For years, Apple’s Mac mini has been a favorite among users who crave desktop power in a compact, no-frills design. But one limitation has persisted: its reliance on a bulky external power supply. Now, a tech enthusiast has reimagined the Mac mini’s power delivery system, demonstrating that the tiny desktop can be modified to run entirely via USB-C—a move that could revolutionize its portability and convenience.
The Mod That Changes Everything
In a recent YouTube video, DIY tech wizard Kenville showcased a modified M1 Mac mini that ditches the traditional power brick for a single USB-C cable. The project, which has since gone viral, involves rewiring the Mac mini’s internals to draw power directly from a USB-C port. By replacing the stock power supply with a USB-C Power Delivery (PD) board, the modified device can now be powered using any compatible USB-C charger or even a high-capacity power bank.
As detailed in a report by Wccftech, the modification isn’t for the faint of heart. It requires disassembling the Mac mini, removing its internal power supply unit, and integrating a third-party USB-C PD module (such as this widely available model) into the chassis. The result? A sleeker, cable-free setup that aligns with Apple’s broader push toward USB-C connectivity, seen in recent iPads and MacBooks.
Why This Matters
Apple’s shift to USB-C has been gradual but inevitable, driven partly by regulatory pressures and user demand for universal charging standards. The Mac mini, however, has stubbornly retained its proprietary power connector—until now. This DIY hack not only modernizes the device but also unlocks new possibilities:
- Portability: Imagine taking your Mac mini on the road, powered by a laptop charger or portable battery.
- Simplified Setups: Reduce cable clutter by using a single USB-C cable for both power and peripherals (via hubs).
- Eco-Friendly Potential: Repurpose existing USB-C chargers instead of relying on device-specific power bricks.
Challenges and Caveats
While the mod is impressive, it’s not without risks. Opening the Mac mini voids Apple’s warranty, and tampering with power systems could lead to hardware damage if done incorrectly. Additionally, the USB-C PD board used in the project requires precise voltage regulation to match the Mac mini’s 30W power needs. As Kenville notes in his video, stability is key—cheap or incompatible chargers might not deliver consistent performance.
Apple has yet to comment on the hack, and there’s no indication the company plans to release an official USB-C-powered Mac mini. Still, the project highlights growing consumer frustration with fragmented charging standards and could pressure Apple to reconsider its design choices.
The Bigger Picture
This isn’t the first time enthusiasts have reengineered Apple hardware. From iPad-powered laptops to DIY MacBook mods, the community continues to push boundaries that even Apple hesitates to cross. With the EU mandating USB-C for all small electronics by 2024, however, the days of proprietary power connectors may be numbered—whether Apple likes it or not.
For now, the USB-C Mac mini remains a niche experiment, but it’s a tantalizing glimpse of what could be. As one Reddit user quipped, “Apple, take notes.”
Watch the full modification process here, and check out the USB-C PD board used in the project on Amazon.