ARM processors are generally more power-efficient, which impacts performance, battery life on laptops, and so on. The M1 processor is built using the ARM architecture, while Intel's processors are built on the x86 architecture. The M1 chip is Apple's first self-developed processor for computers, but it leverages the years of experience Apple has in building processors for the iPhone and iPad line. It's important to briefly explain why this is such a big, important switch. Thankfully, the M1 Mac Mini performs like a dream. More important than the design of the new Mac Mini, given the switch to a new type of processor, is performance. The fact that it's small means it should also fit in tight spaces, if that's something that's important to you. The computer is small and compact, and should sit right at home on any desk or table. Generally speaking, the M1 Mac Mini keeps everything users knew and loved about the design of the Mac Mini. I did miss having the extra two USB-C ports on offer by the Intel-based Mac Mini, but was quickly able to change my workflow to work fine with the fewer ports – and most people will be perfectly happy with what's on offer here. USB-C ), a headphone jack, and an ethernet port. The M1 Mac Mini offers an HDMI port, two USB-A ports, two USB 4 ports ( Around the back of the M1 Mac Mini, you'll get a slightly different selection of ports, though it's still enough for the vast majority of users. Unfortunately, the M1 Mac Mini is not available in Space Gray, which is my preferred color choice. The silver that the M1 Mac Mini comes in is also the same silver that you can get the previous-generation model in. The computers are the same size and shape, coming in 7.7 inches deep and wide, and 1.4 inches thick. You'd be forgiven for assuming that there's no real difference between the new M1 Mac Mini and the last-generation 2018 Mac Mini. HDMI 2.0, 2x USB-C (Thunderbolt 3, Thunderbolt 2, DisplayPort, HDMI, USB 4, USB 3.1 Gen 2), 2x USB-A, Gigabit Ethernet, 3.5mm headphone jack Does the M1 Mac Mini overcome those challenges? I've been using it for a while now to find out. And, along with the new processor comes a whole set of challenges, both for Apple, and for the user who would have to deal with any shortcomings and confusion that might come from switching to an all-new processor architecture. Alongside the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro, the 2021 Mac Mini is one of the first Apple computers to run on Apple's new, self-built ARM-based processors, the M1, instead of Intel processors.

That's why I've used my 2018 Mac Mini as my daily computer since its release – and why I was very excited for Apple's refresh of the computer this year.īut the new Mac Mini represents more than just a refresh. It's the perfect computer for those that want an inexpensive desktop Mac, especially for those who like the idea of something compact, and who don't mind using their own keyboard and mouse. The Mac Mini often gets overlooked in Apple's lineup, but it's actually one of Apple's most-loved computers, and for good reason.

Apple mac mini computer