The next-generation M5 Mac mini is coming soon, and we have some exciting leaks to talk about. Are you planning to upgrade your old Mac mini? Then it’s good to wait a little longer because Apple may launch the M5 Mac mini later this year or early next year.
We’re expecting Apple to keep the M4 Mac mini’s design but swap in the M5 chip under the hood. Let’s take a quick look at the latest leaks, possible release date, and expected features.
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M5 Mac mini Release Date
Most trusted leaks say the M5 Mac mini will come by the end of 2025, mostly around October or November. This matches Apple’s usual release cycle, just like how they launched the M4 Mac mini in 2024.
But some new reports suggest Apple may delay the M5 Mac mini release until early 2026. According to a leak from Mark Gurman, Apple may refresh many Macs and iPads in early 2026.
So, it’s good to wait and see how things go in the next few months.
Based on previous Mac mini Release Dates:
- October or November 2025 – Very Likely
- Early 2026 – Also Possible
my bet is on October release. Apple may announce M5 Macbook Air, Macbook Pro and Mac mini which is due for upgrades.
M5 Mac mini Models
Leaks have revealed some interesting details about the new models. Internal sources mention model number J873s, which could be the M5 Pro Chip Mac mini currently being tested.
Just like last gen models, we may get two options with M5 chipset.
M5 Mac mini
Base model, but very powerful for most of our every day tasks. M4 chip surprised us with excellent benchmark scores and in real world use cases, developers are using it for moderate usage.
It handles anything we throw at it so far providing impressive results.
M5 Mac mini will bring 20 to 30% improvement to CPU and GPU is what we expect.
M5 Pro Mac mini
So, if you are waiting for a more powerful version, the M5 Pro should also be available around the same time.
Developers, Programmers, AI tools and LLMs specific usage preference will be satisfied with M5 Pro chip. Not everyone need this much power in their work desk, but if you prefer to have above average usage, then consider M5 Pro Mac mini.
Also Read, Best Magsafe Power Banks under $50 for iPhone
M5 Mac mini Design
In terms of design, don’t expect any major changes.
Apple already refreshed the design with the M4 Mac mini. The M5 version will likely keep the same small and compact look. But inside, there will be good improvements.
M5 Chip Performance
The M5 chip will be built on 3nm technology, similar to M4. So, performance upgrades may not be huge. Still, we can expect:
- Faster performance
- Better power efficiency
- Smoother multitasking
If you are upgrading from Intel Mac mini or even M1, the jump to M5 will be huge. But from M4 to M5, it may feel like a small upgrade.
Should You Wait for M5 Mac mini?
If you already have an M4 Mac mini, it’s okay to skip the M5. But if you have an old model, it’s better to wait and see what Apple announces.
M5 Chip expected to bring 20% approximate CPU and GPU Performance Improvements.
M4 Mac mini is still a solid option for anyone to Buy right now.
Also Check out, Fastest External SSDs for Mac and Video Editing
People using Intel Mac mini or M1 mac mini may consider upgrading to m5 mac mini.
Don’t miss out on Apple Back to School Offers 2025 to get good discounts on current M4 Mac mini purchases.
Additional Buying Suggestions:
The M5 Mac mini is expected to launch between October 2025 to early 2026.
Leaks suggest Apple is testing M5 and M5 Pro models, with the same design but upgraded internals. If you can wait a few months, it’s better to see what Apple offers. Otherwise, the current M4 Mac mini is still a great buy.
I will update you when more leaks arrive. Are you waiting for M5 or planning to buy M4? Let me know!
