Apple.ca: Refurbished Mac Mini - $499 & $549

[Yankees 1903]

This is probably warm at best but Apple has dropped the price on the refurb Mac mini's. I believe they have dropped by $40 for the 1.8GHz and $169 for the 2.0GHz. Not the greatest specs but if you were in the market for a refurb anyways, these at least come with a 1 year warranty. Prices on craigslist and ebay are also way over priced for used mini's with comparable specs and no warranty.

[themanfromvlad]

Any drops with the current tanking of the Canadian dollar are more than welcome.

[AndrewRFD]

Hrm, interesting, thanks. Here's a link if you want to support RedFlagDeals.com: http://www.jdoqocy.com/click-749547-10481138. Click on Mac Mini on the left.

[Neil]

I'm sure the internet has answers, but looking from some input from RFD readers that could outline the pro's and con's of these. What OS level do they come with and what's the best they can run? What apps come with? Can they still be overclocked and add ram? Any other mandatory purchases required such as Apple keyboard/mouse/display? Would this be a suitable low-cost Mac equivalent or are they more for HTPC/email usage.

[vv12]

The new mac mini is announced which said to be 5x faster. My coworker has one of the latest model of the last generation and says it is laggy playing 1080p video.

[Yankees 1903]

@ Neil

The mini's come with Leopard, Apple's latest OS. It will be able to run Snow Leopard which is the next Apple OS also called 10.6. They don't come with any keyboard our mouse but I do believe they come with a mini dvi and mini vga adapter along with a Apple remote. Web surfing, email, Microsoft office, iLife 09, some older games, and most tasks the average user needs will run. Dont expect to play COD5 or run Photoshop at blazing speeds, Apple let the mini sit their without an update for over a year. Should play 720p quicktime trailers and 720p .mkv files but will struggle with 1080p because of the intel gma 950.

[rav4baby]

I have a older Core Duo mini and can confirm it plays 720p fine. Never tried 1080p, but I don't really need it to either because I find 720p is already good enough.

Thanks OP!

[CodeMan]

@ Neil

The mini's come with Leopard, Apple's latest OS. It will be able to run Snow Leopard which is the next Apple OS also called 10.6. They don't come with any keyboard our mouse but I do believe they come with a mini dvi and mini vga adapter along with a Apple remote. Web surfing, email, Microsoft office, iLife 09, some older games, and most tasks the average user needs will run. Dont expect to play COD5 or run Photoshop at blazing speeds, Apple let the mini sit their without an update for over a year. Should play 720p quicktime trailers and 720p .mkv files but will struggle with 1080p because of the intel gma 950.

not true. playing 264 mkv files has little to do with video card cuz with 1.8g d2d, it is good enough to drive 1080p

[zenzen]

My 1.83 C2D GMA950 2GB had no problem displaying the Dark Knight trailer at 1080p. Then again I wasn't running much in the background.

[4got10]

Apple announced new mac mini's today so they are probably trying to get rid of any old stock.

Apple today announced a number of new products including a new Mac Mini which starts at U.S. $599 or $729 Canadian.

Available in two models, the base model Mac mini features a 2 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor, 1GB of RAM, 120GB hard drive, 8x Super drive, Gigabit Ethernet, 5 USB 2.0 ports and NVIDIA GeForce 9400 integrated graphics.

[sjpeters79]

Looks like the 2 ghz mac mini refurbs are gone as the site no lists them.
http://store.apple.com/ca/browse/home/specialdeals/mac/mac_mini

[hempopotamus]

Looks like the 2 ghz mac mini refurbs are gone as the site no lists them.
http://store.apple.com/ca/browse/home/specialdeals/mac/mac_mini

As with all refurb products they come and go. Check back daily, perhaps first thing in the morning.

[ItsAPong]

The new mac mini is announced which said to be 5x faster. My coworker has one of the latest model of the last generation and says it is laggy playing 1080p video.

