# Desktop-Powered Portable Computers The Portable Mac Mini by Scott Yu-Jan Has a 3D-Printed Case By Michael Hemsworth | Published 2022-03-03 | Tech Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/portable-mac-mini References: [yankodesign](https://www.yankodesign.com/2022/03/02/m1-mac-mini-with-interactive-ipad-mini-display-combined-is-one-heck-of-a-macbook-alternative/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=m1-mac-mini-with-interactive-ipad-mini-display-combined-is-one-heck-of-a-macbook-alternative)  The Portable [Mac Mini](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/apple-mac-mini-concept) has been designed by Scott Yu-Jan as a custom computing solution that harnesses the power of the M1 Mac mini as an alternative for users to the [MacBook Pro.](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/caldigit-ts5) The unit consists of a 3D-printed case that can hold the desktop computer in the base, while the upper section holds an [iPad mini](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/macintosh-studio) that can be connected via a USB to USB-C connection. The system imagines a merging of Apple-branded technology products in an unexpected way, which will no doubt be impressive to avid hackers and makers. The Portable Mac Mini maintains a relatively chunky design that is still compact enough to technically be carried around, but is more of a passion project than a product for the masses. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 6.3/10 - Popularity: 91% | Activity: 87% | Freshness: 11% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Computers](https://www.trendhunter.com/computers) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Desktop-powered Portable Computers:** Designing portable versions of powerful desktop computers to provide an alternative to traditional laptops and tablets. - **Hybrid Device Design:** Creating innovative products that merge different devices or technologies to provide new and unique user experiences. - **Custom Computing Solutions:** Meeting specific user needs by creating personalized computing solutions rather than relying on traditional products. ### Where This Applies - **Computer Hardware:** Developing and manufacturing portable versions of desktop computers that offer powerful computing capabilities. - **3D Printing:** Providing customized designs for computer cases and other accessories using 3D printing technology. - **Technology Accessories:** Developing new accessory solutions that merge different devices and offer unique computing experiences. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Powerful Pint-Sized Computers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mac-mini.md) - [Carbon-Neutral Compact Desktops](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/m4-mac.md) - [Portable High-Power All-in-One PCs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/allinone-mini-pc.md) - [Portable PC Backpack Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mini-itx.md) - [Redesigned Miniature Computers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mac-mini-m4.md) - [Retro-Inspired 3D-Printed Storage](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/macintosh-studio.md) - [Compact Keyboard-Style Computers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mac-nano.md) - [Modular Mini Computer Models](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/khadas-mind.md) - [Retro-Style Mini Gamer PCs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ayaneo-retro-mini-pc-am01-1.md)