Since its launch, the Mac mini has been one of the most popular Apple desktops. Its affordable pricing and compact design attract Mac enthusiasts, especially those who want to shift from Windows or Linux. And the fifth-generation lineup of the Mac mini, powered by the M2 and M2 Pro chips, is no exception.

We also believe this compact desktop has what it takes to be the best entry-level Mac in the market. Here are five reasons the M2 Mac mini, the current base model of the product, is the best Mac for most mainstream users.

1. Great Value for Money

M2 Mac mini on a desk with monitor
Image Credit: Apple

As you may have guessed, the M2 Mac mini is the cheapest Mac Apple offers. At the time of writing, Apple sells the base model of the M2 Mac mini for $599, but if you're a student, you can grab one for just $499, thanks to educational pricing. So, it's worth learning how to get Apple's student discount.

Despite its affordable price tag, the M2 Mac mini does not compromise on the performance front. Compared to the M1 model, the M2 Mac mini packs a few upgrades like Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3. It's as powerful—if not more—as a Windows PC you can configure with this budget.

Therefore, this super-affordable entry-level Mac will be an excellent investment as any other Mac from Apple. You can consider upgrading the RAM, storage, or network connectivity if you have a higher budget.

2. M2 Is a Mighty Powerful Chip

apple m2 chip
Image Credit: Apple

Announced at WWDC 2022, M2 is a second-generation Apple silicon chip for the Mac. It succeeds the massively popular M1 series, which includes the M1 Pro and M1 Max, and brings noticeable performance improvements. With M2, Apple has done a great job optimizing performance for the changing dynamics of computing power.

So, for most people, M2 is an excellent choice, as we have seen the power of the M2 chip on the M2 MacBook Air, 13-inch MacBook Pro, and even the iPad Pro. Apple claims that the M2 Mac mini is much more powerful than the M1 model in many aspects, including photo editing, video editing, code compiling, and overall productivity.

Therefore, you can expect it to easily handle most tasks, including entry-level gaming and video editing. Since it does not use a battery, the Mac mini can leverage the full power of the M2 chip.

3. Rich Connectivity Options

m2 mac mini connectivity options
Image Credit: Apple

Many are concerned about connectivity options like ports when they shift from a PC to a Mac because Apple has almost made it a norm to use dongles with its notebooks. The M2 Mac mini, however, packs nearly every port you need for a clean desktop experience.

The base model of the M2 Mac mini comes with two USB-A ports, two Thunderbolt 4-enabled USB-C ports, an HDMI port, a Gigabit Ethernet port, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. You can also upgrade the network port to a 10 Gigabit Ethernet port if you like.

As you can tell by now, you do not have to worry about purchasing and using dongles when you get this Mac mini.

4. A Compact and Portable Design

m2 mac mini compact design
Image Credit: Apple

The M2 Mac mini is undoubtedly one of the best compact desktops you can get today. This compact device weighs only 2.6 pounds and can fit anywhere in your backpack. But, more importantly, you would not have trouble keeping the Mac mini on your desk.

Considering the device's performance, the compact design is an added advantage for people with space constraints. Moreover, it is so compact that you can easily carry it around like a MacBook. We believe it's great that your first Mac does not take up your entire desk.

That said, if money isn't a concern, you can also consider getting the Mac Studio, which is only double the size of the Mac mini.

5. You Get Better Options for Accessories

m2 mac mini with accessories on a desk
Image Credit: Apple

Many users hate that the M2 Mac mini does not come with a keyboard or mouse. And they are often inclined toward the M1 iMac. But if you want better options for monitor, keyboard, and mouse, you should stick with the M2 Mac mini.

You should also consider the price difference between the M2 Mac mini and the iMac. The base model iMac costs $1,299, which means you have to spend an extra $700. However, you can spend less than $700 and get a great keyboard, a professional mouse, and a more customized display for your Mac.

It is also worth noting that the base iMac still uses the M1 chip, which can't keep up with the M2's generational improvements. So, while enjoying the benefits of custom accessories, you can expect additional performance. The Mac mini allows you to explore better options while saving money!

Choosing the Right Mac for You

It must be clear that the M2 Mac mini is indeed the best entry-level Mac even today. It brings a combination of performance, affordability, and choice.

However, don't forget the Mac mini's limitations before picking it as your go-to desktop. Configuring it with enough resources like RAM and storage is also essential.