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Manufacturer | Apple Inc. |
---|---|
Type | Compact desktop[1] Server (pre-October 2014 models) |
Release date | November 7, 2018; 9 months ago (current release) January 22, 2005 (original release) |
Introductory price | US $499 (original) US $799 (current release) |
Operating system | macOS[2][3] |
CPU | Intel Core i3, i5, i7 (current release)[2][2][3] |
Predecessor | Power Mac G4 Cube |
Related articles | iMac, Mac Pro, iMac Pro |
Website | Apple – Mac Mini |
Read online or download PDF. Page 7 / 18. Apple Mac mini (Late 2014) User Manual. Apple Computers.
The Mac mini (branded with lowercase 'mini') is a desktop computer made by Apple Inc. One of four desktop computers in the current Macintosh lineup, along with the iMac, Mac Pro, and iMac Pro, it uses many components usually featured in laptops to achieve its small size.[4] The current Mac mini, introduced in October 2018, is the fourth generation of the product.
First released in 2005, the Mac mini is Apple's only consumer desktop computer since 1998 to ship without a display, keyboard, or mouse. Apple initially marketed it as BYODKM (Bring Your Own Display, Keyboard, and Mouse),[5] pitching it to users switching from a traditional PC running operating systems such as Microsoft Windows.[6] In 2010, a third-generation Mac mini became Apple's first computer with an HDMI video port to connect to a television or other display, more readily positioning the unit as a home theater device alternative to the Apple TV.[7]
A server version of the Mac mini, bundled with the Server edition of the OS X operating system,[8] was offered from 2009 to 2014.[9]
- 1Overview
- 21st generation (PowerPC G4, 2005)
- 32nd generation (Intel-based, 2006-2009)
- 43rd generation (Unibody, 2010-2014)
- 54th generation (USB-C, 2018)
Overview[edit]
A small form factor computer had been widely speculated and requested long before the release of the Mac mini. Rumors predicted that the 'headless iMac' would be extremely small, include no display, and would be positioned as Apple's entry-level desktop computer.[10] On January 10, 2005, the Mac mini was announced alongside the iPod shuffle at the Macworld Conference & Expo and was described by Apple CEO Steve Jobs at the time as 'the cheapest, most affordable Mac ever'.[11][12] Its case measured 2.0 × 6.5 × 6.5 inches (51 × 165 × 165 mm).
The Mac mini is an entry-level computer intended for budget-minded customers. Until the 2011 release, the Mac mini had much less processing power than the other computers of the Macintosh lineup. Unlike regular desktop computers, which use standard-sized components such as 3.5-inch hard drives and full-size DIMM's, Apple uses lower-power laptop components in the Mac mini to fit all the necessary components into the small case and to prevent overheating.[13] Previously, with the choice of components on the older models, the machine was considered somewhat slower than standard desktop computers. It also had less storage and memory than comparable desktops. However, the 2011 upgrade addressed many of these previous complaints.
In general, the Mac mini has been praised as a relatively affordable computer with a solid range of features. However, many also agree that it is relatively costly for a computer aimed at the lower segment of the market. It is possible to buy small computers at the same price with faster processors, better graphics card, more memory, and more storage.[14] The small size has made the Mac mini particularly popular as a home theater solution. In addition, its size and reliability has helped keep resale values high.[15]
On October 22, 2009, Apple introduced a new server version of the Mac mini along with revisions of the computer. This model had a second hard drive instead of an optical drive, and was marketed as an affordable server for small businesses and schools.
On June 15, 2010, Apple introduced the third-generation Mac mini. The new model was thinner, with a unibody aluminum case designed to be easily opened for RAM access, and incorporated upgraded hardware, such as an HDMI port and Nvidia GeForce 320M graphics. It also included an internal power supply.
An update announced July 20, 2011, dropped the internal CD/DVD optical drive from all versions (note: the Mid-2010 Server models never had an optical drive) and introduced a Thunderbolt port, Intel Core i5 processor, and either Intel HD Graphics 3000 integrated graphics or AMD Radeon HD 6630M dedicated graphics. The Server model was upgraded to a quad-core Intel Core i7 processor. Quad-core i7 CPUs were also used in the late-2012 desktop Mac mini computers.[16]
In October 2014, Apple refreshed the line, adding Haswell CPUs, improving the graphics, lowering the base-model price by $100. The only change to the body was the removal of the two holes used to open the case, as the RAM was no longer upgradable because it was soldered to the logic board; this idea is similar to the Retina MacBook Pro, the MacBook Air and the Mid 2014 21.5-inch iMac.
On October 30, 2018, after four years, the Mac mini got a refresh. With this came major specification upgrades, new colors, and a switch to all-flash storage. The RAM was increased to a baseline of 8 GB, and a maximum of 64 GB of SO-DIMM DDR4. This shows Apple's trend back toward user-upgrade-ability in their desktop models. The storage was changed to a baseline 128 GB of flash storage, with a max of 2 TB. It has optional 10 Gb Ethernet, HDMI 2.0, a headphone jack, 2 USB 3.1, and 4 USB-C Thunderbolt 3 ports. The Bluetooth was upgraded to the 5.0 standard, and the Mac itself was made available in space gray. The baseline retail price is $799 USD.[17] Missing for the 2018 model is the SD card reader, SATA drive bay, IR receiver, optical S/PDIF (TOSLINK) audio out, and audio in.
Design[edit]
The original Mac mini before the 2010 re-design
Inside of an Intel Mac mini circa 2007
Mac mini 2010
The most notable feature of the Mac mini is its size. The original design measured only 2.0 × 6.5 × 6.5 inches (51 × 165 × 165 mm). The exterior of the original Mac mini was made of aluminum capped with polycarbonate plastic on the top and bottom. The original design had no visible screws and was not meant to be upgraded by the user. The back of the machine contains the I/O ports and vents for the cooling system. It had an external power supply rated at 85W (G4 models) or 110W (pre-2010 Intel models); although they used the same connector, power supplies were not interchangeable between these models.[18]
The Mac mini, updated on June 15, 2010, was fully redesigned,[1] being slimmer than the prior models at only 1.4 inches (36 mm) tall, but wider at 7.7 inches (196 mm) a side. The weight rose from 2.9 to 3.0 pounds (1.3 to 1.4 kg). The power supply is now internal as opposed to external. The chassis no longer has the polycarbonate plastic on the top or bottom. The newer model, introduced July 20, 2011 has the same physical dimensions but is slightly lighter, at 2.7 pounds (1.2 kg), presumably because it lacks an internal CD/DVD drive.
