2012 vs 2014 Mac Mini heat generation

[GXPvince]

I would like to purchase either a 2012 or 2014 base model Mac Mini.

Because it will be in a confined space, the less heat generation the better. I am assuming 2014 1.6ghz would be best in this situation.. Would that be correct?

 

[Dark Void]

I suppose you are right, but it really depends on what you will be using it for. I have a 2012 model in an enclosed space and I don't have any problems with heat - but I am also not gaming on it.

 

[Andres Cantu]

I would like to purchase either a 2012 or 2014 base model Mac Mini.

Because it will be in a confined space, the less heat generation the better. I am assuming 2014 1.6ghz would be best in this situation.. Would that be correct?

I have been using a base model 2014 Mac Mini for a bit more than a week, and I haven't had any issues with either heat or noise. I do, however, only use it for web browsing. I was lucky enough to get it for $349 with a special deal from Best Buy for students, so whichever model you can get cheaper should be fine.

 

[WilliamG]

For what it's worth, my 2014 Mac mini's (MID-range) CPU sits idling around 32C, whereas my 2012 non-i7 mini sat around 10C higher when idling, in the mid 40s.

 

[Celerondon]

Dark Void said it best! Although the newer minis are more efficient, heat production is largely a result of the workload. An idling 2012 or older machine will use much less energy than a new mini that is running a typical Handbrake job.

What do you plan to do with the machine? That is a versatile computer. Are you planning to limit your options because of environmental factors?. For my systems, I prefer to provide adequate cooling wherever the computer is mounted.

 

[GXPvince]

Dark Void said it best! Although the newer minis are more efficient, heat production is largely a result of the workload. An idling 2012 or older machine will use much less energy than a new mini that is running a typical Handbrake job.

What do you plan to do with the machine? That is a versatile computer. Are you planning to limit your options because of environmental factors?. For my systems, I prefer to provide adequate cooling wherever the computer is mounted.

Thanks for the responses. I use them for Photo booths, the minis are in the same box as a thermal printer. I would say the box is 24in x 24in x 30in. Haven't had an issue with a Maxed out 2012 yet. But where I live (120f weather) having it outside may be an issue, luckily I haven't had a outside event in the middle of summer yet.

 

[grcar]

Because it will be in a confined space ...

Where exactly do you plan to put the thing?

 

[Dark Void]

Where exactly do you plan to put the thing?

It was listed in the post above yours.

 

[Ice Dragon]

The new base mini is horrible. It wouldn't be so bad if it had a 128 GB SSD option though.