The Mac mini appeals to both budget-conscious consumers and creative professionals. More recently, it has also become a highly popular platform for AI development and local model execution, thanks to its unique combination of high-bandwidth unified memory, impressive power efficiency, and compact form factor – perfect for scalable stacks of computing power.
Its recent surge in popularity has been driven largely by the exceptional performance-to-price ratio of Apple silicon. Unfortunately, growing demand from AI developers, combined with ongoing component shortages, has led to extremely limited Mac mini availability, and as of mid May 2026, wait times are stretching into months. As a result, finding one in stock at a reasonable price can be difficult – although we have found Mac mini models available to buy in the U.K.
There is another reason why those looking to purchase a Mac mini should consider waiting: Apple is widely expected to refresh the Mac mini with M5 series chips in the near future. If you can afford to wait, that would be our recommendation.
However, if you need a Mac mini sooner and manage to find one available, we can help you decide whether it’s worth buying, what a fair price would be, and whether you’d still be better off waiting for the next generation.
Buy now if:
- You need a desktop Mac immediately
- Retail discounts are strong
- You want best-value Apple desktop
Wait if:
- New Apple Silicon generation is expected soon
- You want longer lifespan from your purchase
Bottom line:
- The M4 Mac mini is still an excellent purchase, but the expected M5 refresh makes waiting sensible if urgency is low.
| Should you buy now | No |
| Expected next update | Fall 2026 |
| Reason to wait | M5 chip |
| Best reason to buy now | Price may increase for future generations |
Is now a good time to buy a Mac mini?
IDG
Whether now is a good time to buy a Mac mini depends largely on how urgently you need one. The current M4 and M4 Pro Mac mini (reviewed here) are excellent machines with outstanding performance, efficiency, and value for money, but they are becoming increasingly difficult to find in stock. At the same time, expectations are growing that Apple is preparing to refresh the lineup with M5 and M5 Pro models.
Apple last updated the Mac mini in October 2024, introducing the M4 generation alongside the desktop’s first major redesign in 14 years, reducing the chassis to an ultra-compact 5-by-5-inch form factor. Historically, Apple has refreshed the Mac mini on an approximately two-year cycle, which puts the current lineup close to the expected window for an update.
Rumors initially suggested the next Mac mini could arrive in the first half of 2026, potentially at Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June. However, severe shortages affecting the current M4 models may complicate Apple’s timeline. As mentioned above, demand from AI developers and memory supply constraints have created unusually long wait times for some configurations. As a result, the M5 Mac mini may not arrive until later in 2026 – and some reports now suggest it could even slip into 2027.
If you can find an M4 Mac mini at a reasonable price and need a machine immediately, it is still an easy recommendation. However, if you can afford to wait, it may be worth holding off to see what Apple announces next.
When is the next Mac mini expected?
The next Mac mini is widely expected to launch sometime in 2026. Earlier rumors suggested Apple was targeting the first half of the year, with WWDC in June seen as the most likely announcement window.
Several factors support the idea that a refresh is approaching. As mentioned, M4 Mac mini inventory has become increasingly limited, with some higher-end configurations facing shipping delays of several weeks. Historically, declining inventory levels at Apple and third-party retailers have preceded a hardware refresh as existing stock is cleared ahead of a new release.
That said, the same factors driving those shortages may also delay the next-generation Mac mini launch. The strong AI-related demand and memory supply issues have put unusual pressure on Mac mini availability, particularly for higher-memory models favored by AI developers. Because of this, while an M5 Mac mini still appears likely for 2026, there is growing speculation that Apple’s schedule could slip into late 2026 or even 2027.
How much should you pay for Mac mini?
The Mac mini is occasionally discounted by third-party retailers. If you can find one on sale – particularly higher-memory configurations or remaining 256GB M4 models – it may still be a worthwhile purchase even with an M5 refresh on the horizon.
In the U.S. Amazon has previously dropped the price of the $599 Mac mini to $469 (in July 2025), while the $799 model has previously dropped to $669 (November 2025).
We have also seen Amazon U.K. drop the price of the Mac mini from £799 to £689.99 (in October 2025). While the £599 model had seen a price drop to £499 in November 2025.
However, at the moment there is little to no stock in the U.S. and, where stock is available, delivery times are long.
We can’t find a Mac mini available in the U.S. Amazon only has old refurbished models in stock currently.
In the U.K. we have seen the £799 Mac mini on Amazon U.K. and KRCS. Amazon even has it available for next-day delivery. So if you are U.K. based and need to buy one we recommend doing so before stock runs out. Due to the shortages the price is not being discounted by Amazon. KRCS has a discount but the wait is weeks.
