Limited stock, expected M5 refresh, and supply delays shape Mac mini and Mac Studio buying decisions

Should you buy a Mac Studio now or wait?

Macworld The Mac Studio is Apple’s most powerful desktop following the discontinuation of the Mac Pro in 2026. It has effectively become Apple’s flagship professional workstation, aimed at users who need sustained CPU and GPU performance, large amounts of unified memory, and a desktop form factor. Typical Mac Studio buyers include video editors, software developers, AI and machine learning users, 3D artists, music producers, engineers, and other professionals whose workloads benefit from workstation-class performance. If you’re considering buying a Mac Studio, there are three questions to answer: Should you buy now or wait for the next generation? Can you actually buy the configuration you want given current shortages? Which model and specification is right for your workload? Mac Studio: Buy now or wait? Buy now if… You need a machine immediately. You’re upgrading from an Intel Mac. You primarily use: Final Cut Pro or DaVinci Resolve. Logic Pro and music production software. Xcode and software development tools. Docker, virtual machines, and development environments. Your current Mac is slowing down your work. Though introduced in March 2024, the current Mac Studio remains an exceptionally capable workstation. The M4 Max model can comfortably handle 4K and 8K video editing, software development, professional audio production, creative applications, and demanding multitasking workloads. For professionals who need a powerful Mac workstation today, the Mac Studio remains the most affordable way to access Apple’s Max- and Ultra-class chips in a desktop form factor. Wait if… You already own an M1, M2, or newer Mac Studio. You’re specifically interested in the upcoming M5 generation. You want the longest possible lifespan from your purchase. You need the highest memory configurations available. Your workloads focus heavily on AI development or large-scale 3D rendering. A Mac Studio refresh is widely expected soon, with M5 Max and M5 Ultra models anticipated before the end of 2026. If your current machine is still meeting your needs, waiting may provide access to newer architecture, updated connectivity standards, and potentially improved memory options. Mac Studio availability problems There are long waits for Mac Studio configurations.Foundry Availability is currently one of the biggest factors affecting purchasing decisions. Several higher-memory configurations of Mac Studio have become difficult to obtain, while some models have experienced extended shipping times. As a result, the configuration that looks best on paper may not be the configuration you can actually buy. The M4 Max version of the Mac Studio has up to ten week delivery times on Apple’s U.S. store, while some configurations have a 13 to 14 week wait. Apple’s U.K. store has similar waiting times. If you need a Mac Studio immediately, availability may ultimately determine which model and specification makes the most sense. When is the next Mac Studio expected? The current Mac Studio lineup was introduced in March 2025 with M4 Max and M3 Ultra options. The next Mac Studio is widely expected to launch later this year, with many industry expectations pointing toward a refresh featuring M5-series Max and Ultra chips. While some earlier rumors suggested an update could have occurred as early as the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) on June 8, 2026, exact timing is now uncertain due to global shortages of key components, particularly RAM. The M5 Mac Studio is now expected to arrive in the fall. When Apple introduces new Mac Studio models buyers can expect improvements in performance, AI capabilities, storage speeds, wireless connectivity, and overall platform longevity. Max vs Ultra: Which Mac Studio should you buy? Foundry The primary difference between the Mac Studio Ultra and Max models lies in the processing architecture, where the Ultra chip essentially combines two Max chips into a single die to provide roughly double the performance cores and graphical power. The choice between the two comes down to the intensity of your workflow. M4 Max Mac Studio: Best for most professionals The M4 Max Mac Studio offers a lower entry price and is the model most buyers should choose. It’s ideal for: Video editing Software development Music production Photography and design work General professional workloads Starting at $1,999, it delivers workstation-class performance without the significant premium commanded by Ultra models. Apple Mac Studio (M4 Max, 2025) Read our review Price When Reviewed: £2,099 Best Prices Today: £1903 at AO | £1903 at Currys | £2099 at Apple M3 Ultra Mac Studio: Best for extreme workloads The M3 Ultra is designed for users who regularly push hardware to its limits. It’s best suited to: Large AI models Professional 3D rendering Scientific computing Massive video-production projects Heavily multi-threaded workloads The Ultra architecture provides substantially more CPU and GPU resources, higher memory ceilings, and