M4 Mac Mini 1 Week Later - REGRETTING 16 GB RAM on the Base Model..?(STRESS TEST!)

[@RjeyTech]

After watching this video do you thinkn the Base M4 Mac Mini handle your workload? 😅 Trade in your Old Device with Phobio today using my custom portal: U.S.: trade.phobio.com/rjey-us Canada: trade.phobio.com/rjey-ca

[@Csnumber1]

Just so your viewers don't waste their time, no iMacs before 2017 qualify, and a 2017, 27in, might get you 200 bucks.

[@fablewalls]

I have a 1st Gen M1 Mac Mini with 16GB RAM and it runs the current version of Blender really well. I think Blender and Photoshop stress tests probably don't mean as much compared to downloading and running Unreal Engine on a Mac Mini. I have 5.2 on my mini and it takes up to 5 minutes sometimes just to open. Unreal probably isn't optimised for Macs as it runs slightly better on a 2017 Alienware laptop I had access to for a while but I think a stress test would be running a real monster like Unreal on a new M4 mini. Except Unreal is a 60+GB download. Godot and other 3D game engines work really well even on my 4 year old mini by comparison.

[@LuvDhun]

I am video editor. Please inform me about video rendering If I edit 3 hours video in 4k. How much time for video rendering. Can you do for this

[@nastybadger-tn4kl]

i am new to mac . just bought mac mini 4. i think its slower than my intel i7. Just sluggish. Its graphic is just off compare to my nvidia 3060 How do i ensure its always run fast. Is there a way to show only memory and cpu usage in some corner . is there an app. what is this pressure ? how do i make it show

[@TheCroradic]

of course can, i dont need watch video

[@97nelsn]

I’m running a Mid-2012 MacBook Pro with a 3rd gen Intel i7 Processor. ANYTHING is better than what I currently have and I’m getting an M4 Mac Mini with 512 GB 🐬.

[@kevinldaniel]

I'm on a 2015 intel MBP. I'm probably going to get the M4Pro Mac mini though

[@chiokehart-kelly3481]

Late 2019 MBP here. Even with 64 GB of RAM it doesn't handle Resolve in full res well. Seriously considering M4Pro Mac Mini.

[@RemofRenaissance]

Happy for you, enjoy. Well deserved upgrade.

[@AntonyJackWilfred]

Don't get 512GB.. its just a waste of money.. get a external SSD

[@shawndasilva]

@@AntonyJackWilfredjust an FYi it seems the M4 pro chip can only be spec’s with 512gb and can not be reduced to 256gb

[@Turbojugend27]

It's hilarious that this guy is stressing it with actual pro apps, and its not stressing out the base model, yet people are recommending spending more money for no reason.

[@hacorn96]

People are recommending it for longevity on pro workflows.

[@KC-bi9jw]

me running pro apps on my stock MacBook Air m1 for the last 4 years 😅

[@aemssw2387]

2 years and it will lag because of less Memory

[@alancarmody8848]

@@aemssw2387yeah and you can sell it and buy the m5 base model for 500 bucks!

[@christopherwood12]

I think the reason is people have been using the m1 and loving it and they think ah if I upgrade to the next step of ram I won’t have to upgrade for ages. I mean if you have the spare cash then why not but it’s not needed at all. Most people will just sell the Mac mini and get the latest Mac mini at the time with the savings

[@praveen_gm]

I got Mac Mini M4 - 24GB Ram and 512GB SSD, no regrets. I use applications such as Android Studio, XCode, Android and iOS Emulators/Simulators, Intellij Idea etc on daily basis. Even with most or sometimes all of these open at the same time, I don't see any issues so far.

[@erkedocara8781]

Is intellij indexing fast on this machine? I plan to use it for java development what ram memory do you sugest?

[@praveen_gm]

@@erkedocara8781 yes indexing is very fast, I also use Intellij for Java (Spring Boot). Mac Mini base model comes with 16GB, I'd just go + 1 (+8GB) to be safe for the next 4-5 years. I'd suggest you the same

[@praveen_gm]

@@erkedocara8781 yes the indexing is very fast, I also use Intellij for Java(Spring Boot). The Mac Mini's base model comes with 16GB of ram, so I'd like to go with +1(+8GB) just to be safe for the next 4-5 years.

[@NurmYokai]

"If you're more of a power user ..." The base price of the (non-Pro) M4 Mini is $600. Going to 32GB, brings the price to $1000. Add 512GB storage, and now it's $1200. Or get Two (2) base M4 Minis, and split the workload between the two. Use Screen Sharing if you don't want a second monitor, keyboard, mouse. Just because one can, doesn't mean everything needs to be on one machine. And now you also have a backup system. Suspect a power user would go straight to the M4 Pro Mini with 64GB memory, at $2000. Or wait for the M4 Studio.

