New Mac mini 2026 (M6 & M5 Pro): Price, Specs, Release Date & Should You Buy It?

Apple has refreshed its smallest desktop. The new Mac mini comes with the all-new M6 chip or the M5 Pro chip, with big gains in performance and AI. Here are the key details.

New Mac mini at a Glance

What's New in the 2026 Mac mini?

• New chips: The M6 and M5 Pro replace the M4 and M4 Pro from October 2024.
• AI performance: Neural Accelerators are now built into each GPU core. Apple calls the Mac mini the leading desktop for "always-on, deskside agentic computing."
• Better connectivity: Apple's N1 chip brings Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6, up from Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3.
• Faster display support: Display refresh rates increase to 165Hz.
• Creative features: The new Mac mini and Mac Studio add genlock support for camera syncing.
• No design change: It has the same compact design as the 2024 model.

How Much Faster Is It?

Macworld reports that Apple promises, compared with the M4:

• Up to 40% faster CPU performance
• Twice the graphics performance
• Up to 4x faster AI performance
• Apple's first dual 16-core Neural Engine, with up to twice the Neural Engine performance

The M5 Pro can be configured with up to an 18-core CPU and 20-core GPU, and Apple claims up to 4x faster large language model processing than the M4 Pro. These are Apple's claims, so wait for independent reviews and benchmarks before relying on them.

Mac mini M6 vs M5 Pro: Which Should You Buy?

The M5 Pro has an older generation number than the M6, but it is the stronger choice for heavily threaded work. Macworld recommends the M6 Mac mini for most buyers.

Price Increase

The starting price rose from $599 on the M4 model to $899. As Macworld notes, the Mac mini is no longer Apple's budget Mac. Apple's MacBook Neo is now a cheaper option if price is your main concern.

Mac mini vs Mac Studio

Apple announced the Mac mini alongside the new Mac Studio with M5 Max and M5 Ultra chips. The Mac mini is Apple's most versatile and affordable desktop, while the Mac Studio is built for the most demanding professional work.

Should You Upgrade from an M4 Mac mini?

• Stay on your M4 if your current Mac handles your work well, since the design and ports are mostly the same.
• Consider upgrading if you run local AI models, need Wi-Fi 7, or want a significant graphics and AI boost.
• Upgrade from Intel or M1 for the biggest real-world difference.

Apple is reported to plan M7 and M7 Pro versions as soon as 2027, so some buyers may prefer to wait.

Where to Buy the New Mac mini

The Mac mini is available at Apple Stores, on apple.com, in the Apple Store app, and through Apple Authorized Resellers. Prices and configurations vary by country.

Sources and Official Links

• Apple Newsroom: New Mac mini with M6 and M5 Pro
• Apple Newsroom: Available today
• MacRumors: Apple announces new Mac mini
• MacRumors: Mac mini roundup
• Macworld: New Mac mini 2026 specs, prices and what's changed
• Macworld: Should you buy a Mac mini now?
• CNBC: Apple announces new Mac mini and Mac Studio

FAQ

When was the new Mac mini released? Announced August 25, 2026, and available from September 22, 2026.

How much does the new Mac mini cost? The M6 starts at $899 and the M5 Pro starts at $1,699.

Does it have a new design? No, it keeps the 2024 design and comes in silver.

Does it support Wi-Fi 7? Yes, along with Bluetooth 6 and 2.5Gb Ethernet.

Which Mac mini should I buy? Most buyers should pick the M6. Choose the M5 Pro for heavy professional workloads.

Last updated: October 21, 2026. Prices and availability can change, so check Apple's website.