The 2010 model Mac mini was redesigned to be opened using a round cover on the bottom of the computer. Prior versions of the Mac mini were much more difficult to open. Some Mac mini owners used a putty knife or a pizza cutter to pry open the cases of older models to gain access to the interior for installation of cheaper third party memory upgrades.[19] The official Apple Service Source manual for Mac mini describes this procedure in detail, including an official Apple part number for a 'modified putty knife'. It's also possible to use wires to pull the white plastic bottom case out of the metal top case.[20] While opening the case does not actually void the Mac mini warranty, anything broken while the case is open is not covered.[21] Other modifications include hard disk upgrades, overclocking the processor (G4 only),[22] and upgrading the wireless networking (for older models) to 802.11n.[23] The 2009 model can have its SuperDrive replaced with a second SATA hard drive.[24] The removal of the optical drive in the 2011 models leaves internal space for a second internal hard drive or SSD, which can be ordered as a BTO option from Apple, or as an upgrade kit from 3rd party suppliers.
With the switch to the Intel Core Solo and Duo line, Apple initially used a socketed CPU in the Mac mini that allowed the processor to be replaced. They switched to a non-socketed CPU with the 2009 model that did not allow an easy upgrade. With the June 2010 revision, the case can be readily opened to add RAM (except for the Late 2014 models).
Home theater[edit]
The Mac mini can be used for home cinema (theater) applications. The small footprint, multi-format video output, digital audio output, remote controlIR receiver and the relatively powerful Intel CPUs make it easy to use the Mac mini as part of a home entertainment system.[25]
A 2008 Mac mini as a home theater PC demonstrating the Front Row application. Current models include an HDMI port for easy connection with modern televisions and home theater receivers.
It can be classified as a home theater PC (HTPC) with some limits. The Mac mini does not include an integrated TV tuner card and cannot be upgraded to install one internally; accessing TV requires external devices like Elgato's EyeTV USB adapter or SiliconDust's HDHomeRun networked TV tuner which will encode and manage broadcast television from a cable or satellite receiver. The July 2011 model lacks a built-in CD/DVD player and OS X Lion no longer supports Front Row remote control software.
Pre-2009 Mac mini models had a video connector which was compatible with DVI, HDMI (video only), SVGA, S-Video and composite video with the appropriate adapter. Sound is provided by a combination jack that uses both mini-headphone (analog) and optical fiber cables (digital).[26] Unlike the Apple TV, the Mac mini is backward compatible with televisions that have only composite or S-Video inputs. As of the July 2011 revision of the Mac mini, the computer sports an Intel HD3000 graphics processor with an optional Radeon graphics processing unit available and Thunderbolt which makes decoding high-resolution video much quicker and efficient. The addition of an HDMI port simplifies connecting the Mini to high-definition televisions and home theater AV receivers.
Because of the similar small form factor, HDMI port, remote control IR receiver, and media browser interface, some users see the Mac mini as an Apple TV alternative.[7] It has both iTunes for media rental, purchase, and management, and a native user interface with Front Row, based on the user interface of the original Apple TV.[26][27] The Apple TV is limited to video in the MP4 format, whereas Mac mini users employing the appropriate QuickTimecodecs can watch other video formats like Divx, Xvid, and the Matroska (Mkv) container, or almost all other formats using an open source player such as VLC, without resorting to hacks. The current Intel models of Mac mini can display video via the HDMI port at a maximum resolution of 1920x1200 and up to 2560x1600 via the Mini DisplayPort with a compatible monitor.
The Mac mini can also run third-party front-end media player applications for Mac OS X, such as Plex or XBMC, to be used as a home theater PC (HTPC).
1st generation (PowerPC G4, 2005)[edit]
- The specifications below are from Apple's 'tech specs' page,[2] except where noted.
Processors[edit]
The Mac mini G4 used single-core 32-bitPowerPC processors with 512 KB of on-chip L2 cache. The processor accessed memory through the front-side bus, which was clocked at 167 MHz. The chips in these models of Mac mini ran at either 1.25, 1.33, 1.42, or 1.5 GHz. It also had an ATI Radeon 9200 graphics processor with 32 MB of DDR SDRAM in the standard editions, which was upgraded to 64 MB VRAM in the high-end version of the final Mac mini G4 in 2005.
Memory[edit]
The Mac mini G4 uses 333 MHz DDR SDRAM, allows a maximum of 1 GB of memory, and has only one desktop DIMM slot for random-access memory. This restricts both the maximum amount of available memory, which can greatly reduce performance by forcing the system to page to the hard disk, and, since the system is unable to take advantage of dual channels, maximum bandwidth. This issue was addressed in the Intel models of Mac mini by using two notebook DIMM slots.
Storage[edit]
The Mac mini G4 uses a single 2.5-inch Ultra ATA/100 hard drive, which offers a maximum transfer rate of 100 MB/s. Because of its sealed enclosure, it is not possible to upgrade the hard drive without opening the enclosure and possibly voiding the warranty of the system.[21] The Mac mini G4 also contains a second ATA cable that connects to the optical drive. A Combo drive was included as standard, while a SuperDrive able to write to DVDs was also an option.
Back panel of a late 2005 PowerMac10,2 model Mac mini. From left to right, first row: power button, 15 ventilation holes, Kensington lock slot. Second row: DC in, Fast Ethernet, blanked 56k Modem, DVI-I, 2 USB 2.0 ports, Firewire 400, audio out.
Manual Apple Mac Mini 2
External connectivity[edit]
The original Mac mini includes two USB 2.0 and one FireWire 400 port. Networking is supported with 10/100 Ethernet and V.92 modem ports, while 802.11b/g and Bluetooth were additional build-to-order options. The modem was later omitted from the Mac mini, but an external modem remained an option. External displays are supported via a DVI port. Adaptors are also available for VGA, S-Video, and composite video. The system contains a built-in speaker and an analog 1/8-inch stereo Mini jack for sound out at the back of the case.
In the last revision of the Mac mini G4, the internal mezzanine board was upgraded to accommodate the AirPort Wi-Fi and Bluetooth technology onto one chip. In prior models, the Mac mini included an AirPort Extreme card taped to the mezzanine board and a separate Bluetooth module.[28] This new Wi-Fi card also no longer uses an MMCX-Female connector for the antenna (as the prior models did) but rather a proprietary Apple one.