[@C.u.d.s]

And when the time comes one’s, you can sell 2 machines

[@ShaferHart]

Only very specific workloads would require more than 24gb ram, the 24 gb is $800.

[@nastybadger-tn4kl]

u can get powerful intel laptop

[@MissionControlTet]

Mac Studio M4 Max will have 36/512GB base configuration, as it's shown the real upgrade this generation is in Pro not Max. I'll take 64GB RAM over 36GB if I'm a power user instead of extra 20% more performance

[@innercynic2784]

I bought the M1 mac mini with 16gb and 1tb storage when it first came out. Fastest computer I'd ever owned. Sold it so I could get a Macbook air with the same specs. Still have it and couldn't be happier. I figure that for those whose livelihoods depend on higher spec machines you need to think of it as an investment into your business. You're spending less than many business owners pay for a months rent and utilities. You can even pay it out over time. What a deal! I remember early pentium laptops by Toshiba that specd out at 3000 dollars back in the day! Think about that. What you're getting for your depreciating inflation dollars far and away buys you more than anyone would have imagined possible in the past. Be grateful.

[@stableArtAI]

Sorry you reviewers have to stop selling users on base system ram. 16GB is too little too late as always with mac mini. When unit is non upgradable best option is max the memory. Don't second guess this.

[@RobloxianX]

16GB of RAM now is basically what 8GB of RAM was 5 years ago. Eventually, people are going to need 24 or 32GB to be base model.

[@Taylor_King]

I think we’re already nearing the days of 32, if not there already.

[@andherium]

Eventually yes We’re not there yet 16GB is good enough for the majority of

[@ShaferHart]

@@Taylor_King -nope, we aren't there yet- just checked and I'm at 18gb out of 36gb 😂 but I'm in software with a few workloads going on right now. Needless to say ram usage inflates the more you have available but we are still not in the 32gb days, 24gb definitely which is what I would get with this machine.

[@SkaterStimm]

Nope. As a developer, our memory loads are no different than 5 years ago. We are still editing 4k video, developing software with very similar UIs, and capabilities. However now we have much faster processing, gpus and neural networks to use to speed up development. If anything it is a good time for development and software (even poorly written software) flys on current hardware.

[@RobloxianX]

@@andherium As somebody who doesnt do that many heavy things and still finds a way to max out 16GB, yes we are there.

[@njasicko]

Base model using Pixelnator Pro and DaVinci, no issues with 16GB. I am not a pro, nor does my job revolve around making money using this Mac. It is a toy for me and works fantastic for my needs handling images and 4k video from my Sony ZV-1. I use blender as well but not on my Mac, I have a windows PC with a 4090 in it for that work. Funny enough for a quick gaming test I did the Civ 6 (cpu test) against my OC and tuned 7800x3d and the Apple M4 wins in both normal CPU and Gathering Storm CPU test..

[@Yayadays111]

I am actually thinking to do the same with parallel system. I got a 3080 and 5800x, due for an upgrade soon. But at the same time I don't really see my desktop is holding me back even when I load up and editting hundreds of 61mp raw files in capture one. How's it going for you?

[@njasicko]

​@@Yayadays111 Working great. I my 2nd monitor was running off of my windows pc, but now is on my M4 Mini. So Windows box pretty much just games or is used for heavy 3d rendering with the 4090. Mac does everything else, discord, amazon music, web, ect. M4 is amazing how fast it is for how little power it draws.

[@77dris]

Don't forget that the CPU and GPU share that 16GB, so it's more like 12GB for ram and 4GB for graphics memory.

[@RussellGi]

Using that logic, is x3 the available free RAM on a 16GB compared to an 8GB machine - not too shabby.

[@SkaterStimm]

That's not how it works..

[@thisaintart]

Loved your vid! Just a quick eq suggestion on your vocal: Low end 150-350hz needs a small reduction; my tv speakers had to be turned down after watching several videos. Very common with large diaphragm mics. Cheers 👍

[@ichigen511]

One thing about RAM. You should ALWAYS buy as much as you can afford when purchasing a new computer. The rules are simple. Have a budget. If you only got $700 then buy the base Mini with only 16GB RAM there's really nothing else you can do. If you got $1,000 to spend then get the 24GB version with 512GB storage. If you got $1,400 to spend then upgrade to the M4 Pro with 12 cores and 24GB. It's really actually very simple. If you got more money then buy more RAM. Buy 64GB if you can afford it. You will NEVER regret having too much RAM, you might possibly regret not having enough. Thunderbolt 4 (and even moreso 5) is so damn fast that internal storage is really only needed for applications. All your media can be on external drives. Processor and RAM are the key, get the most powerful porcessor and as much RAM as you can afford. But you MUST have a budget before deciding what computer to buy. These facts have always BEEN the case and will always BE the case. Until our nearest star burns out. As far as I'm concerned. Anywas, cheers brother!

