Can an older Apple monitor (ver 2.1.0) w/mini DisplayPort connector be used with a 2024 M4 Mac Mini?

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Level 1

4 points

Can an older Apple monitor (ver 2.1.0) w/mini DisplayPort connector be used with a 2024 M4 Mac Mini?

I inherited an 27" Apple monitor, that uses a mini DisplayPort cable, and have tried to connect this with a newer M4 Mac Mini, using a Tripp-Lite USB-C to Mini DisplayPort 8K adapter without success. Is this at all possible, or a lost cause?

Mac mini (M4)

Posted on May 30, 2025 9:49 AM

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Answer 1

Jun 1, 2025 5:27 PM in response to josieNBiL

Apple made two old 27" monitors that people frequently confuse. Although both have physical Mini DisplayPort plugs, they require different types of signals, and different adapters.

The 27" Apple Cinema Display has a hydra cable with three heads: Mini DisplayPort, USB-A and MagSafe. If what you have is one of these, you want a USB-C to Mini DisplayPort adapter.
The 27" Apple Thunderbolt Display has a hydra cable with two heads: Thunderbolt and MagSafe. If what you have is one of these, you want an Apple Thunderbolt 3 to 2 adapter.

With a Cinema Display, you probably also want to make a USB connection so you can control brightness.

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Answer 2

samtenor

Level 4

2,062 points

Jun 1, 2025 5:28 PM in response to josieNBiL

Please make sure Mini Display Port and Thunderbolt 1/2 sharing the some connector shape.

By looking at the back of the monitor:

a. if it only has 3 USB ports - then you got Cinema Display.

b. If it has 3 USB ports + 1 FireWire 800 + Ethernet port + Thunderbolt 1/2 port ~ then you got a Thunderbolt Display.

After confirming the type of display, it should be easier to guide you the proper adapter for M4 Mac Mini.

Best

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