Apple Mac mini M5: Chip Leak Points to Imminent Launch
Apple's Smallest Computer has Big Expectations
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Apple Mac mini M5: Chip Leak Points to Imminent Launch · Source: Wieland Teixeira / Alamy
The Mac mini M5 is shaping up to be the next generation of Apple’s compact desktop computer, and it’s already causing quite a stir. Following the success of the Mac mini M4, which impressed with its high performance and minimal space requirements, the tech world is eagerly awaiting its successor. Apple’s own processors are considered particularly efficient. This is a decisive advantage in this device class because less cooling is required. According to a recent report, Apple is in the final testing phase, and the first clues have emerged in the form of hardware IDs. This type of evidence traditionally indicates that the market launch is imminent.
Apple Mac mini M5: A Small Case with Big Power
Interestingly, in addition to the Mac mini M5, a Pro version is reportedly in development. References to the model numbers “J873s” for the M5 and another abbreviation for the M5 Pro leave little room for doubt. Interestingly, the Mac mini has skipped earlier chip generations, such as the M3, making it difficult to predict the upgrade cycle. This demonstrates that Apple plans the introduction of new hardware according to its own strategic considerations rather than a fixed sequence. This is precisely why the appearance of new identifiers for the Mac mini M5 is attracting so much attention: it means that the device is virtually complete.
The design of the Mac mini M5 is also unlikely to change much. Apple only gave the compact desktop a comprehensive overhaul in 2024, significantly reducing the size of the case and modernizing it. The current model introduced two USB-C ports on the front for the first time, as well as Thunderbolt 5 support for M4 Pro configurations. In the US, the base model of the Mac mini recently started at $599 with 256 GB of storage and 16 GB of RAM. Another design change so soon after this update would be unusual, which is why the Mac mini M5 is expected to feature a chip upgrade primarily.
Will the Mac mini M5 Arrive as Early as the End of 2025?
The question remains as to when Apple will unveil the Mac mini M5. Initial reports pointed to a possible launch at the end of 2025, but there is now talk of a spring 2026 market launch. This approach would not be unusual for Apple, as the company often introduces major chip updates to MacBook models before rolling them out to desktop versions. It’s also possible that Apple will first unveil the Mac mini M5 and the Pro version, followed by other models with Max or Ultra chips at a later date.
The exact timing remains uncertain. What is certain, however, is that the Mac mini M5 will usher in the next stage of evolution for Apple’s compact computer, offering significantly more power and efficiency.
Should I Wait or Buy a mini M4?
Music producers, in particular, are faced with the question of whether it is worth buying a Mac mini M4 now or if it would be smarter to wait for the M5. The M4 offers enormous performance reserves, which are sufficient for most digital audio workstations (DAWs), large sample libraries, and complex mixing projects.
Even with extensive synthesizer setups or multiple instances of CPU-intensive effects, the M4 rarely reaches its limits. However, the Mac mini M5, with its even more powerful chip, could offer more headroom for complex sessions and set new standards in terms of latency and efficiency. Additionally, AI tasks will become increasingly common in the future and will require powerful computers. If you need a stable, attractively priced computer, you can confidently choose the M4. If you want to avoid upgrades for many years, however, you might benefit from waiting for the M5.
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