[@kpo38XD]

tldr: waste as much money as you can 🤣

[@ichigen511]

@@kpo38XD If having the best processor you can afford and the most RAM you can affrord is wasting money then you are probably in the wrong hobby or you domn't know a dman thing about computer technology. Maybe buy a used Nintendo or something instead. SMH.

[@Turbojugend27]

Cpu has always been the killer of not using old systems, more than ram.

[@mobiusbelts3607]

@@ichigen511 I see you're just as bad at crafting analogies as you are at being thrifty.

[@ichigen511]

@@mobiusbelts3607 My great advice got 7 likes so far. What part of "if you only got $700 to spend on a new computer then buy the base model" did you NOT understand from my comment? That's called being thrifty. Maybe you own access to a different dictionary than the rest of us?

[@sorwar2024]

Anyone wanting to do any "Pro" work on a consistent basis should of course go for 24GB RAM. However I feel that this video did not properly "stress test" Blender as the user was a noob and only did what was in effect some moderate modelling and texturing. Not sure whether he used the "Cycles" render that uses ray tracing or more likely just stuck with "Eevee" which is must less stressful on the GPU. If you really want to get into 3D animation then you must get the M4 Pro and probably the 20 core GPU version at that with 14 CPU cores.

[@walyap8094]

Glad to finally see someone suggest buying an external SSD. Everyone's hype about desoldering and replacing the internal storage when external SSDs exist.

[@RussellGi]

They're apparently not as quick as the internal drives in testing (even in a thunderbolt dock). No idea why this is the case - please don't shoot the messenger!!

[@mariokuppers5686]

Only when you take the 512 GB in First place. Nobody knows why but the pure basemodel struggles to get Speed on any SSD even the internal. But that would be the only upgrade to consider. With anything more you are better off taking the M4 pro Basemodel

[@Soosheon]

I’m not sure why that’s the situation. No issues with mine so far.

[@kitturadior6935]

Agree! That makes much more sense. Personally I've ALWAYS mostly used external storage MOSTLY and try to keep as much OFF my computer as possible from the time I purchased my first laptop. For me that makes more sense because you always have to eventually upgrade to a new computer. If most of your important info is saved externally then you just unplug it to move external storage to the next upgrade. I did pick the $1000 model of the new Mac Mini M4. I'm not working full time these days (elder care responsibility) but when I was working full time I'd always customize my Macs and buy direct from Apple. This time I bought from Best Buy for a few reasons. 1) they had a discount on it, and 2) they paid me more than APPLE did for the trade in of my Mac Mini M2. 3) Additionally because I'm a member of BB TOTAL+ plan, they also give an additional year of APPLE CARE included with membership. They also sell several brands of SD mini card with 1 TB of storage! I bought one of them on a flash sale for $100. Portable. TINY. I also already have USB C Hubs -- I'd connected them with my old Mac Mini M2 to have expanded ports. I have two screens and a standing desk setup --- geeze back when I had a Mac Mini with Intel Core I7 - which was my first Mac Mini.

[@davielam2185]

I've been watching so many Mac mini reviews, yours is by far the best and most easy to understand. Just bought the base model with 512gb ssd coming from a 2014 intel macbook pro.

[@silvrsurfer]

External ssd right?

[@davielam2185]

@@silvrsurfer internal ssd, I bought the base 256g then exchanged it for 512gb, because installed apps takes storage fast, so I want to future proof it, I will also buy an external ssd for work files

[@PLANETWATERMELON]

Exactly what I figured. I ordered my Mac Mini with 512gb & 24gb unified memory on day 1. Super happy so far.

[@kitturadior6935]

ME TOO! That's the same one I purchased. I got such a deal because I traded in my Mac Mini M2 and saved about half the cost with the trade in. I just figured out also that I need to buy a cat7 or cat8 Ethernet Cable to plug in my TP LINK ROUTER that is capable of 6GHz & 6-E GHz speeds!!! I already have gig speed internet.

[@butwhytho6522]

I've only ever regretted not maximising my RAM on every upgrade. Nothing else matters more to me. I work in virtual machines and containers.

[@AlienFactor]

I’ve literally sold my MacBook Pro 2014 in the process of selling my Mac mini 2014 and I sold my I watch series 5 so I have about half of the 599. Can’t wait to get it.… so thanks for the video

[@Historyisnotwas]

Cool video- great advice! Does the Samsung M8 monitor in your video pair well with the M4 mini? I've heard that if you don't use an apple monitor all other monitors won't scale correctly? Do you think the Samsung M8 is better than the Apple studio monitor or the iMac monitor with 4.5K with retina display? Any advice would helpful. Thanks

[@obelix8477]

Thanks for the WarThunder mention! You're the only tech reviewer I've watched to even acknowledges this game. I have an M3 iMac with 24 GB memory. Each time I fly WarThunder missions, the fans kick in almost immediately. I feel I am doing something wrong in the configuration. Would love to watch a vid you produce where you step-by-step address the WarThunder configuration settings. Anisotrophy? Anti-aliasing FXAA ? SSAO Quality? These options are way above my understanding, I was hoping Apple's Metal rendering and the insane number of parallel GPUs in the M3 chip would make WT rendering a breeze. But I still get insane (?) fan action whenever I fly a mission. Hope you can address this in a future video!

