Mac mini M2 Pro, 2023

Technically a "configure-to-order" version of the Mac mini "M2 Pro" 10-Core CPU/16-Core GPU (2023), the Apple Mac mini "M2 Pro" 12-Core CPU/19-Core GPU (2023) is also listed as a distinct model for clarity. Compared to the base model, this custom version features a different CPU/GPU configuration but could otherwise be identically specified.

This Mac mini model is equipped with a 5-nm 3.49 GHz Apple M2 Pro processor with 12 cores (8 performance, 4 efficiency), a 19-core GPU, and a 16-core Neural Engine. It includes 16 GB of onboard RAM and a 512 GB onboard SSD. Both RAM and SSD could be custom-ordered with higher-end options at purchase but cannot be upgraded later.

Its connectivity suite consists of Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.3, four Thunderbolt 4 ports (USB-C), two USB-A ports (up to 5Gb/s), an HDMI 2.1 port, Gigabit Ethernet, and a 3.5 mm headphone jack.

In comparison with its predecessor, this model appears nearly identical but boasts a faster internal architecture and enhanced connectivity.

All Mac mini systems are sold by default without a display, keyboard, or mouse, but numerous compatible options from Apple and third parties are available.

As the highest-end build-to-order configuration, the 12-core CPU and 19-core GPU M2 Pro Mac mini was evaluated as the absolute pinnacle of compact desktop performance in its time. It took the already powerful M2 Pro platform and pushed it further, offering tangible performance gains in multi-threaded CPU and graphics-intensive workflows. This model was squarely aimed at professionals with extreme demands, such as 8K video editors, visual effects artists, and developers working on massive codebases. It was frequently benchmarked against high-end desktop towers, often trading blows with systems many times its size and power consumption. The evaluation was simple: it was the most powerful Mac mini ever created, a true marvel of engineering. The only criticisms were tied to its price, which, when fully configured with more RAM and storage, could easily rival that of a Mac Studio, creating a difficult choice for potential buyers.