Apple Mac mini Desktop Computer
-
Discontinued
The Mac mini Desktop Computer from Apple is a quiet and compact desktop computer. The system, only 6.5" square and 2" high, is a great option for users who would like an inexpensive, yet fully-functional, desktop Mac. The computer ships sans keyboard, mouse, and monitor, allowing you to choose the accessories that best suit your needs for use with the system.
The computer ships with Apple's popular iLife '09 software suite which includes iTunes, iPhoto, iMovie HD, iDVD, iWeb, and GarageBand. Also included is Apple's innovative Front Row application, which allows you to connect your computer to a home entertainment center for use as a media player.
The system is powered by 2.53GHz Intel Core 2 Duo CPU and includes 4GB of RAM, a 320GB hard drive, a slot-loading SuperDrive, Bluetooth, 802.11n AirPort Extreme Wi-Fi, and integrated nVIDIA GeForce 9400M graphics.
All this hardware runs on Apple's Mac OS X 10.6 Snow Leopard operating system. The 64-bit OS features Time Machine backup, which automatically backs up system data to an external hard drive. It also features intuitive Cover Flow navigation, the powerful Spotlight search tool, and Quick Look document preview. You'll be able to use Boot Camp to run Windows on your Mac, or Front Row to turn your Mac into an impressive media player.
Performance
- Dual-Core CPU
- The Mac mini is powered by a dual-core Intel Core 2 Duo CPU and is loaded with 4GB of memory. The CPU boasts a 2.53GHz clockspeed, 3MB of L2 cache, and a 1066MHz frontside bus, giving you the performance needed to multitask
- Integrated nVIDIA Graphics
- The integrated nVIDIA GeForce 9400M graphics processor is capable of playing popular 3D games like Spore, Call of Duty, and The Sims 3. It can boost performance by up to five times when needed thanks to an advanced architecture. The graphics deliver smooth, responsive gameplay, allowing you to immerse yourself in rich game worlds, without sacrificing your computer's battery life
- AirPort Extreme & Bluetooth
- The integrated AirPort Extreme 802.11n Wi-Fi will let you get online without wires. You'll be able to connect to networks with ease, even those that operate on the less-common 5GHz radio band. The system also features a Bluetooth 2.1+EDR module, allowing it to communicate with compatible wireless peripherals such as keyboards, mice, cell phones, and headsets
Storage Galore
- The roomy 320GB gives you ample storage space to hold your photos, movies, music, and more
- The integrated SuperDrive can burn DVDs at up to 8x speed and CDs at up to 24x speed. The included iDVD software, part of iLife, can be used to burn your home movies onto DVD, and you can also burn audio CDs using iTunes
Bring Your Own Accessories
- Display, Keyboard, Mouse
- The Mac mini ships sans display, keyboard, and mouse. This allows you to choose your own peripherals, or use items that you already own
- Dual Display Support
- The computer features two display outputs -- one Mini DisplayPort and one Mini-DVI -- allowing you to use the system in a dual monitor configuration
- Entertainment Center Potential
- You can easily connect your Mac mini to a TV to watch DVDs, movies, and TV shows from iTunes. You can also hook it up to your home stereo system to listen to your music from iTunes. If you own an Airport Express Base Station, you'll be able to play music from your Mac on your home stereo over Wi-Fi
The Mac Experience
- Every Day Use
- Every Mac is designed to make your life easier, not more difficult. The system ships with Mac OS X "Snow Leopard," which gives you all the tools you need for e-mail, personal organization, Internet browsing, watching movies, and more. Its software and hardware are designed work to together seamlessly, eliminating the compatibility nightmares that often plague PC users. What's more, the Mac mini can run Windows via Boot Camp, perfect for users who have a Windows-only application that they absolutely need to use
- iLife '09
- The included iLife '09 suite is a suite of applications that helps you organize your digital life. It includes iPhoto for photo management and editing, iMovie for HD video editing, iDVD to burn your movies to disc, GarageBand for music production, and iWeb for web publishing
- Secure and Reliable
