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    Mac Mini M1 Chip
    A compact desktop computer, tested with macOS Big Sur 11.0, an Apple M1 3.2GHz processor, 8GB of memory, a 256GB solid-state drive, an integrated Apple M1 video adapter, and built-in speakers.
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    * This Model May Have Limited Distribution

    Description
    A compact desktop computer, tested with macOS Big Sur 11.0, an Apple M1 3.2GHz processor, 8GB of memory, a 256GB solid-state drive, an integrated Apple M1 video adapter, and built-in speakers.

    CR Expert Take

    How did it perform in our owner surveys and expert lab testing?

    What goes into the Overall Score?

    Ratings

    OWNER SURVEYS

    Predicted Reliability
     /  5
    Owner Satisfaction
     /  5

    EXPERT LAB TESTS

    Performance
     /  5
    Versatility
     /  5
    Ergonomics
     /  5
    Display
     /  5
    Speakers
     /  5
    Color
     /  5
    Touch screen
     /  5
    OS
     /  5

    Detailed Test Results

    Performance: Overall this desktop's performance was very good. Compared to other tested desktops, it was fast for common tasks such as web browsing and video conferencing. Applications start up quickly. Speed was adequate when composing documents, working on data spreadsheets, and other productivity tasks, and it was fast for manipulating filters on multiple images, converting and editing videos, and rendering 3D models and calculating simulations.

    Ergonomics: Unlike many desktops, this computer does not include a keyboard or mouse, which are sold separately. You can't easily replace the storage drive. The power button is not in a convenient location, and is either hard to access, or easy to press accidentally.

    Useful features and attributes on this model include: You can connect common external devices such as hard drives and Blu-ray burners using USB 4 Gen 3x2 (40 Gbps). It also has Thunderbolt 3 (40 Gbps) supported over USB. Gigabit ethernet provides fast transfer of data over a local network. Video outputs include: an HDMI full-size port, supporting Thunderbolt 3 (40 Gbps) and DisplayPort over USB-C; these are useful for connecting to an HDTV or separate monitor.

    Downsides: There is no memory-card reader, so you'll need to buy an external reader or connect your digital camera directly to this desktop to transfer photos. There's no optical drive like a CD or DVD reader, so you'll have to buy an external drive if you need one. It has a shorter-than-typical 3 months of free tech support by telephone.

    About

    The Apple Mac Mini M1 Chip is a compact desktop computer. It has 8GB of memory and a 256GB solid-state drive. It has an Apple M1 3.2GHz processor and an integrated Apple M1 video adapter. It is not suitable for high-performance gaming. However, it lacks an optical drive for burning CDs or DVDs. It comes with macOS Big Sur 11.0 pre-installed.

    It has 2 full-size and 2 type-C USB ports in the rear. It supports WiFi 5 (802.11ac), so it's compatible with high-speed routers. It also supports WiFi 6 (802.11ax), which provides faster and more dependable High Efficiency Wireless, but you'll need a compatible router to see the faster speeds. It has Bluetooth 5.0 built-in. USB 4 is supported over the USB-C ports. Like earlier Mac Mini generations, you can connect DisplayPort, Thunderbolt 3, and USB 3.1 Gen 2 devices, as well as Thunderbolt2, HDMI, DVI, and VGA with an adapter.

    The Mac Mini M1 Chip measures 7.8 inches wide by 1.5 inches high by 7.8 inches deep. As a compact desktop computer, the case is smaller than a typical tower and is designed to take up less desk space. It is backed by a 12-month warranty, with 3 months of free tech support by telephone.

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