Apple launched Mac mini models with M2 and M2 Pro processors. The processors provide significant performance improvements over M1 models from the previous generation.
The Mac mini M2 and M2 Pro are available for pre-orders starting today. Apple will ship the devices from January 24 onwards. The processors are the most significant step up from the previous generation. Apple replaced M1 designs with its latest proprietary chips, the M2 and M2 Pro.
Both models have multiple versions with different memory and storage capacities. Versions with M2 processors start at €719. Versions with M2 Pro processors start at €1,569. Pricing and availability can vary by region.
M2 versus M1
Apple compared the performance of both models to the previous generation. Video-editing software Final Cut Pro ran up to 2.4 times faster on models with M2 processors than on models with M1 processors. Adobe Photoshop accelerated by up to 50 percent.
Models with M2 Pro processors clocked even higher performance improvements. In this case, Final Cut Pro ran up to 4.2 times faster than on models with M1 processors. Affinity Photo accelerated by up to 250 percent.
Ports and software
Each model includes an Ethernet port, HDMI port and two USB-A ports. A 3.5mm jack accommodates most headphones. The number of Thunderbolt 4 ports varies by processor. M2 Pro versions have four, M2 versions have two. Both models come with macOS Ventura, the latest version of Apple’s desktop operating system.
The tech giant says it designed the models with sustainability in mind. All aluminium used for the casing is recycled. The same goes for earth metals in magnets. Like most major device manufacturers, Apple is under pressure from European climate goals. The tech giant wants to exclusively manufacture and ship climate-neutral products by 2030.
Tip: Intel launches Sapphire Rapids, Ponte Vecchio and Sapphire Rapids HBM
10 hours ago