[@DoubleOhSilver]

so glad I upgraded to 24gb ram. I'm a software dev. I have 2 web projects (+api) loaded, 1 of which is running, this video at 2x, other tabs open, my database manager running, and I have 0 lag between apps, still got 4gb of ram unused. Builds my projects plenty fast even when multitasking and I don't hear fans at all. This thing is great.

[@clarenceoveur9497]

Sure, more RAM is better but don't judge your purchase based on this guy's reviews. It's shallow, generic, as if it was written by AI to go viral. Endless specs reading, and the famous "no one else is stress testing this properly" when in fact that are hundreds of videos out there showing the base model being pushed to its limits and delivering amazing performance for $599. It's a matter of what you are using it for. Like, the obvious 💩 we all know lol

[@tejasautkar4981]

dude. this is no stress testing at all. my dell i7 - 1165G7 16GB runs smoothly with 2 full stack apps, docker, database m,anager works okay. base model will handle this like anything crazy. no need of 24 GB ram for the kind of work you're doing.

[@fdmazlum]

Got 4 dockers (2x nodejs, 1x db, 1x next/react) running and sharing 6Gb of RAM, the whole project is in a monorepo project and I got 3Gb of RAM on my 16Gb Macbook Pro and no lag/slowdowns. What's to understand is MacOS use RAM pretty efficiently and unless what you're doing needs allocated RAM as Dockers/VM/Video editing does, RAM will rarely be an issue

[@danielwp498]

Yeah 24gb does sound like a smart upgrade. There are projects that I can't even run on my mac mini base simply because there isn't enough RAM. But I am using After Effects for work and that is a notorious program for eating up crazy amount of RAM.

[@logangrzesiek8749]

how does it handle accidentally forgetting you have 3 instances of figma open in varioius windows? lol

[@KristopherLee]

For sure upgrading RAM is a priority over storage since there’s plenty of fast external SSD options available. 🐬

[@GG_Sage]

I just uploaded a video, and let me tell you-my M3 Pro with 36GB RAM took over 10 hours to render 1 minute of UHD. Mac really struggles with this!

[@Soosheon]

I have a Ryzen 3600/16GB DDR4/RX 6700 10GB build and this Mac Mini floors it in a lot of stuff. Even plays Rust more smoothly.

[@cianog]

Most people don’t use a Mac or PC for any of these purposes.

[@zhenyaj2110]

true, 90% of the PC and Mac users would be doing just fine with a 10-year old decent-built machine with 16GB memory and SSD. But people still upgrade every few years to catch up with the trend/fashion.

[@limestone_xyz]

what monitor are you using in the video?

[@WhatIThink45]

It’s in the description notes. Samsung 32" Smart Monitor M8 (M80D) 4K.

[@ottomanbeatsofficial]

If you just browse the internet and watch youtube. Any gen mac will be fine. But for video editing and music production youll still need to upgrade the mac mini which will cost you 1500-2000$ at the end. Bc 256-512 storage and 8-16 gb ram just isnt enough

[@Turbojugend27]

Lol. People had 32 tracks of audio and multiple plug in effects on each track on the base model m1s with ease. Also who works on important projects using the main storage???? Projects should always be on a secondary drive.

[@ottomanbeatsofficial]

@@Turbojugend27 mehh it may run fine in the beginning but you and i both know that just not enough ram or storage. Regardless of if its pc or mac. And yes external storage is always a must. But thats not the point.

[@keysncoffee7733]

You may have just saved me ~$800… was tempted to go for the M4 pro but good to see the base model handle web workload.

[@Fracture1603]

I regretted just 24GB RAM. The 512GB SSD was fine but 24GB just wasn't enough for my real world development and not just running Xcodebenchmark. It hit swap within minutes and I was writting over 300GB to swap in an hour or two which sucks. Ended up returning it yesterday. I could pay Apple an eye-watering €460 more (than the 16GB) to get a 32GB model but then it isn't very good value for money, the extra €230 to go from 16 to 24GB was painful enough). Real shame as if I want to go higher than 32GB (which I would want really to give it more longevity) means I would have to pay for the M4 Pro chip which I don't need, I just need more memory not CPU performance. Afterall most development is me sitting there thinking about the problem looking at my editor while all my containers, VMs, databases, browsers, etc. are running so it is RAM I need not more cores but I can't get one without being forced to pay for the other 😢

[@BrianO-vg8qx]

Was thinking of getting the base model for light to mid coding projects but may not after this comment - just to be safe.