- Worried about viruses and malware? Don't be. The Mac mini isn't plagued by constant attacks from the outside world. It is designed to be secure out of the box, eliminating the need for additional software to protect your system from danger. OS X will warn you if a downloaded file is potentially dangerous, ensuring that you don't accidentally open a malicious application. Apple responds quickly to any security threats, prompting you to download updates that keep your Mac up to date and safe
- Advanced Technology, Standard
- Powered by an Intel dual-core CPU, the Mac mini is fully loaded with 3D graphics, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi. A powerful 64-bit operating system built on a UNIX foundation, Snow Leopard, is pre-installed on the system
- Environmentally Friendly Design
- Apple understands that the Earth is our most precious resource. They've worked to create a computer that is energy efficient, free of many toxins, and highly recyclable. Because Apple designs both hardware and software, the Mac mini is able to use a highly efficient power supply that reduces wasted power. The computer is free of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and brominated flame retardants (BFRs). When the computer reaches the end of its long life, you can rest assured that it can be recycled. It is constructed from materials, including aluminum and glass, that are highly desirable to recyclers. The Mac mini has been awarded EPEAT Gold status for responsible manufacture, energy efficiency, and recyclability
- Tech Support
- Have a problem with your Mac? Get support and advice at the Genius Bar, located at every Apple Retail Store. Apple also provides online tutorials, troubleshooting forums, and 90 days of phone support for users who aren't able to make it to an Apple store
- Optional AppleCare
- Apple provides 90 days of free phone support and a 1-year limited hardware warranty on the computer. You can opt to add an AppleCare Protection Plan, at additional cost, which covers support and repairs for 3 years from the date of purchase. AppleCare can be purchased at any time within the first year of ownership of the computer
| Performance | |
|---|---|
| Processor | 2.53GHz Intel Core 2 Duo |
| Cache | L2: 3MB |
| System Bus | 1066MHz |
| Memory |
Slots: 2x SO-DIMM Type: PC3-8500 1066MHz DDR3 SDRAM SO-DIMM Installed: 4GB (2x2GB) Capacity: 4GB RAM is not user-upgradable; Opening the Mac mini voids the Apple warranty |
| Graphics Display |
nVIDIA GeForce 9400M graphics processor with 256MB of DDR3 SDRAM shared with main memory Extended desktop and video mirroring: Simultaneously supports up to 1920 by 1200 pixels on a DVI or VGA display; up to 2560 by 1600 pixels on a dual-link DVI display using Mini DisplayPort to Dual-Link DVI Adapter (sold separately) |
| Storage and Expansion | |
|---|---|
| Hard Drive |
Bays: 1x Installed: 320GB 5400rpm hard disk drive Type: SATA |
| Optical Drive |
1x Slot-loading 8x SuperDrive Reads CD: 24x DVD: 8x Writes CD-R: 24x CD-RW: 16x DVD-R: 8x DVD-RW: 6x DVD-R DL: 4x DVD+R: 8x DVD+RW: 8x DVD+R DL: 4x |
| Input/Output | |
|---|---|
| Ports |
1x 9-pin FireWire-800 5x USB 2.0 |
| Display |
1x Mini DisplayPort 1x Mini-DVI DVI output using Mini-DVI to DVI Adapter (included) VGA output using Mini-DVI to VGA Adapter (sold separately) |
| Audio |
1x Built-In Speaker 1x Combined Optical Digital Audio Input/Audio Line In (Minijack) 1x Combined Optical Digital Audio Input/Audio Line Out (Minijack) |
| Video | None |
| Communications | |
|---|---|
| Wired |
Network: 10/100/1000Mbps Gigabit BASE-T Ethernet connector (RJ-45) Modem: None |
| Wireless |
Wi-Fi: AirPort Extreme 802.11a/b/g/n Bluetooth: Bluetooth 2.1+EDR |
| General | |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Mac OS X 10.6 Snow Leopard |
| Electrical Requirements |
Meets ENERGY STAR requirements AC: 100-120VAC, 50-60Hz Maximum Continuous Power: 110W |
| Environmental Requirements |
Operating temperature: 50-95°F (10-35°C) Storage temperature: -40-116°F (-40-47°C) Relative humidity: 5-95%, non-condensing Maximum altitude: 10,000' (3048 m) |
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 6.5 x 2 x 6.5" (16.5 x 5.1 x 16.5cm) |
| Weight | 2.9 lb (1.3kg) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 26 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
96%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Easy to set up (24)
- Quiet (24)
- Never freezes (20)
- Versatile (20)
- Good power output (19)
Cons
Best Uses
- Home (20)
- Office (16)
- Multimedia (15)
- Dorm room (6)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Tech savvy (17), Multimedia professional (9)
Most Liked Positive Review
Buy while they are on sale!
