Mac mini 2021 expectations
The Mac mini is a special device within the entire Mac lineup. The Mac mini is the cheapest model and at the same time it is also the smallest Mac because of the lack of a screen. This makes it an attractive starter for Windows users, for example, who want to try a Mac, but it is also widely used as a server and for other applications. The Mac mini is loved by its audience and according to the latest rumors, Apple will release a new model this fall. The new model will get a more powerful chip and possibly a new design. This is what we expect from the Mac mini 2021.
- More powerful chip
- Redesigned design
- More ports
- No Intel more
- Price and release
#1 More powerful M1X chip
The new Mac mini will be a more powerful variant of the already existing Mac mini 2020 with M1 chip. According to several sources, Apple will use the M1X chip. This is the same chip expected in the new MacBook Pro 2021 models. This delivers even faster performance, making the Mac mini more suitable for heavier work. Exact benchmarks and other specs like storage and RAM aren't known yet, but if the current Mac mini isn't up to the job for you, the new 2021 Mac mini seems like a good option.
#2 Redesigned design
Apple would give this Mac mini a new design. That is in line with plans to redesign the new MacBook Pros with M1X chip as well. Renders have already appeared showing what this design would look like. According to the source, the top consists of a plexiglass-like material. It looks a bit like the very first Mac mini. The model would also become flatter with a flat foot. The housing itself is made of aluminum. It remains to be seen which colors it will be available in. Silver and space gray are still an option, even though Apple now only uses silver for the current M1 version (and the older Intel version is only available in space gray).
An important part of the Mac mini are the ports on the back. After all, you still have to connect your own screen and possibly other peripherals to it. On the back would in any case be an HDMI port, USB-C and USB-A. On the current model you will find two USB-C (Thunderbolt/USB 4) and two USB-A. On the new 2021 model, two more USB-c ports would be added.
In addition, according to sources, the model will receive a Gigabit Ethernet port and of course the input for the power adapter. Apple would use the same connection as in the M1 iMac 2021: a round magnetic cable that you easily click into place. We wouldn't be surprised if the Ethernet port is also integrated into the power block, just like with the iMac. The power supply may then no longer come into the Mac mini itself, but disconnect halfway through the cable. This then rests on the floor, so that you can also plug in the Ethernet cable. You'll have one less cable on your desk.
#4 End of the Intel Mac mini?
The new Mac mini 2021 will probably replace the Intel variant that Apple is still selling. Apple still has Intel variants of some Macs. These are the more expensive and high-end models, which will be replaced by M1X models this fall. Last year, the M1 versions only replaced Intel's entry-level models, so this fall it's the turn of the high-end Intels to make room for Apple Silicon.
#5 Expected price and release new Mac mini 2021
We think Apple will announce the new Mac mini for 2021 in October or November, along with the upcoming new MacBook Pro's 2021. Shortly after the announcement, the new model will become available.
In terms of price, we think the new M1X Mac mini is about the same level as the current Intel Mac mini, maybe a few bucks cheaper. This model now retails at Apple for €1,259, so expect a price around that level.
Curious to see what new Macs are coming this fall? Then read our expectations of the MacBook Pro 2021.