In the 2014 model, you could remove the included Fusion drive (Apple's hybrid SSD and hard-disk storage solution) and replace it with an aftermarket SSD, boosting the performance of the machine and extending the life of the Mac mini – which many people found necessary in the long wait for this year's update. Specifically, you'll need a driver for a TR6 Torx security screw.Īdditionally, while Apple has returned the upgradable RAM found on the 20 Mac mini, the upgradable storage is gone. So, even if you have a set of tiny Torx drivers, you'll probably need to get a different screwdriver, one with a hole in the center to accommodate that pin. It also means you'll be better able to keep the Mac mini up to date if Apple takes another four-year break before introducing the next model. The 2018 model offers more traditional SO-DIMM slots, so you can swap out RAM, allowing you to upgrade the unit after purchase. The Mac mini is being touted as more upgrade-friendly than the previous model, which had its RAM soldered directly to the motherboard. Unfortunately, the 2018 model still uses the less convenient design that requires a special tool. This access panel has taken different forms over the last few iterations of the mini, with the 2010 model offering a simple twist-to-open design and the 2014 model requiring a special prying tool (literally, a modified putty knife) to open. Around the edges of the panel are cleverly concealed vents for air flow, and the simple black surface has 'Mac mini' imprinted on it. On the bottom of the Mac mini's aluminum chassis is a black plastic disk, which does double duty as both the foot for the compact PC as well as a cover that opens to provide internal access. The power supply has been enlarged to provide the necessary power to the new components. The design has larger vents and a bigger fan, doubling the airflow to better cool the processor.

To accommodate the updated hardware inside, Apple had to change some of the internal design, as well. The littlest Mac has gotten a pretty stunning makeover, starting with the space-gray anodized finish.

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