When Satechi is at its best, it manages to relatively seamlessly extend the functionality of your existing Apple device in a stylish way without breaking your wallet. It doesn’t always succeed, but when it does, it’s hard not to recommend it to anyone.
Today is one of those days, because if you own a Mac Mini, there’s no reason not to buy the Aluminum Stand from Satechi right now. As is Satechi’s simplest concept, this is a natural extension for the Mac Mini. It fits snugly into the base of the Mac Mini, basically making it look like a Mac Studio.
Admittedly, the connection itself is a bit “tenuous” for lack of a better word. I’m no expert, but perhaps I’ve become a little too used to the robust connectivity MagSafe-based accessories offer on the front of my iPhone, so it’s a bit jarring for the Mac Mini to just “sit” on Satechi’s Aluminum Stand instead of being some kind of new base. People are disappointed. Maybe some disposable stickers would be ideal?
It should be said, however, that there is an outlet so it can continue to transfer heat, and with a simple USB-C on the back, the Aluminum Stand comes to life. Yes, it’s probably worth mentioning that while it technically does offer a Thunderbolt port on the back (depending on which Mac Mini you have), you only get a simple 5Gbps data port in return. But that’s not all that’s gained by sacrificing a port.
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It’s mainly the “front I/O” you get with this accessory. By sacrificing the rear ports, you get the aforementioned 5Gbps USB-C data port, three 5Gbps USB-A ports, a headphone jack, and two SD card readers for full-size and micro at 104Mbps. None of this is cutting edge, and I would have liked four USB-C ports instead of the now-obsolete A port, but that said, the card reader alone is pretty smart.
The best part is that it only costs around $80. You can even get cases with built-in NVMe enclosures at a higher price, but unfortunately, this newer model doesn’t come with more USB-C ports.
That said, it’s an affordable gadget that can expand the capabilities of your MacMini. A few years ago I bought a used M1 Mac Mini as my work computer and never looked back, I use this gadget on a regular basis.
Here is an ad:
