Apple's recent update to its Mac mini lineup has brought exciting options for users looking for a compact desktop computer. With the introduction of the M2 and M2 Pro processors, Apple has retired the aging Intel model, giving consumers two Apple silicon-powered choices.
In this article, we'll delve into the differences between the Mac mini M2 and the Mac mini M2 Pro, helping you make an informed decision.
M2 Mac mini vs. M2 Pro Mac mini: Specifications
Let's start by comparing the specifications of these two models:
Mac mini (M2)
- Processor: 8core CPU, 10core GPU
- Memory: 8GB/16GB/24GB
- Storage: 256GB/512GB/1TB/2TB
- Display Support: Two displays
- Audio: Speaker, 3.5mm headphone jack with advanced support for hiimpedance headphones
- Keyboard and Trackpad/Mouse: Not included
- WiFi: WiFi 6E
- Bluetooth: 5.3
- Ports: Two Thunderbolt 4 ports, two USB‑A ports, HDMI 2.0 port, Gigabit or 10Gb Ethernet
- Dimensions: 197mm x 197mm x 36mm (7.75 x 7.75 x 1.41 inches)
- Weight: 1.18kg (2.6 pounds)
Mac mini (M2 Pro)
- Processor: 10core or 12core CPU, 16core or 19core GPU
- Memory: 16GB/32GB
- Storage: 512GB/1TB/2TB/4TB/8TB
- Display Support: Three displays
- Audio: Speaker, 3.5mm headphone jack with advanced support for impedance headphones
- Keyboard and Trackpad/Mouse: Not included
- WiFi: WiFi 6E
- Bluetooth: 5.3
- Ports: Four Thunderbolt 4 ports, two USB‑A ports, HDMI 2.0 port, Gigabit or 10Gb Ethernet
- Dimensions: 197mm x 197mm x 36mm (7.75 x 7.75 x 1.41 inches)
- Weight: 1.28kg (2.8 pounds)
Design and External Features
Visually, both the M2 and M2 Pro Mac minis maintain the iconic Mac mini design. They share the same dimensions, with a compact aluminum chassis measuring 197mm x 197mm x 36mm (7.75 x 7.75 x 1.41 inches).
However, the M2 Pro model is slightly heavier. Both models, as typical with Mac Minis, do not include a display, keyboard, or mouse/trackpad, so you'll need to provide your own peripherals.
Processor
The primary difference between these two Mac mini models lies in the processors they use. The M2 is already familiar from its appearance in the MacBook Air M2 and the 13-inch MacBook Pro M2.
It features an 8core CPU with four performance cores and four efficiency cores, a 10core GPU, a 16core Neural Engine, and 100GB/s memory bandwidth.
In contrast, the M2 Pro is a new chip introduced alongside the M2 Max for high-end MacBook Pros. It offers up to 10 or 12 CPU cores (with six or eight performance cores and eight efficiency cores), a 16core or 19core GPU, a 16core neural engine, and 200GB/s memory bandwidth—twice that of the standard M2.
Both M2 and M2 Pro show significant performance improvements over their predecessors. The M2 Pro is about 20 percent faster than the M1 Pro in both CPU and GPU performance.
Memory and Storage
The base models of the Mac mini M2 start with 8GB of memory and 256GB of storage, while the M2 Pro begins with 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage. These configurations can be upgraded at the time of purchase.
The M2 model supports up to 24GB of memory and 2TB of storage, and the M2 Pro offers a maximum of 32GB of RAM and up to a massive 8TB of storage.
Keep in mind that these upgrades come with significant price increases, especially for the M2 Pro, which can reach a hefty BDT 500,500.
Ports and Connectivity
Both Mac mini models come equipped with WiFi 6E (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.3. They also offer robust connectivity options with Thunderbolt 4/USB 4 ports, USBA ports, HDMI, and Gigabit or 10Gb Ethernet.
One noteworthy feature is their support for multiple displays. The M2 can handle two displays. It includes 6K at 60Hz and 5K at 60Hz via Thunderbolt.
On the other hand, the M2 Pro takes it a step further by supporting three displays, including two 6K at 60Hz over Thunderbolt and one 4K at 60Hz over HDMI.
The M2 Pro's HDMI 2.1 port can even run a single display with up to 8K resolution at 60Hz or 4K at 240Hz.
Price and Availability in Bangladesh
The price of the M2 Mac mini in Bangladesh starts from 74,000 BDT for the base model (8GB/256GB) and goes up to 205,000 BDT for the 24GB/2TB variant.
The M2 Pro Mac mini starts at 159,000 BDT for the 16GB/512GB configuration. The actual price you pay may vary depending on the retailer and the exchange rate.
Our Recommendation
Choosing between the M2 Mac mini and the M2 Pro Mac mini ultimately comes down to your specific needs and budget.
If you require a capable desktop Mac for general computing or home use, the M2 Mac mini offers an excellent balance of performance and affordability. Its M2 chip provides ample power for most users, including some professionals.
On the other hand, if you demand a higher end chip with more processing and graphics power, the M2 Pro Mac mini is a formidable choice. However, it comes at a premium price, starting at 159,000 BDT.
When considering upgrades, particularly for memory and storage, be cautious, as the costs can escalate quickly.
Depending on your requirements, it might be more cost effective to consider alternatives like the MacBook Pro or the Mac Studio if you plan on upgrading beyond storage capacity.
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FAQs
Q: What are the key differences between the Mac mini M2 and Mac mini M2 Pro?
A: The Mac Mini M2 and M2 Pro differ in processors, memory, storage, and price. M2 has an 8-core CPU and 10-core GPU, while M2 Pro offers a 10-core/12-core CPU and 16-core/19-core GPU.
M2 Pro starts with 16GB RAM, M2 with 8GB. Storage ranges from 2TB (M2) to 8TB (M2 Pro).
The M2 Pro is pricier at 159,000 BDT, while the M2 starts at 74,000 BDT.
2: Can I upgrade the memory and storage on the Mac mini M2 and M2 Pro?
No, you cannot upgrade the memory or storage on the Mac mini M2 and M2 Pro after purchase.
Apple has designed these models with fixed configurations, so you must choose your desired memory and storage options at the time of purchase.
3: How many displays can the Mac mini M2 and M2 Pro support simultaneously?
Both the Mac mini M2 and M2 Pro offer impressive display support. The M2 can handle two displays simultaneously, including 6K at 60Hz and 5K at 60Hz via Thunderbolt connections.
In contrast, the M2 Pro takes it a step further by supporting up to three displays concurrently. It can manage two 6K displays at 60Hz via Thunderbolt and one 4K display at 60Hz through HDMI.
