The landscape of compact desktop computing has long been dominated by Apple's Mac Mini, leaving Windows users with few aesthetically pleasing or mainstream-friendly alternatives. At CES 2026, Lenovo has stepped into this gap with the Yoga Mini i, a device that directly challenges Apple's design ethos while packing modern performance into a remarkably small form factor. This launch signals a significant push to make the mini PC category more appealing to the average consumer, blending premium materials, thoughtful design, and the latest hardware. This article delves into the specifications, unique features, and market positioning of Lenovo's new contender.
Design and Form Factor: A Palm-Sized Powerhouse
The Lenovo Yoga Mini i makes a strong first impression with its distinctive cylindrical design and compact dimensions. Weighing approximately 600 grams (1.3 pounds) and with a volume of just 0.65 liters, it is built from aluminum and finished in a textured silvery-gray paint. This focus on premium materials and a minimalist aesthetic is a clear nod to Apple's design philosophy, aiming to be an object you wouldn't mind displaying on your desk. The clever placement of ports on the rear and side keeps the design clean, while a standout feature is the side-mounted power button, which ingeniously doubles as a fingerprint reader—a user-friendly touch that contrasts with the Mac Mini's less accessible power button location.
Key Specifications of the Lenovo Yoga Mini i:
- Form Factor: Cylindrical, 0.65L volume
- Weight: ~600g (1.3 lbs)
- Material: Aluminum chassis
- CPU: Up to Intel Core Ultra X7 358H
- RAM: Up to 32GB LPDDR5X
- Storage: Up to 2TB PCIe 4.0 SSD
- Wireless: Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6.0
- Audio: Integrated speakers and microphone
- Special Features: Fingerprint power button, accelerometer/touch sensor for gestures, Wi-Fi presence sensing
- Ports: 2x Thunderbolt 4, 2x USB-C Gen 2, 1x USB-A, 1x HDMI, 3.5mm audio jack
- Display Support: Up to 4 external monitors
- Price: Starting at USD 699.99
- Availability: June 2026
Hardware Specifications and Performance
Under the hood, the Yoga Mini i is configured for modern productivity. It will be available with up to an Intel Core Ultra X7 358H processor, part of the latest series emphasizing AI capabilities. This can be paired with up to 32GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 2TB of PCIe 4.0 SSD storage. For connectivity, it supports the cutting-edge Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6.0 standards, ensuring fast and reliable wireless performance. The device also integrates speakers and a microphone, making it suitable for video calls right out of the box. While not designed for hardcore gaming, this hardware combination positions the Yoga Mini i as a potent machine for general computing, content consumption, and office tasks, potentially rivaling the performance of high-end laptops in a much smaller package.
Innovative Features and Smart Ecosystem Integration
Beyond raw specs, Lenovo has incorporated several innovative features to enhance the user experience. The device includes an accelerometer and a touch sensor, enabling it to be part of Lenovo's Smart Connect ecosystem. Users can perform actions like answering calls or switching performance modes with simple taps or gestures on the PC itself. Furthermore, it utilizes Wi-Fi sensing technology to detect human presence based on signal fluctuations, allowing for features like automatic wake-up when a user approaches. These smart features aim to create a more intuitive and connected desktop experience.
Connectivity and Expandability
Despite its small size, the Yoga Mini i does not compromise on ports. It offers a versatile selection that includes two Thunderbolt 4 ports and two full-function USB-C Gen 2 ports, providing high-speed data transfer and display output. For legacy devices, it retains a USB-A port and an HDMI port. This robust I/O setup allows the mini PC to drive up to four external monitors simultaneously, making it a surprisingly capable hub for multi-display workstation setups.
Pricing, Availability, and Market Context
Lenovo has announced a starting price of USD 699.99 for the Yoga Mini i, positioning it slightly above the base model Mac Mini but still within a competitive range for a well-equipped mini PC. The company plans to release the device in June 2026. This pricing strategy, combined with its sleek design and modern features, presents a compelling alternative for users invested in the Windows ecosystem who desire a compact, stylish desktop without switching to Apple. It remains to be seen how configurable options will affect the final price, but the starting point suggests Lenovo is serious about capturing the premium compact desktop market.