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a_ce Author

Level 1

13 points

M4 Mac mini - Buzzing/Vibration sound

Hi,

I have a question about my new Mac Mini with the M4 chip.

When I listen very closely, the device makes a buzzing sound, almost like the fan is running at a very low speed.

This only happens when I connect an HDMI cable to the Mac Mini. As soon as I disconnect the cable, the buzzing/vibration like sound stops.

I’ve already tried different HDMI cables, as well as another monitor and a different power adapter, but the issue persists.

This happens both when the Mac Mini is powered on and even off. The buzzing sounds stops, if I unplug the power cable of the monitor.

The sound isn’t loud; you really have to listen closely to notice it. It feels almost like the fan is running, but very, very quietly.

Posted on Nov 10, 2024 5:06 AM

Top-ranking reply

Dashcat101

Level 1

14 points

Posted on Nov 12, 2024 3:20 AM

Same Problem here. Got the standard entry-level M4 spec.

Monitor connected via a Thunderbolt-to-DisplayPort Cable which never had any issues. Monitor is a 2K 60 Hz Eizo screen.

When connected with the MacMini the buzzing increases, even when the Mini is turned off.

It also occurs with other monitors via HDMI, so no difference to USB-C / Thunderbolt there.

I suspect it comes from the power supply (PSU), as it occurs always when the Mac Mini is plugged in regardless wheather it is turned on or off.

View in context

33 replies

Nov 21, 2024 12:38 AM in response to teq508

I'm wondering whether all the buzzing problems are coming from one part of the world using a different electrical system?

The USA is different from the UK.

They have 110v and we have 240v. Maybe the grounding (earth) is different. etc.

hcsitas

Level 6

12,890 points

Nov 14, 2024 1:32 PM in response to maibacet

This might be the underlying issue:

I would return it.

a_ce Author

Level 1

13 points

Nov 10, 2024 7:15 AM in response to den.thed

My Monitor is the Acer KG272U. Okay, I ordered two different cables and will try it out on Tuesday. Thank you!

den.thed

Level 10

82,510 points

Nov 10, 2024 7:54 AM in response to a_ce

You're welcome.

FWIW you can also use USB-C to DisplayPort cable with that display.

for example: > https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07RY75V7Q/ref=sspa_dk_detail_1?

a_ce Author

Level 1

13 points

Nov 10, 2024 9:13 AM in response to den.thed

Thanks! Will try it out. Can you maybe tell me about the technical problem? Why is the cable the reason for buzzing sounds?

a_ce Author

Level 1

13 points

Nov 10, 2024 10:34 AM in response to den.thed

The buzzing comes directly from the mac mini itself.

a_ce Author

Level 1

13 points

Nov 11, 2024 2:00 AM in response to teq508

Hi, did you tried it with a more qualitative cable like den.thed said? And what Monitor are u using?

hcsitas

Level 6

12,890 points

Nov 11, 2024 2:19 AM in response to teq508

Return.

teq508

Level 1

12 points

Nov 11, 2024 2:20 AM in response to a_ce

No. Because buzzing is also there with not connected video/USB-cable - it only increases after connecting.

And the cables I use also work with other monitors with no problems on other devices.

M00NPIG

Level 1

0 points

Nov 13, 2024 11:23 PM in response to a_ce

Other people here with the same problem. https://www.reddit.com/r/macmini/comments/1gnkp4l/m4_mac_mini_noise_problem/

Nov 14, 2024 1:32 AM in response to den.thed

I tried different HDMI cables. Still had the issue. Replaced the Mini and used the same cables and the problem is gone. Its most likely the Minis (or bad batch thereof).

Nov 14, 2024 2:57 AM in response to a_ce

Could that be the fan?

M00NPIG

Level 1

0 points

Nov 14, 2024 3:24 AM in response to Ian R. Brown

Nov 14, 2024 3:40 AM in response to Dashcat101

I was not referring to the loud buzzing.

The OP says that his replacement mini does not buzz loudly but there is a slight buzz.

teq508

Level 1

12 points

Nov 14, 2024 6:47 AM in response to Stuart Luff

Had a call also yesterday (I´m in Germany) with Apple, TX.

Wait for a call today how to proceed further (direct exchange or return and new order).

M4 Mac mini - Buzzing/Vibration sound