what is dif between a reg mini and a mini server?

Server version has no optical drive. Also it has OSX Server instead of desktop client. Most likely you wouldn't need the server features, but I think that's a good price. It must be the previous generation (2009) because the current server model base processor is 2.66.

Physically the only difference is a 2nd harddrive instead of a DVD drive.

I had a similar question. So basically I can run all of my Applications and do all of my regular work on a Server?

applegenius83 said:

I had a similar question. So basically I can run all of my Applications and do all of my regular work on a Server?

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Correct. One thing to note is that the Mid2010 Mini Servers boot by default into 64-bit mode. For about 95% of applications, this doesn't matter. If you would like to change it to 32-bit mode, follow THESE instructions from Apple.

The mini and the mini server are very similar other than the superdrive bay being used for a second hdd and a slight bump in processor clock speed. The big difference is with the OS that comes with it. http://www.apple.com/ca/server/macosx/whats-new.html

My thinking is that if you aren't sure what you'd do with a server then it isn't what you need.

In your first post you say you bought a Mini in November but are having a hard time getting used to it after years with a PC. So you're thinking of buying a server and that will make things better?

The Mac Mini Server is just a Mini without a DVD drive. It has an extra hard drive in it's place. And it runs Mac OS X Server, which will still run all the regular Mac OS X software, but if you're not looking for a Server, there's no real reason to buy one.

I'm not even sure I understand your statement from your first post. Are you looking for a second Mini for another room, or to replace the Mini you just bought?

Install the normal consumer OS and it will be identical to the "normal" mini, but with a hard drive in place of the optical drive.