greater expansion potential than the M4 Max. However, most professionals will not fully utilise its additional performance. Apple Mac Studio (M3 Ultra, 2025) Price When Reviewed: £4,199 Best Prices Today: £3699 at Argos | £4199 at Apple Where to buy Mac Studio to get the best deals In the U.S., you can usually buy the Mac Studio from Apple and the following stockists. Right now availability is constrained and delivery dates are weeks away, however. Apple has a 9-10 week wait for the 36GB models, but the 64GB and 94GB RAM options have a 13-14 week wait. B&H has a listing for the M4 Max Mac Studio, but they are “unavailable”. The M3 Ultra Mac Studio is listed as “discontinued”. Best Buy lists the M4 Max Mac Studio unavailable and the M3 Ultra as “sold out”. In the U.K., you can usually buy the Mac Studio from Apple or the following stockists: Apple has a 10-12 week wait for most models, although the M3 Ultra with 96GB RAM option has a 13-14 week wait. KRCS offers long delivery times for the Mac mini M4 Max, with the 512GB model being out of stock. Argos stocks the Mac Studio, but both models are out of stock. Currys stocks the Mac Studio, but both models are out of stock. Another option is to buy refurbished. The best option to buy a refurbished Mac Studio would normally be Apple’s Certified Refurbished Store, but there are none available as of June 2026. We have seen a refurbished deal at BackMarket U.K. that could be worth buying, if you really need a Mac Studio: Mac Studio, M4 Max, 36GB RAM, 511GB: £3,516. That price is extortionate, normally it would cost £2,099, and just a month ago they were selling the same model for £2,725. So you are paying a premium for a highly sought after Mac. The U.S. Back Market has an M1 Max Mac Studio for $1,489.99. What specifications should you choose? Assuming you can find one in stock, here is some guidance on which specifications to select. RAM Memory is more important than processor upgrades for many buyers. Because Apple Silicon uses unified memory and cannot be upgraded later, it’s worth buying more RAM than you think you’ll need. As a general rule: 36GB–48GB is sufficient for most professional users. 64GB–96GB is recommended for serious video production, AI workloads, and advanced creative work. Higher capacities are most useful for large AI models, 3D projects, and specialist professional workflows. Don’t make the mistake of spending your budget on a larger CPU upgrade while compromising on memory. Storage Internal storage can be supplemented with external Thunderbolt drives, making it easier to expand later. For most professional users: 1TB is a sensible minimum. 2TB is a better long-term choice. Larger capacities are best reserved for users with substantial media libraries or large project files. Mac Studio vs Mac mini: Which is best? Many buyers should also consider the Mac mini. Although, like Mac Studio component shortages are affecting availability. Apple Mac mini (M4 Pro, 2024) Read our review Price When Reviewed: £1,399 Best Prices Today: £1329.05 at krcs.co.uk | £1399 at Apple | £1399 at Argos The Mac Studio is worth the extra cost if you need: More GPU performance Higher memory capacities More Thunderbolt connectivityAdditional display support10Gb Ethernet and extensive peripheral support Note that the Mac mini with M4 Pro is a more compelling alternative than waiting for an M5 Mac mini. One key advantage is connectivity: only the M4 Pro Mac mini and the Mac Studio support Thunderbolt 5, while the standard M4 Mac mini is limited to Thunderbolt 4. Thunderbolt 5 provides significantly greater bandwidth and is particularly valuable for: External SSD arrays and high-speed storage Professional video editing and post-production workflows Multi-display setups Audio production and recording environments AI clusters, machine learning workloads, and advanced storage solutions For users who can benefit from these capabilities, the M4 Pro Mac mini offers advantages that are likely to remain relevant even as newer generations are released. If your workloads are primarily coding, productivity, and moderate creative work, the Mac mini m4 Pro may offer better value. Other things to consider Apple The Mac Studio does not include a display, keyboard, or mouse. A professional monitor can add significantly to the overall cost of ownership, so factor this into your budget before purchasing. If you’re buying for the long term: Prioritise RAM. Don’t skimp on storage. Buy the best configuration you can realistically afford. Consider whether waiting for the next generation makes sense if you expect to keep the machine for five years or more. Should you buy a Mac Studio? Buy now if you’re upgrading from an Intel Mac, your current machine is holding back your work, or you need a workstation immediately. Good luck finding one though. Wait if you already own a recent Mac Studio, want the latest M5 architecture, or need the highest-end configurations and are willing to see how Apple’s next-generation lineup develops.

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Should you buy a Mac mini now or wait for M5?

