 |
I'm a video enthusiast, not a fulltime editor. I prefer this 2012 version of the Mac Mini over the latest 2014 version because the latter has to be ordered with 16MB RAM included. You cannot add RAM later, nor does the 2014 version have a Firewire port for my older peripherals. This 2012 Mac Mini i7 has HDMI output to my large HDTV display, four USB 3.0 ports backward compatible with USB 2.0, SDXC flash card slot for media import, and I can still use my Firewire 800 external 4TB HD to archive my files and projects, plus I added a bargain new Thunderbolt 8TB RAID 1 external HD to edit AVCHD video clips quite speedily. It does slow down when processing Motion 5 special effects, but not to the point I would spend $10K for a new Mac Pro or $4K iMac Retina.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Although it has a spinny disc by default so is rather sluggish on disc-bound operations by SSD standards, it's a solid machine with a reasonable balance of internal components and, most of all, the ability to upgrade them relatively easily. No soldered-on RAM or unusual/possibly proprietary SSD blades to be found here. The port arrangement is also good, with forward-facing for its time Thunderbolt 1 and USB 3.0, but backed up by legacy FireWire, Gigabit ethernet and HDMI to complement display out over Thunderbolt if needed. In use it is close to silent - the HDD and fan are inaudible in normal use. Especially good for an HTPC / NAS hub, but obviously a very expensive if you're going to use it just for that.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
One of the last Mac Mini models offered by Apple that doesn't solder every component to the motherboard. Although this doesn't have the latest and greatest hardware, the RAM and hardrive are upgradable which make a big difference in building a machine capable of handling the rigors of a home studio. With an SSD drive and a hybrid 1TB fusion drive installed, not only do I get quick speeds in loading applications and writing data, but also increased reliability and storage through two drives instead of the single, mechanical drive that was pre-installed. The bump up to 16GB of RAM also ensures my programs won't crap out and die on me when I'm in the middle of recording or editing. Other than that, the machine is incredibly compact, solidly built and a welcome upgrade over my late 2006 model (which coincidentally has been upgraded to specs surpassing a 2009 model). This was a great purchase that should last a long time.Read full review
This is the best performing Mac computer in this very compact form factor. Newer Mac Minis are underpowered compared to this 2.6 GHz 4-core i7. Plus it has extensive I/O options, including 3 USB 3.0 ports, Thunderbolt, SD card slot, HDMI, Ethernet, digital audio output... Makes a great media server, database server, and with SSD drives it's quick enough for video editing. Great little box.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
A good, small, fast desktop. At this price it is perfect for a home entertainment center. Has all the inputs you could possibly want, plus Bluetooth and a built-in wifi card. You can also add or change hard drives or memory to this model, if desired. Thus far, this is the last Mini that permits it those kinds of modifications.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Current slide {CURRENT_SLIDE} of {TOTAL_SLIDES}- Best Selling in Apple Desktops & All-In-Ones
Current slide {CURRENT_SLIDE} of {TOTAL_SLIDES}- Save on Apple Desktops & All-In-Ones
Current slide {CURRENT_SLIDE} of {TOTAL_SLIDES}- You may also like
