The M1 processor is shared by Apple’s M1 Mac Mini and 24-inch iMac, making the decision between the two machines one of preference and budget. Do you have to have (or badly want to have) a state-of-the-art screen and sound system that is also simple to operate? Or do you just need a simple computer that can handle all of your programs? We compare the M1-powered Mac Mini against the smaller 24-inch iMac so you can make an informed decision. To that end, we’ll compare and contrast the iMac, MacBook Pro, and Mac mini so you can make an informed decision.
Mac Mini vs Imac
Apple offers several models of Mac computers aimed at various demographics. The Mac mini and iMac, in contrast to the more portable MacBook range, are full-fledged desktop computers. These Macs share more in common than you may expect, thanks to Apple silicon. Since both Macs are designed for desktop usage, you may find it difficult to decide which one is best for you. Therefore, in order to help you choose, we’ll highlight the key distinctions between the Mac mini, MacBook Pro, and iMac.
#1. Mac Mini vs. Imac: Internal Hardware and Performance
Although the Mac mini and iMac couldn’t look more different on the outside, you might be shocked to learn that they really use some of the same hardware, although the iMac is clearly superior. However, the iMac hasn’t been upgraded since 2021; therefore, it’s still running on the older M1 chip even though the Mac mini was updated in 2023. While that may be disappointing, the M1 is still fine for regular use, and the performance boost from the M1 to the M2 isn’t all that noticeable.
Keep in mind that an 8-core processor powers each of these Macs. Standard versions of both devices include 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. The base iMac has a 7-core GPU, but the Mac mini’s M2 processor has an extra 3, so it would be more capable of handling graphically intense activities.
If you need a Mac mini for professional use with intensive programs, you can obtain one with a supercharged M2 Pro chip that has 12 CPU cores and 19 GPU cores. We regret to inform prospective iMac buyers that this is not a viable alternative.
Both the Mac mini and the iMac use an inbuilt fan to maintain safe operating temperatures even under prolonged use. Both are fine for everyday tasks, but the Mac mini is the superior option if speed is your top concern.
Keep in mind that the iMac is an all-in-one computer with a high-definition screen and a built-in camera for use with Apple’s FaceTime video calling service. If you go with the Mac mini, you’ll have to buy them alone. As a result, the total price is somewhat high.
#2. The Mac Mini Versus the Imac: Portability and Form Factor
You can’t get a Mac smaller than the Mac mini. At first sight, it could be mistaken for a larger Apple TV, but the fact that a whole computer fits into such a compact form factor is quite remarkable. The iMac, on the other hand, resembles a standard computer monitor, except that its circuitry is concealed in its lower facet. It’s also quite svelte and has a low profile.
The Mac mini is the lighter and more portable option because it does not have a display, but the iMac is still not a particularly bulky computer. If you can find a place for that screen, it weighs just under 10 pounds, so you can still take it around if you want to.
The Mac mini is compact enough to pack in a suitcase and can be used virtually anywhere a TV is available. Your iMac will be more difficult to transport in that configuration. In this respect, the Mac mini triumphs.
#3. The Imac and Mac Mini: Which One Has Better Connectivity Options?
The Mac mini also excels in this respect. Two Thunderbolt 3 and USB 4 ports are included with the standard M1 iMac configuration. If you want Gigabit Ethernet on your iMac, you’ll need to shell out an extra $30 for the power brick that also includes an Ethernet connector.
The Ethernet adapter and an extra pair of USB 4 ports are available on the midrange and high-end iMac models.
Conversely, the Mac mini has two Thunderbolt 4 connections, two USB-A ports, an HDMI 2.0 port, and Gigabit Ethernet with support for 10 Gigabit Ethernet as an optional upgrade. The Mac mini is an obvious choice if you’d rather not invest in a plethora of dongles to connect your various devices and accessories.
#4. Comparison of Mac Mini vs iMac Accessories
You get an iMac set up on a desk with a keyboard and mouse that match. To maintain low pricing, Apple doesn’t include the magic keyboard or magic mouse with any of the Mac mini models. So, remember this and set aside a couple hundred dollars. You don’t have to buy a new keyboard or mouse if you don’t want to; just plug them into the available USB ports.
The magic keyboard and magic mouse are standard accessories for the M1 iMac. You’ve paid your dues and are now ready to go forward. It’s important to note, though, that if you want a magic keyboard with Touch ID, you’ll need to spring for one of the more expensive models.
You can’t get Touch ID on your Mac mini even if you wanted to because Apple doesn’t sell the new keyboard separately.
#5. Imac vs. Mac Mini for a Better Desktop Experience
Let’s talk about which desktop environment each Mac offers. The iMac is a great option for those who want a simple computer. There is just one cable on your desk, and it’s the power cord. The magic keyboard and magic mouse, both of which are included, are wireless attachments. Furthermore, you shouldn’t have to worry about wire management because the Gigabit Ethernet connector is built right into the power adapter.
