According to reports, every year, Apple launches new chipsets and flagship devices to improve its Mac engineering and make it more powerful. Similarly, there’s talk that Apple will soon launch its next computer, the Mac Mini M5, which could launch in late 2025 or early 2026. According to experts, these new models are equipped with Apple’s latest M5 and M5 Pro chips. If we believe us, the new M5 Mac Mini brings significant advancements in AI technology and multitasking. Its classic design and high-end style have always made the Mac Mini a popular choice among professionals and creators. The M5 version further enhances its creative and professional appeal. Let’s take a look at other leaks and rumors that have surfaced.
Mac Mini Base M5 Model: Features and Upgrades
Leaks and reports regarding the Apple Mac mini base M5 version indicate that it may see several major changes. The most significant upgrade will be its M5 chipset, which will be capable of delivering faster and more efficient performance than the M4. While the exact CPU and GPU cores are not yet clear, the leaks mention improved multi-core performance. The base configuration is likely to come with 16GB to 24GB of unified memory and 256GB to 512GB of SSD storage.
In terms of design, Apple will likely retain its compact 5″x5″ Mac mini form factor, while ports will continue to offer modern connectivity options like Thunderbolt/USB-C, HDMI, and Ethernet. While major updates are expected, pricing is expected to be in the same range as the M4 Mac mini, which started at $599–$799. Overall, the M5 Mac mini will likely focus more on improving multi-core performance with its chipset.
Mac Mini M5 Pro: The High-End Option
If reports and leaks are to be believed, Apple is also working on a Mac mini M5 Pro. The M5 Mac mini is expected to be more powerful in terms of performance than the Mac mini M4. According to reports and leaks, the company is currently testing it on an internal model ID. Its launch timing is also expected to be around the same as the base M5 version. It is likely to feature a more powerful chipset than the base M5.
This variant will feature the M5 Pro chip, which will have more CPU and GPU cores than the base M5, similar to the difference seen between the M4 and M4 Pro. This chip will be specifically designed for creators and professional users, providing them with better multi-core CPU and GPU performance. Additionally, it is expected to feature more advanced Neural Engine capabilities, which will further improve on-device AI processing.
Additionally, reports suggest that the Mac mini M5 Pro will support multiple displays and handle heavy workloads like 3D modeling, video rendering, and AI tasks with ease. Regarding memory and storage, it could see higher RAM caps. While the base model can support up to 24GB of RAM, the Pro version could offer 48GB to 64GB of RAM, making it even more powerful.
In terms of pricing, the Mac mini M5 Pro could be significantly more expensive than the base model. It would be similar to the price gap between the M4 and M4 Pro, meaning buyers could have to shell out several hundred dollars more for the Pro variant.
Launch Date: When Will the Mac Mini M5 Arrive?
Apple hasn’t officially announced it yet, so we can estimate the release date based on the launch of the Mac mini M4 on October 29, 2024. This, along with several reliable reports and leaks, suggests that Apple could launch it in late 2025, possibly in October, November, or early 2026. However, a report by tomsguide indicates that the actual release of the Mac mini M5 could be in or around April 2026, due to production, testing, and other preparations.
What Could The Mac Mini M5 Cost After The Upgrade?
Here are some key pricing speculations for Apple’s upcoming Mac Mini M5. Based on theories and leaks so far, the base model could start at $900, which is likely higher than the base M4 version with 16GB of RAM and 256GB of SSD storage. The Mac Mini M5 Pro is expected to be priced differently, ranging from $1,699 to $2,000, with the M4 Pro model increasing in price.
Final Thoughts
Apple consistently introduces new technologies and chipsets to make its Mac devices more powerful and efficient. The Mac mini M5 appears to be continuing this tradition. The base M5 model will offer ample performance for professionals and creators, while the M5 Pro variant will be capable of handling heavier workloads with a high-end multi-core CPU and GPU, advanced Neural Engine, and larger RAM options. Launch is expected in late 2025 or early 2026, and pricing could start at $900 for the base model, while the Pro version could range from $1,699–$2,000. Overall, the Mac mini M5 series is poised to take Apple’s performance and creativity to new heights.
Apple’s September Awe Dropping event was just the beginning. Apple is preparing to launch several other projects with the M5 chip when the Mac mini M5 launches, so much so that rumors suggest Apple may hold an event in October, where it will showcase the Apple M5 processor, a new iPad Pro, and (hopefully) the next M5 MacBook Pro, which, if leaks are to be believed, Apple is testing. There could be more.
SEE ALSO: MacBook Pro And Mac Mini with M5 Power: What’s New in Apple’s Next Big Update
