Is 16GB unified memory sufficient for my workload on a new Mac mini?

I have an iMac (Retina 5k, 27-inch, Late 2015)for work that has started to freeze up for no apparent reason other than it's old. It causes me to have to reboot often now, and that can take 30-45 minutes before the system is "ready to go", so I've decided it's time to upgrade.

Since my work consists of running MSOffice apps (for Mac) about 90% of the time, I intend to buy the Apple 2024 Mac mini with the M4 chip (10‑core CPU & 10‑core GPU), 16GB Unified Memory. I already have an iCloud Drive account for my business records, so the 256GB SSD Storage should be enough.

I do have a couple of quick questions, just to make sure I'm choosing the right mini. I always have multiple apps open every day, all day. I do a lot of industry and business research, so I will always have 3-5 browser windows open at the same time, too. Therefore:

1 - Is 16GB unified memory "enough" for my type of workload for the foreseeable future? I'm hesitant about the memory because of how rapidly Apple technology and most 3rd party apps are constantly upgrading, which often places more demand on devices, so perhaps the 16GB might become sluggish in just a year or two?

2 - Is porting my iMac over to the mini as simple a process as it has been previously when I've upgraded to new iMac's in the past, or should I set an appointment with the Genius Bar and take my iMac there and have them do it?

Would greatly appreciate any feedback.

[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Original Title: Mac mini

Posted on Nov 11, 2025 4:27 PM

Top-ranking reply

Chloeree

Level 1

12 points

Posted on Nov 13, 2025 2:02 AM

For your workflow, 16GB unified memory on the M4 Mac mini should be plenty for several years. The unified memory architecture is efficient, so running Office apps, multiple browser windows, and research tools won’t be an issue.

Migration from your iMac is straightforward with Migration Assistant, either wirelessly or via Time Machine — a Genius Bar visit isn’t necessary unless you prefer in-person support. Overall, this upgrade should feel much faster and smoother than your 2015 iMac.

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20 replies

Nov 13, 2025 4:55 AM in response to steper1

From 2012 to 2020 improvements in computer performance were just small incremental changes . . . . 10% faster here, 12% faster there.

Then in 2020 with the introduction of the M1 chip everything changed . . . computers were instantly at least twice as fast as they had been and the £600 mini was equalling the performance of machines that had cost £3,000 the previous year.

There is no comparison between the old Intel machines and the new (even low end) M chips.

Nov 13, 2025 5:33 AM in response to woodmeister50

woodmeister50 wrote:

FYI, you can restore from a non-bootable CCC clone, i.e. data volume clone. I have done this multiple times and have had zero issues for several years now.

Migration Assistant can work from a non-bootable clone?!?

Nov 13, 2025 7:54 AM in response to steper1

steper1 wrote:

Your first point is well spoken, Idris, and I absolutely agree. I also figured migration would be as simple as it always has been...but that is the Apple way!

Thanks for your timely response!

Best of luck with your new computer. I think you've made a good choice in the 24/512.

steper1 Author

Level 1

6 points

Nov 12, 2025 3:59 PM in response to IdrisSeabright

Your first point is well spoken, Idris, and I absolutely agree. I also figured migration would be as simple as it always has been...but that is the Apple way!

Thanks for your timely response!

steper1 Author

Level 1

6 points

Nov 12, 2025 4:01 PM in response to den.thed

I understand, and I agree. I've decided on the 24/512 configuration after all. Thanks!

Is 16GB unified memory sufficient for my workload on a new Mac mini?