How well M2 Mac Mini handles 4K display?

[Sami13496]

I have a question about using an external display with M2 Mac Mini.

I have an Intel MacBook Pro 13-inch from 2019. It gets warm in normal use, but when I connect it to an external 4K monitor via the UCB-C connection and use it in clamshell mode, it gets really hot, the fan runs constantly and the performance drops noticeably.

For a long time now I've used it only as a desktop machine and I’m thinking of buying M2 Mac Mini (or an M3 Mac Mini when it's released, depending on when I'm going to go ahead with the purchase).

I just want to make sure, if someone could say from experience, can the M2 Mac Mini handle an external 4K monitor without heating up and slowing down?

Thanks.

 

[bobcomer]

It might get a little warm to the touch, but it wont throttle like your Macbook and the fan probably wont be too loud, if you can hear it at all. I don't hear mine and it's connected to a 4K display.

 

[Darth.Titan]

I run dual 4K displays on my M2 mini. Absolutely no issues whatsoever.

 

[Populus]

I run dual 4K displays on my M2 mini. Absolutely no issues whatsoever.

Two 4K displays at the same time?
Is it an M2 or an M2 Pro mini? No lag at all? And the fan remains silent?

 

[pshufd]

I ran dual 4k Dell Ultrasharps off my M1 mini and no thermal issues at all. There were fewer resolutions available off the HDMI port but that was fixed on the M2 mini.

 

[pshufd]

Two 4K displays at the same time?
Is it an M2 or an M2 Pro mini? No lag at all? And the fan remains silent?

The M1 and M2 support 2 monitors. The M1/M2 MacBooks only support 1 external display because the internal monitor counts as 1. The M2 Pro supports 3 monitors.

 

[kodabear]

Running 2-4K LG monitors, 1-27" & 1-32" on a M2 Pro Mini with no issues what so ever plus it's totally quiet.

 

[Darth.Titan]

Two 4K displays at the same time?
Is it an M2 or an M2 Pro mini? No lag at all? And the fan remains silent?

M2 Pro mini. I bought it refurb a few weeks back and saved around $300.
Yes, I run 2 4K displays at the same time. No noticeable lag at all that I've noticed, the thing's damn speedy.
If the fan is running, I don't hear it and the top is cool as a cucumber.

 

[ovbacon]

My mini does not seem to really have to work for my 4k monitor... doesn't even feel warm.

 

[ufgatorvet]

I run dual 4K displays on my M2 mini. Absolutely no issues whatsoever.

Which displays do you have? I am considering dual Studio Display but the money, oh man the money.

 

[ufgatorvet]

Running 2-4K LG monitors, 1-27" & 1-32" on a M2 Pro Mini with no issues what so ever plus it's totally quiet.

Which LG monitors do you use if I can ask? I am shopping for options. Thanks!

 

[mr_jomo]

Adding a bit more surety: I run my m2 MacBook Air of a LG 32UN880 4K, in clamshell, 10 hours every working day. I have experienced no issues with lag, heat (Air stays cool to the touch) or such ... nothing but sweet, smooth performance 🤩.

 

[Darth.Titan]

Which displays do you have? I am considering dual Studio Display but the money, oh man the money.

It's been awhile, so I didn't know if the monitors I use are still sold, but apparently they are.
LG 24" Class 4K UHD IPS LED Monitor

Only 24", but with dual displays I have no issues with screen space.

 

[kodabear]

Which LG monitors do you use if I can ask? I am shopping for options. Thanks!

The LG 32UL950 and the 27UP600. The 32" has 2-Thunderbolt ports plus 2 ea Display and HDMI ports along with USB-A The 27" is limited to 2 ea. Display & HDMI ports and I would like to upgrade. No USB ports for data or charging. Not sure if either one is still available. The LG 27UQ850-W would be a good choice for starters.