I bought this a week ago to replace my older 1GB RAM, 80GB HD Mac mine. I use it as a desktop and for all my iTunes, iPhoto stuff as well as to sync...Read complete review
I bought this a week ago to replace my older 1GB RAM, 80GB HD Mac mine. I use it as a desktop and for all my iTunes, iPhoto stuff as well as to sync my iPod Touch.
The 4GB RAM is faster than the older mini and the new sound card is a big improvement.
Although the new 2010 mini has an HDMI port, my TV and hifi equipment don't. The drive is not a Blu-Ray anyway so I could care less. So for a price lower than the new mini, I bought this model since I get the 4GB RAM, a slightly faster processor, the same size HD and the same sound card. Besides, with the new 'one-piece' 2010 model, I am not sure you can even replace the HD if it goes out!!
So to recap, the new 2010 mini has an HDMI port and there is no longer a 'brick' attached to the power cord.
It also is easier to replace the RAM on the new model.
The mini being reviewed here was $20 cheaper than the lowest priced 2010 model at the time I purchased it and it has twice the RAM and a slightly faster processor.
The RAM maxes out at 4 GB, but it is possible to access the HD.
I have loved Mac minis ever since I began using them and this is a great upgrade at a great price if you buy it now.
Highly recommended!
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
64-bit drivers only!!!!!
Great performance in a tiny box. Snow Leopard won't run many drivers for older stuff, so plan on buying new printers, scanners, digital audio, and 64-bit intel-native apps. Access to power ...Read complete review
Great performance in a tiny box. Snow Leopard won't run many drivers for older stuff, so plan on buying new printers, scanners, digital audio, and 64-bit intel-native apps. Access to power button on rear is awkward at best. tiny connectors are flimsy, not "captive", and come loose with even minor jiggling.
I've been an Appleholic since the IIe, but this new Mac is the most annoying and expensive upgrade I've experienced.
The average user would be better off with a PC at half the (all-in) price.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 26 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-20
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Pros
- Easy To Set Up
- Never Freezes
- Powerful
- Quiet
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Home
- Multimedia
- Office
Comments about Apple Mac mini Desktop Computer:
I have been a Mac User since 1984 so I know about Apple quality and design. I now live in two locations so this computer fills a very important need, flexibility. I use a MacBook for travel but much prefer a desktop computer for daily work. With the Mac Mini, I have a minimum to pack for each semiannual migration and I can leave a flat panel monitor at each location. In a pinch, I can even use "screen sharing" to operate the Mac Mini from my older desktop without the need for a monitor at all.
Pros
- Easy To Set Up
- Never Freezes
- Price break
- Quiet
- Small footprint
- Versatile
Cons
- No HDMI port or Blu-Ray
Best Uses
- Home
- Multimedia
- Office
Comments about Apple Mac mini Desktop Computer:
I bought this a week ago to replace my older 1GB RAM, 80GB HD Mac mine. I use it as a desktop and for all my iTunes, iPhoto stuff as well as to sync my iPod Touch.
The 4GB RAM is faster than the older mini and the new sound card is a big improvement.
Although the new 2010 mini has an HDMI port, my TV and hifi equipment don't. The drive is not a Blu-Ray anyway so I could care less. So for a price lower than the new mini, I bought this model since I get the 4GB RAM, a slightly faster processor, the same size HD and the same sound card. Besides, with the new 'one-piece' 2010 model, I am not sure you can even replace the HD if it goes out!!
So to recap, the new 2010 mini has an HDMI port and there is no longer a 'brick' attached to the power cord.
It also is easier to replace the RAM on the new model.
The mini being reviewed here was $20 cheaper than the lowest priced 2010 model at the time I purchased it and it has twice the RAM and a slightly faster processor.
The RAM maxes out at 4 GB, but it is possible to access the HD.
I have loved Mac minis ever since I began using them and this is a great upgrade at a great price if you buy it now.
