Apple Releases New Mac Mini

[MacTruck]

Well I just bought my kid a mini. Configured maxed at $848 and now its $699 so a $149 price dropp. I called apple store and they said bring in your receipt for the credit since I bought it last week. Nice. I am happy. Got the same for less and I don't have the sting of a better mini being out and having to be stuck with an old one. I just wanted a better graphics card and a faster HD maybe 5400 rpm 100gb drive.

 

[powerbook911]

Well I just bought my kid a mini. Configured maxed at $848 and now its $699 so a $149 price dropp. I called apple store and they said bring in your receipt for the credit since I bought it last week. Nice. I am happy. Got the same for less and I don't have the sting of a better mini being out and having to be stuck with an old one. I just wanted a better graphics card and a faster HD maybe 5400 rpm 100gb drive.

Good to hear. I'm happy you got the refund, and a great computer. $699 is an awesome deal, for that configuration IMHO. It is a great solution for a lot of people.

 

[Plecky]

Your set-up powerbook911 does make me think of one thing I'd really like. How about a price drop on something else about the same cost as the mac mini and would really complement it well, the 20" Apple Cinema Display. If not, how about a low-priced 17" Apple Cinema Display for around $400 or a 19" for around 500-600 bucks. I'm not trying to start a rumor or speculation of such, but just saying... Now how nice would that be? A cheap(er) Apple monitor to go with all these newly purchased switching ipod-halo effect etc. etc. etc. mac minis. You with me on that one MacTruck? I hope so!

 

[Trowaman]

Has anyone checked the refurbished list?

Anyone who buys a mac mini needs to have their head examined. Head CT?

iMac G5 1.8GHz/ 256MB/ 80GB/ SuperDrive/ 56K/ 17-inch - Apple Certified Refurbished
Your price: $999.00

Easy Ram upgrade. Easy WIFI upgrade. Lots more power. Very nice display. Reasonably powerful. Core Image Compatible.

Remember, Mac Mini does NOT come with mouse/keyboard/display, all add to your overall cost.

Apple Refurbished is just like brand new. These aren't wiped down used computers. Sometimes they have the 1.6 Ghz iMac from $899, but the superdrive and speed upgrade is worth the extra $100.00.

HA! Says you. My Apple refurbed Cube turned out to not be so hot in the long run.

And before anyone asks, NO YOU CAN NOT HAVE IT! That thing is a bloody collectors item now and it still looks cool to people who have never seen one before.

 

[Lord Kythe]

Lord Kythe, I agree with BGil that you are a bit extreme, you are what made me not want to switch for the longest time. I can't stand MacCultists or "converters" like yourself who have to nerve to make such outrageous statements as "Go to your local Best Buy and try to find a laptop with a graphics card (ANY graphics card other than an 'Intel Integrated' with 0 MB of VRAM) for under $1500." and then when somebody tells you you're wrong you just deny everything and go back to your only defense of "runs OSX" or software. I don't think the fact that they don't run OSX means that the graphics cards in them are better then intel integrated with 0 mb of vram for under $1500. It's like a Radeon 9600 is only a Radeon 9600 when its running OSX. Yeah right, you are what make me sometimes hate being a switcher or mac-user. I have switched, I like my mac a lot, but I like PC's as well - and I'm not about to make outrageous claims or comments and be such a blind-follower of the MacCult. It is so intense, its people like yourself, more then anything, that gives Macs a bad name in my opinion. I'm not about to say that a good PC cannot be had for under 1500 dollars because we all *should* know that a very good PC can be had for under 1500 dollars, especially hardware wise! Nor am I going to drink some magic cool-aid and hop onboard of a spaceship flying behind a comet. Most of all, doesn't compition bring out the best in those competing? It's good Microsoft has Apple as competition and vice versa, and even that linux serves a little role as the middle man (since you can run linux on a Mac or Microsoft if desired). I mean sure it may be a little bit better compition if mac had more market share but there making strides and working towards that goal, especially in the past couple or so years. Also, who knows how spyware/adware/virus-proof OSX would be if it was used by 95% of computer users... Or how little spyware/adware/viruses Windows XP would get if it was only used by 5% of computer users? Etc. etc. etc. Point being of all my ramblings' is to not be so extreme/intense, you're more harmful/hurtful to Apple then beneficial/helpful. While BGil is productive in these boards and could probably easily switch me to a mac if I wasn't already there, you are more counterproductive and would turn me off and turn me away from wanting to owning a mac. I'd be afraid I'd say things like your comments in this thread... Can't we all just get along?