Best reasons to buy a Mac mini
Foundry
Excellent value: The Mac mini remains one of the most versatile and cost-effective ways to enter the macOS ecosystem. Although Apple removed the previous entry-level configuration – raising the starting price from $599 to $799 – the Mac mini still delivers excellent performance per dollar. That balance of price, power, and efficiency is one of the main reasons for the desktop’s growing popularity. It also offers access to professional-grade performance for significantly less cash than a similarly specced MacBook Pro.
Long software support window: Even if Apple introduces an M5 Mac mini in the near future, the current M4 generation is still expected to receive many years of macOS updates and security support. Buyers should still get a long usable lifespan out of today’s models.
Compact desktop footprint: The Mac mini’s ultra-compact 5-inch square design makes it one of the most space-efficient desktop computers available. It fits easily under monitors, in small offices, or in minimalist workstation setups. Its compact form factor also makes it particularly attractive for server racks, home labs, and multi-machine deployments.
Retail discounts and refurbished deals: Despite already offering strong value at full price, the Mac mini is occasionally discounted by third-party retailers. If you can find a Mac mini deal – particularly higher-memory configurations or remaining 256GB M4 models – it may still be a worthwhile purchase even with an M5 refresh on the horizon. The Apple Refurbished Store can offer even better value, assuming stock is available. In the past, we have seen the M4 Mac mini discounted by around $100/£100, while M4 Pro models have dropped by approximately $200/£210. If deals like these reappear, they are likely worth considering.
What are the biggest reasons not to buy Mac mini?
One big reason not to buy one: you can’t.
Foundry
Upcoming M5 models: The strongest reason to wait is the expected arrival of Mac mini models powered by Apple’s M5 and M5 Pro chips. While the current M4 generation is already extremely popular for local AI workloads and development, the M5 is expected to deliver further gains in AI performance, efficiency, and memory handling, as it has with the MacBook Pro.
Reduced configurations and rising prices: Apple has already increased the effective entry price of the Mac mini by removing the least expensive configuration from the lineup. At the same time, ongoing component shortages have reportedly forced Apple to reduce availability of some higher-end configurations, including certain high-memory M4 Pro models.
Supply shortages: Availability remains a major issue. Buyers may face wait times of three to four weeks for entry-level models, while higher-spec configurations can take considerably longer – in some cases up to 10 weeks to ship. Limited stock also makes it harder to find discounts or preferred configurations.
What should you avoid when buying a Mac mini?
Intel: Avoid Intel-powered Mac mini models – when shopping for a refurbished Mac mini, prioritize models with Apple Silicon (M-series chips).
Low RAM: We advise avoiding 8GB RAM models if possible, as newer generations now start with 16GB as the base standard.
Check status: Additionally, ensure the device is not classified as “Vintage” or “Obsolete,” as Apple typically stops providing parts for repairs after seven to ten years.
Is Mac mini right for you?
Is the Mac mini the best choice for you? There are a number of trade-offs to consider.
| Feature | Consideration |
| Portability | Not portable; requires separate monitor, keyboard, and mouse. |
| Connectivity | Lacks USB-A ports; may require adapters for older accessories. The M4 Pro Mac mini features three Thunderbolt 5 ports, while the standard M4 model uses Thunderbolt 4. |
| Upgradability | RAM and storage are soldered and cannot be upgraded after purchase. |
Which Mac mini to buy
Choosing the right Mac mini depends heavily on your performance needs and budget, especially following recent changes to Apple’s lineup. While the M4 and M4 Pro models remain the current generation, a global component shortage has significantly impacted availability and pricing.
In May 2026, Apple effectively increased the starting price of the Mac mini by discontinuing the entry-level 256GB storage configuration. As of May 2026, that model is no longer available to buy, although in time it may be available as a refurbished option.
With the 256GB Mac mini out of the equation, which Mac mini should you choose?
- For General Use and Students: The M4 Mac mini is the best-value option for home offices, schoolwork, and everyday tasks. It features a 10-core CPU and 10-core GPU, providing excellent performance for its price. Students can still access an education discount, bringing the starting price down to $699.
- For Creative Professionals: The M4 Pro Mac mini is recommended for demanding workloads like video editing, 3D rendering, and coding . It offers a 12-core CPU, a 16-core GPU, and supports Thunderbolt 5, which provides significantly higher bandwidth for professional peripherals.