Macworld The Mac mini appeals to both budget-conscious consumers and creative professionals. More recently, it has also become a highly popular platform for AI development and local model execution, thanks to its unique combination of high-bandwidth unified memory, impressive power efficiency, and compact form factor – perfect for scalable stacks of computing power. Its recent surge in popularity has been driven largely by the exceptional performance-to-price ratio of Apple silicon. Unfortunately, growing demand from AI developers, combined with ongoing component shortages, has led to extremely limited Mac mini availability, and as of mid June 2026, wait times are stretching from three weeks to nearly three months. As a result, finding one in stock at a reasonable price can be difficult – although we have found Mac mini models available to buy in the U.K. There is another reason why those looking to purchase a Mac mini should consider waiting: Apple is widely expected to refresh the Mac mini with M5 series chips in the near future. If you can afford to wait, that would be our recommendation.  However, if you need a Mac mini sooner and manage to find one available, we can help you decide whether it’s worth buying, what a fair price would be, and whether you’d still be better off waiting for the next generation. Expected next update Fall 2026Reason to waitM5 chipBest reason to buy nowPrice may increase for future generations  Buy Mac mini now if: You need a desktop Mac immediately Retail discounts are strong You want best-value Apple desktop Wait if: You want the next generation Apple Silicon You want longer lifespan from your purchase Bottom line:  The M4 Mac mini is still an excellent purchase, but the expected M5 refresh and the limited supply makes waiting sensible if urgency is low. UserRecommendationStudent, office work, web devBuy M4 now Creative work (photo/video)Buy M4 now unless willing to wait up to 6 monthsLocal AI / LLM workloadsConsider waiting for M5Existing M1/M2 Mac mini ownerWait for M5Intel Mac ownerBuy immediately Apple Mac mini (M4, 512GB/16GB RAM) Price When Reviewed: £799 Best Prices Today: £759.05 at krcs.co.uk | £799 at Argos Apple Mac mini (M4 Pro, 2024) Read our review Price When Reviewed: £1,399 Best Prices Today: £1329.05 at krcs.co.uk | £1399 at Apple | £1399 at Argos Is now a good time to buy a Mac mini? IDG Whether now is a good time to buy a Mac mini depends largely on how urgently you need one. The current M4 and M4 Pro Mac mini (reviewed here) are excellent machines with outstanding performance, efficiency, and value for money, but they are becoming increasingly difficult to find in stock. At the same time, expectations are growing that Apple is preparing to refresh the lineup with M5 and M5 Pro models. Apple last updated the Mac mini in October 2024, introducing the M4 generation alongside the desktop’s first major redesign in 14 years, reducing the chassis to an ultra-compact 5-by-5-inch form factor. Historically, Apple has refreshed the Mac mini on an approximately two-year cycle, which puts the current lineup close to the expected window for an update. Rumors initially suggested the next Mac mini could arrive before the end of 2026. Reports had suggested that the new Mac mini could arrive in the first half of 2026, but severe shortages affecting the current M4 models may be complicating Apple’s timeline. As mentioned above, demand from AI developers and memory supply constraints have created unusually long wait times for some configurations. As a result, the M5 Mac mini may not arrive until later in 2026 – and some reports now suggest it could even slip into 2027. If you can find an M4 Mac mini at a reasonable price and need a machine immediately, it is still an easy recommendation. However, if you can afford to wait, it may be worth holding off to see what Apple announces next. When is the next Mac mini expected? The next Mac mini is widely expected to launch sometime in 2026. Earlier rumors had suggested Apple was targeting the first half of the year for the launch, and several factors had supported the idea that a refresh was approaching. As mentioned, M4 Mac mini inventory has become increasingly limited, with some higher-end configurations facing shipping delays of several weeks. Historically, declining inventory levels at Apple and third-party retailers have preceded a hardware refresh as existing stock is cleared ahead of a new release. However, as we passed midyear it became apparent that the same factors driving those shortages may also be delaying the next-generation Mac mini launch. The strong AI-related demand and memory supply issues have put unusual pressure on Mac mini availability, particularly for higher-memory models favored by AI developers. Because of this, while an M5 Mac mini still appears likely for 2026, there is growing speculation that Apple’s schedule could slip into late 2026 or even 2027. How much should you pay for Mac mini? The Mac mini is occasionally discounted by third-party retailers. If you can find one on sale – particularly higher-memory configurations or remaining 256GB M4 models – it may still be a worthwhile purchase even with an M5 refresh on the horizon.  Amazon will be holding a Prime Day sale for a few days from Tuesday June 23. This would normally be a good time to buy a new Mac mini, however, stock is so limited currently that we don’t expect to see any Mac mini deals during this sale. In the U.S. Amazon has previously dropped the price of the $599 Mac mini to $469 (in July 2025). We don’t expect to see deals on the $599 model now that Apple has discontinued it from the line up. The remaining $799 model has previously dropped to $669 (November 2025).  