[@Fracture1603]

@@BrianO-vg8qx For light web stuff you will most likely be fine. The issue I had is I run 7+ docker containers for different APIs and DBs, VSCode Dev Containers, CLion, Rust Rover, PyCharm, GoLand, Xcode, iOS Simulator, Android Studio and the Android Emulator, etc. and while all that running at the same time isn't a big hit on the CPU it is a big hit on memory. My main machine is a 16" M2 Max MacBook Pro with 64GB RAM and it handles my workload just fine. I was hoping I could have a slightly lighter setup running on an M4 with 24GB as a second system as the price wasn't to bad. Unfortunately I underestimated just how much RAM I truly need even for a "light" workload as it isn't very practical to be closing down IDEs and containers just to keep the system responsive, kinda makes it useless tbh so while a nice machine for many people it isn't suitable for *my* needs. It may be just fine for yours though. You can always get one and try it out for a week like I did and return it if you find it is hitting swap constantly to keep from running out of memory.

[@gmac231984]

I guess most of this could be offloaded to a cheap server

[@Fracture1603]

@@gmac231984 While I mostly work on an M2 Max MBP with 64GB RAM have a mini PC with 64GB RAM running Debian for this exact purpose. I picked it up for €300 with 32GB RAM and popped in another 32 myself. The CPU is no way near as powerful as the M4 but, as I mentioned in my original comment, the CPU isn't the limiting factor; the RAM is. So while the 6000 series AMD chip is slower, the cheap mini PC out performs the M4 Mac Mini in the long run (for my workflow) as it has the RAM to handle my workflow without swapping out like crazy.

[@clwoni1414]

@@BrianO-vg8qx Can you share your configuration that you are going to buy and explain what you do for coding?

[@jay_b..]

thank you for your video. It would be really useful if you could have done your test with 2 or 3 4k monitors. That would show if the GPU using the RAM to display across them would cause RAM to run low and affect performance.

[@suresh1957]

Finally, a no-nonsense analysis of the MacMini that helps me in my purchase choices and configuration considerations. Thanks ! Suresh/Copenhagen

[@LeicaM11]

I just bought an really „new“ Mac Mini 2018 i5-8500B 512GB SSD for $300, which I upgraded to 64GB. It runs fine for everyday use, but taking hours for video editing. No AI at all. Doesn‘t swap cheap TLC/QLC SSD to early and sudden death.

[@markmitchell5220]

Nice review without bogging down on details. I've been running a M1 Mini base model and decided to go big (unbinned M4 Pro 48Gb 1Tb). Having all that and Thunderbolt 5 ports I am future proofed!

[@swampsquanch]

quality review videos from this guy. i’m not super knowledgeable in this field and if i get a mini it will be my first desktop from apple. that said, i feel it is easy to see where this guy is pretty genuine and knowledgeable on the things he talks about, where many of the other reviews on the platform are not. i just subbed to the channel

[@rogerlove7588]

Exactly what I needed (and wanted) to hear. I’m in the same boat you were in, upgrading from an Intel-based iMac, and wondering which Mini to get. Your video was the first one I’ve seen that reflects actual time on a base model, and deals with many of the same apps I use, especially Photoshop, Lightroom and Blender. I was leaning toward the Pro model, with a bunch of RAM and a bigger drive. But now I’m thinking the base will be just fine, which is great because I also need a new monitor. I think you just saved me at least a thousand bucks! One question, if you were to do it again, would you go with 24G of RAM, and/or a larger drive? I want to get this right, as it’s likely to be my primary machine for years. Thanks again for your efforts. You got a Like and a Subscribe from this viewer.

[@robertomighty4562]

Appreciate your premise, testing methodology, informative screengrabs, and upbeat attitude. Well done!

[@JayzBeerz]

I got the base model for $499.99. Amazing mini Mac for that price.

[@dazouk]

What do you do for storage ? Cause 256gig isn’t enough for me and I’m afraid of buying the base model

[@swampsquanch]

@@dazoukexternal drive. the internal ssd is also replaceable but obviously you’ll have to transfer the os. i’m not a computer pro by any means necessary, but this is what i suggested by and apple rep

[@JayzBeerz]

@@dazoukI added a 4TB external NVME SSD.

[@iPhoneSpy]

The Samsung M8 monitor never was on sale. Even when it said it was on sale the checkout price showed the original price. I complained to their online support and they did not helped and just had the price changed back to the non sale price on their website 😢

[@MelgarInkPhotography]

Thank you for saying what camera you have and how the batching and exporting of Lightroom files went, that’s the one thing I’ve been concerned about with the Mac mini m4 and it seems it’s not even an issue. Totally getting one now thanks! Also subscribed because that was super helpful! I’ve been using an older intel MacBook Pro and it’s time for an upgrade.

