If you’ve been following our youtube channel, then you might have seen just how impressive the new baseline M4 Mac mini is. Its best feature, and what I like to call its superpower, is the price-to-performance ratio. There is just nothing else like it right now. But part of the reason it is priced at $549 (on Amazon) is because it literally brings nothing besides the computer and the power cable. So, of course, you will need some essential accessories to get you going. Here are my favorite accessories that are both ‘must-haves’ and other accessories which are ‘nice to have’.
Here is our hands on video that goes through all of the accessories we mention in this video!
Like I mentioned above, there are certain accessories that you absolutely need in order to use the new M4 Mac mini, like monitors, keyboards, a mouse, and more. While other accessories are not needed but will 100% be beneficial to add to any desk setup. So let’s start with my recommendations for must-haves.
Must-haves: Essentials for your M4 Mac mini setup
There are three categories of accessories that you absolutely will need, and those are your monitor, a keyboard, and a mouse. Let’s start with the monitor!
1. BenQ PD3225U
The Mac Mini doesn’t come with a display, and the BenQ PD 3225U is a perfect match. Designed specifically for macOS, this 4K IPS monitor offers outstanding color accuracy and single-cable connectivity. There is a ton to like about this monitor, and I would say it even competes with the Studio Display as one of the best high-quality Mac monitors out there. Some key features include:
- 4k resolution with HDR10 support
- 3 Thunderbolt 3 ports
- Display Port
- 2 HDMI 2.0 ports
- USB-B
- 3 USB-A 3.2 ports
- 3.5mm headphone jack
So not only is this a fantastic monitor, but since it has so much I/O, it acts as a Thunderbolt hub as well and is a single cable solution.
2. Satechi SM1 Slim mechanical keyboard
I have personally never been a fan of mechanical keyboards, and I always gravitate to the chiclet style keyboards. But this new SM1 by Satechi has really helped me find an awesome middle ground of still being low profile enough where it doesn’t feel tedious to type on, but still has that satisfaction of using a clicky and clacky mechanical keyboard. Some notable features include:
- Low-profile keys with satisfying tactile feedback
- Multi-device Bluetooth connectivity
- USB-C charging
- Available in stylish white/gray and matte black options.
3. Logitech Anywhere S mouse
My logitech Anywhere S2 mouse is my longest lasting and most used piece of tech of all time for me. I have used the same mouse since late 2017 and it still works as if it is brand new. The only annoying part is that my S2 version charges via micro USB (thats how you know its old). But the new S3 swapped that opld port for a USB-C port. I always recommend this mouse to anyone who wants the cheapest high quality mouse out there.
- Connects to up to three devices
- clickable scroll wheel
- charges via USB-C
- lasts 4 months on one charge
Of course there are an abundance of other options that you can get that will fit into these categories, but these are my personal recommendations. These accessories have been great for me and my desk setup!
Nice-to-haves: Mac mini accessories to elevate your setup
Once you’ve nailed the essentials, it’s time to consider the fun extras. These accessories improve functionality, organization, and aesthetics, making your Mac Mini setup truly exceptional.
1. External storage
The most expensive upgrade you could make to any Mac computer when purchasing is to buy more internal storage. Sure, the convenience is nice, but you can go from a $550 baseline Mac mini and quickly start to get into the $1000s just with a few storage increases. But nowadays, with external storage being so fast and the inclusion of Thunderbolt 4 on the base Mac mini, I truly think there is no reason to upgrade the internal storage.
For external storage I like to recommend two SSD options.
- Samsung T7
- Comes in 1 TB, 2TB and 4TB options
- Supports USB 3.2 gen 2 speeds
- Read and write up to 1050MB/s
- 2TB model is $169
- Lexar SL500 SSD
- Comes in 1 TB, 2TB and 4TB options
- Supports USB 3.2 gen 2×2 speeds
- Read and write up to 2000MB/s
- 2TB model is $205
Both fantastic option that will save you a ton of money!
2. JRNY 4 in 1 desk mat
For as long as I’ve had a desk, I have always used a desk mat. I have always enjoyed the change in texture from desk to either a felt or leather desk mat. It also is great for your mouse to be able to glide much easier. But I have found the perfect desk mat. This one has so many tricks up its sleeve. Here is what makes it so special:
- Modular: Comes in two pieces that attach magnetically. The desk mat and the 2-in-1 wireless charger.
- You can move the wireless charger to the left or right depending on what is most comfortable.
- Wireless charger has magsafe puck that charges up to 15W and airpods pad that charges at 5W
- The desk mat is double-sided: vegan leather and felt
- It also can open like a book to hide loose leaf materials.
So this alone takes care of two accessories in one!
3. BlueAnt SoundBlade
One of the downsides of the Mac mini is the built-in speakers. There just isn’t much to them. They are tinny, lack bass and loudness. In a pinch, they are fine, but I found a unique speaker that fits my desk nicely. The form factor is something I have never seen. It’s basically a very low-profile monitor riser that is color matched to the iMac colors. It’s meant to be a monitor riser for the iMac that is also a great speaker system.
- Immersive Audio Experience: With 120 watts of thundering sound, deep bass, and crystal-clear precision, it delivers unparalleled audio quality for music, movies, and gaming.
- Cinematic and Gaming Realism: Perfect for streaming and gaming, the Soundblade offers a theater-like mini-cinema experience and heightened immersion in virtual worlds.
- Elegant, Space-Saving Design: Its low-profile, award-winning design fits seamlessly under your monitor, adding sophistication without clutter.
- Versatile Connectivity: Supports USB-C, Bluetooth, and 3.5mm inputs for effortless pairing with laptops, smartphones, and tablets.
Final take
The M4 Mac Mini is the ultimate blank canvas for creating a dream workspace. Start with the essentials—monitor, keyboard, mouse, and desk—to build a functional and ergonomic setup. Then, enhance your desk with these nice-to-have accessories to improve organization, style, and fun. Be sure to watch the video above to see even more accessories than just these. We showcase over 12 accessories that I think you might like!
Which of these accessories will you add to your setup? Let us know in the comments, and share your favorite desk accessory to inspire others!
FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.
