New Mac Mini: Thinner, Sleeker, and Faster

Apple has quietly updated their Mac Mini desktop computer for sale at retail stores and on the Apple site. There are two new base models, which are being introduced at $699 and $999. The new Mac Mini features a full aluminum body enclosure that gives it a fresh, beautiful look. The height of the Mini has been reduced from 2 inches to just 1.4 inches. The width and depth are both 7.7 inches respectively, giving the desktop some serious punch for its size.

So how powerful is this Mac exactly? The $699 version features a 2.4GHz Core 2 Duo processor, 2GB DDR3 MHz memory, 320GB HDD, NVIDIA GeForce 320M graphics and Mac OS X Snow Leopard. The $699 also includes a 8x double-layer SuperDrive that the $999 does not include. The $999 model includes a 2.66GHz Core 2 Duo processor, 4GB DDR 1066MHz memory, Dual 500GB HDDs, NVIDIA GeForce 320M graphics and Mac OS X Server Snow Leopard. Both models are customizable up to 8GB DDR3 memory and a 2.66GHz Core 2 Duo.


An HDMI port is also a new addition to this next generation Mac Mini. While the HDMI output will be the standard, an HDMI to DVI adapter is included and VGA output can be used via a Mini DisplayPort to VGA adapter. HDMI will support up to 1920 by 1200 resolution, while the  Mini DisplayPort supports up to 2560 by 1600 resolution. The new Mac Mini has built in WiFi just as before, and these newer models support 802.11n access, which is currently the fastest wireless internet standard available. 10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet is included, obviously.


Altogether, the Mac Mini is a very welcome addition to the Mac computer family. With such a slim footprint, this desktop offers some serious performance in such a light weight package. Apple may have finally got the pricing right on this model at only $699 for the entrance model. While this is no iMac or Mac Pro desktop computer, it offers very good reliable performance for the average everyday consumer. Those who are going to be running very heavy, demanding applications may need to upgrade to a more high end Apple model or higher end PC.

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