Yet again, pointless crap about something that doesn't even exist... Where did I post anything about a friggin' video card? I never said anything about a video card. Re-read my posts (normally you should read a post before trashing it, but then again there are those other few users...), all I said was try to find a PC laptop that runs Mac OS X. I didn't deny anything and switch argument, I never stated anything about the video card. Wanna re-read my post? Here it is, you won't even have to look for it: "Ok, ok, no MHz Myth crap. How 'bout this though: try finding a PC laptop under $1500 that runs Mac OS X (which, by the way let's be honest, is the only area where Apple has the edge right now, in these transition times).".

Now please point out where I am talking about a video card... All I see is me saying "try finding a PC laptop under $1500 that runs Mac OS X".

You are confusing me with GFLPraxis who posted

What the heck are you talking about? Here we have a $999 laptop with a *decent* though *slightly* underpar processor, but not terrible by any means. Built in 802.11g AND Bluetooth 2.0. A Radeon 9550 graphics card. THIS IS NOT BAD. Go to your local Best Buy and try to find a laptop with a graphics card (ANY graphics card other than an 'Intel Integrated' with 0 MB of VRAM) for under $1500.

I did not agree with that post. I was in fact saying word for word that the only thing Apple has over the competition with iBooks is Mac OS X. It is important to read if you want to post, especially the post you are replying to.

I do believe PCs (Wintels and WAMDs) have their place, they rule gaming for one, and they are the only computer market with a real competitive environment. Don't speak as if you know me! Saying all that crap about me being the reason you wouldn't switch; you (didn't even) read one or two of my posts and you can make up your mind with that?

The fact that I spent over $100ks in my short life on Apple equipment probably means I was more beneficial to Apple than you, no offense.

Enough said. Case closed.

 

[Deanster]

I guess I've got a little different view - I bought a 1.25 Mini for $499, then upgraded it with 512 RAM for $54 (I really should have gone for 1Gb, BTW), and added the Airport/BT board from the 'returns' table at my local apple store for $79.99.

So, I paid $630 plus tax, with substantial discounts on the two add-ons, and have a 1.25/512/40Gb/Airport-BT/Combo Mini. Street Prices for all that would have added about another $30, making it $660.

So, if you now get a 1.42/512/80/Airport-BT/Combo mini for $600 - That's a 10% discount off street prices for the upgrades, more off Apple's pricing), for a 17% faster machine with twice the HD space, and it's all stock... Given the rock-bottom pricing of the Minis, either a 10% discount or a feature upgrade is pretty good - both is fine.

While I also would have liked a better graphics card, even a teeny little speed bump to 1.5Ghz, and the Airport remaining an option, it's not a bad 'refresh'. I think the reality is that Apple is working very hard to keep the Mini an 'entry' machine that doesn't really perform in a way that power users can live with, so as to keep it from cannibalizing Powermac/iMac sales.

Keeping the Video minimal is the best way to do that, as proven by the screams of pain from the folks here. My bet is that the video is the LAST feature upgraded, for exactly this reason.

 

[Nermal]

The SuperDrive doesn't seem to be double layer anymore

 

[Trowaman]

Your set-up powerbook911 does make me think of one thing I'd really like. How about a price drop on something else about the same cost as the mac mini and would really complement it well, the 20" Apple Cinema Display. If not, how about a low-priced 17" Apple Cinema Display for around $400 or a 19" for around 500-600 bucks. I'm not trying to start a rumor or speculation of such, but just saying... Now how nice would that be? A cheap(er) Apple monitor to go with all these newly purchased switching ipod-halo effect etc. etc. etc. mac minis. You with me on that one MacTruck? I hope so!

