At a Glance
Expert's Rating
Pros
- Includes Front Row software with Apple Remote
- Decent dual-core processor performance
- Analog- and digital-audio input and output
- Built-in AirPort Extreme and Bluetooth 2.0
- Gigabit Ethernet
Cons
- Not enough built-in RAM
- RAM is difficult to upgrade
- Integrated graphics reduces available RAM
- Not suitable for gaming
Our Verdict
Apple moves to an all dual-core hardware lineup with the introduction of this low-end mini. No longer equipped with a 1.5GHz Intel Core Solo chip, this model now runs on a 1.66GHz Intel Core Duo — without any change to its $599 price tag. Other specs — the60GB hard drive, integrated Intel graphics, and 512MB of installed RAM — remain unchanged from the previous entry-level Mac mini offering.
Apple made an excellent choice in dropping the underpowered Core Solo-based model. As a budget Mac, a supplemental home computer, a server, or a home media set-top box, the Mac mini’s price and size make it an impressively versatile system, though the integrated graphics won’t meet the demands of gamers.