What is the difference between a Mac and a Mac mini?

The most notable difference is that the M1 version of the MacBook Air only offers a 7-core GPU, while the Mac mini models have an 8-core GPU and the M2 MacBook Air offers a 10-core GPU. The Intel 3.0GHz Mac mini model has an integrated graphics card – Intel UHD Graphics.

Is Mac mini better than MacBook?

Mac mini vs MacBook Air: connectivity

Whether you go for an M1 or Intel Mac mini, it's the clear winner over the MacBook Air when it comes to connectivity. The MacBook Air is limited to just two Thunderbolt 3 ports (with transfers speeds of up to 40Gb/s) and a headphone jack.

What is the point of a mini Mac?

Apple's Mac mini is exactly that: a mini Mac. It's a small, portable desktop computer that can turn any screen into a Mac-powered smart computer. A computer that can be used for digital signage. And we love it.

What are the disadvantages of a Mac mini?

Cons: Requires one to have, or to purchase, a display, keyboard, and mouse. Depending on the desired configuration, it may be more cost-effective to purchase a faster Intel-based iMac. Upgrading the RAM, hard drive, or processor requires prying open the case.

Is a Mac mini as powerful as an iMac?

At their core, both the Mac Mini and the iMac have the same computing power. Both run on Apple's M1 processor, which handily outperforms most laptops running on midrange Intel or AMD processors.

iMac M1 24" (2021) vs Mac Mini M1 - Which to Buy?

Can you use any monitor with a Mac mini?

Yes, you can connect the Mac Mini to virtually any monitor as long as you have the proper ports or adapters. The Mac Mini really is flexible, and it comes with two display outputs. One is USB-C/Thunderbolt and the other is HDMI 2.0. You can get adapters and accessories to convert it to DVI or VGA monitors.

Does a Mac mini have a camera?

Apart from the Mac mini and Mac Pro, all Macs have one of Apple's FaceTime cameras already built in, so you don't necessarily need to buy a new webcam for video calls.

Is 256GB Mac mini enough?

If you're going the M1 route, for general use and workloads, 8GB of memory and a 256GB SSD is fine. For heavier use, 16GB of memory and a 512GB SSD is preferable.

Does Mini Mac have WIFI?

Mac mini: Connectivity

The Mac mini has Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. It also has a gigabit ethernet port, in case you want to connect to a wired network. A 10 gigabit ethernet option is available for an additional fee. There are also Thunderbolt/USB ports (see the Mac mini: Ports section above).

Is Mac mini portable or desktop?

Measuring 7.7 x 7.7 x 1.4 inches and weighing 2.6 pounds, the Mac Mini is more portable than most desktops. But to use it at, for example, a café, you also need to carry some sort of display.

Is Mac mini better value?

Its affordable MSRP translates to more affordable pricing for new models, and the lack of premium features makes this model less desirable. You can purchase a used Mac mini for hundreds, even thousands less than a Mac Pro or iMac of similar vintage.

Which Mac is best value for money?

Apple MacBook Air (M1, Late 2020)

The M1-equipped MacBook Air now packs far better performance than its predecessors, rivaling at times the M1-based MacBook Pro. At $999, it's the best value among macOS laptops.

Can I plug Mac mini into laptop?

You cannot directly connect the laptop to your Mac Mini like a traditional monitor with a VGA or HDMI port. Instead, you must configure wireless screen sharing. This feature allows you to remotely control a Mac Mini from your laptop as long as the computers are both on the same network.

How long will a Mac Mini last?

A Mac Mini is usually more of an entry level Mac, but can be configured with faster processors, expanded memory and larger hard drives that will extend the life span. This makes their effective life span 3 to 5 years.

How much storage do I need for Mac Mini?

Finally, the last consumer Mac hardware is the Mac Mini, which begins at 256GB of base storage. With some upgrades, you can max out memory at 2TB with 512GB and 1TB storage sizes landing in the middle. Like the MacBook models, upgrades max at $200, $400 and $800 respectively.

Why do new Imacs have less storage?

The root of all the change for the iMac is that Apple gave it a new kind of brain. Instead of the Intel processors Macs have used for years, Apple is now using its in-house M1 chip, similar to the ones found in iPhones. The M1 chip gets less hot — meaning the iMac doesn't need large fans inside.

Can I use zoom on a Mac mini?

Zoom's New Update

Just before the holiday kicked off, Zoom launched an update that significantly improved the video chat platform's functionality on Apple's new ARM-based M1 processors, which include devices like the new MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, and Mac mini.

Does Mac mini have a speaker?

Does the Mac Mini have speakers? Mac Mini has speakers in them; however, they don't produce the kind of sound most people want. The sound is embarrassing, so many people opt to buy Bluetooth speakers for better sound quality.

Does Mac mini come with keyboard?

The Mac mini is Apple's tiny desktop computer and the cheapest Mac you can buy, but it doesn't come with a monitor, mouse or keyboard, and hasn't been updated since 2014.

What I need to buy with a Mac mini?

There are a few things to keep in mind before you opt for the M1 Mac mini. For instance, it often catches people out that the Mac mini doesn't come with any peripherals. That means you'll need to buy your own mouse and keyboard, or add Apple's options to your basket before check-out. You'll also need a monitor.

Does Mac mini have battery?

The time and date, as well as other settings, are kept by the PRAM battery when your machine is off. Replacement battery is a CR2032 3v lithium button cell.