Wokyis M5 Dock: A Nostalgic Fusion of Retro Design and Modern Mac mini Performance
The Wokyis M5 Dock is a unique accessory that transforms the M4 Mac mini into a device reminiscent of Apple’s classic Macintosh, blending vintage aesthetics with contemporary functionality. This dock not only enhances the visual appeal of your workspace but also expands the capabilities of your Mac mini.
Design and Build
Crafted from off-white plastic, the Wokyis M5 Dock mirrors the iconic design elements of the original Macintosh. Measuring 6.06 inches in width, 5.71 inches in depth, and 5.16 inches in height, it is compact yet spacious enough to house the Mac mini securely. Once the Mac mini is installed, the total height reaches 6.21 inches. This design not only saves desk space but also serves as a functional piece of nostalgia.
Display Features
A standout feature of the Wokyis M5 Dock is its integrated five-inch display. Unlike the monochrome screens of yesteryear, this 720p screen offers a resolution of 1,280 by 720 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of approximately 290 PPI. While it may not be the brightest display available, it is suitable for tasks such as monitoring messages or managing communication apps. Brightness adjustments are conveniently located in the handle divot at the top of the dock.
Connectivity Options
The dock is available in two models: a 10Gbps version and an 80Gbps Thunderbolt 5 version. The 10Gbps model includes:
– Front Ports:
– Two USB-A 10Gbps ports
– One USB-C 10Gbps port
– SD and microSD card readers
– A six-color square power button for the display
– Rear Ports:
– USB-C host port for Mac mini connection
– Two USB-A 10Gbps ports
– Power input for the dock
– Headphone jack
– HDMI-in port
The Thunderbolt 5 version enhances connectivity with:
– A Thunderbolt 5 host port
– An additional USB-C 10Gbps port
– A DisplayPort output capable of 8K at 60Hz
– A 36W power input
This array of ports ensures compatibility with a wide range of peripherals and devices.
Storage Expansion
At the rear of the dock, a metal door conceals a slot designed for an M.2 NVMe SSD, compatible with M.2 2230, 2242, 2260, and 2280 form factors. In the 10Gbps model, the total bandwidth is shared across all connected devices, which may limit simultaneous high-speed data transfers. In contrast, the Thunderbolt 5 version offers significantly higher bandwidth, accommodating multiple devices without compromising performance.
Performance Considerations
While the 10Gbps model is suitable for users with moderate data transfer needs, those requiring higher performance should consider the Thunderbolt 5 version. The increased bandwidth in the Thunderbolt 5 model ensures efficient operation of connected devices and the integrated display.
Conclusion
The Wokyis M5 Dock successfully marries retro design with modern functionality, offering Mac mini users an aesthetically pleasing and practical accessory. Its thoughtful design, versatile connectivity options, and storage expansion capabilities make it a valuable addition to any workspace. For users with higher performance demands, the Thunderbolt 5 version is recommended to fully leverage the dock’s potential.
