The shortage of compact Mac mini computers from Apple has led to a sharp increase in prices on the secondary market, as these devices have become a sought-after tool for AI developers and enthusiasts. The base M4 Mac mini model, priced at $599 and equipped with 16GB of RAM and a 256GB drive, is completely sold out on Apple's retail website. Currently, neither delivery nor in-store pickup is available for this device from the company's stores. The shortage has already affected other configurations of the base model, regardless of the chosen memory size, marking the first such instance in the history of this product line.
As a result of the computers being unavailable for official sale, the online auction site eBay has become the primary platform for acquiring the scarce devices. The price of Mac minis on the secondary market has significantly exceeded Apple's original retail prices. Currently, base M4 models with 16GB of RAM and a 256GB SSD are selling in the "new with open box" category for $715 - $795. Slightly used devices are listed for around $700, which is more than $100 above the cost of a new computer from the manufacturer. In some cases, the price of refurbished devices in excellent condition reaches $979.
The main reason for the unprecedented demand is the popularity of Apple's energy-efficient systems for local testing and running artificial intelligence models directly on the device. Initially, the excitement was sparked by interest in the OpenClaw model, but now users are massively acquiring these computers to work with alternative solutions such as ZeroClaw, local tools from Anthropic and OpenAI, as well as Perplexity Computer and other specialized neural networks. Unlike some traditional PCs and laptops, Mac minis operate silently and demonstrate higher reliability during round-the-clock operation, making them an optimal choice for resource-intensive tasks.
The current shortage of devices is due not only to the surge in interest in artificial intelligence but also to a number of other factors in the supply chains. According to Bloomberg, the shortage coincided with a global scarcity of memory components in the industry, as well as Apple's plans to update the Mac mini lineup. It is noted that, previously, preparation for the release of new models never led to such widespread supply disruptions. Apple itself has not yet provided official comments regarding the current situation. Until supplies are restored, buyers can only track the appearance of devices at reasonable prices on auctions or look for available refurbished models.
The impact of the shortage has already begun to spread to other products within Apple's hardware ecosystem. Due to the unavailability of the Mac mini, buyers have shifted their attention to the more powerful Mac Studio, leading to several configurations of that computer disappearing from sale. Notably, the problem primarily affects desktop systems. Ars Technica points out that MacBook Pro laptops with 128GB of RAM and larger SSDs can still be obtained within a few weeks. Even the brand-new MacBook Neo, which is in demand on the market, is available for delivery within two to three weeks, confirming that consumer demand is focused precisely on the Mac mini itself.
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