The return of the 17" display (widescreen this time) would be welcome IMO if it was priced reasonably. As for the current line, I think they could use another price cut (or at least give the 20" HD and make the 23" and 25" or something instead).

But I will finally say it, besides the mini and iBook, the rest of Apple's computers are finally starting to look a tad expensive to me. Aw, even today's high end mini would be better at $649 than $699 in my book, is the ability to add DVD burning really worth $100 at 4x. If say, $100 was trimmed from all of Apple's other models, I think they'd be in great shape.

Also, something really needs to be done with the eMac. Perhaps it should have a high end for a bit cheaper and the low end retreats to the edu market only for stupid low prices (and give that model 512 RAM for crying out loud, it's the only one that doesn't have 512)

 

[combatcolin]

REFURB!!!

Looks like i can finally buy an iBook with BT as standard through the Apple Refurb site for the 1st time.

Give it a few months/weeks....

 

[RichardCarletta]

Next Mac Mini update ?

With a Powerbook update expected by the fall , I would expect Powerbooks to be updated with 1.8 GHZ G4s or 1.6 GHZ 970FX G5s and in early February have Mac Minis and eMacs get updated with 1.67 GHZ G4s . In February, 1.5 GHZ will be too slow for desktop updates. I would like to see in February, 2 Mac Mini Models : the $700 Superdrive model with a better GPU and 1.67 GHZ G4 and a $500 combo drive model ( that price point is vital. )

 

[msb221]

The fact that I spent over $100ks in my short life on Apple equipment probably means I was more beneficial to Apple than you, no offense.

Enough said. Case closed.

YOU SEE! Thats who apple thinks there customers are, people that have 100k a week to throw around on computers. They think weve all got huge bank accounts.

What people moan about is the fact they dont get enough for their money in comparrision to a pc. And the hardware is so restrained and were being held back by 5 yrs. We all know apple could squash a lot more in the box for our money but they wont.

Thats where rich customers come in, because they dont care..
'its just monthly interest darling'.

 

[MacSA]

YOU SEE! Thats who apple thinks there customers are, people that have 100k a week to throw around on computers. They think weve all got huge bank accounts.

What people moan about is the fact they dont get enough for their money in comparrision to a pc. And the hardware is so restrained and were being held back by 5 yrs. We all know apple could squash a lot more in the box for our money but they wont.

Thats where rich customers come in, because they dont care..
'its just monthly interest darling'.

I agree with you to some extent.....Apple's idea of the digital lifstyle is a bit odd in my opinion. Removing the modems from the minis is an example, I can understand with the powermacs - but the minis? Millions and millions of people still access the internet through dialup and most ISP's have backup dialup - Apple are living in some fantasy world.

 

[Nermal]

Maybe the idea is that you use the modem in your AirPort base

And before you ask, no, I don't have an AirPort base.

 

[atomwork]

I agree with you to some extent.....Apple's idea of the digital lifstyle is a bit odd in my opinion. Removing the modems from the minis is an example, I can understand with the powermacs - but the minis? Millions and millions of people still access the internet through dialup and most ISP's have backup dialup - Apple are living in some fantasy world.

i remember when apple was the first to drop he floppy drive. was odd at that time too but it worked well. I never used a modem now for at least 5 years. I feel sad if people still have to use it. DSL is available everywhere in the US, even with satalite tv now.

regarding the price discussion, i feel one get a good system for 400 bucks. the os x world and a piece of mind. still, its under 1000 and I don't expect power mac quality.

 

[feakbeak]

Has anyone checked the refurbished list?

Anyone who buys a mac mini needs to have their head examined. Head CT?

iMac G5 1.8GHz/ 256MB/ 80GB/ SuperDrive/ 56K/ 17-inch - Apple Certified Refurbished
Your price: $999.00

Easy Ram upgrade. Easy WIFI upgrade. Lots more power. Very nice display. Reasonably powerful. Core Image Compatible.

