![Someone working at a messy desk, with the new Apple Mac mini M2](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/9ShzC2kmxY9p487pAtmqba-415-80.jpg)
After months of leaks and rumours, Apple has today announced a host of new MacBook models and a re-engineered Mac mini. The Mac mini is something of a cult classic in the Mac range, winning fans thanks to its compact size. Don't be fooled though – it may be small, but it packs a powerful punch, with a fantastic I/O and hardcore processing power.
This new model features the second-generation Apple Silicon M2 chip as standard, with a premium model which features the brand new M2 Pro chip (also available in new 14 and 16-inch MacBook Pro models). Plus, the base model is now even cheaper – starting at £649 / $599 / AU$999 – making it a massively attractive proposition.
The Mac mini equipped with the base model M2 chip puts pride in being lightning fast. According to the specs, it will tackle machine learning tasks 22x faster than the old Intel-powered Mac mini models, or complete a complex render in Final Cut Pro up to 9.8x faster.
Even the most recent M1-powered models are left for dust. Filtering and other tasks in Photoshop are up to 50% faster, while gameplay is up to 35% faster. As someone who uses an M1-equipped MacBook Air on a daily basis, let me tell you – those figures are insane. The M1 chip is already breathtakingly fast, so anything topping it by that margin is a force to be reckoned with.
Opting for the pricier M2 Pro model will push the envelope even further. Gameplay is 2.8x faster than the M1 Mac mini, with a comparatively quick experience while using photo editing software. Plus, for the first time ever on a Mac, the M2 Pro Mac mini can support an 8k display.
You'll also bag a couple of extra ports on the M2 Pro models – four thunderbolt ports versus two on the base models. That's in addition to a pair of USB-A ports, an HDMI input and an Ethernet port, which can be upgraded to a 10 Gigabit variant for an extra fee. The 3.5mm jack input has been upgraded to support high-impedance headphones, while the latest Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 are included as standard.
This line-up of Mac mini is heavily aimed at creative users who will enjoy the extra horsepower of these new processors. Musicians, photographers and filmmakers are all treated to a more powerful machine, which will enable users to use more complex software, and speed up their processes.
Upgrade to smarter living
Get the latest news, reviews, deals and buying guides on gorgeous tech, home and active products straight to your inbox.
Customers can place orders right now, with units due to start shipping next week.
Online news writer at T3.com, Sam has five years of experience in online and print journalism, with work featured in publications like Metro and Last Word on Sports. After years writing about music and football, Sam now turns his hand to bringing you news about new phones, smart home products, smart watches, laptops and TVs. Sam is a longtime fan and user of Apple products, including iPhones, MacBooks and Apple Watches.He’s also T3’s resident football expert, bringing you everything you need to know about the big games, including how to watch them. In his spare time, Sam is a keen guitarist, watch lover and (very) amateur golfer.
-
What are gorilla rows: the underrated strength exercise you’re not doing for a stronger back
It will also give your core a run for its money
By Bryony Firth-Bernard Published
-
iPhone 17 slated for one massive camera upgrade which photographers will love
The question is, will it be too technical for non-photographers?
By Britta O'Boyle Published
-
iPhone 17 slated for one massive camera upgrade which photographers will love
The question is, will it be too technical for non-photographers?
By Britta O'Boyle Published
-
Apple Vision Pro just got a load of new reasons to justify that cost
Some of the extra content coming sounds incredible
By Britta O'Boyle Published
-
Apple's iPad is now at a record-low price this Amazon Prime Day
If you've been waiting to pick up an Apple iPad, now might be the time to buy
By David Nield Published
-
Surprise new Apple HomePod mini arrives, and you can order it today
Apple has announced a new Apple HomePod mini
By Britta O'Boyle Published
-
Diver gets his Apple Watch back a year after losing it in the ocean – thanks to Find My
When technology works, it really works
By Britta O'Boyle Published
-
Forget Amazon Prime Day – MacBook Air now at lowest-ever price at Walmart
Apple silicon computing for less
By David Nield Published
-
iPhone 16 Pro could finally add something Android users have been enjoying for years
This is one rumour we can definitely get on board with
By Britta O'Boyle Published
-
iPhone 16 "design changes" could impact Face ID on forthcoming handsets
No one's sure what it'll look like
By Max Freeman-Mills Published