A Dutch designer has created a full-scale, functional replica of a classic 1979 LEGO computer brick, dubbed the M2x2. The 10:1 scale model houses an Apple Mac Mini M4 computer and a 7-inch IPS display, built using 3D-printed parts.
The project successfully integrates modern computing into the vintage LEGO design, featuring functional details like control knobs and a wireless charger on the brick's studs. While self-contained, the designer primarily uses it with a larger external monitor for daily tasks.
The designer has shared comprehensive build details and 3D printer files for the project online.
Main topics: A DIY tech project creating a working, scaled-up LEGO computer brick; the integration of a modern Mac Mini into a retro design; and the functional design details and practical use of the finished M2x2 workstation.
Classic tiny LEGO computer brick design from 1979 made into full-scale working computer — Mac Mini implanted into this 10:1 scale inflated reimagining
New ‘high-performance workstation’ based on LEGO Part 3039p23 design is dubbed the M2x2.
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A Dutch designer has crafted a 10:1 scale working model of the classic wedge-shaped LEGO computer brick. Paul Staal from Watt IV, shares the idea, the magic, the build, and even a shopping list on his blog post about the project. Inside the scaled-up ‘brick’ is a punchy little Mac Mini M4. Other key components for this build include a 7-inch IPS display and about $20 of PLA filament (with access to a 3D printer required, of course).
Interestingly, the original LEGO brick computer (Part 3039p23), was introduced in 1979, half a decade before the original Apple Macintosh (1984). So the brick surely took design cues from the 1970s, rather than the 1980s, computers. Nevertheless, Staal ties these two iconic designs together in his timeline of influences behind “the upscaling” and creation of the new M2x2 workstation.
Staal shares the process behind the design of the M2x2. He explains it was a challenge to fit “a full M4 Mac Mini, a 7-inch display, and an array of peripherals into a form factor that remains true to the original brick.” Moreover, it is a 10:1 scale replica, but perseverance and attention to detail in Fusion 360 look to have paid off.
We also appreciate that the design’s two LEGO studs on top of the ‘brick’ are functional knobs. One can be turned for media control, like computer volume or track selection, the other includes a wireless charger for charging an Apple Watch or Airpods. “Every detail was considered, from the ‘pocket’ in the back that acts as a handle (a nod to the original Mac) to the fold-out ‘wings’ that manage the power cable with classic elegance,” explains the M2x2 maker.
While the M2x2 is a self-contained computer, no one in 2026 could put up with such a cramped 7-inch screen for long, for anything beyond the basics. Thus, Staal’s daily use of the system is with a spacious LG DualUp monitor, with the 7-inch built-in touch display used “mainly to show my Home Assistant dashboard.” It is also still useful, beside him on the desk, offering front ports to quickly charge devices like his keyboard or phone.
Staal kindly shares plenty of details about making the M2x2, and you can also find the 3D printer .STL files to download.
LEGO and computer tech often intertwine in surprising ways, and we have also seen commercially available computer accessories integrate features for LEGO fans.
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Mark Tyson is a news editor at Tom's Hardware. He enjoys covering the full breadth of PC tech; from business and semiconductor design to products approaching the edge of reason.
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