The new Apple Mac Mini looks like a gamechanger.
The new model has the new M4 chip and supports the latest Apple Intelligence features. The form factor changed so that it is now smaller and fits in the cusp of your hand.
I’ve been using all makes and models over the last 20+ years of reviewing gadgets. One of my favorite small form factor computers is the Khadas Mind Mini PC, which runs Microsoft Windows and is whisper quiet. It also has plenty of RAM installed.
The reason I like the new compact Apple Mac Mini so much comes down to a few important factors, though, which I will cover below. Each of these could be a gamechanger for how I work and boost my productivity. Stay tuned for a full review once the system ships November 8.
1. Smaller design of the Apple Mac Mini
I like the smaller size because my desk is always cluttered with extra gadgets, my phone, and random ornamental pieces like Star Wars bobble heads that my kids have given me for gifts. Space is a premium asset on my desk, and a big bulky desktop or laptop just makes it harder to work. I prefer a smaller design, and the Mac Mini is small enough that it won’t take up hardly any space (and it won’t be loud).
2. Apple Intelligence and the Mac Mini
I’m really interested in trying out the compact Mac Mini at the Apple store once I get a chance to go to my local shop at the Mall of America. I’m already using Apple Intelligence features on my iPhone 16 Pro quite frequently, and I love the new voice they are using for Siri. The bot now speaks in a much more natural way and doesn’t get confused by questions. With similar features on the new Mac Mini, I am hoping to write emails with the help of the AI tools, talk to Siri more (or at least as much as I do from my phone), and benefit from some of the new AI image editing tools.
3. Fast enough for gaming and movies
I’m in a bit of a resurgence in gaming lately, especially innovative platforming games. I also love cinematic games, so I am looking forward to trying out Death Stranding again on the Mac Mini. The processor is fast enough to keep pace with my PC laptop for sure, and the compact Mac Mini also supports very high-resolution displays. Every game will run fast and look great. Movies will also stream nicely with the faster M4 processor.
4. All the right ports, front and back
I am not sure why some mini computers and even laptops still include a USB-A port when USB-C has taken over. I like how there are ports on the front and back of the new Mac Mini, and they will work great with all of the devices I test, like a new Nikon camera I’m currently using that charges over USB-C. When you have the right ports for your gear, it means less clutter and fewer adapters and docks to take up extra space. You can also connect up to three displays at once on this powerful little machine.
5. The price of the Apple Mac Mini is just right
More than anything, the Apple Mac Mini has a solid price at $599. (Students can get $100 off that price.) The new Mac Mini comes with 16GB of RAM as well, so it will be able to keep up with all of your apps at this price point. It’s a powerful system that is ready for the AI age.