**Apple’s Revamped M4 Mac Mini: A Redesign with a Controversial Twist**

Recently, Apple introduced the [Mac mini, featuring the M4 chipset](https://mashable.com/article/mac-mini-m4-apple-announcement), signifying a major enhancement to the compact computer. The M4 Mac mini not only delivers outstanding performance and affordability, but it also comes with a total redesign, making it the most compact computer Apple has ever created.

Nevertheless, one design decision has ignited discussion: the [placement of the power button](https://mashable.com/article/apple-mac-mini-power-button).

### A Daring Design Decision

In earlier models, the power button on the Mac mini was conveniently found at the back, near the computer’s ports. However, with the reimagined M4 Mac mini, Apple has relocated the power button to an unexpectedly different spot—*the bottom* of the device.

That’s correct. The power button on the latest M4 Mac mini is positioned underneath the computer.

[**SEE ALSO:** M4 Mac mini vs. M2 Mac mini: What are the differences?](https://mashable.com/comparison/apple-mac-mini-m4-vs-mac-mini-m2)

### Apple’s Explanation

Apple has since clarified the reasoning behind this contentious design move. In an interview with [IThome](https://www.ithome.com/0/809/112.htm), Greg Joswiak, Apple’s Senior Vice President of Worldwide Marketing, alongside John Ternus, Senior Vice President of Hardware Engineering, discussed the thought process.

The executives asserted that the new placement is the “optimal location” for the power button, considering the comprehensive redesign of the Mac mini. They highlighted that the position is not inconvenient, as users can easily reach under the device to activate the button.

Furthermore, they noted that users typically don’t frequently need to access the power button on the Mac mini. Most individuals seldom shut down the device, usually opting to allow it to transition into Sleep Mode.

### Mashable’s Perspective

As an owner of both the [M1 Mac mini](https://mashable.com/review/mac-mini-m1-livestreaming-review) and the new M4 Pro Mac mini, I can validate Apple’s reasoning. In my experience, I’ve seldom found it necessary to use the power button on my earlier Mac mini. The only instances I’ve pressed it have been during rare forced restarts when issues arose. Otherwise, the computer remains in Sleep Mode, with the power button largely untouched.

Regarding the new position on the M4 Mac mini, it is accurate that it does not constitute a major inconvenience. The button remains accessible for those infrequent occasions when it’s truly needed.

The scrutiny this design choice has received is reminiscent of another notorious Apple decision: the location of the charging port on the [Magic Mouse](https://mashable.com/article/apple-magic-mouse-usb-c-port-bottom). Apple placed the charging port at the bottom of the mouse, resulting in an inability to use it while charging—which is a frustrating design flaw.

However, unlike the Magic Mouse, the positioning of the Mac mini’s power button does not significantly disrupt usability.

### Conclusion

While the newly positioned power button on the M4 Mac mini has drawn some criticism, it is not a dealbreaker. Apple’s redesign may require some adjustment, but it does not compromise the device’s overall functionality. For the majority of users, it represents a minor change in an otherwise robust and compact machine.