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The 2026 Mac mini with M5 Pro has a higher listed base CPU core count and memory bandwidth than the 2024 M4 Pro model, while both start with 24GB of unified memory, a 512GB SSD and a 16-core GPU. Apple’s announced U.S. launch prices were $1,699 for M5 Pro and $1,399 for M4 Pro—a $300 historical difference, not a comparison of today’s prices.
Mac mini with M5 Pro vs. M4 Pro: key specifications
| Specification | Mac mini with M5 Pro (2026) | Mac mini with M4 Pro (2024) |
|---|---|---|
| Base Pro chip CPU / GPU | 15-core CPU / 16-core GPU | 12-core CPU / 16-core GPU |
| Higher chip configuration | 18-core CPU / 20-core GPU | 14-core CPU / 20-core GPU |
| Neural Engine | 16-core | 16-core |
| Memory bandwidth | 307GB/s | 273GB/s |
| Base unified memory | 24GB | 24GB |
| Maximum listed unified memory | 64GB | 64GB |
| Base SSD | 512GB | 512GB |
| Maximum listed SSD | 8TB | 8TB |
These are Apple’s listed configurations, not measured performance results. The M5 Pro model’s base chip has three more CPU cores than the M4 Pro base chip, but both list a 16-core GPU. Each also offers a higher configuration with a 20-core GPU; the listed CPU configuration for that option differs by generation. The specifications alone do not establish how much faster either Mac mini will be in a particular app or workload. Apple’s M5 Pro Mac mini specifications and the 2024 M4 Pro specifications provide the model details.
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How much does each Mac mini cost?
Apple announced a U.S. starting price of $1,699 for the M5 Pro Mac mini in 2026. The M4 Pro Mac mini launched in the U.S. at $1,399 in 2024, making the announced starting-price difference $300. These are prices at each model’s launch, not current quotes. M4 Pro stock and discounts may vary, so compare current retailer listings before deciding which is better value. Apple’s 2026 announcement and 2024 announcement give those original U.S. prices.
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CPU and memory bandwidth
The clearest listed differences are the M5 Pro’s 15-core base CPU versus 12 cores on M4 Pro, and its 307GB/s memory bandwidth versus 273GB/s. Those are specification comparisons; Apple’s published figures do not translate directly into a guaranteed speed increase for every task. Choose based on the apps and projects you run, and look for independent testing of those workloads if you need a performance estimate.
#1 Best Overall
- Massive 8TB Expandable Storage: Unlock the full potential of your Mac Mini M4 with up to 8TB of ultra-fast internal storage. The dock supports M.2 NVMe SSDs (2230/2242/2260/2280 sizes). Enjoy blazing 10Gbps transfer speeds for large files, 4K editing, or backups—all while keeping your setup sleek and clutter-free. (SSD not included.)
- 11-in-1 High-Speed Connectivity Hub: Turn your Mac Mini into a workstation with 11 versatile ports, including 3× USB-A 3.2 (10Gbps), 2× USB-A 3.0 (5Gbps), 2× USB-C 3.2 (10Gbps), and a UHS-I SD/TF card reader (170MB/s). Flexible power options: Draws power from your Mac Mini or use an external adapter (recommended for multi-device setups).
- 10Gbps Data Transfer: Enjoy blazing 10Gbps transfer speeds for large files, 4K editing, or backups—all while keeping your setup sleek and clutter-free. (SSD not included.)
- Precision-Engineered for Mac Mini M6:Designed to perfectly match your Mac Mini’s curves, this dock blends seamlessly while adding functionality. Features include a power button lever (turn on your Mac without lifting it) and anti-slip silicone pads for stability and scratch protection.
- Effortless Setup & Tidy Workspace:The included 4cm short cable keeps your desk neat, while the compact design maximizes space. Whether you’re a creative pro or a multitasker, this hub delivers storage, speed, and connectivity in one elegant solution.