Highly recommended!
Pros
- Easy To Set Up
- Never Freezes
- Powerful
- Quiet
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Multimedia
- Office
Comments about Apple Mac mini Desktop Computer:
I use this product to make movies and develop websites.
Pros
- Easy To Set Up
- Never Freezes
- Powerful
- Quiet
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Dorm Room
- Home
- Multimedia
- Office
Comments about Apple Mac mini Desktop Computer:
I am freelance graphic designer, and this little computer fills the bill nicely. I already had a nice monitor and mouse and keyboard and the mini was just what the doctor ordered. The small footprint, larger hard drive and 4 GB of ram are plenty to run Adobe CS4 smoothly and quickly. The slower write speed of the hard drive is one of the only drawback, but you can fix that by easily replacing it with a faster drive.
Pros
- Easy To Set Up
- Never Freezes
- Powerful
- Quiet
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Home
Comments about Apple Mac mini Desktop Computer:
I use product at home, love its power and size
Pros
- Easy To Set Up
- Never Freezes
- Powerful
- Quiet
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Home
- Multimedia
- Office
Comments about Apple Mac mini Desktop Computer:
Made the big switch from PC and could not be more excited. My Mac Mini performs just as promised by all the advertising and blogs. A Mac Mini is not intended to be turned into a monster computer over the course of a few years... it just does what it is suppose to do and does it well. I have reached an age where I no longer want to live on the bleeding edge with a massive noisy PC, I would rather just trust in quiet, reliable, efficient, Mac's. And now I have two of them; good for me - and good for you too once you forget about making monsters.
Pros
- Easy To Set Up
- Never Freezes
- Powerful
- Quiet
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Office
Comments about Apple Mac mini Desktop Computer:
This is an expensive little computer that is worth every penny. Like most things apple, it cost you an n works like a champ!
Pros
- Easy To Set Up
- Never Freezes
- Powerful
- Quiet
- Versatile
Cons
- None
Best Uses
- Home
- Office
Comments about Apple Mac mini Desktop Computer:
I love my mac mini. I partitioned the drive using Boot Camp and loaded Windows 7 on the partition. It's the best of both worlds. Can't beat the price to get a mac and a PC!
Pros
- Easy To Set Up
- Quiet
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Dorm Room
- Home
- Multimedia
- Office
Comments about Apple Mac mini Desktop Computer:
Unless you a serious gamer which I'm not. Or a graphics designer which I'm not. This has plenty of power for the everyday user.
Easy to set up and super quiet .
Pros
- Easy To Set Up
- Never Freezes
- Powerful
- Quiet
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Home
- Office
Comments about Apple Mac mini Desktop Computer:
The MacMini is a great entry level Mac. Works great for a home user doing basic functions like email, web surfing, text documents etc. The bundled iLife Application includes possibly the best photo program you can buy...yet it's free! The only negative is the 5400RPM Hard Drive....7200RPM would make it a little snappier at opening applications. I purchased the 2.53Ghz/4GB RAM/320GB version and it's sitting at my kitchen desk hooked up to a 23 inch Apple Cinema Display {hanging on the wall} with a wireless KBD & Magic Mouse.
Pros
- Easy To Set Up
- Quiet
Cons
Best Uses
- Home
- Office
Comments about Apple Mac mini Desktop Computer:
Easy to set up. Love it!
Pros
- Powerful
- Quiet
Cons
- Difficult to Set Up
- Requires all new software
Best Uses
- NONE
Comments about Apple Mac mini Desktop Computer:
Great performance in a tiny box. Snow Leopard won't run many drivers for older stuff, so plan on buying new printers, scanners, digital audio, and 64-bit intel-native apps. Access to power button on rear is awkward at best. tiny connectors are flimsy, not "captive", and come loose with even minor jiggling.
I've been an Appleholic since the IIe, but this new Mac is the most annoying and expensive upgrade I've experienced.
The average user would be better off with a PC at half the (all-in) price.
Pros
- Easy To Set Up
- Powerful
- Quiet
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Film and Photos edition
- Home
- Multimedia
- Office
Comments about Apple Mac mini Desktop Computer:
I am not a mac-maniac. But the price for that MAc was attractive, and I don't regret. A very fast machine, easy to use, small and beautiful.