I own an older 1.6 C2D (512MB) and I can play 1080p mkv files well with only a slight lag once in a while. The key is to use Plex instead of Quicktime or VLC to play 1080p files. The difference in performance is like night and day. I think these minis make great HTPCs, they're small and very quiet.

[Brrr]

I own an older 1.6 C2D (512MB) and I can play 1080p mkv files well with only a slight lag once in a while. The key is to use Plex instead of Quicktime or VLC to play 1080p files. The difference in performance is like night and day. I think these minis make great HTPCs, they're small and very quiet.

+1 for Plex and the mini. I noticed the performance difference right away. Many mkv's that play poorly in VLC or MPlayer play smoothly in Plex.

$549 for the previous top-end refurb is a great deal. Sucks that I just bought it for $710 3 1/2 weeks ago! Apple.ca only price protects to 14 days.

[Neil]

The rest are gone also. I was on the line with it in the cart just seeing how to apply an epp discount when it stopped working. The person at the Apple store said the last one sold while we were talking. She said they aren't expecting any more due to the model changeover.

[Neil]

$549 for the previous top-end refurb is a great deal. Sucks that I just bought it for $710 3 1/2 weeks ago! Apple.ca only price protects to 14 days.
What was better about the $549 model? I only had a quick look and it seemed like a touch more CPU power.... but can't Mac Mini CPU be overclocked anyway?

[lpsaad]

Hey guys

The macs are much cheaper on their EPP website. I ordered my ipod shuffle 2 gb from the epp website for $31 but about these macs...do they check? I mean what happens if we order from the epp website and we're not epp. BIG savings with epp!!

[Neil]

Hey guys

The macs are much cheaper on their EPP website. I ordered my ipod shuffle 2 gb from the epp website for $31 but about these macs...do they check? I mean what happens if we order from the epp website and we're not epp. BIG savings with epp!!

Are you sure about the 'big savings' with epp? My epp doesn't seem to give discount on clearance or refurbish items. And on regular high priced Apple products, the epp price isn't even as good as the educational price. For example, the $729 Mac Mini goes for $679 on epp.

[craeyon]

Hang on to your pants guys, wait for March 22 (I believe it is)

[samm]

Hang on to your pants guys, wait for March 22 (I believe it is)

what's happening on March 22? iphone 2? =O

[hkbaabaa]

Hang on to your pants guys, wait for March 22 (I believe it is)

Okay. What's up with March 22th?

There's no more refurbished Mac mini anyways.

[Brrr]

What was better about the $549 model? I only had a quick look and it seemed like a touch more CPU power.... but can't Mac Mini CPU be overclocked anyway?

It isn't better than the current model, considering it's the previous generation. $549 is cheaper than the $710 refurb price it was last week, and cheaper than the $949 price it was new.

Still a great machine to pick up for HTPC. I'm streaming everything off my NAS...MKV's, VOB's, AVI's, MOV's, etc through gigabit and Plex.

[Winnopeg]

Hang on to your pants guys, wait for March 22 (I believe it is)
Nothing more is going to change concerning the Mini for for quite some time, so I see no reason to wait if people want this older Mini. Sure, the new ones will eventually hit the refurb site, but given that their price went up a bit in Canada, their refurb prices most certainly won't be lower.

[Rehan]

The non-refurb version of these Mac Minis (they're now "previous generation") are now appearing in the Clearance section for the same price. With many credit cards, you'll get a second year of warranty for free, which is usually not available for refurbished products...so it's nice to be able to get the non-refurb models at this price.

Go to http://www.jdoqocy.com/click-749547-10481138 and then click the "Shop Clearance" link on the left.

[ssiu]

The non-refurb version of these Mac Minis (they're now "previous generation") are now appearing in the Clearance section for the same price. With many credit cards, you'll get a second year of warranty for free, which is usually not available for refurbished products...so it's nice to be able to get the non-refurb models at this price.

Go to http://www.jdoqocy.com/click-749547-10481138 and then click the "Shop Clearance" link on the left.

