Apple Mac Mini (M2 Pro, 2023) Review: The Missing Piece

it is simple to overlook the Mac Mini: Apple’s small, squarish PC isn’t notably thrilling. It’s not ultra-powerful just like the Mac Studio, modular just like the Mac Pro, or colourful just like the 24-inch iMac. You cannot fairly tote it round and work wherever like you’ll be able to with a MacEbook. But it’s Apple’s most utilitarian machine, and that is extra evident with the 2023 refresh. 

The new Mac Mini is much like its predecessor from 2020 besides it now employs Apple’s next-gen M2 and M2 Pro processors. That alone breathes new life into this compact system, as it is a low-cost plug-and-play answer that is nonetheless {powerful} sufficient for the likes of content material creators. The base worth is extra reasonably priced than ever, beginning at $599, and the Mac Mini is the most affordable option to entry the M2 Pro processor at $1,299. The solely different M2 Pro-powered Macs are the 14-inch and 16-inch MacEbook Pros, which begin at $1,999 and $2,499, respectively. The closest desktop various is the bottom Mac Studio with an M1 Max chip for $1,999. But most individuals do not want that a lot energy. 

It does not should be showy. Whichever processor you get, the Mini is a great and hassle-free option to get all the facility most individuals want with out emptying your pockets—and also you even have a say on what sort of peripherals to get. 

Build Your Own Adventure

The Mac Mini nonetheless follows the BYODKM rule. The initialism, initially utilized by Steve Jobs when he introduced the first Mac Mini in 2005, stands for “bring your own display, keyboard, and mouse,” since you get solely the machine and an influence twine within the field. You’ll undoubtedly wish to add a pair of audio system for once you’re not utilizing headphones, as a result of the built-in audio system aren’t nice.  

This BYO design is nice information if you have already got these peripherals. Plug every part in and also you’re good to go. Even should you’re ranging from scratch and constructing your workspace, it does not have to be too costly. There are tons of low cost and wonderful keyboards, mice, and screens you’ll be able to snag that will not balloon the price. The machine itself is tiny and unobtrusive, so it is simple to plan equipment round its footprint. And at 2.6 kilos it is light-weight and moveable, which makes it nice for hybrid employees splitting time between the house and the workplace. 

If you favor tons of screens round your workspace, then chances are you’ll be upset to be taught that the bottom Mac Mini nonetheless solely helps two exterior shows, similar to the M1-powered mannequin. That’s sufficient for most individuals, however should you improve to the M2 Pro you’ll be able to join as much as three shows to indulge in all that blue mild.