This page sets out the repairs, upgrades and data recovery we carry out on the Mac mini M4 (2024), with notes on what tends to go wrong and what can and cannot be upgraded. It is a desktop Mac from 2024, identified by model numbers A3238, A3239. Storage and memory are both fixed to the board, which shapes what can be upgraded and how data is recovered.
- Model numbers
- A3238, A3239
- Model identifier
- Mac16,10, Mac16,11
- Released
- 2024
- Type
- Desktop Mac
- Storage
- Soldered to the board
- Memory
- Unified memory, part of the chip
Repairs we carry out on the Mac mini M4
Power supply repair
A mini PC that shows no signs of life often has a failed external power adapter. We test with a known-good adapter before looking at the board.
macOS reinstall and repair
We reinstall macOS, migrate data, and can revive or restore the firmware in DFU mode from a second Mac when an update has left the machine unresponsive.
Storage
Storage on the Mac mini M4 is soldered and cannot be upgraded. We can help with external storage, clearing space, or moving to a new machine.
Memory
Memory in the Mac mini M4 is part of the Apple silicon chip and cannot be changed after purchase.
We also carry out logic board repair, overheating and fan repair, macOS reinstallation on the Mac mini M4, along with no-picture and no-boot diagnosis, port repair, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth card replacement and data transfer to a new PC.
Notes from the workshop
- Apple silicon Mac mini models have both storage and memory on the logic board.
- The power supply is internal, so a mini that is completely dead may need a power supply and not a logic board.
- The 2018 Mac mini pairs soldered, T2-encrypted storage with upgradeable memory; the 2014 model is the reverse, with soldered memory.
Data recovery from the Mac mini M4
The SSD in the Mac mini M4 is soldered and hardware-encrypted, so there is no drive to remove. If the Mac is dead, data recovery means repairing the logic board far enough to start it and copy the data off. If you have a Time Machine or iCloud backup, tell us, as that may be the quicker route.
Estimate the cost with our data recovery calculator, or read about recovering files after a ransomware attack.
Where the Mac mini M4 sits in the range
Its nearest relatives in the Mac mini range are the older Mac mini M2 Pro (2023) and the newer Mac mini M6 and M5 Pro (2026).
Questions
Can the SSD or memory in the Mac mini M4 be upgraded?
The storage is soldered and cannot be upgraded. Memory is part of the chip and cannot be changed.
My Mac mini M4 will not turn on. Is my data lost?
Not necessarily, but the storage is on the main board, so the board has to be repaired far enough to read it. Do not keep trying to power it on, and tell us about any backups you have.
Where do I find the model number on my Mac?
The model number, an A followed by four digits, is printed in small text on the underside. Apple menu > About This Mac shows the year. For this model, look for A3238 or A3239.
How do I get my Mac mini M4 to you?
Bring it to our workshop at Unit 1 The Willows, 80 Willow Walk, London SE1 5SY, or call 020 7237 6805 to ask about courier collection. We confirm the price before any work starts.