Mac mini, 2.53 GHz

The Mac mini has always received mixed reviews, but experts are generally impressed with the updates Apple made to this latest version. The new Mac minis have faster processors, more memory and bigger hard drives, but Apple kept prices the same. The desktop comes in three configurations, including a 2.53 GHz and 2.26 GHz (*Est. $600) model; a 2.53 GHz Snow Leopard server mini (*Est. $1,000) is also available. Few reviewers test both the 2.53 GHz and 2.26 GHz minis, but the 2.53 GHz Mac mini is widely seen as a better, faster performer. Even so, experts say you shouldn't expect blistering performance from any of the Mac minis -- they're not high-powered desktops and are best suited to everyday computing tasks. The Mac minis do not come with monitors or keyboards, so you have to add these peripherals to your total cost. For budget-conscious shoppers, reviewers say the 2.26 GHz Mac mini is the best value, although the 2.53 GHz earns slightly more recommendations for its faster performance.

The Mac minis were updated earlier this year, so few reviewers have re-tested this latest version. Macworld provides the best review, complete with the most up-to-date details on the new models and benchmark testing results. Pocket-Lint.com also tests the 2.53 GHz Mac mini and rates it on a 10-point scale.