Remember, Mac Mini does NOT come with mouse/keyboard/display, all add to your overall cost.

I agree with you but it is not always about performance/price. Some people, like myself, do not like all-in-one computers. I was tempted by the iMac, mostly for the better specs, but I can't bring myself to by a machine tied to a display. If Apple offered an iMac-level machine sans display I would have bought that instead of my Mac Mini. I know some used to say to get the entry level PowerMac when it was $1500 but that's more than I wanted to spend. I think $1000 would've been the pricepoint I was looking for to get a consumer-grade G5 machine in a box with an iMac level GPU.

I suppose it doesn't matter - the Headless iMac is a topic that's been beaten to death already. I always wanted one and the Mac Mini, while not exactly what I had in mind for a headless iMac, was close enough for me to buy. Now that I've gotten my feet wet with OS X, which was my main purpose for wanting to buy an inexpensive Mac, I quite pleased with it and will get a PowerMac-grade machine once that line has moved over to Intel. My Mac Mini will serve me fine until then.

 

[Loke]

Ive got a Rev. A mini myself, and was eagerly awaiting an update. I couldnt care about memory upgrade or HD speed, as I can fix those myself - but I really wanted a better graphics card. I was - as most here - disappointed by Apples move.

However, the more I think about this - the more certain I become. All the complaining must mean one thing: there is currently a missing hole in Apples line-up of desktop computers. And all the people complaining in this thread, including me, really hoped the Mini would step up to the plate. Instead, Apple continue marketing it as a intro computer (which it probably and rightfully is).

Apparantly there is a need for a beefier headless Mac to fill in the void between the PM line and the MM line. I read earlier that a guy said there is no such market, but I beg the differ. The entire PC industry has moved away from loud and big tower models like the PM, and instead nearly every computer sold is silent and small. Just look at every Shuttle-like manufacturer popping up everywhere with their barebones. I think Apple has been sleeping in class overlooking this market.

 

[MarcelV]

What is wrong with some of you?

Apple integrates Bluetooth and Wireless into Mac Mini and upped the RAM, and most of you turns negative, because, again, it's not enough. Don't you realize we are just all acting as a bunch of spoiled brats?
They deliver more machine for same price points! And loaded with a bunch of useful software for most of the people in the real world. (Ever seen the preloaded software on similar priced Windows machines?)

This negativity really makes me walk away from sites like this. It's not constructive and will not help Apple nor us. It really is pointless.
So, I am done with my rant!!!!

 

[MudLake]

Apple integrates Bluetooth and Wireless into Mac Mini and upped the RAM, and most of you turns negative, because, again, it's not enough. Don't you realize we are just all acting as a bunch of spoiled brats?
They deliver more machine for same price points! And loaded with a bunch of useful software for most of the people in the real world. (Ever seen the preloaded software on similar priced Windows machines?)

This negativity really makes me walk away from sites like this. It's not constructive and will not help Apple nor us. It really is pointless.
So, I am done with my rant!!!!

MarcelV, you're not listening to what people are saying here (IMHO). Few care that Bluetooth and wireless are bundled in because they could buy those anyway if they really wanted them. Further, those are not highly requested features in a DESKTOP computer. Sure, it makes it easier for Apple to put all of their display computers on-line at Apple Stores but who cares about that?

If your took a poll of potential and informed buyers of what they'd rather have: A better GPU or Bluetooth/wireless, I bet the vast majority would opt for the better GPU because they can't change that themselves. If I'm correct, then it shows that Apple isn't listening to their market or doesn't want to bother with it.

 

[BGil]

(Ever seen the preloaded software on similar priced Windows machines?)

Yes.

