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Do I need a wired keyboard to start up my mac mini M1?

One place I read that I need a wired keyboard and mouse to initially start up a new M1 Mac Mini.

Is this true?

Posted on Nov 20, 2020 3:06 PM

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Posted on Dec 8, 2020 10:26 AM

I'm sitting here with Mac Mini brick as the Logitech Craft will most definitely not connect. I mistakenly believed that the Craft cable would sort the issue but it is only used for charging purposes. I have had to order a wired keyboard to get the thing started. I almost feel like sending it back!

9 replies

Dec 8, 2020 11:56 AM in response to Walter Brewster

Walter Brewster wrote:

I'm sitting here with Mac Mini brick as the Logitech Craft will most definitely not connect. I mistakenly believed that the Craft cable would sort the issue but it is only used for charging purposes. I have had to order a wired keyboard to get the thing started. I almost feel like sending it back!

FWIW, it has been my experience since the advent of the "wireless"

revolution, it is always a good idea to have a cheap wired keyboard

and mouse around.

Nov 22, 2020 3:30 AM in response to ratephi

Ok, I re-read your last post and noted you were wondering whether Intel Mac Minis would require wired devices.... What I mess I made! :-)


So, in conclusion, this is my last official position regarding the matter:

  • M1 Mac Mini: I've installed twice of them in the last days and both were configured via wireless keyboard and mouse
  • Intel Mac Mini: I'm unable to confirm whether you need wired for the first configuration since have no experience with Intel based MMs


This should clarify, hopefully! :-)

Nov 20, 2020 3:46 PM in response to Will Burt

For those times when wireless keyboards fail (and they can) a backup idea

can be very useful. General USB-A keyboards could be used, even PC ones.


• Keyboard mappings using a PC keyboard on a Macintosh | support.microsoft

https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/help/970299/keyboard-mappings-using-a-pc-keyboard-on-a-macintosh


Regular USB multiple button w/scroll-wheel PC mouse could also be useful.

While I've spare USB keyboard/mice, seldom use BT or wireless peripherals.


Good luck & happy computing!🌞🎣⛵️🤖


Nov 22, 2020 1:52 AM in response to Will Burt

Not sure to understand your question but let me rephrase my answer in case it was not clear the first time. With M1 Mac Mini you do NOT need a wired keyboard/mouse. You can use wired devices, if that’s of preference but the computer will work fine (and can be fully configured at first launch) with wireless input devices.


Hope this helps. If not, please ask further! :-)

Do I need a wired keyboard to start up my mac mini M1?

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