Can I connect my iMac to a newer Mac mini?

Question

Level 1

88 points

Can I connect my iMac to a newer Mac mini?

Hi folks,

I have a 2017 iMac with 21.5" monitor, wireless keyboard and mouse. Can this gear be connected to a more recent Mac mini (say M3 or M4)? If yes, is it simply "connect-and-use"or does it require adapters? If no, what can I use as peripherals for said Mac mini that don't cost an arm and a leg? I am not interested in gaming or streaming and just wish to reduce the cost of purchasing a newer - refurbished - computer while remaining in the Mac universe.

Any thoughts?

[Re-Titled by Moderator]

iMac 21.5″, macOS 13.7

Posted on May 11, 2025 04:55 AM

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Answer 1

tbirdvet

Level 6

16,721 points

May 11, 2025 05:06 AM in response to dubwisedude

If you mean use your iMac as a monitor for the Mini then no you cannot. Best to get a new dedicated monitor. Any monitor that has HDMI or other input would work. I would suggest a 4K unit that is affordable.

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Answer 2

rkaufmann87

Level 10

148,050 points

May 11, 2025 11:32 AM in response to dubwisedude

+1 to both of the other posters. One mistake MM buyers are making is getting one with not enough storage. Before you rush out and buy please determine how much storage you have used on your 21.5”. Then buy a MM with at least the same amount as your old iMac. You can store large libraries such as your photos and movies on an External Hard Disk however to migrate you must have adequate storage on the new Mac.

When you get the new machine connect the iMacs Time Machine External Hard Disk to the new Mac before turning on the new Mac . Then when you turn it on it will eventually ask if you are migrating from another Mac, select YES and select the Time Machine drive and your migration will be fast and dead reliable!!

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Answer 3

May 11, 2025 05:44 AM in response to dubwisedude

You can use the keyboard and mouse with the new Mac mini, but as @tbirdvet has posted you cannot use the iMac as a monitor. You’ll need to budget for a regular monitor.

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