If you're upset about the M4 Mac mini, you're just using it wrong

The power button is a nonissue-unless you don't understand anything about the Mac.

- MAHMOUD ITANI

Whenever Apple drops a new product, certain W netizens rush to online corners like Reddit, Threads, and X to complain about the latest design choices. The case with the new Mac mini (fave.co/30hUY0q) is no different. Despite the device featuring a competitively miniature, sleek build, many loud critics have fixated on the repositioned power button that now lives on its bottom side. It's classic Apple-design something gorgeous and impressive, but all everyone wants to talk about is one head-scratching decision. I'm here to tell you that these complaints are completely baseless. Let me explain.

HIDDEN BY DESIGN

Believe it or not, the power button is mostly useless on modern Macs. Yes, you do need it to power it on when you first unbox it. However, if you're operating your computer correctly, you'll rarely have to rely on it beyond that point.

Unlike with older PCs or machines from other brands, you're supposed to keep your Mac powered on at all times. Newer versions of macOS running on Apple's M-series chipsets are extremely efficient, and they aren't designed to be shut down daily or even regularly.

I keep my MacBook Air M2 powered on overnight, and its battery percentage pretty much never drops in hibernation.macOS automatically puts all unnecessary tasks to sleep, ensuring that no intensive background activities drain its energy when not in use, and Apple silicon is extremely efficient. So leaving your Mac on all night won't meaningfully increase your electricity bill or make your Mac wear down any faster.