Pros
- Easy To Set Up
- Never Freezes
- Powerful
- Quiet
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Dorm Room
- Multimedia
Comments about Apple Mac mini Desktop Computer:
very happy customer. b&h offered me the best price in town, no sales tax, [...] options, basically everything!
Pros
- Affordable
- Easy To Set Up
- Powerful
- Quiet
- Small
Cons
Best Uses
- Home
- Multimedia
- Multitasking
- Web Browsing
Comments about Apple Mac mini Desktop Computer:
It works exactly as it should. I love the wireless connectivity both via wifi and bluetooth. Pretty fast, great graphics; a lot of cool software to start out with, and plenty of Hard Drive space for all my media. The cons are the fact that it doesn't include either and hdmi adapter (you can get that very cheap though), and the usage of the files, icons, folders, applications and so on, is made a little difficult, after getting used to Microsoft's Windows. However, it's well worth the time spent figuring it out.
Pros
- Easy To Set Up
- Never Freezes
- Quiet
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Home
- Multimedia
- Office
Comments about Apple Mac mini Desktop Computer:
Replaced my old g4 laptop, buy using the mini and a 24 inch 1080 lcd tv. Love it
Pros
- Easy To Set Up
- Never Freezes
- Quiet
Cons
Best Uses
- Dorm Room
- Home
Comments about Apple Mac mini Desktop Computer:
Does exactly what it says it does-it's a good powered desktop [...]
Pros
- Easy To Set Up
- No Bloatware
- Nothing needed installing
- Replaces cd player
- Works right out of box
Cons
- No dvi to vga adapter inc
- No USB ports on front
- On Off button on back
- Pricey
Best Uses
- Great music server
Comments about Apple Mac mini Desktop Computer:
Made the switch to Apple because Windows XP mangled the 16 bit output of Itunes to 24 bit overwhelming my external 20 bit DAC converter. With the Mac it is 16 bits in and 16 bits out bit perfect optical digital out. The Mac easily read my Windows based back up drive to download 500 music CD's in Apple Lossless. It took about 2 hours and I'd never used a Mac operating system...
Pros
- Easy To Set Up
- Never Freezes
- Powerful
- Quiet
- Versatile
Cons
- Limited gaming graphics
- Not much is upgradable
Best Uses
- Dorm Room
- Home
- Multimedia
- Office
Comments about Apple Mac mini Desktop Computer:
I've owned Macs since 2001. I've had G3s, G4s, and a G5. This is my first Intel Mac and I had high expectations. I use it to rip audio and video and for web browsing and email. It is extremely quiet and very powerful for its size. The only negative I observed is a minor bug with the new Snow Leopard OS 10.6. If I burn a data CD using Finder, it would crash upon completion of the CD requiring a reboot. Overall, I'm thrilled and I'm sure Apple will fix this in future software updates. (Leopard OS 10.5 had a few issued in the beginning which were fixed with subsequent updates.)
Pros
- Easy To Set Up
- Never Freezes
- Powerful
- Quiet
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Home
- Multimedia
- Office
Comments about Apple Mac mini Desktop Computer:
I will be using this mini in my home recording studio. I use Logic and previously owned a mac laptop. The price is right at 760. This model is virtually the same power and graphics of a current unibody 15" macbook pro. It's INCREDIBLY QUIET, which to me pays more dividends than a little more processor power and memory. Four gigs of RAM is solid and smooth. Go get one. Or, buy two and set up logic node to use the processor power of a second computer for greater expandability. Still come out Way Cheaper than a baseline Mac Pro.
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What's in the Box
- Mini-DVI to DVI Adapter
- 110W Power Adapter
- Power Cord
- Install/Restore DVDs
-
Software
- Mac OS X 10.6 Snow Leopard (includes iTunes, Time Machine, Quick Look, Spaces, Spotlight, Dashboard, Mail, iChat, Safari, Address Book, QuickTime, iCal, DVD Player, Photo Booth, Front Row, Xcode Developer Tools, and more)
- iLife '09 (includes iPhoto, iMovie HD, iDVD, iWeb, GarageBand)
- Printed and Electronic Documentation
- 1-Year Limited Warranty with 90-Days Phone Support
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