Mini Pro 5.1 (case for Mac mini M4 + external ssd)

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Mini Pro 5.1 (case for Mac mini M4 + external ssd)

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Print Profile(2)

All
P1S
P1P
X1
X1 Carbon
X1E
A1

0.2mm layer, 2 walls, 25% infill
0.2mm layer, 2 walls, 25% infill
Designer
15.1 h
4 plates
5.0(1)

version v2, separate handles option, stronger internal frame
version v2, separate handles option, stronger internal frame
Designer
25.6 h
5 plates

Open in Bambu Studio
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Released

Description

Case for Apple Mac Mini M4 with a space for external ssd. Inspired by Apple Mac Pro 5.1. 

Case provides space for up to 2 external ssds. I'm using it with Ugreen Thunderbolt 4 enclousure and 2tb ssd to get fast external disk. All in neat single package without dongles laying around.

Temps are similar to stock M4 mac mini. SSD is also quite cool. I've put some thermal pads between enclosure and Mac Mini case to transfer heat, and small radiator, mostly to wedge it against case side panel. 

The case has internal frame that holds mac mini. DO NOT transport Your mac mini by holding this frame! It is not secure enough. It is only meant to slide Mac and disks out of the case. Internal frame has integral supports (those pins). Just snap them (some may fall by themselves).
I've used glue for printing the frame. If you have problems with adhesion, glue or use brim. 

There are 2 side panel variants - with or without logo. 

Button - insert it inside main case and use a bit of tape to secure it in place. It will still work and it would be easier to slide Your Mac inside. 

 Update 11 Feb 2025

Added v2 print profile:
- main frame with separate handles for smoother surface print (not print tested yet - please let me know if it works good). You have to glue handles to main frame.
- stronger internal frame with separate ledge. Should not snap when removed from print plate. Still - wait 15-20 min for print plate to cool down. Separation would me much easier. 



If You have any wishes please comment :) 

Comment & Rating (23)

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Boosted
took some liberty and printed the legs and handle separately to see how the quality would be. I don’t even own a Mac mini yet. great design, highly recommend printing them separate as you can see they’re much more clean
The designer has replied
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I've made version with separate handles, but with different cuts - so that area for glueing would be bigger. See version v2 print profile. :)
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Boosted
Replying to @user_29878563 :
oh man. you are a genius!! It looks great. I'd definitely printing it again once I get my silver filament
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Boosted
Looking forward to improvements
The designer has replied
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1
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How it broke? While putting it on Mac mini, while fitting SSD inside, or during use?
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Boosted
Replying to @user_29878563 :
When removing from the build plate
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Replying to @zlbank :
I've made internal frame with reinforcements (and option for shelf) :) See version v2 print profile.
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Boosted
The design is superb, however, the internal partition railings and the hard drive cradle are rather fragile and prone to breakage. It's truly exceptional; I eagerly anticipate an improved iteration.
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Boosted
Amazing design
The designer has replied
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Than You for kind words and boost!
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I don’t have a Mac but man that is a slick design. Great Job!!!
The designer has replied
1
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Thx!
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Very nice design, thanks! Printed it in white, looks nice but grey would be better I think. How did you get the nice finish? Is it sprayed or which filament did you use?
(Edited)
The designer has replied
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I've used silver filament. Colorfil Silver PLA (it is Polish brand). Quite dark - a bit like Apple space gray. I was thinking about spray or even vinyl furniture or car wrap, but it ended quite nice.
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Replying to @user_29878563 :
thanks, will try to find a similar color.
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is there a design for the Mac Studio?
The designer has replied
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No. I can make one, but I need help from somebody who owns Mac Studio. In this design internal frame needs to be very precise. In my case 4 prototypes were needed to fit with Mac Mini.
1
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Nice
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Boosted
Anyway to make it so the handle and feet are printed on their on and then glue together? I think it would increase the print quality because you can print them on the side and the angle will be cleaner. great design though!!
The designer has replied
0
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Thx! I'll try Your suggestion :)
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Does this need supports, or can I print it as is?
The designer has replied
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Main frame have some painted tree supports. Those should be added automaticly if You use provided print profile. Side panel uses no supports. Internal frame has integrated supports (they look like small nails).
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License

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