We compare the Mac mini M4 vs. the Mac mini M4 Pro chip.
Overall, the Mac mini with the M4 Pro chip offers a significant performance jump over the M4 model.
Here’s a breakdown:
Table of Contents
CPU
- M4 Pro: 12-core CPU (8 performance cores + 4 efficiency cores)
- M4: 10-core CPU (8 performance cores + 2 efficiency cores)
The M4 Pro has two more performance cores than the M4, resulting in noticeably faster processing speeds, especially for demanding tasks like video editing, software development, and running multiple professional applications.
GPU
- M4 Pro: 16-core GPU
- M4: 10-core GPU
The M4 Pro boasts a more powerful GPU with 6 more cores.
This translates to a substantial improvement in graphics performance, benefiting tasks like 3D rendering, video editing, and gaming.
Unified Memory
- M4 Pro: 24GB
- M4: 16GB
The M4 Pro offers 8GB more unified memory.
This extra memory allows for smoother multitasking and handling larger files and complex projects without slowdowns.
SSD Storage
- M4 Pro: 512GB
- M4: 256GB
The M4 Pro comes with double the SSD storage.
This means you’ll have more space for your applications, documents, and media files.
Overall Performance
Expect the Mac mini with the M4 Pro chip to be significantly faster and more capable than the M4 model, especially in tasks that utilize the CPU and GPU heavily.
The increased memory and storage further enhance its performance and versatility.
Which one to choose?
If you need a Mac mini for everyday tasks like web browsing, email, and office productivity, the M4 model is a great choice.
However, if you’re a professional user or someone who needs to run demanding applications, the M4 Pro is worth the investment for its superior performance and capabilities.
Mac Mini M4 & M4 Pro vs. Mac Mini M1
Both the M4 and M4 Pro Mac minis offer a considerable performance boost over the 2020 M1 model.
Here’s a breakdown based on Apple’s claims and independent benchmarks:
M4 vs. M1
- CPU: Apple states the M4’s CPU is up to 1.8x faster than the M1. This translates to significantly quicker performance in everyday tasks and demanding applications.
- GPU: Apple claims the M4’s GPU is up to 2.2x faster than the M1. Expect smoother graphics, faster video editing, and improved gaming performance.
M4 Pro vs. M1
- CPU: While Apple doesn’t provide a direct CPU comparison between the M4 Pro and M1, it’s safe to say the M4 Pro is significantly faster due to its increased core count and architectural improvements. Expect a major leap in performance for multi-core tasks.
- GPU: Apple claims the M4 Pro’s GPU is twice as fast as the M4, which itself is already a considerable upgrade over the M1. This means the M4 Pro delivers an even more substantial boost in graphics performance.
Real-world performance gains
Independent benchmarks generally support Apple’s claims. You can expect to see noticeable improvements in tasks like:
- Video editing: Rendering and exporting videos will be significantly faster on both the M4 and M4 Pro.
- Software development: Compiling code and running simulations will be quicker, especially on the M4 Pro.
- Gaming: Expect smoother frame rates and better graphics, particularly on the M4 Pro.
- Everyday tasks: General responsiveness, multitasking, and app launching will feel snappier on both new models.
Key takeaway
The M4 and M4 Pro Mac minis represent a significant upgrade over the M1 model.
If you’re looking for a noticeable performance boost, either model will deliver.
However, the M4 Pro offers the most significant gains for users with demanding workloads.
