Hosted by site sponsor WebMate.
Intel Mac mini Q&A - Updated November 5, 2009
To be notified of new Q&As, sign up for EveryMac.com's bimonthly email list.
What are the "pros and cons" of the Intel Mac mini? Is one right for my needs?
Like any other purchase, only you can make the decision whether or not the Intel Mac mini is the right Mac for you, but you can evaluate the pros and cons of the series to see if your needs are met. This "run down" may be helpful in making a decision:
Pros:
- Attractive, compact, and elegant case design.
- Lack of integrated or bundled display, keyboard, and mouse allows one to use existing peripherals or choose from a variety of third-party options, some of which cost less than Apple's and can be reused with a new system later at no additional cost.
- Processor can be upgraded (on models released prior to the "Early 2009" line on March 3, 2009).
- Dual display capability ("Early 2009" and "Late 2009" models).
- Optical digital audio input/output.
- Least expensive new Apple computer.
Cons:
- Requires one to have, or to purchase, a display, keyboard, and mouse. Depending on the desired configuration, it may be more cost-effective to purchase a faster Intel-based iMac.
- Upgrading the RAM, hard drive, or processor requires prying open the case. Apple does not support individuals upgrading their own system.
- MacOS X applications forced to run via "Rosetta" on long ago discontinued "Core Duo" (2006) configurations are slower than the same applications -- and even some "native" applications -- running on the less expensive Mac mini G4 that it replaced.
- Integrated graphics "borrow" system RAM/slower than dedicated graphics (the NVIDIA GeForce 9400M integrated graphics on the "Early 2009" and "Late 2009" models are significantly faster than graphics provided by earlier models).
- No support for MacOS 9/Classic.
Basically, if you are looking for the cheapest new Apple computer you can buy, have no need for internal expansion, have no MacOS 9/"Classic" applications, and no "mission critical" MacOS X applications that are incompatible or run too slowly using "Rosetta", then an Intel-based Mac mini would be a good choice particularly if its compact size is important to you.
If performance is a higher priority, but cost and compatibility with older applications are less important, an Intel-based iMac might be a better choice. If compatibility with older applications is critical and physical size is important, but cost is a factor, a Mac mini G4 might be ideal.
In the US, site sponsor Adorama sells new Mac mini models with free shipping. Other World Computing sells used and refurb Mac mini models at bargain prices with free shipping, as well. Finally, if you need to sell a Mac mini, A+ BBB-rated Cash for Your Mac will buy your older Mac mini with an instant quote and prompt payment.
In the UK, site sponsor Hoxton Macs sells used Mac mini models with a one-year warranty and free next day delivery throughout the UK. Delivery across Europe also is available starting at just £9.99 for two-day delivery to France and Germany.
In Australia, site sponsor Mac City likewise may have used Mac mini models available at low prices and with a free warranty and fast shipping across Australia.
Permalink | Report an Error/Typo | Sign Up for Site Update Notices
Established in 1996, EveryMac.com has been created by experts with decades of experience with Apple hardware. EveryMac.com includes, and always has included, original research incorporating detailed, hands-on inspection of packaging, computers, and devices as well as extensive real-world use. All information is provided in good faith, but no website or person is perfect. Accordingly, EveryMac.com is provided "as is" without warranty of any kind whatsoever. EveryMac.com, and the authors thereof, shall not be held responsible or liable, under any circumstances, for any damages resulting from the use or inability to use the information within. For complete disclaimer and copyright information please read and understand the Terms of Use and the Privacy Policy before using EveryMac.com. Copying, scraping, or use of any content without expressed permission is not allowed, although links to any page are welcomed and appreciated.