MacBook Neo vs Mac mini M4: Which $599 Mac should you get?

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Whether you’re thinking about upgrading from a Chromebook or ditching Windows for good, there’s never been a better time to switch to Mac, especially with the release of the new MacBook Neo. Starting at $599 (or $499 for education), this is Apple’s most affordable MacBook yet and a great way to get started with macOS. However, it’s not your only option at this price point.

Released back in 2024, the Mac mini M4 also starts at $599 (with that same education discount available). Sure, you will need a separate monitor along with a keyboard and mouse but chances are, you probably already have a display and your existing peripherals will likely work with macOS. While the MacBook Neo is arguably the best budget laptop you can get right now, the Mac mini M4 is one of the best mini PCs overall.

$599 MacBook Neo Review — Is It Better Than a MacBook Air? – YouTube

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If you don’t plan on bringing the Neo with you and will mostly be using it at home, then the Mac mini M4 becomes a much more compelling option. Then it just comes down to whether or not you prefer to be anchored to a desk or sitting on the couch when using your computer. Although you’re paying $599 for either machine, one comes equipped with a mobile chip while the other uses a full-blow desktop chip that’s significantly more powerful.

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Now that we’ve tested and reviewed the MacBook Neo, we can see how it stacks up against Apple’s smallest Mac mini yet. If you only have $599 to spend on a new Mac, read this first before you rush out and buy the Neo as the Mac mini M4 is an equally impressive machine.

MacBook Neo vs Mac mini M4: Specs

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Header Cell – Column 0	MacBook Neo	Mac mini M4
Processor	A18 Pro (6-core CPU, 6-core GPU)	M4 (10-core CPU, 10 core GPU)
Display	13-inch Liquid Retina (2408 x 1506)	None (supports up to three displays)
Memory	8GB Unified Memory	16GB Unified Memory
Storage