- For AI Development: The Mac mini has become a popular platform for local AI execution due to its unified memory and power efficiency . For these tasks, experts recommend configuring the machine with at least 24GB of RAM, as memory cannot be upgraded after purchase.
| Chip | SSD | RAM | Starting price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mac mini M4 | 256GB | 16GB | Was: $599/£599 | Discontinued |
| Mac mini M4 | 512GB, 1TB, 2TB | 16GB, 24GB | From: $799/£799 | Students, photographers, designers, creators, home office workers, Intel Mac upgraders |
| Mac mini M4 Pro | 512GB, 1TB, 2TB, 4TB, 8TB | 24GB, 48GB, | From: $1,399/£1,399 | Best for AI users, developers and power users, |
Mac mini vs Mac Studio: Which should you buy?
Thomas Bergbold
The choice between the Mac mini and the Mac Studio largely comes down to whether you prioritize value or maximum performance.
The Mac mini offers some of the best value in Apple’s desktop lineup. Even the standard M4 model delivers impressive performance for everyday computing, creative work, software development, and local AI tasks, while the M4 Pro configuration provides power for more demanding workloads.
The Mac Studio is designed for users who need workstation-class performance. Following the discontinuation of the Mac Pro, it is now effectively Apple’s most powerful desktop. Starting at $1,999/£1,999 for the M4 Max configuration, the Mac Studio also represents the most affordable way to get a Max-series Apple Silicon chip. It is well suited to professional video production, large AI models, 3D rendering, and other heavily multi-threaded or GPU-intensive workflows.
For most users, the Mac mini is a better value purchase. However, if your workloads demand high performance, more memory and a more powerful GPU, the Mac Studio is the better choice.
Mac mini vs MacBook Neo: Which is better value?
Thomas Armbrüster
Before the introduction of the MacBook Neo, the Mac mini was Apple’s least expensive Mac. That is no longer the case – particularly now Apple has removed the entry-level $599/£599 Mac mini configuration from the lineup.
The MacBook Neo is now Apple’s most affordable Mac, starting at $599/£599. It is designed as an entry-level Mac and is powered by the A18 Pro chip originally used for the iPhone 16 Pro. The focus is on portability, battery life, and affordability rather than performance.
The Mac mini, by contrast, remains Apple’s best-value desktop Mac for users who already own a monitor, keyboard, and mouse. Thanks to its M4 and M4 Pro chips, active cooling system, and greater performance, it is better suited to demanding workloads such as coding, creative applications, multitasking, and local AI development.
Should you buy a refurbished Mac mini?
Buying a refurbished Mac mini is a practical and cost-effective way to acquire a high-quality computer at a significantly lower price point than a brand-new model. While it offers substantial savings, the decision depends on your budget, performance needs, and where you choose to shop.
Savings typically range from 15% to 30% off the original retail price.
Benefits of buying refurbished include:
- Rigorous Testing: Official refurbished units undergo full functional testing, thorough cleaning, and inspection to meet the same standards as new products.
- Warranty and Support: Apple includes a one-year limited warranty, 90 days of technical support, and eligibility for AppleCare.
- Like-New Condition: Devices are visually indistinguishable from new models and come repackaged in a new box with all original accessories
However, there are drawbacks:
While refurbished models are reliable, there are several factors to consider before purchasing:
- Limited Availability: Stock depends on returns and trade-ins, meaning you may not find the exact configuration, RAM, or storage you want.
- The Intel Trap: Many third-party marketplaces sell older Intel-based Mac minis. These lack the performance of Apple Silicon (M1, M2, M3, M4) and will lose software support much sooner.
- Inconsistent Standards: While Apple has strict testing, third-party sellers may have varying refurbishment standards and shorter warranties
Where to buy a refurbished Mac mini
The best place to shop for refurbished Macs is Apple’s Certified Refurbished Store where earlier in 2026 we saw the M4 Mac mini discounted by around $90/£90, while the M4 Pro model has also seen price cuts. However, as of mid May 2026, Apple has no refurbished Mac mini in stock.
On the other hand, we would avoid buying refurbished from Amazon. As of May 2026, Amazon U.S. has only 2020 refurbished Mac mini on sale which we don’t recommend buying. We’ve also seen used listings for the discontinued 256GB model, but due to scarcity these are even higher than the original price.
Read our guide to the pros and cons of buying refurbished Macs. We also have recommendations of the best places to buy a refurbished Mac.
Author: Karen Haslam, Managing Editor, Macworld
Karen has worked on both sides of the Apple divide, clocking up a number of years at Apple's PR agency prior to joining Macworld more than two decades ago. Karen's career highlights include interviewing Apple's Steve Wozniak and discussing Steve Jobs’ legacy on the BBC. Having edited the U.K. print and online editions of Macworld for many years, more recently her focus has been on SEO and evergreen content as well as product recommendations and buying advice.