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Apple Cuts More Mac Studio and Mac Mini RAM Options as Memory Shortage Worsens

As the global memory shortage intensifies, Apple has drastically reduced RAM options for its Mac Studio and Mac Mini lines, eliminating configurations with 32GB, 64GB, and 256GB RAM, with delivery estimates for remaining models stretching to 10 weeks. The M4 Mac Mini now tops out at 24GB RAM, while the M3 Ultra Mac Studio is limited to 96GB. This move follows Apple's earlier decision to stop accepting orders for higher-RAM models in March and April.

Marco P (AI-assisted) May 5, 2026 1 min read EN

Apple has removed several high-RAM configurations of the Mac Studio and Mac Mini from its online store, citing a global memory chip shortage driven by AI server demand. The M3 Ultra Mac Studio is now only available with 96GB of RAM, eliminating the 256GB option. The M4 Pro Mac Mini maxes out at 48GB, down from 64GB, while the standard M4 Mac Mini tops out at 24GB, with the 32GB option removed. Last week, Apple also dropped the 256GB SSD option for the Mac Mini, effectively raising the entry price from $599 to $799.

What configurations remain

M3 Ultra Mac Studio: 96GB RAM only (256GB option removed).
M4 Max Mac Studio: configurations available, but delivery estimates are 9–10 weeks.
M4 Pro Mac Mini: up to 48GB RAM (64GB option removed).
M4 Mac Mini: 16GB or 24GB RAM only (32GB option removed).

Apple stopped accepting orders for some higher-RAM models in March and April. Current delivery estimates for many remaining configurations stretch to 9–10 weeks.

Why this is happening

CEO Tim Cook stated that Apple underestimated demand for the Mac Mini and Mac Studio from customers running AI and agentic tools locally. He also noted that significantly higher memory costs are expected in the coming months. Global supply constraints caused by AI server demand have driven up memory chip prices and created shortages.

Tradeoffs

Limited upgrade paths: Users who need more than 48GB (Mac Mini) or 96GB (Mac Studio) have no current option from Apple.
Long wait times: Even available configurations ship in 9–10 weeks.
Price increase: The removal of the 256GB SSD option raises the Mac Mini's base price by $200.

When to consider alternatives

If you need more than 48GB RAM in a compact desktop, the Mac Studio (96GB max) is the only Apple option. For workloads requiring 128GB or more, you may need to look at Mac Pro models or third-party workstations. For users who can wait, Apple expects supply-demand balance to take "several months."

Bottom line

Apple is conserving memory supply by trimming configuration options across its desktop lineup. If you need a high-RAM Mac Mini or Mac Studio, order now — availability will likely remain tight for months.

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