IMPORTANT WARNING: If you’re doing a processor change in 2018, keep in mind that all those plastic/nylon pieces inside the mini have had years of exposure to heat, and will have become very brittle by now. The connector for the ribbon cable to the optical drive, the clips holding in the heatsink, and most dangerously of all, that tiny connector for the temperature sensor are all at risk to become extremely brittle. if you can manage to not disconnect the heatsink sensor, you might be better off. Also, while you’re getting that new processor, think about getting new fasteners for your heatsink.

This information comes to you by way of personal experience.