After accidentally teasing the new Mac Mini with the M4 chipset, the latest iteration of the small computer has finally got a release date. Bringing lots of power in a small package, the M4 Mac Mini comes in two iterations, the M4 and M4 Pro, alongside a starting price of $599 for the former model.

However, while the redesigned Mac Mini delivers an incredible computer in such a small form factor, it makes one unusual flaw – a problem that can be found in the last decade of the Magic Mouse, and an issue that seems to be repeating.

Mac Mini hides the power button in an odd location

One of the most annoying problems with Apple's Magic Mouse has long been the charging port on the bottom of the device. If your mouse is slowly dying during work or browsing, the last thing you want is to tip it upside down and charge it from underneath. This effectively prevents you from using it while it’s charging, and the new Magic Mouse is just the same. Fortunately, the Mac Mini's new redesign doesn't have the exact same issue, but it's still annoying.

As opposed to having it on the front, back, or even the sides of the device like the previous Mac Minis, the power button has been moved to the underneath. If you're hoping to switch your new Mac Mini on or off, you'll have to lift or tilt it, meaning you'll unsettle the dust on your desk every time. Don't lie, we all have that problem.

Just to mention the other side of the argument, we do wonder just how many people actually use the physical power button versus those who simply set their device to sleep when they’re not using it. Plus, it’s not like lifting up the Mini to quickly switch it on is going to take much effort.

Either way, the small form factor is an exciting one, to say the least. Annoyances aside, the new Mac Mini is just 5cm tall, with a depth and width of 12.7cm each – that is ridiculously tiny, and the fact it packs a powerful punch for such a small device is very impressive. Of course, it's not going to rival some of the best gaming laptops on the market, but it proves that size doesn't matter. At least, in some ways.

Of course, the Mac Mini is best suited for those already with a desk setup. If you're wanting an on-the-go device, you'd have better luck with a MacBook. Hopefully, the MacBook Pro gets the new M4 Pro chipset soon, too.

About the Author

Jack Goodall

At PC Guide, Jack is mostly responsible for reporting on hardware deals. He also specializes in monitors, TVs, and headsets and can be found putting his findings together in a review or best-of guide.