Specifications[edit]
Obsolete[29] |
Component | PowerPC G4 | ||
---|---|---|---|
Model | Early 2005 | Mid-2005[30] | Late 2005[31] |
Release date | January 11, 2005[32] | July 26, 2005[33] | September 27, 2005 |
Order number | M9686*/A, M9687*/A | M9686*/B, M9687*/B, M9971*/B | M9687*/B, M9971*/B |
Model identifier | PowerMac10,1 | PowerMac10,2 | |
Model number | A1103 | ||
Processor | 1.25 GHz or 1.42 GHz PowerPC G4 (7447A) | 1.33 GHz or 1.5 GHz PowerPC G4 (7447A) | |
Cache | 64 KB L1, 512 KB L2 (1:1) | ||
Front-side bus | 167 MHz | ||
Memory one RAM slot | 256 MB of 333 MHz DDR SDRAM Expandable to 1 GB | 512 MB of 333 MHz DDR SDRAM Expandable to 1 GB | |
Graphics | ATI Radeon 9200 graphics processor with 32 MB of DDR SDRAM. | ATI Radeon 9200 graphics processor with 32 MB or 64 MB of DDR SDRAM. | |
Hard drive | 2.5' 40 or 80 GB PATA/133 at 5400 rpm | ||
Optical drive | Combo drive or SuperDrive | ||
Connectivity | Optional or Integrated Airport Extreme 802.11b/g 10/100 Base-T Ethernet Optional or Integrated 56k V.92 modem Optional or Integrated Bluetooth 1.1 | Optional or Integrated AirPort Extreme 802.11b/g with Bluetooth 2.0+EDR card 10/100 Base-T Ethernet Optional or Integrated 56k V.92 modem | |
Peripherals | 2x USB 2.0 1x Firewire 400 Built-in mono speaker Audio-out mini-jack | ||
Video out | DVI | ||
Original operating system | Mac OS X 10.3.7 Panther and Mac OS X 10.4 Tiger | Mac OS X 10.4.2 Tiger | |
Latest release operating system | Mac OS X 10.5.8 Leopard | ||
Weight | 2.9 pounds (1.3 kg) | ||
Power | 32W (Idle), 85W (Max)[34] (1.25 GHz model with 256MB RAM, 40GB drive, and Combo drive) | ||
Dimensions | 2.0 inches (51 mm) H × 6.5 inches (170 mm) W × 6.5 inches (170 mm) D |
Notes:
1 The serial number and specifications sticker on the underside of the latest revision do not carry the actual specs of the upgrade. For example, on a 1.5 GHz model, 1.42 GHz is listed. The product packaging also did not reflect the upgrade. Apple did not revise the official specifications on their web site.[35]
1 The serial number and specifications sticker on the underside of the latest revision do not carry the actual specs of the upgrade. For example, on a 1.5 GHz model, 1.42 GHz is listed. The product packaging also did not reflect the upgrade. Apple did not revise the official specifications on their web site.[35]
Alternative operating systems[edit]
The Mac mini G4 can run different operating systems designed for the PowerPC architecture. For example, users can easily install the AmigaOS-compatible MorphOS, OpenBSD,[36] or Linux distributions such as Debian or Ubuntu.[37][38][39][40]
Support for pre-OS X Mac applications[edit]
Unlike the Intel models, a G4 Mac mini running Mac OS X 10.4 can run Mac OS 9 'Classic' applications, as long as a bootable copy of the OS 9 System Folder is installed from which to run the Classic environment. As of Mac OS X 10.5, the ability to run the Classic Environment was removed.
2nd generation (Intel-based, 2006-2009)[edit]
The specifications below are from Apple's 'tech specs' page,[2] except where noted.
Processors[edit]
The current[clarification needed] non-server Mac mini is available in two versions, one with a mobile dual-core 64-bit Intel Core i5 processor that runs at 2.5 GHz and one with a choice of a mobile quad-core Intel Core i7 2.3 GHz or a quad-core Core i7 2.6 GHz; the Server model has a choice of the same processors as the faster non-Server model. The CPU in the slower non-Server model has a 3 MB on-chip L3 cache, and the CPUs available for the faster non-Server model and the Server model have a 6 MB on-chip L3 cache; the cache is shared between the cores and GPU (if in use). Prior revisions used a 'Penryn' Intel Core 2 Duo processor, 'Merom'-based Core 2 Duo and 'Yonah'-based Core Duo and Solo chips.
The 2006 and 2007 Mac mini models that come standard with a 32-bit Intel Core Solo processor can be changed to an Intel 64-bit Core 2 Duo processor through a simple upgrade.[41] Since the 2006 and 2007 'Merom'-based Mac mini models came with socketed processors, the 32-bit processor can easily be removed, and replaced with a compatible 64-bit Intel Core 2 Duo processor. The following processors are compatible: 2.00 GHz Intel T7200 SL9SF, 2.16 GHz Intel T7400 SL9SE, 2.33 GHz Intel T7600 SL9SD. The more recent 2009 and later Mac mini models have the processors soldered onto the logic board and thus are not upgradable. Once the 2006 Mac mini has been upgraded to a 64-bit Core 2 Duo processor, and RAM is upgraded to at least 2 GB, it can run OS X Lion through a minor modification by editing or deleting the platformsupport.plist file.[42][43] A 2007 Mac mini will run OS X Lion without any modification. Many users have found that such upgrades can make the 2006/2007 Mac mini models performance even better than the 2009 Mac mini models. Geekbench scores have shown that the 2.33 GHz Core 2 Duo fitted Mac mini with 2 GB of RAM has a score of 3060 whereas a late 2009 Mac mini with 2 GB of RAM has 3056 making the two machines fairly comparable.[44][45]
While the Mac mini G4 contained a separate graphics processor, all revisions of the Intel-based Mac mini contain integrated GPUs, except in the 2011 version where the 2.5 GHz model contains a separate AMD Radeon GPU. In Apple's early marketing of the Mac mini G4, it touted the superiority of the use of a discrete ATI Radeon 9200 32 MB graphics card over the integrated graphics included in many budget PCs.[46] The Intel GMA that was built into the Mac mini was criticized for producing stuttering video, despite supporting hardware accelerated H.264 video playback, and disappointing frame rates in graphics-intensive 3D games.[47]
Back panel of a mid-2007 2,1 model Mac mini. From left to right, first row: power button, 10 ventilation holes, Kensington lock slot, audio in, audio out. Second row: DC in, gigabit Ethernet, Firewire 400, DVI, 4 USB 2.0 ports
Back panel of a late 2009 3,1 model Mac mini. From left to right, first row: power button, 10 ventilation holes, Kensington lock slot, audio in, audio out. Second row: DC in, gigabit Ethernet, Firewire 800, Mini DVI, Mini-DisplayPort, 5 USB 2.0 ports
Memory[edit]
Unlike the Mac mini G4, the Intel-based Mac mini uses a dual-channel architecture for memory. The original Intel-based Mac mini uses 667 MHz DDR2 SDRAM, while models starting with the early 2009 revision use 1066 MHz DDR3 SDRAM. From the 2011 revision onwards, the Mac mini supports up to 16 GB of memory. While all versions of the Mac mini up to and including the 2012 revision supports user upgradeable memory after purchase, the 2014 model does not,[48] because the memory is soldered to the logic board. Since the integrated graphics processor does not have its own dedicated memory, the system shares some of the main system memory with it.
