Apple have announced the upcoming launch of new Mac mini and iMac models equipped with the latest generation of their M-series processors, with news of new MacBook pro models expected to follow shortly. The models in the iMac line-up all feature the new M4 processor, while the Mac mini models can be specified with either the M4 or M4 Pro, both of which boast significant performance improvements over their predecessors.
Mac mini
The Mac mini has long been a favourite amongst those working in audio, and even with the more recently released Mac Studio models filling the gap between the mini and Pro machines, the compact desktop computers remain a popular choice. The new M4 models look set to maintain that trend, with the latest version of Apple Silicon processors promising to deliver some impressive performance boosts — the M4 is said to be 1.8x faster than the M1 for CPU-based tasks and 2.2x faster for GPU work.
The base models are all loaded up with 16GB of RAM, and can be expanded to either 32 or 64 GB (for the M4 and M4 Pro models respectively), while internal storage can be specified up to 2TB for the M4 model, and a massive 8TB for the M4 Pro. All models offer 10Gb Ethernet as a cost option, and the M4 Pro model also comes equipped with Thunderbolt 5 connectivity.
M4 vs. Intel & M1
Apple have provided the following comparisons that showcase the power of the new chips on some common tasks:
When compared to the Mac mini with Intel Core i7, the new Mac mini with M4:
- Applies up to 2.8x more audio effect plug-ins in a Logic Pro project
- Delivers up to 13.3x faster gaming performance in World of Warcraft: The War Within
- Enhances photos with up to 33x faster image upscaling performance in Photomator
When compared to the Mac mini with M1, the new Mac mini with M4:
- Performs spreadsheet calculations up to 1.7x faster in Microsoft Excel
- Transcribes with on-device AI speech-to-text up to 2x faster in MacWhisper
- Merges panoramic images up to 4.9x faster in Adobe Lightroom Classic
iMac
Apple’s all-in-one desktop machines have also been treated to an upgrade, with four new models all powered by the new M4 processor along with a range of upgrade options.
There are eight- and 10-core CPU/GPU options featuring either two or four Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports, while RAM can be configured between 16 and 32 GB, and built-in storage ranges from 256GB to 2TB. All models are equipped with the same 24-inch 4.5K Retina display, and are available in a choice of seven flavoured colours, echoing the revolutionary CRT-screen iMac designs.
MacBook Pro
Update: As expected, Apple have now announced the upcoming launch of new MacBook Pro models in both 14- and 16-inch variants. Along with the M4 and M4 Pro options available for the Mac mini and iMac line-up, Apple’s flagship laptop can also be configured with the M4 Max, which boasts up to 16 CPU cores, 40 GPU cores, a 16-core Neural Engine and the very first appearance of the super-fast 120Gb/s Thunderbolt 5 connectivity.
As a result, a top-spec MacBook Pro is capable of supporting up to four external displays and can be specified with up to 128GB of RAM and 8TB of internal storage. Physically, the design remains the same as the previous generation with integrated biometric fingerprint reader, and both the 14- and 16-inch models can be equipped with an optional Nano-Texture display designed to reduce glare and reflections.
Pricing & Availability
The new iMac and Mac mini models are all available to pre-order now, and will be shipping by 8 November 2024. Prices are as follows:
- Mac mini M4: From $£599 including VAT
- Mac mini M4 Pro: From $£1399 including VAT
- iMac M4: From $£1399 including VAT
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MacBook Pro: From $£1599 including VAT
More information can be found on the Apple website.
