Apple recently launched their new Mac Mini, which is powered by their new Apple M1 Silicon. Now, we have a detailed comparison of the M1 Mac Mini vs Intel i7 Mac Mini.
The M1 Mac Mini comes with 16GB of RAM, while the Intel i7 Mac Mini boasts 64GB of RAM. Additionally, the Intel version is paired with a 5700XT eGPU, which is only supported by this device. This setup provides a unique opportunity to compare the performance of Apple’s new silicon against a more traditional Intel setup with an external GPU.
Performance Comparison
As we can see from the video, the M1 Mac Mini outperforms the Intel Mac Mini in many of the tests. Apple’s M1 processor is impressive and has performed well in all of the tests we have seen so far. The M1 chip integrates the CPU, GPU, and RAM into a single system on a chip (SoC), which allows for faster data transfer and improved efficiency. This architecture is a significant departure from the traditional Intel setup, where these components are separate.
In terms of raw performance, the M1 Mac Mini shows superior speed in tasks such as video editing, rendering, and even some gaming scenarios. The unified memory architecture of the M1 allows for quicker access to data, which translates to faster processing times. For instance, in video editing software like Final Cut Pro, the M1 Mac Mini can handle 4K video editing with ease, something that would typically require a more powerful setup on an Intel-based machine.
eGPU Performance
It is interesting to see how well the Mac Mini performed compared to the Intel Mac when the eGPU was used with the Intel Mac Mini. The 5700XT eGPU provides a significant boost in graphical performance for the Intel Mac Mini, making it a viable option for tasks that require heavy graphical processing, such as 3D rendering and high-end gaming. However, even with the eGPU, the Intel Mac Mini struggles to keep up with the M1 Mac Mini in some scenarios.
The M1 Mac Mini’s integrated GPU, while not as powerful as the 5700XT, benefits from the efficiency and speed of the unified architecture. This means that for many users, the M1 Mac Mini will provide more than enough graphical power without the need for an external GPU. Additionally, the M1 Mac Mini’s lower power consumption and heat generation make it a more efficient and quieter option compared to the Intel Mac Mini with an eGPU.
Software Compatibility and Future Prospects
One area where the Intel Mac Mini still holds an advantage is software compatibility. While Apple has made significant strides in ensuring that most software runs smoothly on the M1 chip through Rosetta 2, there are still some applications that are optimized for Intel processors. This is particularly relevant for professional users who rely on specific software for their workflows.
However, as more developers update their software to natively support the M1 chip, this gap is expected to close. Apple’s transition to their own silicon is a clear indication of their commitment to this new architecture, and future iterations of the M1 chip are likely to bring even more performance improvements.
The M1 Mac Mini represents a significant leap forward in terms of performance and efficiency. While the Intel i7 Mac Mini with a 5700XT eGPU still has its merits, particularly in terms of software compatibility and raw graphical power, the M1 Mac Mini offers a more streamlined and efficient solution for most users. As software continues to evolve and take advantage of the M1 architecture, the gap between these two machines is likely to widen even further in favor of Apple’s new silicon.
Source & Image Credit Max Tech
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