Made in Malaysia is not a disadvantage. I don't think our manufacturing quality is an issue.

Recommendation is to go for the 16 GB RAM 512 GB SSD model, unless you are just doing basic web/email/office stuff.
That is the config that I'm planning on getting.

512 GB SSD has better performance than the 256 GB model. 16 GB RAM allows for some graphics work as well as ability to drive 2 4K monitors with enough RAM to run other programs comfortably. If you're looking at video editing, then the M2 Pro is probably better suited?

This post has been edited by tcwan: Feb 25 2023, 12:54 PM

Be careful about the Orico M.2 10 Gbps enclosure . The one I have has a Realtek RTL9210 chipset. I am currently using it on a 2017 Intel iMac with a WD SN550 SSD as an external boot drive but it keeps hanging on startup. I've applied the latest available firmware from Orico.

I have another Orico M.2 20 Gbps enclosure (M2PAC3-G20) which uses a different chipset (can't recall offhand, but it is not JMicron) which has been stable from day 1.

I've also been looking at the various hubs which fit under the Mini.
However, I'm not satisfied with any of the current offerings.

1. The best feature-wise uses the RTL 9210 chipset
2. Some support only SATA interface (no NVMe)
3. Some only has one power input (via USB). This may be an issue especially with devices which need high current.
4. The USB interface between the Mini and the hub is mostly 5 or 10 Gbps max.
5. I've read that placing hubs under the Mini can affect Bluetooth performance due to signal blocking issues

This post has been edited by tcwan: Mar 10 2023, 08:05 AM

I don't know. If you can find out the chipset used that would be more relevant.
So far I think Realtek chipset can't handle high throughput.

I think the 20 Gbps Orico uses ASMedia chipset. In my opinion it should be more reliable than Realtek

M2 Mini 16 GB RAM, 512 GB SSD.

Ordered 10 Mar, shipped 17 Mar, delivered 22 Mar 2023 (1 day ahead of schedule). Haven't had time to set up yet.

Is Switch even selling the M2 Mini? I keep going to their website and it's still "Check back for Availability".

Went to Switch first, as I prefer pickup in person for such items. Gave up after they didn't give any ETA of when the M2 Mini was available or if they could quote an EDU discount. Finally, I got mine (EDU pricing) via Apple Malaysia.

Edit: M2 (non-Pro) Mini performance is night and day compared to my old 2015 Intel Mini.
The Intel Mini would spin the fans every time I run MS Teams. The M2 would run cool without breaking a sweat.

This post has been edited by tcwan: May 8 2023, 11:42 AM

Wireless Continuity Camera doesn't seem to be detected, until I plug it in via USB first and then disconnect while FaceTime/Photo Booth is active.
This is with iOS 17. In any case, I think wireless usage is not reliable enough for serious usage.

In addition, it is better to be plugged in an charging the phone instead of draining the battery unnecessary.