Wondering what the earliest version of Mac mini that is compatible with GarageBand

My son loves GarageBand on his iPhone now he wants a Mac mini so it’s more convenient and easier for him to use. This is the only reason he wants a mac so I was wondering what is the earliest Mac mini that is compatible with GarageBand and able to download thank you in advance.

Earlier Mac models

Posted on Aug 24, 2025 08:21 AM

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3 replies

Aug 24, 2025 08:49 AM in response to Darkstroller74

Currently Garageband requires Mac OS 14.4 (Sonoma), so that would make it compatible with these computers at the least and of course any newer model:

macOS Sonoma is compatible with these computers - Apple Support

  • Mac mini (2023)
  • Mac mini (M1, 2020)
  • Mac mini (2018)


Personally, I would stay away from the 2018 model as that one was still using the Intel processor, where support may be short lived.

Wondering what the earliest version of Mac mini that is compatible with GarageBand

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