Memory and storage
On Apple’s specifications, the base Pro configurations in both generations have 24GB of unified memory and a 512GB SSD. Both are configurable to a listed maximum of 64GB of memory and 8TB of storage. The starting model therefore does not gain more memory or storage simply by moving from M4 Pro to M5 Pro; consider the configuration you need, not only the chip generation.
Ports and displays
Apple lists Thunderbolt 5 on the M4 Pro Mac mini and documents external-display support for both generations. For a multi-monitor setup, check Apple’s model-specific display table for the resolution and refresh rate you need, as well as the ports and connection path each screen uses. A display-count headline alone may not answer whether your exact arrangement is supported. See the M5 Pro model specifications and M4 Pro model specifications.
Rank #2
- This pre-owned product is not Apple certified, but has been professionally inspected, tested and cleaned by Amazon-qualified suppliers. There will be no visible cosmetic imperfections when held at an arm’s length. There will be no visible cosmetic imperfections when held at an arm’s length. This product will have a battery which exceeds 80% capacity relative to new. Accessories will not be original, but will be compatible and fully functional. Product may come in generic Box. This product is eligible for a replacement or refund within 90 days of receipt if you are not satisfied.
Is the M5 Pro Mac mini worth the extra $300?
The $300 figure compares the two announced U.S. launch prices, not what the models cost today. Whether M5 Pro is worth more depends on the actual prices you find and whether its listed CPU and memory-bandwidth differences matter for your work. If a discounted M4 Pro meets your memory, storage and display requirements, the specifications here do not establish that paying more for M5 Pro will deliver a particular real-world gain.
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Rank #3
- SIZE DOWN. POWER UP — The far mightier, way tinier Mac mini desktop computer is five by five inches of pure power. Built for Apple Intelligence.* Redesigned around Apple silicon to unleash the full speed and capabilities of the spectacular M4 Pro chip. With ports at your convenience, on the front and back.
- LOOKS SMALL. LIVES LARGE — At just five by five inches, Mac mini is designed to fit perfectly next to a monitor and is easy to place just about anywhere.
- CONVENIENT CONNECTIONS — Get connected with Thunderbolt, HDMI, and Gigabit Ethernet ports on the back and, for the first time, front-facing USB-C ports and a headphone jack.
- SUPERCHARGED BY M4 PRO — The M4 Pro chip brings extra power to take on demanding projects like working with complex scenes or compiling millions of lines of code.
- BUILT FOR APPLE INTELLIGENCE — Apple Intelligence is the personal intelligence system that helps you write, express yourself, and get things done effortlessly. With groundbreaking privacy protections, it gives you peace of mind that no one else can access your data — not even Apple.*
Should you upgrade from an M4 Pro Mac mini?
The listed specifications show what changes, but they do not by themselves make a case to replace a working M4 Pro. Before upgrading, weigh the actual resale or trade-in value and purchase price against a concrete need—such as more CPU capacity for your workload—rather than treating core counts or bandwidth as a guaranteed application-speed increase. If your M4 Pro already meets your needs, this comparison offers no measured result that proves an upgrade is necessary.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- LOOKS SMALL, LIVES LARGE—At just 5 by 5 inches, Mac mini is designed to fit perfectly under a monitor and is easy to place just about anywhere.
- CONVENIENT CONNECTIONS—Get connected with Thunderbolt, HDMI, and Gigabit Ethernet ports on the back, and for the first time, front-facing USB-C ports and a headphone jack.
- SUPERCHARGED BY M4—The powerful M4 chip delivers spectacular performance so everything feels snappy and fluid.
- BUILT FOR APPLE INTELLIGENCE—Apple Intelligence helps you write, express yourself, and get things done effortlessly. With groundbreaking privacy protections, it gives you peace of mind that no one else can access your data—not even Apple.
- APPS FLY WITH APPLE SILICON—All your favorites, including Microsoft Excel, Adobe Photoshop, and Zoom, run lightning fast in macOS.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