Storage[edit]
The Intel-based Mac mini moves away from the formerly used Ultra ATA/100 to the newer Serial ATA interface, which offers a maximum 3 Gbit/s transfer rate, however all models of Intel Mac mini have been limited to 1.5 Gbit/s even though the SATA standard supports a transfer of 3 Gbit/s. All models continue to use 2.5-inch hard drives as opposed to the 3.5-inch drives used in standard desktops. A server edition of the Mac mini was introduced in October 2009, which omits the optical drive in favor of a second hard drive for a total of 1 TB of storage. A Combo drive was initially offered as standard, with the SuperDrive being an option, but through the 2010 models, all models that have an optical drive contain the SuperDrive as standard. The 2010 standard version of the Mac (without Server) comes with a 300 GB or on 2.66 GHz 500 GB of storage.
External connectivity[edit]
The original Intel-based Mac mini includes four USB 2.0 ports and one FireWire 400 port. Networking is supported with a built-in Gigabit Ethernet port and an integrated 802.11b/g AirPort card. Bluetooth was also made standard. External displays are supported through a DVI port. While the Mac mini G4 supports only analog audio output, the Intel-based Mac mini has separate Mini-TOSLINK/3.5 mm mini-jacks that support both analog audio input and output as well optical digital S/PDIF input and output.
The I/O ports were changed with the early 2009 revision. A fifth USB 2.0 port was added and the FireWire 400 port was replaced with a FireWire 800 port. The AirPort card was upgraded to 802.11a/b/g/draft-n and later to 802.11a/b/g/n. Bluetooth was also upgraded from 2.0 to 2.1. Instead of a single full-size DVI port, a Mini-DVI port was added along with a Mini DisplayPort connection, which allows dual display support. Unlike the DVI port, the Mini DisplayPort supports external displays with a resolution up to 2560×1600, which allows use of the 30-inch Cinema Display with the Mac mini. As of this revision, the Apple Remote is no longer included with the Mac mini.
The Mac mini 2009 model gave access to 3 different USB busses on the back. Port 2 shares a USB bus with the IR connection. Ports 1+5 and 3+4 are each on their own USB bus. So it should be possible to get a throughput of 3x480=1440 Mbit/s.
Specifications[edit]
Obsolete[49] |
Component | Intel Core | Intel Core 2 Duo | |||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Model | Early 2006[50] | Late 2006[51] | Mid-2007[52] | Early 2009[53] | Late 2009[54][55] |
Release date | February 28, 2006[56] | September 6, 2006 | August 7, 2007 | March 3, 2009[57] | October 20, 2009 |
Order number | MA205*/A, MA206*/A | MA607*/A, MA608*/A | MB138*/A, MB139*/A | MB463*/A, MB464*/A | MC238*/A, MC239*/A, MC408*/A |
Model identifier | Macmini1,1 | Macmini2,1 | Macmini3,1 | ||
Model number | A1176 | A1283 | |||
Processor | 1.5 GHz Intel Core Solo (T1200) or 1.66 GHz Intel Core Duo (T2300) Upgradable up to an Intel Core 2 Duo 2.33 GHz T7600 processor.[41] | 1.66 GHz (T2300) or 1.83 GHz (T2400) Intel Core Duo Upgradable up to an Intel Core 2 Duo 2.33 GHz T7600 processor. [41] | 1.83 GHz (T5600) or 2.0 GHz (T7200) Intel Core 2 Duo Upgradable up to an Intel Core 2 Duo 2.33 GHz T7600 processor. [41] | 2.0 GHz (P7350) Intel Core 2 Duo Optional 2.26 GHz (P8400) Intel Core 2 Duo | 2.26 GHz (P7550) or 2.53 GHz (P8700) Intel Core 2 Duo |
Cache | 2 MB on-chip L2 cache | 2 MB (1.83 GHz), 4 MB (2.0 GHz) shared | 3 MB on-chip L2 cache | ||
Front-side bus | 667 MHz | 1067 MHz | |||
Memory | 512 MB (2 × 256 MB) of 667 MHz DDR2 SDRAM Expandable to 2 GB (Expandable to 4GB after Core 2 Duo upgrade and macmini2.1 efi hack | 1 GB (2 × 512 MB) of 667 MHz DDR2 SDRAM Expandable to 4 GB | 1 GB (1 × 1 GB) or 2 GB (2 × 1 GB) of 1066 MHz DDR3 SDRAM Expandable to 8 GB (4 GB supported by Apple)[58][59] | 2 GB (2 × 1 GB) or 4 GB (2 × 2 GB) of 1066 MHz DDR3 SDRAM Expandable to 8 GB (4 GB supported by Apple) | |
Graphics | Intel GMA 950 using 64 MB of DDR2SDRAM (up to 224 MB in OS X with sufficient RAM or Windows through Boot Camp)[60] | NvidiaGeForce 9400M using 128 MB or 256 MB of DDR3 SDRAM | NvidiaGeForce 9400M using 256 MB of DDR3 SDRAM | ||
Shared with main memory | |||||
Hard drive | 60 or 80 GB Optional 100 GB or 120 GB | 60 or 80 GB Optional 100 GB, 120 GB, 160 GB | 80 or 120 GB Optional 160 GB | 120 or 320 GB Optional 250 GB | 160 or 320 GB 2 × 500 GB on Server model Optional 500 GB |
Serial ATA 5400-rpm | |||||
Optical drive | 8× DVD read, 24× CD-R and 16× CD-RW recording Combo drive or 8× DVD±R read, 4× DVD±R writes or 2× DVD±RW writes, 24× CD read, 16× CD-R, and 8× CD-RW recording SuperDrive | 8× DVD±R read, 6× DVD±R-DL writes, 8× DVD±R writes or 6× DVD±RW writes, 24× CD read, 24× CD-R and CD-RW recording SuperDrive | 8× DVD±R read, 6× DVD±R-DL writes, 8× DVD±R writes, 6× DVD-RW writes, 8× DVD+RW writes, 24× CD read, 24× CD-R and CD-RW recording SuperDrive No optical drive on Server model | ||
Connectivity | Airport Extreme Atheros 802.11b/g GigabitEthernet Bluetooth 2.0+EDR | Airport Extreme Broadcom802.11a/b/g/draft-n Gigabit Ethernet Bluetooth 2.1+EDR | Airport ExtremeBroadcom802.11a/b/g/n Gigabit Ethernet Bluetooth 2.1+EDR | ||
Peripherals | 4x USB 2.0 1x Firewire 400 Built-in mono speaker Audio-out mini-jack Audio line-in/digital audio input | 5x USB 2.0 1x Firewire 800 Built-in mono speaker Audio-out mini-jack Audio line-in/digital audio input | |||
Video out | DVI | Mini-DVI and Mini DisplayPort | |||
Original operating system | Mac OS X 10.4.5 Tiger | Mac OS X 10.4.7 Tiger | Mac OS X 10.4.10 Tiger | Mac OS X 10.5.6 Leopard | Mac OS X 10.6.1 Snow Leopard or Mac OS X 10.6.1 Snow Leopard Server |
Latest release operating system | Mac OS X 10.6 Snow Leopard | Mac OS X 10.7 Lion if 2 GB RAM installed, otherwise Mac OS X 10.6 Snow Leopard[61] | OS X 10.11 El Capitan if 2 GB RAM installed, otherwise Mac OS X 10.6 Snow Leopard | OS X 10.11 El Capitan | |
Weight | 2.9 pounds (1.3 kg) | ||||
Dimensions | 2.0 inches (51 mm) H × 6.5 inches (170 mm) W × 6.5 inches (170 mm) D |
3rd generation (Unibody, 2010-2014)[edit]
Back panel of a mid-2010 4,1 model unibody Mac mini. From left to right, first row: power button, AC power supply plug, Gigabit Ethernet, Firewire 800, HDMI, Mini-DisplayPort, 4 USB 2.0 ports, SDXC card slot. Second row: ventilation holes, audio in, audio out
Mac mini 2010 front view of optical drive
Structure[edit]
Starting from the mid 2010 revision, there is a removable panel on the bottom, enabling the user to upgrade the RAM. The new Mac mini has an all-aluminium enclosure, called unibody. The unibody manufacturing process was originally developed for the MacBook Air[62] and later also used in the MacBook and MacBook Pro, and the iMac before being introduced into the Mac mini range.