[@anupammahato1]

Which stats app are you using to monitor ram ? Thanks

[@richmondpattonprehn4383]

Keep us posted on your Blender adventures, I hope to learn to model with Blender and am looking for a new m4 Mac that won’t bust the bank while at the same time won’t frustrate a newbie by being too slow.

[@LoveHawaii808]

Thank you for the content, I'm first time buyer (potentially) of Mac and your video gives me a good info on deciding what model to buy. If you have a chance, can you check the export speed of 8K videos? That would be awesome :)

[@davidv1ana]

Great review. What kind of keyboardo are you using? Thanks

[@thelbtlover]

I'm calling it now. 16GB will still be the base RAM for all Apple computers in 2030. Meanwhile even Chromebooks will have 32GB. My computer had 16GB of RAM back in 2010. The base model Mac mini should have 16GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD. It should be an additional $150 to go to 2TB And the additional $100 to go to 32GB of RAM.

[@akshayde]

Yeah 16gb ram is now the base on macs as of yesterday

[@thelbtlover]

@@akshayde Yeah but it should've been the base amount of RAM 10 years ago with how much Apple charges.

[@YOUNGJBR]

@@thelbtloverwelcome to Apple ecosystem and logic

[@akshayde]

@thelbtlover sure. Don't disagree

[@amirhaviv8508]

Hi Rjey, thanks for the interesting review, dont you think that the 256G SSD can be filled very fast after downloading some applications? i agree that an external storage is imperative but for system/app installations, interesting to hear you thoughts. many thanks

[@Turbojugend27]

How many applications do you want to instal??????? I have never come close to running out of 256gb from too many apps.

[@YogurtBuah]

Do you know, application installation can be moved to an external SSD, you need to reset it to the same format as your internal storage first, if there are any problems you don't need to worry because the internal SSD in the M4 is not soldered. If you have more cash better to get the one with 512GB storage.

[@amirhaviv8508]

@@Turbojugend27 thanks for the answer, if you are installing apps for photo editing and video, office, and any other apps can reach close to the limit which can slow the mac and then you need always to make sure to delete tmp files, just a thought, thats why i'm asking from your knowledge and any others of this channel if i need to go through the 512G. appreciate that

[@GeneralKenobi69420]

The hardware Apple makes is great. But I just can't get into the software. It's just such a massive culture shock to me. I'll just stick with building my own PC.

[@JulianFernandez]

Waiting for my m4 24gb 512gb. Can’t wait! 😅

[@kitturadior6935]

Happy for you! I just set mine up!

[@Jimmyfly215]

Just subscribed. Your review on products are great. And was really waiting to watch ha video like this since i been mulling the Mac mini.

[@RjeyTech]

Thanks for the sub!

[@sgkountz3280]

Great video, but Mac never gives RAM for free. The IPhone 15 Pros and 16 has 8GB of RAM now, and the new entry Macs have 16GB. Not sure how much of that RAM is needed for AI, but upgrading to a least 24GB is a must because more AI updates are coming IMO.

[@Raptor_2022]

Thanks Rjey, this video is awesome! I just bought Mac mini M4 chip with 256gb storage but upgrade to 24gb memory because I use DaVinci Resolve to edit video while opening a bunch of websites and as you say I don't want to use swap memory.

[@KenKen-qg1ob]

Will be getting base m4 with 24 GB ram and 10 GB ETHENET upgrade for desktop replacement

[@kitturadior6935]

I purchased the M4 with 24 GB ram (half terabyte storage) and initially had issues where it was dropping the wifi connection. In doing a bit more research, the new mac mini is Wifi 6 and 6E compatible. AND I already have routers capable of WiFi 6 and 6E. Just ordering a short CAT 7 Ethernet cable to connect the M4 to my routers. As an aside I also have 2 VOIP phone lines (home office) connected via Ethernet so I need a splitter for the 2 phone lines to free up the port.

[@youtubeuser73]

which monitor are you using and are you facing scaling issue ?

[@tygattyche2545]

For those really needing more RAM it is usefull to get it, of course. But how long are Macs (i plan do buy a base M4 and it will be my first Mac) typically running? So for the not-so-much-a-power-user it may be better to go for a cheaper base model now and than in 5 or 8 or 10 years upgrade to a new, than current model.

[@darren6028]

NVME SSD wear down from swap is negligible, the mac mini will die before SSD wear becomes a problem.

[@itravelers]

Considering the inaugural M1 SOC blew Intel-based products out of the water back in 2021, I question why you'd still be making comparisons to an Intel MBP. A better comparison would be for M1 products for users who are potentially looking to upgrade. Having said that, I appreciate your analysis.

[@SuperMachead1]

The $599 model is for a consumer…regular people…even if it can do professional work…if you’re a professional…buy the pro model and write it off on your taxes 🤓

[@valentinomc]

I just got my MacBook Pro M4, almost maxed out, which is a nice upgrade from the MacBook Air M2. To be honest, for the type of work I do, I don't feel much difference, which is good because it will last me a while. As for the Mac mini, it's fine for basic use, but I wouldn't recommend it for heavy work.

