You can make a difference in the Apple Support Community!

When you sign up with your Apple Account, you can provide valuable feedback to other community members by upvoting helpful replies and User Tips.

Looks like no one’s replied in a while. To start the conversation again, simply ask a new question.

Mac Mini

I am considering buying the new Mac Mini. I have the wireless keyboard, touchpad and mouse. Can I use my 27” iMac as a “monitor” or do I need a separate monitor?

iMac 27″, macOS 10.13

Posted on Nov 19, 2020 5:36 AM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Nov 19, 2020 7:34 AM

No, you will need an external monitor for the new 2020 Mac Mini.


see > Use your iMac as a display with target display mode - Apple Support

You can use a supported iMac models as a display, but only with a 2019 or earlier model Mac.


If your old 27" iMac it is a Late 2009 thru 2014 model then it does support Target Display Mode. The problem is, the new 2020 Mac's including the 2010 Mac Mini does not.

5 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Nov 19, 2020 7:34 AM in response to sjbailey

No, you will need an external monitor for the new 2020 Mac Mini.


see > Use your iMac as a display with target display mode - Apple Support

You can use a supported iMac models as a display, but only with a 2019 or earlier model Mac.


If your old 27" iMac it is a Late 2009 thru 2014 model then it does support Target Display Mode. The problem is, the new 2020 Mac's including the 2010 Mac Mini does not.

Nov 19, 2020 9:11 AM in response to sjbailey

Not really, because I personally prefer to run 2 smaller 21.5" and 24" displays on both of my Mac Mini's.

(I have 2 LG 21.5" displays on one of my Mac Mini's and 2 Samsung 24" displays on the other)


To be honest, I haven't though much about going back to a single larger Display.

(If I did, I would start by looking at and comparing some 27" to 32" displays)


For some good ideas,

see > https://9to5mac.com/2020/10/27/best-4k-usb-c-displays-for-macbook-and-macbook-pro/

and > https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/best-monitors-for-mac-mini/

or > https://www.rtings.com/monitor/reviews/best/mac-mini

Mac Mini

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.