Overview
The Apple Mac mini (2018) introduced a massive performance leap to Apple's desktop lineup, featuring 8th-generation Intel Core processors, fast PCIe-based storage, high-speed Thunderbolt 3 connectivity, and a striking thermal redesign finished in Space Gray.
A comprehensive overview of its design, specifications, software, and features includes:
1. Design and Build
- Form Factor: Highly compact desktop box engineered with an advanced thermal architecture to sustain high workloads.
- Dimensions & Weight: Height: 1.4 inches (3.6 cm); Width: 7.7 inches (19.7 cm); Depth: 7.7 inches (19.7 cm); Weight: 2.9 pounds (1.3 kg).
- Materials: 100% recycled Space Gray aluminum enclosure.
2. Performance and Processing
- Processor: Configurable with quad-core Intel Core i3, 6-core Intel Core i5, or 6-core Intel Core i7 processors.
- Graphics: Integrated Intel UHD Graphics 630.
- Memory & Storage: Starts with 8GB of 2666MHz DDR4 SO-DIMM memory (user upgradeable up to 64GB) paired with ultra-fast PCIe SSD storage up to 2TB.
3. Connectivity and Expansion
- Ports: Four Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) ports, two USB-A ports, HDMI 2.0 port, Gigabit Ethernet (configurable to 10Gb Ethernet), and a 3.5mm headphone jack.
- Wireless: 802.11ac Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.0.
Technical Specifications
Building upon the foundational overview, this technical deep-dive specification sheet provides a granular look at the hardware architecture, port configurations, and system metrics of the Apple Mac mini (Late 2018).
1. Physical Dimensions and Weight
- Height: 1.4 inches (3.6 cm)
- Width: 7.7 inches (19.7 cm)
- Depth: 7.7 inches (19.7 cm)
- Weight: 2.9 pounds (1.3 kg)
2. Processor and Memory
- CPU: Intel Core i3 (quad-core), i5 (6-core), or i7 (6-core Coffee Lake)
- RAM: 8GB 2666MHz DDR4 SO-DIMM (Configurable up to 64GB across two user-accessible slots)
3. Storage and Graphics
- Storage: PCIe-based SSD starting at 128GB up to 2TB
- GPU: Intel UHD Graphics 630
4. Connections and Expansion
- I/O: 4x Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C), 2x USB-A, 1x HDMI 2.0, 1x Gigabit Ethernet port (configurable to 10Gb), 3.5mm headphone jack.
5. Operating System Support
- Compatibility: Originally shipped with macOS Mojave; fully compatible with subsequent versions of macOS.