I'm seeing the non-refurb at $599/$649, not $499/$549.

[weare3]

HAY GUYS LET'S BUY A 2 YEAR OLD COMPUTER FOR DOUBLE WHAT A COMPARIABLE PC GOES FOR

Macs are such great values.

[Rehan]

I'm seeing the non-refurb at $599/$649, not $499/$549. Oops... Sorry, I guess I have reading problems. :o

[samm]

HAY GUYS LET'S BUY A 2 YEAR OLD COMPUTER FOR DOUBLE WHAT A COMPARIABLE PC GOES FOR

Macs are such great values.

The technology is old, but it still runs Leopard! I ran my mac mini to a LCD tv via HDMI. Also connected a 5.1 via optical. Makes for a great HTPC!

[hempopotamus]

HAY GUYS LET'S BUY A 2 YEAR OLD COMPUTER FOR DOUBLE WHAT A COMPARIABLE PC GOES FOR

Macs are such great values.

Show me a Small Form Factor PC that is suitable to be an HTPC machine for $250. Plus it's "Hey Guys" not "Hay Guys" unless you are talking to dude hands on a ranch.

[spazzamatic]

HAY GUYS LET'S BUY A 2 YEAR OLD COMPUTER FOR DOUBLE WHAT A COMPARIABLE PC GOES FOR

Macs are such great values.

you failed. :D

[mikeinmontreal]

Education price is $669 on the new Mac Mini.

[galanz]

HAY GUYS LET'S BUY A 2 YEAR OLD COMPUTER FOR DOUBLE WHAT A COMPARIABLE PC GOES FOR

Macs are such great values.

Really? Show me a PC with a comparable form factor for $250.

[mikeinmontreal]

HAY GUYS LET'S BUY A 2 YEAR OLD COMPUTER FOR DOUBLE WHAT A COMPARIABLE PC GOES FOR

Macs are such great values.

I'd buy myself a dictionary before spending any money on a PC.

[ionic]

I'd buy myself a dictionary before spending any money on a PC.

Give the guy a break. He's making a joke. "HAY GUYS" is just a bit of internet helarity, and the vernacular is hardly below the status quo here of "YMMV this, YMMV that".

Thanks the the original poster for this thread. I've been looking to build an HTPC and this may make me reconsider.

[BlueMax]

Give the guy a break. He's making a joke. "HAY GUYS" is just a bit of internet helarity, and the vernacular is hardly below the status quo here of "YMMV this, YMMV that".

Thanks the the original poster for this thread. I've been looking to build an HTPC and this may make me reconsider.

Is that supposed to be "hilarity" or is that just a word beyond my vocabulary? :) I don't get these "spelling is optional" people, though they appear to have become Canada's vast majority.

In either case, the NEW mini sure looks nice! the improved video makes a world of difference! It's even more tempting than ever... and just as attractive as it always has been. :)

[ionic]

BlueMax, honestly, get over yourself and get a life. Spelling is not optional, but to err is human. People that have nothing better to do than correct people's spelling are honestly some of the lowest common denominator of society.

[BlueMax]

BlueMax, honestly, get over yourself and get a life. Spelling is not optional, but to err is human. People that have nothing better to do than correct people's spelling are honestly some of the lowest common denominator of society.

You're the one made the mistake of misspelling in a post about someone's spelling. ;) That's always good for a chuckle. Now stop being so sensitive - life is still as beautiful as a mac mini. ;)

[monkey_bongo]

The briefly put a few refurbished mini's online. I picked up the 2Ghz model for $550 to use as an HTPC with Plex

I'll agree the specs are a little old but OSX runs smoothly and the resale demand is crazy high. I would have liked to spend less but I should be able to keep a lot for the residual value after a few years.

[BlueMax]

You make a good point... I sunk about $400+ into a small-ish machine with an AMD 4850e and Radeon 4650 video card. I'll be lucky to get $200 for it in a year or so.

