Need a device for my needs at a budget

[mjschabow]

Hi everyone. I am looking for a Mac device, either a Mac mini, iMac, or MacBook. In the past, I’ve owned a few MacBooks, and they just kind of sat around because I pretty much do everything on my phone these days. But because Apple refuses to let me manage my Apple Music library for downloaded files on my phone, I do need a device to be able to download live shows off the Internet and import them in my Apple Music library. Maybe I would occasionally use a WebCam for zoom or teams calls, but I highly doubt it. So obviously, I’m not looking to spend a lot, but I definitely want something that’s capable and won’t freeze up. So basically, I’m wondering out of the three devices that I mentioned, how old of a model can I buy without being incredibly frustrated by it. Of course, I would also want to keep it for few years as well.


Thanks for any advice you can offer!

 

[Chuckeee]

Do you already have an unused display sitting around? If so go for a refurbished Mac mini.

If not and those are your sole requirements [blasphemy] you might be better off with a low cost windows laptop

 

[mjschabow]

Do you already have an unused display sitting around? If so go for a refurbished Mac mini.

If not and those are your sole requirements [blasphemy] you might be better off with a low cost windows laptop

Thanks for the reply. I do have an extra monitor that I use as a second monitor in my home office for work. I have a Windows computer for work but of course it’s locked down and they won’t let me install iTunes on it. I will look into refurbished Mac minis. I don’t really want to go with a cheap windows laptop because I’ve had experiences with them failing quickly, but a Mac mini, I could easily just switch the HDMI cable and do what I need to do whenever I need it.

 

[OrenLindsey]

a refurbished Mac mini is like $400-500, which should be good enough. Be sure to get an M1 or M2 model. Other than that, I don't think you actually need more than 8gb of RAM or anything over the base SSD. Just be sure to get apple silicon, other than that, you're good.

 

[mjschabow]

Thanks! Two out of two refurbished Mac mini so I think that’s the one. Lol. $500 on Apple refurbished.