Apple’s latest Mac mini has arrived with a fresh design and upgraded internals, featuring up to the powerful M4 Pro chip. However, one design tweak has left some users puzzled: the power button is now located on the bottom of the device. In a recent interview, Apple executives Greg Joswiak and John Ternus explained why this change was necessary.
One reason for the relocated button is the 2024 Mac mini’s smaller footprint. Apple’s latest mini PC is more compact than ever, shrinking to about half the size of its predecessor, which left engineers with limited space for internal components and an ideal spot for the power button. Given the tighter internal layout, Apple decided that positioning the button on the bottom was the most practical solution for the new design. This placement also keeps the sleek, minimalist look that’s central to Apple’s design philosophy, ensuring that nothing distracts from the Mac mini’s polished exterior.
Some users have noted that reaching the bottom button could be inconvenient, especially with the Mac mini sitting flat on a table. Joswiak and Ternus addressed this by pointing out that most people rarely need to use the power button. Apple designed the Mac mini to stay on, slipping into sleep mode when idle, rather than requiring frequent powering on and off. The power button is typically only needed in specific cases, like a force restart or shutdown. Apple’s executives assured that, even in these scenarios, users can “tuck their finger in” to access the button easily. For those who occasionally need to lift the device, the Mac mini’s light weight—at just 1.6 lbs (0.72 kg)—makes it manageable.
However, the bottom placement could pose a challenge for users who mount their Mac mini on the back of a display or TV. While Apple didn’t directly address this setup, the placement seems designed with a typical desktop user in mind. The bottom power button may not be ideal for every installation but aligns with Apple’s approach to prioritize simplicity and streamline the device’s layout.
Ultimately, Apple’s 2024 Mac mini reflects a refined design ethos that optimizes space without compromising on performance. By making this compact powerhouse even more minimalistic, Apple has delivered a Mac mini with a design that is both practical and power-packed—just with a little adjustment required for its power button.
