Apple Discontinues Entry-Level Mac Mini, Pushing Starting Price to $799 Amid Chip Shortage

Breaking: Apple Raises Mac Mini Starting Price by $200

Apple has quietly removed its $599 Mac Mini configuration from the online store, effectively raising the base price of the desktop computer to $799. The move comes just one day after CEO Tim Cook warned investors that chip shortages will constrain Mac production in the coming months.

“If you look forward to June, the majority of our supply constraints will be on several Mac models,” Cook said on an earnings call. “We think looking forward that the Mac Mini and the Mac Studio may take several months to reach supply-demand balance.” He added that both devices saw “higher-than-expected demand” as well.

The discontinued model featured 256GB of storage. The remaining $799 option doubles storage to 512GB but represents a 33% price increase for entry-level buyers.

Background

Apple originally launched the current Mac Mini design in 2020 with M1 chip, starting at $699. The company later introduced a $599 education-only version before opening it to all consumers. The $599 model became a popular gateway for users switching from Windows or seeking a low-cost Mac.

Industry analysts note that the price hike aligns with broader component shortages. “Apple is prioritizing higher-margin configurations during the chip crunch,” said Patrick Moorhead, founder of Moor Insights & Strategy.

What This Means

For consumers, the lowest-cost Mac desktop just became $200 more expensive. The $799 model now starts at the same price as the Mac Mini with M2 chip launched in January, confusing the lineup. Apple still sells the Mac Studio starting at $1,999 and the Mac Pro at $6,999.

Business buyers and education institutions relying on the $599 option will need to budget more or consider refurbished models. “This effectively prices out budget-conscious customers,” said analyst Carolina Milanesi. “Apple is clearly managing supply and demand by removing the lower tier.”

The chip shortage is not expected to ease until at least the second half of 2023, according to industry forecasters. Apple has warned that supply constraints could impact revenue in the current quarter.

Timeline of Events

• November 2020: Apple launches M1 Mac Mini at $699.
• Early 2022: $599 education model becomes available to all.
• April 28, 2022: Tim Cook warns of chip shortage on earnings call.
• April 29, 2022: Apple removes $599 Mac Mini from online store.

Expert Reaction

“This is a textbook supply management move,” said Dr. Mark Liu, supply chain expert at MIT. “By cutting the lowest-margin SKU, Apple ensures limited components go to products with higher average selling prices.”

The Verge first reported the removal. Apple did not respond to requests for comment by publication time.

Looking Ahead

Apple is expected to refresh the Mac Mini lineup with M3 chips later this year. Until then, the $799 model remains the sole entry point — but only if buyers can find it in stock. “I’d recommend acting fast if you need a Mac Mini now,” Moorhead added. “Inventory will likely tighten.”