Apple’s Mac Mini M5 Pro Costs More Than Newer M6
Apple's new Mac mini features both M6 and M5 Pro chips, with the older Pro model commanding a higher price point.

The update
Apple has unveiled a refreshed Mac mini lineup featuring two new chips: the all-new M6 and the M5 Pro. The M6 model starts at $899, while the M5 Pro begins at $1,699. Both models are available for pre-order starting August 25, with shipping beginning September 22. The Mac mini continues to be Apple’s compact desktop option without a keyboard or display included.
Why it matters
This pricing strategy challenges the assumption that newer chips are automatically better or more expensive. The M5 Pro, despite being an older generation chip, costs significantly more due to its professional-grade specifications including more CPU cores, superior GPU options, and higher maximum RAM and storage capacity. This positions the M6 as an efficient option for everyday tasks while the M5 Pro targets power users and professionals who need maximum performance for demanding workloads.
What to watch
How Apple’s chip numbering strategy continues to evolve and whether other manufacturers follow this approach of separating standard and professional tiers. The actual real-world performance benchmarks between these chips in various applications will also help consumers make informed purchasing decisions.
Sources
- Apple Newsroom — Official product announcement, specifications, and pricing details
- engadget.com — Analysis of chip architecture differences and pricing strategy explanation
