How I turned the M4 Mac mini into a travel computer – 9to5Mac

People have been loving the all-new M4 Mac mini since it was released last month. The combination of power, price, and new smaller form factor has people drooling over what is possible. But for me, the best part was the new size. This had me thinking, can I use this as a mobile desktop solution? The answer is yes, as long as you have the necessary accessories!

Be sure to check out my video below showing off how I am able to use my Mac mini as a mobile desktop solution.

Must-haves

In the video above, I mention around 10 different accessories that I have used for this setup, but in reality, you need four to be able to take this on the go. The rest are just nice to have in order to really feel at home wherever you set up. But let’s start with the mainstays.

M4 Mac mini

For my computer of choice, I went with the baseline M4 Mac mini. It comes with 16GB of unified memory and 256GB of onboard storage. In the next section, I will talk about some external storage solutions that are easy to bring with you. I like to just get the baseline to save as much as I can. Right now, the M4 Mac mini is on sale on Amazon for just $529 brand new! This is an absurd price for such a small and powerful computer.

Espresso Display

Arguably the most important accessory will be the display. There are so many portable displays out there ranging from $50 all the way to $1000 if you want. But the perfect middle ground has to be the new 15in Espresso display. For just $299 you get:

• 15in Full HD high-precision panel
• 1.68 pounds
• 5.3mm in thickness
• 300 nits brightness
• 2x USB-C ports with power passthrough
• Powered with a single USB-C cable
• Includes: Stand, Microfiber cloth, cable, case

It literally feels like this is a product made by Apple. It even looks like a shrunken iMac display! This is a no brainer if you want a high quality and well made portable monitor that also has a crazy low price. Save an extra 10% with code “9to510” at checkout!

Peripherals

The next two products you need will have to be a keyboard and mouse. Since this is a travel setup I tried to find something that was easy to bring with you on the go. For the keyboard I went with the ProtoArc folding keyboard. Then for the mouse I went with my tried and true Logitech Anywhere S2.

ProtoArc Keyboard:

• Connects to 3 devices
• charges via USBC with 5 months of standby time
• Folds to compact form factor
• When open it shows 105 key layout with number pad
• Auto connects when keyboard is opened
• On sale for $35.99

Logitech Anywhere S3 Mouse

• Charges via USBC and holds charge for 70 days
• Connects to 3 devices
• High quality feel
• 8K DPI sensor for precision
• On sale for $67!

The Backpack – Waterfield Tech Folio Slim

The Tech Folio Backpack by WaterField Designs is the ultimate companion for tech lovers, providing a stylish and tough way to haul around all your gear—including your M4 Mac Mini travel setup. Made for pros and creatives, it mixes smart organization with high-quality materials to keep up with your busy lifestyle.

Key Features:

• All-in-One Storage: Fits laptops, tablets, chargers, cables, the M4 Mac Mini, and a 15″ Portable Espresso Display perfectly.
• Travel-Ready: Ideal for creating a portable, organized workspace anywhere.
• Premium Build: Crafted with rugged ballistic nylon or waxed canvas and full-grain leather.
• Convertible Design: Easily switches between a folio and a backpack.
• Comfortable Carry: Ergonomic straps and padded back for all-day comfort.
• Handcrafted Quality: Made in San Francisco with meticulous attention to detail.

Stay organized, stylish, and ready to work on the go with this ultimate travel companion. Once you have these items then you will be ready to use your M4 Mac mini on the move! But if you want a few more accessories, the rest I would consider nice to have.

Nice to have accessories

External storage Lexar SSD 2TB

• Ultra-fast external storage for seamless backups and file transfers.
• Compact and durable design, perfect for on-the-go use.
• 1 TB, 2TB and 4TB options
• $154 for the 2TB model!

AirPods Pro

• Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency Mode for versatile listening.
• Comfortable fit with customizable ear tips for all-day use.
• Best headphones for the price
• Currently listed at $153!

Moft Tripod Stand

• Lightweight and foldable, perfect for video calls or presentations.
• Sturdy build supports various devices securely.
• Helps to be able to use continuity camera with iPhone for a webcam solution!

AirTag 4-Pack

• Effortless tracking for keys, bags, or other essentials.
• Precision Finding makes locating misplaced items quick and easy.
• Always use one of these in each of my bags
• Currently $72 for a 4 pack!

Final take

Of course buying a laptop would be the best choice if you were planning on needed a portable computing solution. So if that is your need, then yes, go get a MacBook Air. But if you were like me, and left your MacBook Air at home and was only used as a desktop, then this could work for you. This setup is for the people that 90% of the time are at their desk, but every once and while need to take their Mac mini on the go. That is where this setup shines.

Let me know what you think. Is this something you would do? Would you travel with your Mac mini if you needed? Let’s discuss below!