After being asked about the design choice for the Mac mini, the Apple executives explained that it was the "optimal spot" for the power button due to the redesign. According to Apple, the new location is not inconvenient. Users can just tuck their finger underneath the computer and press the power button.

If your Mac mini M4 acts up or lags for whatever reason, then that’s what the (software) restart option in the top-left Apple menu is for. Unless your computer completely freezes—and this shouldn’t occur routinely on M4 Macs—you won’t need to push the bottom button.

Apple's newest Mac mini M4 is a tiny powerhouse that is nearly flawless save for a few annoying shortcomings. One is the awkward placement of the power button, which has been controversial. It's one reason we suggested you skip the Mac mini M4.