The built-in power supply negates the need for an external power supply 'brick' used on earlier models.[63]
There have been other changes in the 2011 revision. They include the elimination of the Kensington Security Slot,[64] as well as the optical drive. While the fifth USB 2.0 port was also removed, this has given space for a SD card slot to be included on the back of the machine.
Like the 2009 version, a Mini DisplayPort (which allows for a VGA connection, via a non-included cable) is included. An HDMI port, which Apple describes as being HDMI 1.4 compliant, replaces the Mini-DVI port on the prior models as one of the main video connection methods. The HDMI port supports up to 1080p on HDMI connections and 8 channel 24-bit audio at 192 kHz, Dolby Surround 5.1 and stereo output. With the included HDMI to DVI adapter, for those currently using a DVI interface, the HDMI port will work with resolutions up to 1920 × 1200 pixels, while the Mini DisplayPort can concurrently support a resolution up to 2560 × 1600 pixels.[citation needed]
The late 2014 model is the first Mac mini to support 4K resolution via HDMI.[65]
Performance[edit]
Mac mini models released in late 2014 used dual-core processors, which perform worse in multi-threaded workloads compared to the quad-core processors from the 2012 model. Meanwhile, single-threaded workload performance increased.[66] Comparing the high ends of both releases, the 2012 model used a 4-core, 8-thread Intel Core i7-3720QM, whereas the 2014 model used a 2-core, 4-thread Intel Core i7-4578U.
The 2014 model featured Intel Iris graphics (GT3), which greatly outperforms the Intel HD Graphics 4000 (GT2) in the previous models.[67] The late 2014 CPUs were also more energy-efficient: their maximal thermal design power (TDP) was 62% lower than that of the 2012 models.[68][69]
Specifications[edit]
Vintage | Discontinued |
Component | Intel Core 2 Duo | Intel Core i5 & i7 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Model | Mid 2010[70][71] | Mid 2011[72][73] | Late 2012[74][75] | Late 2014[76] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Release date | June 15, 2010[77] | July 20, 2011[78] | October 23, 2012[79] | October 16, 2014[80] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Order number | MC270*/A | MC438*/A (server model) | MC815*/A | MC816*/A | MC936*/A (server model) | MD387*/A | MD388*/A | MD389*/A (server model) | MGEM2*/A | MGEN2*/A | MGEQ2*/A | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Machine model | Macmini4,1 | Macmini5,1 | Macmini5,2 | Macmini5,3 | Macmini6,1 | Macmini6,2 | Macmini7,1 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Base Price at Launch | US $699 | US $999 | US $599 | US $799 | US $999 | US $599 | US $799 | US $999 | US $499 | US $699 | US $999 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Model number | A1347 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Processor | Intel Core 2 Duo (P8600) Optional 2.66 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo (P8800) | Intel Core 2 Duo (P8800) | Dual-core Intel Core i5 (i5-2415M) | Dual-core Intel Core i5 (i5-2520M Turbo Boost up to 3.2 GHz) Optional i7-2620M dual-core Intel Core i7 | Quad-core Intel Core i7 (i7-2635QM) | Dual-core Intel Core i5 (i5-3210M) | Quad-core Intel Core i7 (i7-3615QM) Optional i7-3720QM quad-core Intel Core i7 | Dual-core Intel Core i5 (i5-4260U) | Dual-core Intel Core i5 (i5-4278U) Optional i7-4578U dual-core Intel Core i7 | Dual-core Intel Core i5 (i5-4308U) Optional i7-4578U dual-core Intel Core i7 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Frequency (Turbo Boost) | 2.4 GHz 2.66 GHz with P8800 | 2.66 GHz | 2.3 GHz (2.9 GHz) | 2.5 GHz (3.2 GHz) 2.7 GHz (3.4 GHz) with i7-2620M | 2.0 GHz (2.9 GHz) | 2.5 GHz (3.1 GHz) | 2.3 GHz (3.3 GHz) 2.6 GHz (3.6 GHz) with i7-3720QM | 1.4 GHz (2.7 GHz) | 2.6 GHz (3.1 GHz) 3.0 GHz (3.5 GHz) with i7-4578U | 2.8 GHz (3.3 GHz) 3.0 GHz (3.5 GHz) with i7-4578U | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Cores (threads) | 2 | 2 (4) | 4 (8) | 2 (4) | 4 (8) | 2 (4) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Cache | 3 MB on-chip L2 | 3 MB on-chip shared L3 | 3 MB on-chip shared L3 4 MB on-chip shared L3 with i7-2620M | 6 MB on-chip shared L3 | 3 MB L3 | 6 MB L3 | 3 MB L3 | 3 MB L3 4 MB L3 with i7-4578U | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Front-side bus | 1066 MHz | DMI | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Memory two RAM slots | 2 GB (2 × 1 GB) Expandable to 8 GB (2 × 4 GB) | 4 GB (2 × 2 GB) Expandable to 8 GB (2 × 4 GB) | 2 GB (2 × 1 GB) Optional 4 (2 × 2 GB) or 8 GB (2 × 4 GB) | 4 GB (2 × 2 GB) Optional 8 GB (2 × 4 GB) | 4 GB (2 × 2 GB) Optional 8 GB (2 × 4 GB) or 16 GB (2 × 8 GB)[81] | 4 GB soldered on board[82] Optional 8 GB or 16 GB available at time of purchase only | 8 GB soldered on board[82] Optional 16 GB available at time of purchase only | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
1066 MHz DDR3 SDRAM | 1333 MHz DDR3 SDRAM | 1600 MHz DDR3 SDRAM[83] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Graphics shared with main memory | Nvidia GeForce320M using 256 MB of DDR3 SDRAM | Intel HD Graphics3000 processor with 288 MB of DDR3 SDRAM | AMD Radeon HD6630M graphics processor with dedicated 256 MB of GDDR5 memory | Intel HD Graphics 3000 processor with 384 MB of DDR3 SDRAM | Intel HD Graphics4000 | Intel HD Graphics 5000 processor | Intel Iris Graphics 5100 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Hard drive | 320 GB 5400 rpm HDD Optional 500 GB 5400 rpm HDD | 2 × 500 GB 5400 rpm HDD | 500 GB 5400 rpm HDD Optional 750 GB 5400 rpm HDD | 500 GB 5400 rpm HDD Optional 750 GB 5400 rpm HDD, 256 GB SSD, or 1 × 256 GB SSD + 1 × 750 GB 5400 rpm HDD | 2 × 500 GB 5400 rpm HDD Optional 2 × 750 GB 5400 rpm HDD, 1 or 2 × 256 GB SSD(s), or 1 × 256 GB SSD + 1 × 750 GB 5400 rpm HDD | 500 GB 5400 rpm HDD[84] | 1 TB 5400 rpm HDD Optional 1 TB Fusion Drive or 256 GB SSD[85] | 2 × 1 TB 5400 rpm HDD Optional 1 or 2 × 256 GB SSD(s)[86] | 500 GB 5400 rpm HDD Optional 1 TB Fusion Drive | 1 TB 5400 rpm HDD Optional 1 TB Fusion Drive or 256 GB SSD | 1 TB Fusion Drive Optional 2 TB Fusion Drive or 256 GB, 512 GB or 1 TB SSD | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
