Level 1

4 points

Does Mac Mini M4 Support DP Alt mode?

I recently purchased Mac Mini M4 (512 GB) Model. I am using a Benq EX3210U Monitor ( which support HDMI 2.1 and DP 1.4 ). There is some issues when I connect Mac Mini and Monitor using HDMI. As the monitor supports DP Port, I purchased Cable Creations USB-C to DP Adapter. I have verified with Cable Creations that the adapter supports audio. I have also verified the same by connecting to a windows laptop and I am able to receive audio through Monitor Speaker using DP USB-C to DP adapter.

But when I connect the same with Mac Mini M4 I am not able to get audio through Monitor Speakers. So when I researched I found for DP to support audio, Alt Mode should also be supported.

So does Mac Mini M4 Thunderbolt 4 ports ( ports at the back, I tried connecting to ports at the front. I guess they don't transmit video/audio) support DP Alt Mode?

Also, If there is any solution to make audio work using DP 1.4, please do share.

Thanks in advance.

Abhilash D K

Mac mini, macOS 15.3

Posted on Mar 21, 2025 5:28 AM

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MartinR

Level 7

24,125 points

Posted on Mar 21, 2025 1:33 PM

Check Audio MIDI Setup. You may need to route the audio output to the DisplayPort device (may be identified as your Benq monitor). The default audio output is "Built-in Output" (the built-in speaker & headphone jack). In Audio MIDI Setup, select the DP/Benq device, then click the gear icon and select "Use This Device for Sound Output."

btw, the M4 mini supports both DP 1.4 and DP 2.1.

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24 replies

MartinR

Level 7

24,125 points

Mar 23, 2025 11:45 AM in response to den.thed

Just so you know, I didn't take what you said as any kind of criticism of the OP's Cable Creations adapter. I completely agree with you that the OP should try a different adapter (and apparently has). I just wanted to note that the cable isn't just a simple cable, it has a DP adapter built into it.

abhilashdk Author

Level 1

4 points

May 1, 2025 3:01 AM in response to MartinR

Hi Martin,

Sorry for the late reply. HDMI Audio works. But strangely enough when I use HDMI the monitor video output is very much distorted and practically unusable. That is the only reason I am using DP port of my monitor.

So looks like the issue with Mac Mini. Will take it to a local Apple Certified shop and explain the issue.

Thanks.

abhilashdk Author

Level 1

4 points

Mar 21, 2025 7:27 AM in response to tbirdvet

Yes I have set the audio output to monitor. But the moment I do that no audio.

abhilashdk Author

Level 1

4 points

Mar 21, 2025 10:08 AM in response to tbirdvet

Tried all three no luck.

abhilashdk Author

Level 1

4 points

Mar 21, 2025 1:41 PM in response to MartinR

Thank for the info. From Audio Midi Setup I have set Benq as an out for sound as well as notifications and system sound. But Still No luck :(

When I select Benq I am unable to select the Primary.

abhilashdk Author

Level 1

4 points

Mar 21, 2025 3:58 PM in response to MartinR

Yes I have checked that the volume is at it's maximum setting.

abhilashdk Author

Level 1

4 points

Mar 23, 2025 7:14 AM in response to den.thed

Thank you. But I am also using a similar quality USB-C to DP Adapter. https://www.amazon.in/dp/B085HF9GSR?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1.

abhilashdk Author

Level 1

4 points

May 1, 2025 3:03 AM in response to MartinR

Hello,

I even tried with USB-C to DP cable ( not adapter ) no luck. The same cable works fine with other systems :(

abhilashdk Author

Level 1

4 points

May 1, 2025 3:04 AM in response to den.thed

Hi Den,

With HDMI audio is fine. No issues. Even tried with single cable USB-C to DP no luck. Mac Mini hardware issue maybe?

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Does Mac Mini M4 Support DP Alt mode?