Nero 6 >>>>>> Disk Utilty, iDVD
WMP, iTunes, Real, QT > QT, iTunes
Photoshop Album, Sony Picture Studio, HP Image Zone => iPhoto
WMM2 << iMovie
Acid Xpress (Sony)/Music Studio <<<<<< GB2
Works 8 or Works Suite >>>>> iWork
Outlook Express << Mail
Streets and Trips >> ???
Money ?? Quicken
MSN Messenger 7 = iChatAV
Office 2003 >>>>>> ????
OneNote >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> ????
Media Center >>>>>> DVD player

 

[space1nvaders]

were not spoiled at all with the exception of the last imac update their updates are always pitiful and their computers are always overpriced its like they dont even pay attention to the rest of computer world

In comparison to the rest of the computer world, how are their updates better?

 

[Ravenflight]

With a Powerbook update expected by the fall , I would expect Powerbooks to be updated with 1.8 GHZ G4s or 1.6 GHZ 970FX G5s and in early February have Mac Minis and eMacs get updated with 1.67 GHZ G4s . In February, 1.5 GHZ will be too slow for desktop updates. I would like to see in February, 2 Mac Mini Models : the $700 Superdrive model with a better GPU and 1.67 GHZ G4 and a $500 combo drive model ( that price point is vital. )

Yes, but isn't February cutting it kind of close to the Intel thing? Even if by some miracle Apple releases a minor speedbump just 4 months before the transition, would anyone buy it? If it had come out yesterday I definately would have. If it comes out just 4 months before the first Intels are supposed to appear I might just wait and see.

 

[wdlove]

Well I just bought my kid a mini. Configured maxed at $848 and now its $699 so a $149 price drop. I called apple store and they said bring in your receipt for the credit since I bought it last week. Nice. I am happy. Got the same for less and I don't have the sting of a better mini being out and having to be stuck with an old one. I just wanted a better graphics card and a faster HD maybe 5400 rpm 100gb drive.

Your child is very lucky. That will certainly make for an awesome setup. Made it even better getting the $149 price drop.

 

[minimax]

Yes, but isn't February cutting it kind of close to the Intel thing? Even if by some miracle Apple releases a minor speedbump just 4 months before the transition, would anyone buy it? If it had come out yesterday I definately would have. If it comes out just 4 months before the first Intels are supposed to appear I might just wait and see.

This pricedrop has been exactly 6 months after the mini became available. If the intel mini becomes available around 6/2006 I would expect an update around 3 months from now. But since this has been presented as an 'update' which it most clearly is not I suspect Apple wants to hold out until early 2006 and switch directly to intel.

 

[ScubaDuc]

Ive got a Rev. A mini myself, and was eagerly awaiting an update. I couldnt care about memory upgrade or HD speed, as I can fix those myself - but I really wanted a better graphics card. I was - as most here - disappointed by Apples move.

However, the more I think about this - the more certain I become. All the complaining must mean one thing: there is currently a missing hole in Apples line-up of desktop computers. And all the people complaining in this thread, including me, really hoped the Mini would step up to the plate. Instead, Apple continue marketing it as a intro computer (which it probably and rightfully is).

Apparantly there is a need for a beefier headless Mac to fill in the void between the PM line and the MM line. I read earlier that a guy said there is no such market, but I beg the differ. The entire PC industry has moved away from loud and big tower models like the PM, and instead nearly every computer sold is silent and small. Just look at every Shuttle-like manufacturer popping up everywhere with their barebones. I think Apple has been sleeping in class overlooking this market.

I could not agree with you more: I have been begging for a decent, headless Mac even before the Mini came out. I even bought a 5400 rpm disk hoping they would upgrade the video card..... The quicksilver's fan is so noisy, it's been sucking ideas right out of my head!

 

[drewpage]

"new" mac mini

So far, all i have read in this post is UK people cry and complain. Why even post? Boo Hoo!

As for the update, who says every Apple update has to knock your socks off. This is a modest, quiet update that needed to be done badly. 512 MB is really the best starting point for a Mac or PC running the latest OS. So, give Apple a break. They are just responding to the market, not reinventing the wheel.