SATA II (3 Gbit/s) | SATA III (6 Gbit/s) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Optical drive | SuperDrive (writes: 6× DVD±R-DL, 8× DVD±R, 6× DVD-RW, 8× DVD+RW; reads: 8× DVD±R, 24× CD, 24× CD-R and CD-RW | None included (Optional External SuperDrive) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Connectivity | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
10/100/1000 Base-T Gigabit Ethernet | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Bluetooth 2.1+EDR | Bluetooth 4.0 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Internal 802.11a/b/g/n | Internal 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
IR receiver | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Peripheral connections | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
4x USB 2.0 ports | 4x USB 3.0 ports | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Mini DisplayPort Supports one 2560×1600 display | Thunderbolt port Supports two 2560×1600 displays | 2x Thunderbolt 2 ports Supports two 2560×1600 displays | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Firewire 800 port | None | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
SDXC card slot | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
HDMI port Supports 1920x1200 output | HDMI port Supports 3840×2160/30 Hz or 4096×2160/24 Hz output | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
3.5 mm Line out/headphone jack, 3.5 mm line-in jack | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Original operating system | Mac OS X 10.6.4 Snow Leopard | Mac OS X Server 10.6 Snow Leopard[87][88] | Mac OS X 10.7 Lion | Mac OS X 10.7 Lion & OS X Server | OS X 10.8.2 Mountain Lion | OS X 10.8 Mountain Lion & OS X Server | OS X 10.10 Yosemite | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Latest release operating system | macOS 10.13 High Sierra | macOS 10.14 Mojave | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Noise at idle | 13 dBA (2.4 GHz) 15 dbA (2.66 GHz) | 15 dBA | 16 dBA | 17 dBA | 12 dBA[89] | 15 dBA[89] | 16 dBA | 12 dBA[90] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Power |
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Greenhouse gas emissions | 270 kg (600 lb) CO2e[91] | 710 kg (1,570 lb) CO2e[92] | 280 kg (620 lb) CO2e[93] | 1,130 kg (2,490 lb) CO2e[94] | 290 kg (640 lb) CO2e[95] | 1,020 kg (2,250 lb) CO2e[96] | 530 kg (1,170 lb) CO2e[97] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Weight | 3.0 lb (1.4 kg) | 2.8 lb (1.3 kg) | 2.7 lb (1.2 kg) | 3.0 lb (1.4 kg) | 2.7 lb (1.2 kg) | 2.9 lb (1.3 kg) | 2.6 lb (1.2 kg) | 2.7 lb (1.2 kg) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Dimensions | 1.4 inches (36 mm) H × 7.7 inches (196 mm) W × 7.7 inches (196 mm) D |
4th generation (USB-C, 2018)[edit]
On October 30, 2018, Apple announced a fourth generation Mac mini, with Intel Coffee Lake processors, the T2 series chip used to manage the security of the device, Bluetooth 5, four USB-C 3.1 ports that support Thunderbolt 3, two USB 3.0 Type-A ports, and HDMI 2.0. PCIe-based flash storage is standard with no option of a hard disk drive. The chassis is mostly a carryover from the previous generation, measuring the same dimensions, though is only available in a darker 'space gray' finish.[98][99]
Hardware replaceability[edit]
Memory can again be replaced, unlike the 2014 models that soldered it to the logic board.[100] Flash storage is soldered to the logic board and cannot be replaced.
Specifications[edit]
Current |
Component | Intel Core i3, i5, i7 | |
---|---|---|
Model | 2018[101] | |
Release Date | November 7, 2018 | |
Order Number | MRTR2*/A | MRTT2*/A |
Machine Model | Macmini8,1 | |
Base Price At Launch | $799 | $1099 |
Model Number | A1993 | |
Processor | Intel Core i3-8100B quad-core CPU Optional Intel Core i7-8700B six-core CPU | Intel Core i5-8500B six-core CPU Optional Intel Core i7-8700B six-core CPU |
Frequency (Boost) | 3.6 GHz (Core i3) or 3.2 GHz (Core i7, boost to 4.6 GHz) | 3.0 GHz (Core i5, boost to 4.1 GHz) or 3.2 GHz (Core i7, boost to 4.6 GHz) |
Cores/Threads | 4/4 (Core i3), 6/12 (Core i7) | 6/6 (Core i5), 6/12 (Core i7) |
Cache | 6 MB (Core i3), 12 MB (Core i7) | 9 MB (Core i5), 12 MB (Core i7) |
Memory | ||
8 GB (Optional upgrade at time of purchase: 16 GB/32 GB/64 GB) | ||
DDR4 SO-DIMM 2666 MHz | ||
Graphics | Intel UHD Graphics 630 | |
Video Support | Support for the following combination of maximum concurrent display setups:
2 displays with 4096x2304 resolution at 60 Hz via Thunderbolt 3, plus 1 display with 4096x2160 resolution at 60 Hz via HDMI 2.0 or
1 display with 5120x2880 resolution at 60 Hz via Thunderbolt 3, plus 1 display with 4096x2160 resolution at 60 Hz via HDMI 2.0 Thunderbolt 3 digital video output supports
HDMI 2.0 display video output
| |
Solid-state drive | ||
128 GB Optional 256 GB, 512 GB, 1 TB, or 2 TB available at time of purchase only | 256 GB Optional 512 GB, 1 TB, or 2 TB available at time of purchase only | |
NVMe/PCIe 3.0 ×4 8.0 GT/s (31.5 Gbit/s) | ||
Security Chip | Apple T2 | |
Connectivity | ||
Internal 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | ||
Bluetooth 5.0 | ||
Gigabit Ethernet (upgradeable to 10 Gigabit Ethernet at time of purchase) | ||
Peripheral Connections | ||
4× Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C 3.1 Gen 2) | ||
2× USB 3.0 Type-A | ||
HDMI 2.0 | ||
3.5 mm headphone jack | ||
Original operating system | macOS 10.14 Mojave | |
Noise (at idle) | 4 dBA | |
Power | 150 W (max continuous) [103] | |
Greenhouse Gas Emissions | 226 kg CO2e[104] | 255 kg CO2e[104] |
Weight | 1.3 kg (2.9 pounds) | |
Dimensions | 3.6 cm (H) × 19.7 cm (W) × 19.7 cm (D) |
Mac mini Server[edit]
Apple has offered a Server configuration of the Mac mini. The first Server model came preloaded with an OS X Server version of OS X, but later models instead came preloaded with the standard version of OS X, as well as a separate OS X Server package, which included separate component apps (including 'Server App', 'File Sharing', 'Wiki Server', 'Profile Manager', etc.). Later on, Apple released the OS X Server packaged app as a single purchase from the Mac App Store, containing all the separate components apps, so that any model of Mac computer could download and use them.[citation needed]
The Mid-2010 Server model was initially the only Mac mini to entirely remove the optical drive, replacing it with a second hard drive in its place. However, from the Mid-2011 models onwards, all models of Mac mini had the optical drive removed.
