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Apple Mac mini, 2.66 GHz
Apple mini tower
- Improved performance over earlier versions
- Small size
- Least expensive Mac available
- Monitor, keyboard and mouse are not included
- Still not a high power desktop
- More expensive than Windows PCs with similar performance
In the past, critics haven't been overly impressed with the Mac mini, but the latest round of upgrades in the fall of 2009 have led some to give it a second look and a thumbs-up. The new Mac minis have faster processors, more memory and bigger hard drives, but Apple has kept prices the same. Though three versions are available, budget and mainstream computer buyers will be most interested in the 2.26 GHz and 2.53 GHz (*Est. $800 and up) configurations.
Despite the recent improvements, experts caution that performance still won't match that of higher-powered and higher-priced Apple computers. Some also say that similarly performing Windows PCs cost less. However, fans of the Mac operating system will find the mini to be a solid everyday performer. Among the negatives is the lack of any peripherals, not even a keyboard and mouse, let alone a monitor is included.
Macworld provides the best review, complete with the most up-to-date details on the new models and benchmark testing results. The Loop, an Apple-centric web site, also has a hands-on evaluation. CNET offers some observations, but does not actually test the latest mini. Amazon.com has a smattering of user reviews.
Our Sources
Dan Frakes at Macworld rates the 2.26 GHz and 2.53 GHz versions of the Apple Mac mini. Testing is conducted, and performance is compared to previous models'. Both minis earn scores of four out of five. The faster -- and more expensive -- Mac mini is recommended for those who want the very best performance; however the 2.26 GHz Mac mini is called the better value.
Review: Mac mini (Late 2009), Dan Frakes, Nov. 3, 2009
2. The Loop
This hands-on evaluation is based on a week's use of the 2.26 GHz Apple Mac mini. Peter Cohen calls it a "fine little system for users looking to get a new Mac without having to break the bank." However, while the latest improvements make the Mac mini faster than before, Cohen adds that they don't make enough of a difference to entice owners of recent Mac minis (early 2009) to upgrade.
Review: Hands on: 2.26GHz Mac mini, Peter Cohen, Nov. 11, 2009
3. CNET
This overview is not testing-based; rather, it is the opinion of CNET's Rich Brown based on specs. Brown speculates that while the Mac mini should be competitive performance wise with "small scale" Windows PCs, the higher cost of the 2.26 GHz and 2.53 GHz Mac mini models are a concern.
Review: Apple Mac Mini (2.26GHz Intel Core 2 Duo, 160GB, Fall 2009)Rich Brown, Oct. 20, 2009
4. Amazon.com
The Apple Mac mini hasn't accumulated many user reviews as of yet, but there is a small selection of them at Amazon.com. Thus far, every owner has rated the 2.26 GHz Mac mini either four or five stars, with the overwhelming majority giving it the higher rating. However, there are still too few reviews here to make Amazon.com a definitive source on its own.
Review: 2.26 GHz Apple Mac mini, Contributors to Amazon.com
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