The M1 graphics are really not that impressive at all

[LeeW]

For a real-world example of the "poor" M1 Graphics. I casually play World of Warcraft, here is the difference compared to the 2018 i5 MM.

Mac Mini - 2018 - i5 (6 Core) - 16GB Ram

Max capable settings 4/10, reduce everything as low as you can get
on a 3440x1440 resolution, I managed 25-30 FPS
Fans max out within minutes, heat gets ridiculous within minutes, sounds like it's taking off
Not a great experience

Mac Mini - 2020 - M1 - 8GB Ram

Max capable settings 10/10, slightly reduce shadows
on a 3440 x 1440 resolution, I managed 45-60 FPS consistently
If the fans are running I can't tell, barely gets warm to touch and is silent
Amazing experience

Now, a single example, not saying it's always the case, not saying it is better than a PC and a RTXxxxx but compared to the previous Mini it is incredible the difference. So whatever with benchmarks.

 

[Ledgem]

For a real-world example of the "poor" M1 Graphics. I casually play World of Warcraft, here is the difference compared to the 2018 i5 MM.

Mac Mini - 2018 - i5 (6 Core) - 16GB Ram

Max capable settings 4/10, reduce everything as low as you can get
on a 3440x1440 resolution, I managed 25-30 FPS
Fans max out within minutes, heat gets ridiculous within minutes, sounds like it's taking off
Not a great experience

Mac Mini - 2020 - M1 - 8GB Ram

Max capable settings 10/10, slightly reduce shadows
on a 3440 x 1440 resolution, I managed 45-60 FPS consistently
If the fans are running I can't tell, barely gets warm to touch and is silent
Amazing experience

Now, a single example, not saying it's always the case, not saying it is better than a PC and a RTXxxxx but compared to the previous Mini it is incredible the difference. So whatever with benchmarks.

The trouble with this argument is that the previous mini can support external GPUs whereas the current M1-based mini cannot. Right? So while it's true that as a stand-alone system without accessories the M1 is superior, the old mini offered an expansion option that would allow it to significantly outperform the current M1-based mini. Options are a good thing.

Hopefully Apple will bring back external GPU support for Apple Silicon systems.

 

[EmlynDewar]

If you're using an integrated GPU for gaming i'd perhaps re-consider if you're actually a "Gamer". I don't care what other integrated GPU's perform at, I just wouldn't game on one period.

Bit of a ridiculous thing to say. There are so many great games that run on lower end GPUs. There's more than AAA FPS rehashes on offer.