Greenhouse gas emission projections for the Mac mini Server were several times those of the regular Mac mini, in part because of the extra hard disk, but also due to increased expected lifetime energy use; the percentage of CO2 from usage rose from 39% to 77%.[105]
The Mac mini Server hardware was discontinued with the Late 2014 model. However, the macOS Server software package can be purchased from the Mac App Store.[106] In 2018, coinciding with macOS Mojave, Apple shipped macOS Server version 5.71, which stopped bundling open source services, including DHCP, DNS, Email, Firewall, FTP, Radius, VPN, Web, and Wiki. Apple states that customers are able to receive support for these services directly from open-source providers. Other Apple-proprietary services, such as Airport, Calendar, Contacts, Messages, and Netboot were also removed, with no corresponding open source options.[107]
Alternatives for Mac users include running Linux or Windows virtualized, or installing third-party Unix packages via open source package managers such as Conda, Fink, Homebrew, MacPorts, Nix, pkgsrc, and Rudix [108]
A few services -- Caching, Files, Time Machine, and Web -- moved to the macOS Mojave client, but can have limited configuration capability via Mojave's Sharing control panel. The Apache server GUI manager is replaced by apachectl commands in Terminal. The only services remaining in macOS Server 5.7.1 are Open Directory, Profile Manager, and Xsan.[109]
See also[edit]
Notes[edit]
References[edit]
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External links[edit]
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Mac mini. |
- Mac mini – official site
- Mac mini Server – official site
Retrieved from 'https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Mac_Mini&oldid=911029533'
Apple Mac Mini (2018)
“The Mac Mini is the best value in the entire Mac line.”
- Compact, simple design
- Very quiet
- Excellent processor performance
- Best-in-class hard drive performance
- Terrible game performance
- MacOS updates are lackluster
Believe it or not, Apple’s Mac Mini is 13 years old, making it the second oldest product line still in Apple’s portfolio. It even outdates the MacBook Pro, which didn’t appear until 2006.
Unlike the MacBook Pro, however, the Mini was neglected. A quick updated followed the original, but the third-gen didn’t appear until 2010. Apple has sold the same design for eight years and didn’t update the internals for four (since 2014). That left budget Mac fans settling for old hardware.
Mac Mini User Manual 2014
Now, we’re finally seeing the fourth design. The new Mini, with the latest Intel chip, fixes that problem. Yet it’s no charity. Mac fans must pay at least $800 — $300 more than the previous entry. It’s not an outrageous price, but it bumps the Mac Mini into competition with a different league of hardware. Is the Mini still the perfect gateway drug for would-be Apple addicts?
Blink, and you’ll miss it
Though the 2018 Mac Mini is a redesign, it doesn’t throw out the previous look. It’s still a thin, slab of metal, sitting on a round rubber base that’s invisible when the desktop is in use. The front and sides are almost entirely flat, broken only by the Apple logo on the top and a tiny, tiny LED on the lower right corner. Even the power button is around back, where it joins the ports.
It’s the same size in every dimension as before, and nearly the same weight at 2.9 pounds. The color has changed, however. Previously available only in silver, the new model only ships in Space Gray. It’s a simple way to tell the two apart and helps the 2018 Mac Mini fit in with other modern Apple devices where silver, though often available, is no longer the most fashionable choice.
If Apple could ship a desktop with a cloaking device, it would, but the Mini is the next best thing.
There’s not much else to say, really, and that’s the point. If Apple could ship a desktop with a cloaking device, it would, but the Mini’s subtle elegance is the next best thing. It’s built to be ignored.
That said, the Mac Mini doesn’t feel as small as it once did. Intel’s Hades Canyon NUC is about the same size (though more rectangular), yet it comes with a discrete graphics chip. Intel NUC models with integrated graphics are a bit more than four inches on a side and one to two inches thick, depending on the model. Asus, Zotac, and MSI make a variety of small desktops that beat the Mac Mini on size – though not all have eighth-generation Intel processors.
Size isn’t the only reason why a Mac Mini can fade into its surroundings. Noise is at an absolute minimum. The fan only ramps up to a noticeable level during heavy workloads and, even then, it’s a whisper. We can’t remember the last time we tested a desktop this quiet.
Thunderbolt 3 is in, but it’s not all-in
Connectivity separates the new Mac Mini from the old model, and every PC competitor. Turn it around, and you’ll find three Thunderbolt 3 ports, two USB 3 ports, Ethernet, HDMI 2.0, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.
The reliance on Thunderbolt 3 is very Apple. It’s also a bit absurd. Thunderbolt 3 remains the connection of premium devices, so four such ports on an affordable desktop is strange. Intel’s NUC devices offer more USB-A 3.0 ports but, in recent models, pair them with a single Thunderbolt 3. We think that’s a better balance.
We’re not too annoyed, though. Unlike MacBooks, the Mac Mini places Thunderbolt 3 alongside a reasonable selection of alternatives. There’s USB-A 3.0 for mouse and keyboard as well as HDMI 2.0 for use with a monitor or HDTV. Most Mac Mini devices will be paired with only a small handful of peripherals, so the connectivity here is more than adequate.
You could upgrade the RAM, but you won’t want to try
Apple doesn’t care much for user upgrades, and the new Mac Mini is no exception. It’s technically possible to upgrade the RAM. You’ll have to pry around the rubber base, however, to even access the screws, and then you’ll have to completely remove the mainboard to remove and replace the RAM. The hard drive isn’t user serviceable.
