The M2x2 Turns a Classic LEGO Brick Into a Real Computer

Whether you buy one desktop computer or another, they all look pretty much the same these days. But back in the early days of personal computing, things were not yet standardized. This era was a Wild West of aesthetics and engineering, with each manufacturer charting their own path with regard to overall system design, colors, and user interface. Even LEGO had their own ideas when they released their first computer brick 47 years ago in a Space-themed set.

The big wedge-shaped box with a built-in display covering one side envisioned by LEGO never really caught on in the real world. However, those that played with these early Space sets will always have a special place for them in their hearts. Paul Staal, for instance, wanted these LEGO computers to be real so badly that he made it happen. He designed and built his own working computer that looks just like a LEGO Space computer, only scaled up to a usable size.

Staal calls the project the M2x2, a functional homage to the classic LEGO computer brick that transforms a nostalgic toy into a fully capable modern workstation. Rather than simply recreating the look for display purposes, he engineered the system to be practical enough for everyday computing. Inside the 3D-printed shell sits a powerful Mac Mini powered by Apple’s M4 chip, providing more than enough horsepower for serious productivity.

The entire case was modeled from scratch in Fusion 360 and designed with accessibility in mind. Instead of requiring specialized manufacturing, the M2x2 can be produced with common desktop 3D printers and assembled using only a handful of additional parts such as heat-set inserts, screws, and some glue. According to Staal, the printed components themselves can be produced for a little more than $100, excluding the computer.

The design incorporates several playful details that bring the LEGO computer to life. The oversized studs on the top aren’t just decorative—they’re functional modules. One stud hides an IKEA Symfonisk remote that acts as a media control knob, allowing the user to quickly adjust music volume or pause playback. Another removable stud conceals a wireless charging bay for devices like AirPods or an Apple Watch.

On the front of the case sits a seven-inch display embedded into the angled “screen” area reminiscent of the original LEGO brick. Staal typically uses this screen as a secondary display connected to his primary monitor, often showing a custom Home Assistant dashboard that tracks smart home sensors and the progress of his 3D printer.

For those feeling nostalgic, Staal has released the design files and detailed build instructions as open-source downloads. With a bit of printing and assembly, anyone can turn a childhood memory into a very capable desktop command center.