How to set up mac mini using my old iMac as display?

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Level 1

26 points

How to set up mac mini using my old iMac as display?

I just purchased a Mac Mini and am interested in learning the steps and maybe even additional equipment needed? The set up may help me navigate but I wanted to ask here first.

I have my backups in TimeMachine.
My iMac is late 2013 (running Catalina) and functions as well as could be expected. I plan to use this as my Mac Mini display.
Should I connect the new Mini to my iMac first, to transfer all my programs, files and data?
Once everything is transferred to tie Mini, how can i change the iMac setting to be "display only"?

I suspect this is easier than I'm making it, but again wanted to ask here before I unbox and get i the weeds of this transfer.

Thank you!

iMac 21.5″, macOS 10.15

Posted on May 11, 2024 2:22 PM

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Answer 1

Best reply

den.thed

Level 9

77,782 points

May 11, 2024 2:57 PM in response to pedal_pusher

1) The new Mac mini does not support using your iMac as a display.

see > Use your iMac as a display with target display mode - Apple Support

2) You will need an aftermarket external Display or (an HDMI TV in a pinch) for the new Mac mini.

see > Connect a display to Mac mini - Apple Support

3) The fastest and most reliable way to move you data, is to plug your iMac’s Time Machine backup into the Mac mini and Migrate from it.

see > Transfer to a new Mac with Migration Assistant - Apple Support

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Answer 2

May 11, 2024 4:02 PM in response to pedal_pusher

I agree with den.thed in that you should get and use a dedicated display. iMacs are computers, not displays.

there are some third party options, such as Luna Display. but I have seen reports that there will be performance compromises with it to use an iMac as a display for your mini.

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Answer 3

May 11, 2024 6:24 PM in response to pedal_pusher

Although your Late 2013 iMac would support Thunderbolt Target Display Mode IF you downgraded it to High Sierra or earlier, your new Mac mini does not support using ANY iMac as a Target Display.

You'll need a real hardware display.

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