Mac Mini M2 (2023) review: A small box with few compromises

The Mac Mini M2, set to be released in 2023, is a compact and powerful computer from Apple. With its sleek and minimalist design, the Mac Mini M2 is the perfect choice for those who want a small and portable computer that is also capable of handling demanding tasks.

One of the biggest advantages of the Mac Mini M2 is its compact size. The device is only 7.7 inches square and 1.4 inches tall, making it one of the smallest computers on the market. Despite its small size, the Mac Mini M2 is a powerhouse, featuring the latest M2 processor from Apple and up to 64GB of RAM. This combination of small size and powerful hardware makes the Mac Mini M2 an ideal choice for users who need a portable computer that is also capable of handling demanding tasks.

The Mac Mini M2 also features a range of ports and connectivity options, making it easy to connect to a wide range of devices and accessories. The device has two Thunderbolt ports, two USB-A ports, an HDMI port, and a headphone jack, making it easy to connect to a range of displays, storage devices, and other accessories. In addition, the Mac Mini M2 features Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0, ensuring fast and reliable wireless connectivity.

Another advantage of the Mac Mini M2 is its operating system, macOS. macOS is known for its simplicity and ease of use, making it an ideal choice for users who are new to Macs or who want a computer that is easy to use. The Mac Mini M2 also comes with a range of pre-installed apps, including Pages, Numbers, Keynote, and Photos, allowing users to get started with their work right away.

One potential disadvantage of the Mac Mini M2 is its price. While the device is relatively affordable compared to other Macs, it is still more expensive than many other computers on the market. This may make it less accessible to users who are on a tight budget or who are looking for a more affordable computer.

In conclusion, the Mac Mini M2 is an excellent computer that is capable of handling demanding tasks while remaining compact and portable. With its powerful hardware, range of connectivity options, and ease of use, the Mac Mini M2 is an ideal choice for users who need a small computer that is also capable of handling demanding tasks. While the device may be more expensive than other computers on the market, its combination of performance and convenience make it a compelling choice for users who are looking for a small and powerful computer.

Are you a photographer, filmmaker or musician? How about a gamer? Then the Mac Mini and its 10-core GPU might be what you’re looking for, yes even gamers. The diminutive boxes have a mighty big punch, especially the Mini M2 Pro with its 16-core GPU. Still, I saw smooth gameplay without lag as I made my way through Lady Dimitrescu’s castle as I avoided her while hunting down her murderous daughters on the Mac Mini M2. However, I had to downgrade the graphics to medium at 1920 x 1080 to do so

The differences between the M2 and M2 Pro became clear during our benchmark, with the Mini M2 only reaching 27 frames per second during the Rise of the Tomb Raider test (1080p). Meanwhile, the M2 Pro reached an impressive 53 fps.

On the Sid Meier's Civilization VI: Gathering Storm benchmark, the Mini M2 produced 45 fps, compared to the Mini M2 Pro’s 50 fps.