[@Britpop-Tribute-Band]

It might be great right now, but how well is it going to work in 1, 2, 3, 4 years time when these apps become even more powerful? This is why I'd always max out the ram myself to make it more future proof. My 27" iMac was top of the range when I bought it 10 years ago and it's only now starting to slow/EF up.

[@JagtapPV]

How about creating panoramic images from fullframe camera with stitching 9-12frames ? Does 24gm RAM enough for it?

[@RussellGi]

I kinda disagree with the buying extra RAM premise of "making the machine last longer" for average consumers. If it cost £599, it's an appliance that's gonna be upgraded / replaced faster than a £1500 Mac. IMO get the cheapest mini, sell it for a £200-300 loss and get a new one when the M5 or M6 comes out. Deprecation on any other Mac won't be anything like £200-£300.

[@babybirdhome]

The base Mac Mini is also quite competent for running local LLMs for people who are lightly or hobbyist level interested in AI. Is it going to blow the high end stuff away? No, it’s not. But for the money invested and the power consumed (and the silence of running it all), you really can’t beat it. Qwen2.5-coder-instruct-14b can even run on it with very little swap usage if you keep your apps opened to a minimum, and that thing is a pretty impressive model for something you can run fully at near ChatGPT 4o speeds for $600. Any model 12 GB or under should be able to run on it at a pretty good speed, although it does make me want to jump to at least 32 GB, but it would make more sense to jump to the Pro and go to 64 GB, but then if you’re going to spend that kind of money, it starts looking a lot more shiny with a MacBook Pro with an M4 Max and the full 128 GB because you’re already talking real money by that point.

[@hacorn96]

for people yapping about memory being "good enough" in the comments. pro users need to make their own informed decisions. many pro apps make good use of memory and gpu. if you're using pro apps, you WILL benefit from more memory. tons of creative pros doing specific app benchmarking on youtube. understand your use case using activity monitor and plan your purchases based on your budget. it's not complicated.

[@Csnumber1]

Great real world testing!! For primarily professional editing, this thing is all an independent needs. Im waiting on this particular model now...waiting for matching SSD Docking Station...SATECHI???? Extra Network Port, Couple USB's and an extra HDMI and a Card Reader! Awesome video Rjey!!

[@TrickShepherd]

I prioritized RAM because base and video ram are the same now. You're buying ram for gpu and cpu together. GPUs need 16 GB just for themselves plus another 16 GB for CPUs.

[@Mangochirp2]

What resolutions were your gaming benchmarks? That’s very important to list.

[@Stealt707]

16gb on a Mac mini is fine for most use case. If you are a professional targeting the base model then you will be disappointed. It’s not rocket science to work out that you need a superior machine to do heavy processing related work. Apple RAM is relatively expensive if you are not going to need it. 16gb DDR5 is still faster than 32gb DDR4 on an older model that is under utilised.

[@RaavMedia]

Cool video .. I am testing the base Mac Mini at the moment and it is really amazing!! 🐬

[@ankurv03]

Is there any difference in term of read and write speed if we choose 512GB model instead of 256GB?

[@DenverHarris]

It’s pretty simple, if you want to future proof, your Mac, always always get the maximum memory

[@trubaka]

How’s the m8 with the Mac mini?

[@rgblack316]

Modern SSDs are not going to fail early because of being used for SWAP. The number of writes that they are designed for is so large that this is a non-issue.

[@johnchang3807]

The key is always about getting the best RAM possible with best HDD Space size for slightly less Processor if budget is limited. It will last you a while. I got 24RAM, 512HDD M4 basic. It halves rendering time in any program I use by half.

[@6581punk]

Apple have stuck with 16GB for ages. 32GB should be the minimum these days. The base models are all about sucking people in, seeing the affordable price but with compromised specs, making them then spend a bit more to get the higher up model. Just imagine if you could (shock horror) upgrade the RAM and storage yourself? Even the PS5 lets you do that with storage and that's a game console!

[@ToureDunnon]

Thanks for showing an actual test with real world examples. 🐬

[@paulharrison8379]

I don't think that purchasers of the base 256 Gb M4 Mac Mini realise how large modern games are. I looked at Control and it is 42.83 Gb in size and I looked at Cyberpunk 2077 and it is 61.4 Gb in size. Newer games such as Starfield are bigger. Starfield is 132.33 Gb in size. A 256 Gb SSD is woefully inadequate for gaming. You are fortunate that it is possible to also install games to an external flash drive.

[@davidsnedigar7851]

I appreciate the review and definitely tells me what I need to know as a graphics and creative professional currently using a Mac Mini M1. 256gb SSDs are ridiculous nowadays though. 500gb should be minimum...1TB should be standard. But I have the same issue with my older m1. As a result, I have multiple external SSDs which fix the glitch.

