2011 mini server I7 or a 2012 mini i5?

[w_macintosh]

Grabbing a mini for a project to work on/a spare computer and found a mid 2011 Mac mini server I7 and a late 2013 Mac mini 2.5 ghz i5 for the same price. Will be doing the same ssd/ram upgrades. Which you suggest I grab? Not sure if the quad core on the previous year is faster than the base 2012. Thanks!
[doublepost=1524038872][/doublepost]Here are the stock versions. I’ll be upgrading both.

 

[Boyd01]

I wouldn't get a 2011 Mini simply because it doesn't have USB 3.0. That is a huge difference if you use external disks.

 

[w_macintosh]

That’s not really a huge issue. It’ll mostly be for some photo editing and a media console for my spare room.

 

[RyanXM]

If you don't mind me asking, how much are you paying for each?

 

[KrisLord]

I’m guessing the server has 2 drives but the 2012 only one?

That’ll make upgrading the 2011 a bit cheaper....

I’ve never had a 2011 model, I sold my i7 2012 recently. I’d probably get the 2011 if the USB difference isn’t important.

 

[w_macintosh]

If you don't mind me asking, how much are you paying for each?

350 for the 2011 400 for the 2012

 

[RyanXM]

Would you take a 2012 2.6GHz i7 for $450?

 

[w_macintosh]

Would you take a 2012 2.6GHz i7 for $450?

Absolutely. Just can’t find any in my area.

 

[Boyd01]

Would you take a 2012 2.6GHz i7 for $450?

That would be a really good price (if it was in good condition).

 

[uller6]

Keep in mind that the 2011 server model runs its fans at a faster baseline speed than other 2011 and 2012 minis - it’s noticibly louder.