Find Apple on Amazon U.S. We have also seen Amazon U.K. drop the price of the Mac mini from £799 to £689.99 (in October 2025). While the £599 model had seen a price drop to £499 in November 2025.  Find Apple on Amazon U.K. Where can you buy a Mac mini now? At the moment there is very little Mac mini stock and, where stock is available, delivery times are long. Amazon currently has the $799 Mac mini with 10-core CPU and 10-core GPU for $796.99, which is £29 off. Delivery is between June 28 and July 2. Buy the Mac mini from Amazon for $769.99 In the U.K. we have seen the £799 Mac mini on sale at KRCS for £759.05. KRCS has a discount, but the wait is currently eight weeks. Buy the Mac mini from KRCS for £759 Reasons to buy a Mac mini Foundry Excellent value: The Mac mini remains one of the most versatile and cost-effective ways to enter the macOS ecosystem. Although Apple removed the previous entry-level configuration – raising the starting price from $599 to $799 – the Mac mini still delivers excellent performance per dollar. That balance of price, power, and efficiency is one of the main reasons for the desktop’s growing popularity. It also offers access to professional-grade performance for significantly less cash than a similarly specced MacBook Pro. Long software support window: Even if Apple introduces an M5 Mac mini in the near future, the current M4 generation is still expected to receive many years of macOS updates and security support. Buyers should still get a long usable lifespan out of today’s models.  Compact desktop footprint: The Mac mini’s ultra-compact 5-inch square design makes it one of the most space-efficient desktop computers available. It fits easily under monitors, in small offices, or in minimalist workstation setups. Its compact form factor also makes it particularly attractive for server racks, home labs, and multi-machine deployments.  Retail discounts and refurbished deals: Despite already offering strong value at full price, the Mac mini is occasionally discounted by third-party retailers. If you can find a Mac mini deal – particularly higher-memory configurations or remaining 256GB M4 models – it may still be a worthwhile purchase even with an M5 refresh on the horizon. The Apple Refurbished Store can offer even better value, assuming stock is available. In the past, we have seen the M4 Mac mini discounted by around $100/£100, while M4 Pro models have dropped by approximately $200/£210. If deals like these reappear, they are likely worth considering. Reasons not to buy Mac mini One big reason not to buy one: you can’t.Foundry Upcoming M5 models: The strongest reason to wait is the expected arrival of Mac mini models powered by Apple’s M5 and M5 Pro chips. While the current M4 generation is already extremely popular for local AI workloads and development, the M5 is expected to deliver further gains in AI performance, efficiency, and memory handling, as it has with the MacBook Pro. Reduced configurations and rising prices: Apple has already increased the effective entry price of the Mac mini by removing the least expensive configuration from the lineup. At the same time, ongoing component shortages have reportedly forced Apple to reduce availability of some higher-end configurations, including certain high-memory M4 Pro models.  Supply shortages: Availability remains a major issue. Buyers may face wait times of three to four weeks for entry-level models, while higher-spec configurations can take considerably longer – in some cases up to 10 weeks to ship. Limited stock also makes it harder to find discounts or preferred configurations.  What to avoid when buying a Mac mini Intel: Avoid Intel-powered Mac mini models – when shopping for a refurbished Mac mini, prioritize models with Apple Silicon (M-series chips).  Low RAM: We advise avoiding 8GB RAM models if possible, as newer generations now start with 16GB as the base standard.  Check status: Additionally, ensure the device is not classified as “Vintage” or “Obsolete,” as Apple typically stops providing parts for repairs after seven to ten years.  Is Mac mini right for you? Is the Mac mini the best choice for you? There are a number of trade-offs to consider.  FeatureConsiderationPortabilityNot portable; requires separate monitor, keyboard, and mouse.ConnectivityLacks USB-A ports; may require adapters for older accessories. The M4 Pro Mac mini features three Thunderbolt 5 ports, while the standard M4 model uses Thunderbolt 4. UpgradabilityRAM and storage are soldered and cannot be upgraded after purchase. Which Mac mini to buy Simon Jary / Foundry Choosing the right Mac mini depends heavily on your performance needs and budget, especially following recent changes to Apple’s lineup. While the M4 and M4 Pro models remain the current generation, a global component shortage has significantly impacted availability and pricing. In May 2026, Apple effectively increased the starting price of the Mac mini by discontinuing the entry-level 256GB storage configuration. As of May 2026, that model is no longer available to buy, although in time it may be available as a refurbished option. With the 256GB Mac mini out of the equation, which Mac mini should you choose? For General