Most small desktops are hard to upgrade, but some make limited upgrades easier. Intel’s NUC line, which is built with do-it-yourself users in mind, makes hard drive and RAM upgrades as simple as removing the cover.
There’re limits to the benefits of upgrading such components, however. If you want a desktop that you can improve in the future, consider a proper tower PC like the Dell Inspirion 5680.
Look at it go!
The base Mac Mini ships with an Intel Core i3-8100H, which can be upgraded to either a Core i5-8400B or Core i7-8700B. The Core i5 and i7 processors not only have more cores (six, up from four) but also a higher thermal design power. Put another way, the chips are designed with heavier power consumption in mind, and that translates to much better performance in all scenarios.
Our review unit was the $1,100 model with a Core i5-8400B processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 256GB solid state drive. It fared well in our tests.
While the Mac Mini sets no records, the Intel Core i5-8400B’s performance is excellent. Geekbench 4 shows a multi-core score of 20,432. That easily defeats Intel’s Hades Canyon NUC, which hit a score of 16,176. In fact, the Mac Mini trades blows with desktops that pack the Core i7-8700. While it’s possible to buy a Core i7-8700 desktop for a couple hundred less than the Mini, most worthwhile competitors are in the same price range, and they’re often full tower PCs.
While the Mac Mini sets no records, the Core i5-8400B’s performance is excellent
We didn’t test the Mac Mini with a Core i3 processor, but Geekbench 4’s public benchmark log makes a comparison easy. Here, too, the results are favorable for the Core i5 model. Upgrading from Core i3 to Core i5 nets a single-core performance gain of about 12 percent, which isn’t earth-shattering, but the multi-core score rises 50 percent. That’s a difference you’ll notice if you throw even a modestly demanding task at your Mac Mini.
What about the Core i7 model? It’s faster still, but it remains a six-core chip like the Core i5, so the gain is less than 15 percent in multi-core. That’s worthwhile for power users, but the Core i5 is the value sweet spot.
Oh, and here’s a fun fact. Apple hasn’t updated the iMac’s processors yet, so our Core i5-powered Mac Mini defeats most configurations. You’ll have to upgrade to the fastest processor available in the iMac (and we’re talking the iMac here, notthe $5,000 iMac Pro) to beat our Mac Mini in single-core tests, and still the iMac will lose slightly in multi-core tests.
That’s not to say you’d notice a difference in normal use, but it’s impressive given the Mac Mini’s smaller size and more affordable price.
Transfer files in a flash
As is often true of Macs, the hard drive is a stunner, hitting a read speed of 2,753MB/s and a write speed of 1,238MB/s (according to the BlackMagic benchmark). We’ve never tested a comparably priced desktop with hard drive performance on this level, and most are roughly half as quick, at best.
The hard drive is a stunner, hitting a read speed of 2,753MB/s and a write speed of 1,238MB/s
Apple Mac Mini Wiki
Even the Intel Optane drive in our Hades Canyon NUC review unit achieved a read speed of 1,333MB/s. That isn’t an apples-to-apples comparison, unfortunately, because the benchmark we use to test Windows machines does not support MacOS. Still, the Mac Mini’s storage performance stands out from its peers.
Got game? Take it somewhere else
So far, so good, but the Mac Mini does have one big gap in its performance. Gaming.
All versions of the Mac Mini ship with Intel UHD Graphics 630. No discrete graphics option is available. That means you’re out of luck if you want to play even the least demanding 3D games.
We fired up Rocket League and found that, even at Performance quality settings and 1080p resolution, gameplay wasn’t smooth enough to be enjoyable. Dropping to 1,600 x 900 helped, but the game looked like a PlayStation 3 launch title.
Civilization VI is another game we frequently test, and it was hopeless. We saw an average of 9 frames per second even at 1080p and medium detail. It’s not playable, nevermind enjoyable.
That’s a problem. Gaming is mainstream, but the Mac Mini can’t handle most titles. Many similarly priced desktops come with a discrete graphics card either standard or as an option. Intel’s Hades Canyon NUC is the most notable entry, as it’s even smaller than the Mac Mini but offers enough performance to play any modern title at 1080p and medium detail. Larger desktops, like the Dell Inspiron Gaming line, offer do-it-all punch at the same price as our Mac review unit – though, admittedly, they’re much larger.
MacOS has become a weakness
The new Mac Mini’s $800 price tag is $300 more than the outgoing model, but it’s still the least expensive Mac available. That makes it the go-to for budget buyers. Many people will choose it not because they want the Mac Mini specifically, but because they want MacOS.
Alternatives
That’s not the advantage it used to be, however. Recent MacOS updates have made little difference for the average owner and, in many respects, the operating system has become less attractive over time. It’s still simple to use, but Apple clearly favors iOS, showering it with updates while MacOS sustains itself on a trickle of small quality-of-life improvements.
Gaming used to be somewhat viable on Mac, but few new PC games bother to port over to the Mac, which is no doubt why Steam’s user survey has shown the Mac’s user share stall at about 2.5 percent. Apple’s Mac App Store isn’t as useful as its iOS peer, and arguably isn’t as trustworthy. And the Mac’s multitasking features have not kept up with Windows 10.
All this means MacOS isn’t as appealing as it used to be. If you prefer it, go for it. Learning a new operating system is a hassle. If you’re a Windows user thinking to switch to MacOS for the operating system, though, think twice. You’ll be signing up for an operating system that’s receiving unimpressive updates and makes up only a small share of Apple’s business. Windows 10 is still a tentpole for Microsoft, however, and that shows in Windows’ quicker update pace and better support from third-party software.
Apple’s Mac Mini is a strong performer in all areas except games. So strong, in fact, that most people won’t have a reason to buy a more powerful Mac. The Mac Mini we tested, with a Core i5 processor, is a simple, intuitive desktop that will satisfy owners for years.
Mac Mini User Guide
Is there a better alternative?
Intel’s NUC offers better overall performance in a similar form factor, and you can buy off-the-shelf models with an operating system install. They’re even somewhat upgradable. However, their design and features aim the NUC line at hardware geeks.
There’s also a wide variety of small desktops from companies like MSI and Zotac. These too are aimed at enthusiasts, not everyday people who just want a computer that works. Availability can be spotty for these brands, too.
Apple Macbook Instruction Manual
For most people, the real question is this. Do you need a desktop this small? If you do, the Mac Mini is a good bet. If you don’t, a small tower PC like the Dell Inspiron 5680 will do more for your money.
Buy Apple Mac Mini
How long will it last?
Modern desktops often last at least five years, and we doubt the Mac Mini will be any different. The standard one-year warranty is nothing special, but the Apple Store offers a superior service experience should you have a problem.
Should you buy it?
Expressvpn manual configuration mac uae. Yes. Forget the iMac. The Mac Mini is all the Mac most people need.