sufficient, especially for tasks like web browsing, document writing, and light gaming. Upgrading to 24GB might be worthwhile if you’re working with larger applications or doing tasks like video editing or software development. Anything beyond 24GB, such as 32GB, is typically only necessary for professionals working on memory-intensive tasks like multi-track editing or running virtual machines.

How does Apple’s storage upgrade pricing compare to third-party options?

Apple charges a premium for storage upgrades, often at a much higher price than third-party options. For example, upgrading from a 256GB SSD to a 512GB SSD costs about £200, whereas you can buy a third-party 2TB SSD for a fraction of that price, making third-party storage a far more economical solution for users needing more space.

What storage configuration do most users need for the M4 Mac Mini?

For most users, 256GB of storage should be enough for everyday tasks, though you’ll have limited space after system files and apps are installed. If you work with larger files like video or virtual machines, consider upgrading to 512GB or 1TB. However, it’s often more cost-effective to invest in an external SSD rather than upgrading Apple’s internal storage.

Is upgrading the M4 Mac Mini’s Ethernet port to 10Gb worth it?

Upgrading to a 10Gb Ethernet port can be useful for users working with large files or in professional environments that require fast network speeds, such as video production or NAS setups. However, for most home or office users, the standard 1Gb Ethernet port is sufficient, and the upgrade may not be worth the additional cost.

What are the potential benefits of upgrading to 24GB of RAM?

Upgrading to 24GB of RAM is beneficial for users who need to run more intensive applications, such as video editing, coding environments, or working with large files. It provides smoother multitasking and ensures that applications have enough memory for complex processes. However, for regular office work or general use, 16GB of RAM should be more than enough.

How does external storage compare to Apple’s internal storage upgrades?

External storage, particularly fast SSDs like the Crucial X10 Pro, can offer better value than Apple’s internal storage upgrades. With Thunderbolt or USB-C connectivity, external drives can offer high-speed data transfer without the exorbitant prices of Apple’s storage upgrades. This is an excellent solution for users who need additional space without paying a premium.

What accessories are recommended to enhance the Mac Mini experience?

Recommended accessories include a keyboard (e.g., Logitech MX Keys), a mouse (e.g., Logitech MX Master 3), a good quality monitor (e.g., Samsung M8 Smart Monitor), a UPS for power backup (e.g., APC Backup UPS), and external SSDs for additional storage. Additionally, a Thunderbolt 4 dock, such as the CalDigit TS4, can expand connectivity options by adding ports like SD card readers, USB ports, and Ethernet.

What’s the best option for users who don’t need Apple’s expensive storage upgrades?

For users who don’t need Apple’s expensive internal storage upgrades, it’s recommended to go for an external SSD. High-speed drives like the Crucial X10 Pro are a cost-effective alternative, offering plenty of storage space at a fraction of the price of Apple’s 1TB or 2TB SSD options. You can easily expand your Mac Mini’s storage capacity with an external drive while saving money.