New Mac Mini M4: Removable Storage Shows Promise, But Upgrades Remain Challenging

Introduction

Apple’s newly launched Mac Mini M4 has taken a slight but notable step towards allowing storage upgrades by featuring a removable SSD module. Unlike its predecessor, the M2 Mac Mini, which had a soldered SSD, the new model’s drive can theoretically be swapped out. However, as teardowns and reviews reveal, this new setup might not make it as user-friendly for home upgrades as it first appears.

A Small Change in Design

Teardowns, including a detailed examination by tech channels on platforms like X and YouTube, confirm that the M4 Mac Mini includes a removable SSD module—a design Apple previously introduced in the Mac Studio and Mac Pro. This adjustment theoretically provides more flexibility compared to the previous fully soldered models. Yet, this doesn’t make upgrades straightforward: Apple has embedded the SSD controller directly into the M4’s SoC (System on Chip), limiting compatibility and DIY repair options.

Limited DIY Upgrade Potential

The Mac Mini’s removable SSD design doesn’t mean that storage upgrades are plug-and-play. The controller integration in the SoC restricts the upgrade possibilities, especially for typical users who want to expand storage without extensive hardware modification. Experts caution that these upgrades could only be feasible for advanced users willing to swap out NAND chips and tackle compatibility issues, as demonstrated by tech enthusiasts performing high-level mods on previous Apple devices.

Enhanced Design for Performance

In a step towards performance consistency, the base model of the M4 Mac Mini now uses two 128GB NAND chips rather than a single 256GB chip, which can improve data handling speeds. Additionally, the device’s WiFi chip is strategically placed on the bottom for optimal connectivity.

Conclusion

The Mac Mini M4’s removable SSD marks a shift in Apple’s design philosophy, offering a glimpse of potential for modularity. However, actual storage upgrades are likely out of reach for everyday users, as Apple continues to prioritize proprietary designs over accessibility. While this change hints at future possibilities, it may remain a largely internal enhancement unless Apple relaxes its hardware integration practices.