Apple's 2TB M4 Mac mini is $100 off & in stock

This is the 16GB, 2TB version.    

$100 is a good start.   

You're a fool to support Apple charging $800 for an upgrade from 256GB to 2TB SSD. 

How about $350?

https://youtu.be/64_Mc03FC_0?si=swCRXWTlQDuzzsNZ

Just ordered a M4 Pro mini to be also a file server. Based upon my M2 Pro file server, I ordered the 64GB of memory, 2TB SSD, 10Gb ethernet and 14-core CPU since no changes after it is built.  ETA is 14 to 22 January and based upon our other orders in the last two months expect it will be here early. Being a new year, I got my military discount on the unit well.

ITGUYINSD said:

You're a fool to support Apple charging $800 for an upgrade from 256GB to 2TB SSD. 

You know, quite often you get what you pay for with Apple.  Apple's RAM isn't the same as most of the stuff you might be comparing it with.  

• Apple uses custom NVMe SSDs soldered directly to the motherboard, which are optimized for:

• Performance: Speeds are exceptionally high, typically up to 3.5 GB/s in the Mac Mini.

• Low Latency: Custom controllers ensure faster response times compared to off-the-shelf SSDs.

• Integration: The storage is tightly coupled with the SoC (M2, M2 Pro, M2 Max), providing seamless operation and power efficiency.

• Apple’s storage communicates with the SoC through a custom PCIe interface, reducing bottlenecks.

• Unlike traditional systems where storage operates as a separate component, this tight integration allows for higher sustained throughput and minimal latency.

• Apple designs its storage controllers and firmware to maximize performance, endurance, and reliability. Features include:

• Wear-leveling: Extends the lifespan of the SSD.

• Encryption: All data is hardware-encrypted for security, without performance overhead.

• Error Correction: Ensures data integrity.

• Apple uses high-quality NAND flash with better endurance than many consumer SSDs. This makes the drives more reliable over time, especially under heavy workloads.

Why Solder? The soldered SSDs contribute to:

• Compact Design: Essential for the Mac Mini’s small form factor.

• Speed Optimization: By eliminating removable connectors, Apple minimizes potential signal losses.

• Security: Soldered storage is harder to tamper with, enhancing data security.

 Alternatives for Mac Mini Storage

• For those who find Apple’s storage pricing prohibitive, external storage options are popular:

• Thunderbolt 4/USB 4 SSDs: External SSDs can offer comparable speeds (up to 3 GB/s) at a lower cost.

• RAID Arrays: Users can configure external RAID setups for high-capacity, high-speed storage.

• Downside: These solutions aren’t as seamless or compact as Apple’s internal storage.

Even in the Mac Mini, Apple’s SSDs are not just “off-the-shelf” components:

• They deliver consistent high performance.

• They integrate tightly with the SoC for optimal efficiency.

• They feature enhanced security and reliability.

This is my internal storage on my Mac Studio.