A surge in demand for Mac minis, driven by their increasing popularity as tools for running on-device AI models like OpenClaw, has led to widespread shortages and a subsequent influx of overpriced units onto eBay.
Reports this week confirm that Apple’s retail website currently lists the $599 M4 Mac mini base model, equipped with 16GB RAM and 256GB of storage, as completely sold out, with no options for delivery or in-store pickup. This unavailability has since extended to various other configurations of the base model, irrespective of the memory chosen. Several sources have highlighted this as the first instance of the base model being entirely sold out. Meanwhile, models featuring higher storage capacities (512GB and above) are not expected to ship until June.
Consequently, eBay has transformed into the primary secondary market for these highly sought-after computers. On the platform, a range of M4 Mac mini configurations are readily available, albeit at significantly higher prices than their original retail cost, as direct purchase from Apple is currently not possible.
Apple’s power-efficient Mac minis have garnered considerable favor for developing and operating at-home, on-device AI models. This trend began with the OpenClaw phenomenon and has since expanded to include alternatives like ZeroClaw, other AI utilities from Anthropic and OpenAI, Perplexity Computer, and various specialized local models. Unlike some PC counterparts, Mac minis are also valued for their quiet operation and enhanced reliability for continuous 24/7 use, surpassing the typical performance of laptop computers in this regard.
This shortage of devices coincides with both an industry-wide memory crunch and Apple’s anticipated refresh of the Mac mini product line, according to Bloomberg. It is notable, however, that previous product refreshes have not typically resulted in such significant supply disruptions.
Apple did not immediately respond to a request for comment regarding the situation.
This unique confluence of supply chain pressures and escalating demand for AI-compatible hardware has driven up prices across the used consumer electronics market.
As of Friday morning, M4 base models featuring the 16GB RAM/256GB SSD configuration were observed selling at considerable mark-ups. Prices ranged from $715-$795 for new, “open box” units, and soared as high as $979 for “excellent” refurbished versions. Even “lightly used, pre-owned” Mac minis with this configuration were fetching around $700, exceeding the price of a brand-new base model by over $100.
One particular listing showcased a brand-new M4 Mac mini with the identical 16GB RAM and 256GB storage for $925, prominently displaying a warning in bright red text: “Last one.”
While it may still be possible to secure a reasonably priced refurbished unit for those who monitor listings closely or succeed in eBay auctions with lower starting bids, the prevailing demand for the device is expected to sustain elevated prices until Apple’s supply chain can adequately replenish stock.
The unavailability of the Mac mini has also led to a ripple effect, with Apple now experiencing increased demand for the Mac Studio. This professional-grade computer is also presently sold out across several configurations.
As Ars Technica highlighted, high-spec alternatives such as a MacBook Pro with 128GB RAM and larger SSDs remain available within a few weeks, and even the new and popular MacBook Neo is still shipping within 2-3 weeks. This suggests that the core issue is specific consumer demand for the Mac mini itself, rather than a broader supply problem for Apple’s high-end computing devices.
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