Apple has opened pre-orders for its refreshed Mac mini and Mac Studio lineup — and the first wave of buyers can take advantage of modest discounts before the official launch on September 22, 2026.
What deals are on offer
Amazon is leading the early bargains, knocking off up to $49 on select Mac mini and Mac Studio models. For example, the flagship Mac Studio powered by the M5 Max chip (36 GB RAM, 512 GB SSD) is now listed at $2,449.99 rather than its $2,499 regular price. The Mac mini with the new M6 chip is also getting cuts: the 16 GB/256 GB configuration is reduced to $879.99, and the 16 GB/512 GB version is available for $1,069.99.
Other configurations are discounted too — the M5 Pro Mac mini with 24 GB RAM and 512 GB storage can be had for $1,669.99. These offers are valid ahead of the units’ full launch later this month. Shades of price trimming are showing up already, giving buyers early incentive.
Performance leaps with the M6 chip
Upgrading to the M6 chip in the Mac mini brings several performance enhancements over the outgoing generation featuring a 10-core M4 chip, 32 GB memory, and 2 TB storage. Apple claims improvements include up to 40% faster CPU performance, up to 4× speed for AI workloads, doubling of graphics power, and twice the storage throughput. These gains aim squarely at users whose workflows rely on demanding AI tasks or graphics applications.
The window for these discounts is short — all pre-order purchases will ship once the official launch rolls out. Apple’s lineup refresh underscores its push toward more robust performance with next-gen chips.
Why this matters: These early price cuts reveal that even Apple’s premium Mac studio gear isn’t immune to the pressures of market competition. With steep gains from the M6 chip, the Mac mini is transforming from a mere entry-level workhorse into a capable AI/graphics machine. If demand exceeds supply, higher-end variants may see limited availability — buying early may be your best bet.
