Apple launched the M6 Mac mini and M5 Pro Mac mini with no major design changes and spec bumps, and the new models go on sale Tuesday, September 22 after preorders opened August 25, MacRumors reports. Early reviews praise the M6 chip's performance and AI capabilities, calling the new mini a powerful compact desktop. Reviewers also say Apple raised the base price to $899, a roughly $300 increase that undercuts the Mac mini's previous reputation as one of Apple’s best value desktops. Critics note higher baseline memory and storage configurations make upgrades less cost-effective compared with prior generations. Apple also introduced updated Mac Studio options with M5 Max and M5 Ultra chips alongside the minis. The immediate consequence is that some reviewers and potential buyers view the M6 Mac mini as a stronger performer but a weaker value, changing purchase calculus for users who bought earlier minis for affordability.
