The Mac Mini M4: A Step Forward, But Still Limited

Matilda
The Mac Mini M4: A Step Forward, But Still Limited
Apple's latest Mac Mini M4 has taken a significant step forward, departing from its predecessor's soldered-on SSD. The new model features a removable SSD module, offering a glimmer of hope for those seeking more customization and upgrade options. While this move aligns with Apple's recent trend towards modularity, seen in the Mac Studio and Mac Pro, certain limitations persist. A Closer Look at the Removable SSD Module The removable SSD module is a promising development, but it's important to understand its constraints. The module primarily houses the NAND chips, while the controller remains integrated into the SoC. This design choice, while improving user accessibility to some extent, significantly limits DIY upgrade and repair options. DIY Upgrades: A Risky Venture Despite the limitations, some tech-savvy individuals have successfully experimented with upgrading the Mac Mini M4's storage. By replacing the NAND chips on the module with higher-capacity ones, they'v…