Marked-up Mac minis flood eBay amid shortages driven by AI

A significant rise in prices for Mac minis is being observed on eBay, driven by shortages of these sought-after machines. The M4 Mac mini, particularly the base model priced at $599, has sold out on Apple's official website, leaving buyers with no option for delivery or in-store pickup. This scarcity has extended to various configurations of the base model, regardless of the memory options chosen. Notably, it's reported to be the first instance where the base model has completely sold out. Higher storage models, specifically those with 512GB and more, are anticipated for shipment only starting in June. Consequently, eBay has transformed into a bustling secondary market for these popular computers. Listings for the M4 Mac mini are appearing at marked-up prices, often exceeding what consumers would pay directly through Apple. The growing demand for Apple’s efficient Mac minis is largely attributed to their capability to run on-device AI models, such as OpenClaw, along with alternatives from companies like Anthropic and OpenAI. Unlike many PCs, Mac minis are known for their quiet operation and reliability for continuous use, making them an attractive choice for users interested in AI applications. This shortage coincides with broader industry challenges, including a memory shortage and anticipated updates to the Mac mini lineup, as highlighted by Bloomberg. Interestingly, even as Apple grapples with supply issues, the Mac Studio has experienced a spike in demand, with several configurations also sold out. In contrast, consumers can still find MacBook Pro models with 128GB RAM and larger SSDs available for shipment within weeks, indicating that the core issue lies in the overwhelming demand for the Mac mini itself. As of now, prices for the M4 base models on eBay are reaching alarming heights, with listings for new, open-box models ranging from $715 to $795, and refurbished versions hitting up to $979. Lightly used models are priced around $700, surpassing even the cost of a new base model. The urgency is palpable, with one listing for a brand-new M4 Mac mini warning potential buyers in bold red: "Last one." As consumers continue to seek reasonably priced refurbished models, the high demand for the Mac mini suggests that prices are unlikely to decrease until Apple manages to stabilize its supply chain.