


I'd much rather pay three thousand bucks for a muscled-up Mac Mini than figure out how to turn the ultra-expensive and heavy iMac display into some side monitor. As I come up on four years running the same main desktop machine, I've looked at replacing my iMac with a new iMac model or even with the iMac Pro, but I just don't want to be saddled with that display. That said, the Mac Mini is incredibly versatile.
#Cnet mac mini review update#
The last update was in October of 2014, fully three years ago, and it arguably wasn't quite as good as the 2012-series Mac Minis I have populating my space. The other big disadvantage is Apple's seeming lack of support for the platform. That's why I still have an iMac as my video production machine, even though I don't like the iMac's screen and yearn for an ultra-wide monitor (which, sadly, my 2013-vintage iMac won't support). The Mac Mini doesn't use the fastest processors available, RAM maxes at 16GB, and the built-in video is not much better than meh. It starts at $499, and even in its most fully-equipped model with all of Apple's overpriced upgrade fees, it tops out at $2,000. But now I can't recommend it anymore.īut, unlike the Mac Pro, the Mac Mini is also reasonably affordable. It was the perfect combination of compactness, just enough processor power and upgradeability that made it an excellent value for many Mac users. This allows it to be used in a wide range of configurations, from server racks to entertainment centers, to car computers, that just aren't a good fit for iMacs or laptops. Unlike Apple's more mainstream products consisting of its hugely popular laptop line and strong-selling iMac line, the Mac Mini (and ill-fated trash can Mac Pro) are the only machines that don't encumber buyers with Apple's choice of display. The Mac Mini is a unique member of Apple's line-up. I've taken these wonderful little machines for granted, but having been without them for three months, I became newly aware of just how convenient and special they are to our daily workflow. But, eventually the sea of boxes gives way to something resembling reconstruction - and that's when you start finding stuff - like our Mac Minis. Boxes serve as side tables, dinner tables, and the stuff of nightmares. There's a tipping point that occurs when unpacking after a move. We review Apple's M1 Ultra-powered Mac StudioĬan digital dollars be as anonymous as cash? Ukrainian developers share stories from the war zone When the boss gets angry at employees' Teams habits
