Definition: Mac mini

The smallest Mac desktop computer. Current mini models weigh 21 and 22 ounces and come in a 5" square case that is 2" thick. Introduced in 2005 with PowerPC G4 processors, Intel-based units came out the following year.

First Mac Desktop with Apple Chips
In 2021, the mini was Apple's first desktop computer to offer Apple's own ARM-based M1 CPU with a 16-core neural engine for AI processing. They have since been upgraded with newer M chips. See xMac, Apple M series, Mac models and Mac computer.


 CURRENT MINIs (5x5x2")

            CPU    GPU      SSD    Max
 CPU       Cores  Cores   Storage  RAM
 Chip     Min/Max Min/Max (GB-TB)  (GB)

 M4        10-12    10     256-2    64
 M4 Pro     12      16     512-8    32


 PREVIOUS MINIs (8x8x1.4")

 M2 Pro    10-12   16-19   256-8    32
 M2          8      10     256-2    24
 M1          8      8      256-2    16
 Intel i5    6      -      512-2    64
 Intel i7    6      -      512-2    64

Mini Expansion

The back of the current mini (top) has Thunderbolt 4 (M4) or 5 (M4 Pro) with two USB-C ports on the front. Previous Intel and ARM models (bottom) had similar expansion. See USB C. (Images courtesy of Apple Inc.)

Early Mac Mini

Dwarfed next to Apple's 30" monitor, this 2012 mini was wired to a backup drive and USB hub. Like all desktop computers, a mouse, keyboard and monitor are required to operate.

Early Mac Mini

This earlier mini model had a built-in optical drive. (Image courtesy of Apple Inc.)

The Mini's Predecessor

In 2000, the G4 Cube was Apple's first compact Mac. Award winning in its design, the Cube was soon dropped due to overheating and other maladies. See G4. (Image courtesy of Apple Inc.)

misc

Term of the Moment

astroturfing

Look Up Another Term

Definition: Mac mini