Mac Mini M4 vs iMac M4 : What’s the difference

Apart from MacBooks, Apple’s computing product portfolio also includes the Mac Mini M4, iMac M4, Mac Studio, and Mac Pro. These serve a wide range of users depending on their needs. They are often ideal for demanding tasks and found in office environments.

The Mac Mini M4 and iMac M4 are excellent options for workstations unless you require the level of power that the Mac Studio and Mac Pro have. Notably, the former two are now equipped with the Cupertino-based tech giant’s latest silicon. However, their design, features, and target audience differ significantly. 

It’s easier to get confused between the Mac Mini M4 and iMac M4 as both of them are two desktop computing solutions. The key is to understand your requirements and priorities. In this post, we do our best to help you overcome your dilemma between the two. 

Mac Mini M4 vs iMac M4: differences

The obvious difference between the Mac Mini M4 and iMac M4 is in terms of design and functionality. The former is a compact, standalone computer that requires external peripherals like a monitor, keyboard, and mouse. On the other hand, the iMac M4 is an all-in-one desktop consisting of a display, keyboard, and mouse. 

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The Mac Mini M4 is highly portable with a small form factor thus saving desk space. The latest generation model is so tiny that you could literally take it with you everywhere as long as there is a compatible display and peripherals to connect. Talk about raw power in your hands! Meanwhile, the iMac M4 is designed with simplicity in mind. 

Mac Mini M4 vs iMac M4: the ideal target audience

The Mac Mini M4 is a solid option for those who prefer customising their setup and upgrading connected peripherals. Additionally, the smaller design is a cherry on the top for those who shift their bases frequently or are looking at a portable workstation. The standalone computer can connect to external displays, a projector, and even a high-resolution TV. It makes more sense if you already own high-quality peripherals or need to connect to multiple displays. 

Coming to the iMac M4, it offers a seamless plug-and-play experience. You don’t have to deal with all the cable clutter that comes with the Mac Mini M4. It is more streamlined and perfect for those seeking an out-of-the-box experience that saves time and effort in building a setup. Having said that, the iMac M4 is geared towards creative professionals like designers, photographers, and video editors as it boasts a premium display and excellent sound quality. 

Mac Mini M4 vs iMac M4: technicalities

Beginning with common specifications, the Mac Mini M4 and iMac M4 are both powered by Apple’s M4 silicon with up to a 10-core CPU and 10-core GPU. The Mac Mini M4 also gets the M4 Pro chipset for its top-of-the-line variant with a 12-core CPU and a 16-core GPU. Both computers are offered in multiple RAM and storage configurations with the base model starting with 16GB RAM and 256GB storage. 

Both Macs are built for Apple Intelligence. They support hardware-accelerated ray tracing for realistic graphics in games. The Mac Mini M4 supports up to three external displays whereas the iMac M4 maxes out at two displays at different screen resolutions. 

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Coming to the main aspect, the Mac Mini M4 is simply a CPU of sorts which you might have understood by now. On the other hand, the iMac M4 features a gorgeous 24-inch Retina display bearing a resolution of 4.5K pixels, a 500 nits peak brightness, and support for HDR10+. The computer is equipped with a high-fidelity six-speaker system with support for Spatial Audio and Dolby Atmos for an immersive entertainment experience.

The iMac M4 also comes with a studio-quality three-mic array and directional beamforming ensuring that your voice is crisp and clear. There is also a 12MP centre stage camera with Desk View support that keeps you in the frame while also giving a view of your workspace. This makes videoconferencing a breeze. 

On the connectivity front, the iMac M4 has six ports including four Thunderbolt 4 ports (the base configuration is limited to two ports), a 3.5mm jack, and Gigabit Ethernet. Meanwhile, the Mac Mini M4 packs eight I/O ports. These comprise two USB-C ports and a 3.5mm jack at the front and three Thunderbolt 4 at the back along with HDMI and ethernet connectivity. 

Mac Mini M4 vs iMac M4: pricing

The Mac Mini M4 is super affordable and a cost-effective solution for those who already own the connecting peripherals. It starts at Rs 59,999 for the base 16GB RAM coupled with 256GB SSD. The price goes up to Rs 1,49,990 for the highest configuration with M4 Pro, 24GB RAM and 512GB SSD. 

Meanwhile, the iMac M4 carries a starting price tag of Rs 1,34,990 for the base 16GB + 256GB model and goes up to Rs 1,94,990 for the maxed-out hardware. 

Mac Mini M4 vs iMac M4: the downsides

Cost factor is the major downside when it comes to selecting between the Mac Mini M4 and iMac M4. If you’re leaning towards the former, you will need to pair an external monitor, speakers, keyboard, and mouse. 

You may not be able to find the same quality monitor as the iMac M4’s display but if we go for one with a 4K screen like the Samsung M8D 32-inch, it will set you back Rs 48,509. Apple already offers a dedicated Magic wireless keyboard and mouse with each costing around Rs 8,000. If these feel too expensive, you can go for the reliable Logitech Pebble 2 combo which is priced at Rs 4,499. Depending on the requirement, more devices like a webcam and speaker would also be needed. 

We assume that the external peripherals would incur an additional above Rs 50,000 on top of the Mac Mini M4’s cost. 

The iMac M4 does not have the above downside except for one – it is stationary and moving around is a hassle.

Mac Mini M4 vs iMac M4: Which one should you pick?

We would hands-down recommend the Mac Mini M4 for its portability and customisation if you already own some of the peripherals required for computing. Even with the external peripherals, the ownership cost of the base Mac Mini M4 would not exceed the 1 lakh mark if you purchase with attractive discounts. Else, it’s the iMac M4 if you’re looking at a premium display experience and an elegant desktop solution. 

Either way, it all boils down to the difference in ownership cost of the Mac Mini M4 and iMac M4.