[@55rimshot]

I’m considering buying a Mac mini M4 but would like to use my 5k retina IMac as a monitor for it as the screen is brilliant! Is this feasible?

[@bryans8656]

I've had the base M4 mini for a week now and it more than meets my needs, but I don't have to push it hard with my use case.

[@DerekDavis213]

Spoiler Alert: the 599 dollar 16gb Mini is awesome and does everything well, according to RJ. There are no REGRETS here, according to RJ.

[@sgharms]

Really great review and provided me the information I needed. Thanks about caring about your audience. 🐬

[@RjeyTech]

Any time!🐬🐬🐬

[@JedEckert]

I bought the base model M4 Mac Mini but upped the RAM to 24gb.

[@PgViking71]

Hey brother, how many emulation devices did you try when using Xcode? I want to get into swift development. I don’t see why I would need more than two emulations at a time like iPhone and iPad

[@JMace-jv1zo]

Contemplating selling my 13 M3 air with 512ssd/16gb ram for a Mac mini m4 256gb would this be worth it?

[@RjeyTech]

Probably not, M3 is still very good

[@AJCoReTV]

Burn thru the swap memory over the next 3 years until it’s time to upgrade to M7…. Base Mini is more than enough… just close your browser windows & only run your editor apps that you need to use. As mentioned t7 for video files. Enjoy! Source: I bought my son a base Mini M4 & my M4Pro MacBook for myself.

[@johnschofield3940]

Don't you think the AI "improvements" in the OS might use a bit of memory ? Also it's nice that the HDMI on the base model is 2.1, which is a bit of an overlooked upgrade.

[@sivaangrey]

I got the base model. I don’t need that much power to do the tasks I need it for.

[@RJHall-po9pu]

Thanks for a great video! Well put and explained. 🐬

[@nealonions7654]

My i5 mini is going to get an upgrade to the new base model as soon as it is available here. Great review. 🐬

[@cokro38]

nice, can you give me info about your monitor?

[@RjeyTech]

Link in description

[@cokro38]

@@RjeyTech thank you

[@pamv9817]

Thanks for this. Will be getting 24gb on the new mini as I am looking to be doing some high poly count sculpting in blender. My current mini just isn’t handling that load.

[@julessmith5581]

The only reason you're regretting it is because you didn't start with your Use Cases and work backwards from there? Buying 16GB and working forwards is the wrong way around imo

[@nick-dogg]

I can finally have enough memory to surf the web. 8GB was pretty much useless, I was always using swap memory at the expense of my SSD

[@andrewcole9824]

Thinking about getting one to take in my lapdock bag. The base specs would be great since it wouldn't be my main machine.

[@keithanthony9903]

I want it as my new Apple TV and living room computer

[@little_forest]

What is your definition of a power user? To me it always was someone, who efficiently uses his computer, e.g. using key shortcuts and such, and as such does not have a lot of tabs and apps open at the same time, cause that is just not useful, not necessary and not at all efficient.

[@AlexMint]

I have a base model M2 Pro MBP and I definitely find myself regularly going a couple gigs into swap memory when I edit video. Though if I get the new M4 Pro MBP, I should be good even if I don't get a RAM upgrade.

[@chriscoetzer]

Bear in mind that at this price point, this is an entry level machine for use by non-professionals and not a business machine. If you want to do all the high-level production stuff, get the right machine for it, i.e. a Mac Studio.

[@CAMTechChris]

Depends on what you mean by “high level production stuff”.

[@chriscoetzer]

@@CAMTechChris my point is that this machine can do all the "high level production stuff" (self explanatory), but it cannot be judged by that as it's priced as an entry-level machine for plebs like me watching content, writing some emails, maybe edit a short iPhone vid etc.

[@CAMTechChris]

@ define high level production stuff.

[@sunilnarine6313]

@@chriscoetzer plebs dont even need 599 dollar machine.

[@glamoagency5642]

A power user doesn't run Davinci Resolve or FCP whilst playing a game on the side, neither does he keep 100 tabs open in the browser. That's a person with limited attention span, and an ignorant one at that. A power user maximises the UI of Davinci fullscreen and applies himself to the job at hand. Premise debunked, base model is good enough for most work. Thank you for the video.

[@miguelmonforte]

So a 12 minutes 4k video renders in 4 minutes?

[@nelsonngu]

question: for Mac Mini Pro, edit 4K and ProRes from iPhone 16 Pro. Is 24GB enough or do I have to go for 48GB instead?

[@TheCroradic]

16gb is enough

[@nelsonngu]

@ the base model for the Mini Pro in Singapore come equip with 24GB. I might do some gaming on it as I will upgrade to 20-core GPU. So that’s why I am unsure about the 24GB ram.