Subscribe to magazine

Mac mini/1.25GHz

Apple's least expensive Mac ships without a mouse, display, or keyboard. But it does feature a G4 processor, up to 80GB of storage depending on configuration, and a slot-loading DVD-ROM/CD-RW optical drive. In July 2005, Apple doubled the installed memory to 512MB across the mini line.

 Reviewed Full Review

Despite its slightly aging hardware and the fact that it still doesn't have an audio-in port or a built-in microphone, the Mac mini is still the best entry-level Mac. Doubling the installed RAM on this lowest-priced configuration to 512MB is a welcome change.

Pros: Decent value; adequate memory; small and light; good video-out options; excellent design; fast enough for basic tasks.

Cons: No audio-in port; no DVD burner, not even as a build-to-order option.

Basics

Reviewed Price: $499

Processor: 1.25GHz Power PC G4

Information about this system on Apple's website

Lab Tests

Speedmark 4.0 Score100
Cinema 4D XL 9.15:33
iMovie HD1:22
iTunes 4.72:50
Photoshop CS22:03
Compressor15:38
Unreal Tournament 200411fps
Testing NotesMac OS X 10.3
Tested ConfigurationMac OS X 10.4, 512MB RAM

Latest on Mac

More Mac