Use and Students: The M4 Mac mini is the best-value option for home offices, schoolwork, and everyday tasks. It features a 10-core CPU and 10-core GPU, providing excellent performance for its price. Students can still access an education discount, bringing the starting price down to $699. For Creative Professionals: The M4 Pro Mac mini is recommended for demanding workloads like video editing, 3D rendering, and coding . It offers a 12-core CPU, a 16-core GPU, and supports Thunderbolt 5, which provides significantly higher bandwidth for professional peripherals. For AI Development: The Mac mini has become a popular platform for local AI execution due to its unified memory and power efficiency . For these tasks, experts recommend configuring the machine with at least 24GB of RAM, as memory cannot be upgraded after purchase. ChipSSDRAMStarting priceBest ForMac mini M4256GB16GBWas: $599/£599DiscontinuedMac mini M4512GB, 1TB, 2TB16GB, 24GBFrom: $799/£799Students, photographers, designers, creators, home office workers, Intel Mac upgradersMac mini M4 Pro512GB, 1TB, 2TB, 4TB, 8TB24GB, 48GB, From: $1,399/£1,399Best for AI users, developers and power users, Mac mini vs Mac Studio: Which should you buy? The Mac Studio is an even more powerful option.Thomas Bergbold The choice between the Mac mini and the Mac Studio largely comes down to whether you prioritize value or maximum performance. The Mac mini offers some of the best value in Apple’s desktop lineup. Even the standard M4 model delivers impressive performance for everyday computing, creative work, software development, and local AI tasks, while the M4 Pro configuration provides power for more demanding workloads. The Mac Studio is designed for users who need workstation-class performance. Following the discontinuation of the Mac Pro, it is now effectively Apple’s most powerful desktop. Starting at $1,999/£1,999 for the M4 Max configuration, the Mac Studio also represents the most affordable way to get a Max-series Apple Silicon chip. It is well suited to professional video production, large AI models, 3D rendering, and other heavily multi-threaded or GPU-intensive workflows. For most users, the Mac mini is a better value purchase. However, if your workloads demand high performance, more memory and a more powerful GPU, the Mac Studio is the better choice.  Mac mini vs MacBook Neo: Which is better value? Thomas Armbrüster Before the introduction of the MacBook Neo, the Mac mini was Apple’s least expensive Mac. That is no longer the case – particularly now Apple has removed the entry-level $599/£599 Mac mini configuration from the lineup. The MacBook Neo is now Apple’s most affordable Mac, starting at $599/£599. It is designed as an entry-level Mac and is powered by the A18 Pro chip originally used for the iPhone 16 Pro. The focus is on portability, battery life, and affordability rather than performance. The Mac mini, by contrast, remains Apple’s best-value desktop Mac for users who already own a monitor, keyboard, and mouse. Thanks to its M4 and M4 Pro chips, active cooling system, and greater performance, it is better suited to demanding workloads such as coding, creative applications, multitasking, and local AI development. Should you buy a refurbished Mac mini? Buying a refurbished Mac mini is a practical and cost-effective way to acquire a high-quality computer at a significantly lower price point than a brand-new model. While it offers substantial savings, the decision depends on your budget, performance needs, and where you choose to shop.  Savings  typically range from 15% to 30% off the original retail price.  Benefits of buying refurbished include:  Rigorous Testing: Official refurbished units undergo full functional testing, thorough cleaning, and inspection to meet the same standards as new products. Warranty and Support: Apple includes a one-year limited warranty, 90 days of technical support, and eligibility for AppleCare. Like-New Condition: Devices are visually indistinguishable from new models and come repackaged in a new box with all original accessories However, there are drawbacks:  While refurbished models are reliable, there are several factors to consider before purchasing: Limited Availability: Stock depends on returns and trade-ins, meaning you may not find the exact configuration, RAM, or storage you want. The Intel Trap: Many third-party marketplaces sell older Intel-based Mac minis. These lack the performance of Apple Silicon (M1, M2, M3, M4) and will lose software support much sooner. Inconsistent Standards: While Apple has strict testing, third-party sellers may have varying refurbishment standards and shorter warranties Where to buy a refurbished Mac mini The best place to shop for refurbished Macs is Apple’s Certified Refurbished Store where earlier in 2026 we saw the M4 Mac mini discounted by around $90/£90, while the M4 Pro model has also seen price cuts. However, as of mid May 2026, Apple has no refurbished Mac mini in stock. On the other hand, we would avoid buying refurbished from Amazon. As of May 2026, Amazon U.S. has only 2020 refurbished Mac mini on sale which we don’t recommend buying. We’ve also seen used listings for the discontinued 256GB model, but due to scarcity these are even higher than the original price.  Read our guide to the pros and cons of buying refurbished Macs. We also have recommendations of the best places to buy a refurbished Mac.

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