Paul Staal’s M2x2 turns a familiar LEGO space-era computer brick into a working 3D-printed workstation: the 10:1-scale enclosure holds an M4 Mac mini, a seven-inch display and functional oversize studs for media control and device charging. It is a maker project by Watt IV, not an official LEGO or Apple product, and recreating it means printing and assembling the case around separately sourced components.
What the M2x2 is—and the brick behind it
Watt IV describes the M2x2 as a 10:1 reimagining of the 2×2 sloped computer brick, part 3039p23, which the studio dates to 1979 and associates with Classic Space set cockpits. Paul Staal modeled the new design from scratch in Fusion 360. Its name combines the original 2×2 brick with the M4 Mac mini at its center.
The idea is a functional homage, not a LEGO or Apple release. Watt IV says it is not affiliated with or endorsed by either company. Tom’s Hardware and Hackaday also covered the build in March 2026, describing its scale, Mac mini, display and printed enclosure: Tom’s Hardware and Hackaday.
How the giant brick works as a workstation
The enclosure houses an M4 Mac mini and a seven-inch display. The large studs are not just decoration: one incorporates a media-control knob, and another conceals a charging bay for an Apple Watch or AirPods. The rear pocket doubles as a carrying handle, and fold-out wings help manage the power cable. Staal also uses the front ports to charge devices at his desk.
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Staal says his own M2x2 is his primary computer, connected to an LG DualUp monitor. He mainly uses the built-in screen for a Home Assistant dashboard showing sensor states and controls, and has described an audio-responsive equalizer. The dashboard was still in development when Watt IV’s page was accessed; Staal had not released it, so it should not be assumed to come with a build.
What it takes to build one
Watt IV links free project files on MakerWorld and provides step-by-step assembly instructions. The parts are 3D printed; if you do not own a printer, the creator suggests asking a local maker to print them. The assembly brings together the printed body, display, USB hub, Mac mini, studs, charging hardware, fasteners and glue.
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Printed parts and components
The project’s shopping list names a seven-inch IPS touch display, eSUN PLA+ filament, heat-set inserts, assorted 6 mm M3 screws, a USB-C hub, and an Apple Watch/AirPods charging cable. Watt IV says the links on its list are non-affiliate. The computer itself is a separate, central component: the build is designed around an M4 Mac mini.
Assembly and fit considerations
The instructions call for a soldering iron to install heat-set inserts and use M3 screws. Staal notes that the Mac mini fit is tight enough that a connected USB cable may need to be bent. The guide also suggests raising the computer on discs to improve airflow. Those are creator instructions and fit notes, not results from independent thermal or safety testing.
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What the creator’s cost estimate covers
Watt IV lists a parts total of €75.22 and says a build can be completed for less than €100, both excluding the Mac mini. These are the creator’s 2026 estimates, not current guaranteed prices; actual totals depend on sourcing, location and component choices.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What has—and has not—been established
The project page and March 2026 coverage establish the M2x2’s design and intended components, but the cited accounts do not report benchmark results, long-term reliability findings or controlled thermal tests. The available information supports describing it as a working Mac mini enclosure and desk project, not making claims about performance, durability or cooling beyond what its creator says about assembly and airflow spacing.
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For someone deciding whether to recreate it, the practical choice is between printing the parts personally or finding a local maker, then sourcing the listed hardware and allowing for the tight internal fit. Watt IV’s project page links the files and documentation: the M2x2 project.
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