The hardware and accessories you pair with your Mac mini will determine the quality of your desktop experience. For example, if you use wired keyboards, you may have a tangled mass of connections on your desk, from your keyboards to your monitor. You’ll have a hard time replicating the M1 iMac’s bare-bones configuration elsewhere.
#6. Mac Mini vs iMac: Cost Analysis
When comparing two distinct Macs, discussing pricing can be challenging. The lowest-priced Mac model is the Mac mini, which starts at just $599. Keep in mind that a keyboard, mouse, or display is not included.
There will be additional costs of at least a thousand dollars for all the extras and add-ons. The M2 Pro Mac mini starts at $1,299, which means the grand sum may well surpass $2,000.
The starting price of the M1 iMac is $1,299, but for that price, you get an all-in-one desktop with a gorgeous, accurate-color 4.5K display. Also included are the magic keyboard and magic mouse, both of which are wireless. However, there are limits to the entry-level iMac that may make you opt for the Mac mini instead.
When using third-party accessories with your Mac mini, you can easily save hundreds of dollars. The Mac mini has a 10-core GPU and more ports than the iMac, so don’t discount it.
Mac Mini vs MacBook Pro
Early in 2023, Apple released two new Mac computers, the MacBook Pro and the Mac Mini. Both run on variants of Apple’s M2 CPU and have macOS Ventura installed. These two machines may look identical, but they are actually very different. The Mac Mini is a desktop computer, as opposed to the portable MacBook Pro. They differ in price, number of ports, and a variety of other ways. Should you get the Mac Mini (2023) or the MacBook Pro (2023)?
#1. Mac Mini vs. MacBook Pro: Cost and Availability
There are a plethora of Apple MacBook Pro configurations to choose from. You may pick from a 14-inch or 16-inch display, silver or space gray casing, and either an M2 Pro or M2 Max processor. Apple and most major U.S. retailers sell 14- and 16-inch models of the laptop for $1,999 and $2,499, respectively. The single-color option for the Mac Mini is silver. You can get an M2 for $599 and an M2 Pro for $1,299 in the US.
#2. MacBook Pro vs Mac Mini: Ports and Connectivity
Connectivity and port availability make this a strong contender. The characteristics table reveals that the device has Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, an HDMI 2.1 connection, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. The fact that the MacBook Pro (2023) includes a MagSafe 3 charging port is somewhat moot given that the Mac Mini (2023) is always plugged into an external power source. This portable computer also has space for an SD card and three Thunderbolt 4 connections.
#3. MacBook Pro vs. Mac Mini : Which Should You Buy?
In 2023, Apple will sell not one but two quite different laptops: the MacBook Pro and the Mac Mini. The former is a lightweight and powerful laptop, while the latter is a budget-friendly yet stationary computer. Only Apple’s MacBook Pro combines a keyboard, trackpad, and screen into a single chassis. If your requirements are too rigorous for the M2 Pro processor to handle, the Mac Mini is also out of the question.
What Is the Disadvantage of a Mac Mini?
Despite its considerable size and impressive capabilities, the Mac Mini possesses many limitations, including restricted storage options, subpar multitasking capabilities, and an inability to accommodate multiple monitors.
Is Mac Mini Faster Than Mac Pro?
The earliest benchmark results for the 12-core M2 Pro Mac mini indicate a single-core score of 1,952 and a multi-core score of 15,013, as measured by Geekbench.
Can You Edit on a Mac Mini?
The Mac mini is capable of effectively running any video editing program. Furthermore, the Mac mini possesses a diverse array of other programs.
How Many Years Can a Mac Mini Last?
While the Mac Mini is commonly regarded as an introductory-level Mac, its longevity can be significantly enhanced with the modification of its processor, RAM, and hard drive components. The outcome yields a practical duration of three to five years. When a high level of processing performance is needed, the Mac Pro is unrivaled.
Can We Use Mac Mini With Any Laptop?
The Mac Mini has the capability to establish a connection with a VGA-compatible monitor through the utilization of a suitable adapter. Although the Mac Mini does come with an HDMI-to-DVI converter, it’s important to keep in mind that Apple monitors are the main DVI users. Therefore, in order to connect the Mac Mini to a non-Apple monitor, it may be necessary to obtain an HDMI-to-VGA or small display port-to-VGA adaptor.
Why Are Mac Minis So Slow?
Resource-intensive applications are frequently responsible for the decreased performance of a Mac Mini. Obsolete iterations of macOS or software. The available storage capacity on the hard drive is nearly depleted.
What Is the Disadvantage of Imac?
Costly. One of the primary disadvantages associated with the iMac is its elevated cost. The Apple iMac is characterized by a very high price point and a comparatively limited feature set when compared to Windows-based computers.
What Is Better iPhone or Mac?
The decision about this matter rests solely with you, taking into consideration your specific needs and preferences. If one is in need of a computer and desires optimal performance, it is advisable to choose a Macintosh computer. Moreover, should there be a requirement for a mobile device, iPhones present themselves as a commendable alternative. As is often understood, both computers and mobile phones fulfill a diverse range of practical functions.
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