OpenClaw is viral. It runs in the cloud—no Mac Mini required. But if you want local AI, here is what to buy and why.
OpenClaw launched in November 2025 and went viral within days. Over 1.6 million AI agents now use it to automate emails, manage calendars, control smart home devices, and more—all through WhatsApp, Telegram, Slack, or Discord.
Key point: OpenClaw runs in the cloud. You do not need a Mac Mini to use it. Just connect your messaging app and go.
For local AI with OpenClaw, Mac Mini M4 (24GB) offers the best balance of price, performance, and efficiency. Apple Silicon handles Llama, Mistral, and other models well.
| Model | RAM | Price | Verdict | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mac Mini M4 256GB storage | 16GB | $799 | Starter Works for cloud OpenClaw | View on Amazon |
| Mac Mini M4 512GB storage | 24GB | $999 | Recommended Sweet spot for local AI | View on Amazon |
| Mac Mini M4 Pro 512GB storage | 24GB | $1,399 | Power user Future-proof choice | View on Amazon |
Running local LLMs (70B+) requires a GPU. These cards pair well with OpenClaw for a complete local AI setup.
| GPU | VRAM | Target | Best For | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RTX 4060 Ti | 16GB | Budget local AI | 7B-13B models | Compare Prices |
| RTX 4080 Super | 16GB | Mid-range | 13B-34B models | Compare Prices |
| RTX 4090 | 24GB | Performance | 70B+ models | Compare Prices |
No. OpenClaw runs in the cloud and works on any device with a browser. A Mac Mini only helps if you want local AI capabilities.
OpenClaw has a free tier with core features. Check their website for current pricing.
For cloud use, Mac Mini M4 (16GB) works fine. For local AI, go with 24GB RAM minimum.