A mini with the new GeForce 9400 will be pretty decent (but mine will still run circles around its 3D) but will hold much of its $650-700 value for a lot longer.

Glad I reminded myself of the 3D difference - now I don't feel so bad. But then, the mini is so darn small and good lookin'...

Oh well. Maybe someday when there's more cash to spare.

[Neil]

Well the refurb mac mini's seem extinct. So I'm thinking of biting the bullet for the new model. I have a bunch of Q's for the frugal RFD people though:

- can I just use any old USB keyboard/mouse? what about the special apple keys?

- any DVI monitor will work?

- worth it to go up to 2 GB ram for $55 more?

- worth it to spend $19 on the simple remote?

- since the old model did 720p is it safe to assume this will do 1080p with ease?

- can the plain machine (with superdrive) be used to author and backup 8.5 GB DVD's, or is extra s/w or h/w required?

- any concerns about an Nvidia GPU? isn't Nvidia in a huge scandal over embedded GPU's failing prematurely?

- any mandatory cables or s/w that should be ordered?

- worth it to wait and try to get snow leopard, or will there be a cheap update option like there is for iLife?

[bustizen]

Well the refurb mac mini's seem extinct. So I'm thinking of biting the bullet for the new model. I have a bunch of Q's for the frugal RFD people though:

- can I just use any old USB keyboard/mouse? what about the special apple keys?

- any DVI monitor will work?

- worth it to go up to 2 GB ram for $55 more?

- worth it to spend $19 on the simple remote?

- worth it to wait and try to get snow leopard, or will there be a cheap update option like there is for iLife?

I have the first gen Mac mini since 2005 and I guess my experience might help.

- Any USB keyboard/mouse should work. I have used Microsoft keyboards on my mini. Without the Microsoft software, you'll find the Akt key to be your apple key and Win to be the Option key on the Mac.

- I had been using a Samsung 17" LCD over DVI and 15" CRT over VGA without problems. I switched to a 22" Acer last year and had problems connecting to my mini over DVI. Could have been just the Acer monitor or the ATI 9200 on my mini but it worked fine over VGA.

- The difference between 1GB and 2GB or RAM should be noticeable if you multi-task quite a bit or go to sites that are flash/java intensive. My 1.25Ghz PPC mini with 1GB of RAM can run Photoshop Elements with an 11x17 monochrome pdf, Safari with a few tabs open, Entourage in background, Adobe Reader with a 11x17 pdf, and maybe 1 or 2 more apps all at the same time without too much lag, other than when I'm zooming or moving within the pdfs. I believe a stick of 2GB RAM is about $25-$30 retail? $55 doesn't sound too bad considering you won't have to dig into the guts of the mini yourself and (possibly) voiding the warranty.

- The remote, on the other hand, depends on how your are going to position your mini. I have mine tucked behind the monitor and the infrared remote won't work (even if my mini supports it, which it doesn't).

- I don't know of discounted OS X upgrade but if you are a student you can get educational discount on the OS once it's out. Mine is still on Tiger and I'm happy with that. No real reason for me to upgrade to Leopard or Snow Leopard yet. (At least not on a (almost) 4 yr-old machine that still runs really well)

[Neil]

I have the first gen Mac mini since 2005 and I guess my experience might help.
Thanks for all the good input!

- The difference between 1GB and 2GB or RAM should be noticeable if you multi-task quite a bit or go to sites that are flash/java intensive. My 1.25Ghz PPC mini with 1GB of RAM can run Photoshop Elements with an 11x17 monochrome pdf, Safari with a few tabs open, Entourage in background, Adobe Reader with a 11x17 pdf, and maybe 1 or 2 more apps all at the same time without too much lag, other than when I'm zooming or moving within the pdfs. I believe a stick of 2GB RAM is about $25-$30 retail? $55 doesn't sound too bad considering you won't have to dig into the guts of the mini yourself and (possibly) voiding the warranty.
Reading about the new models it sounds like the GPU steals 128-256 MB of system RAM so having extra RAM probably doesn't hurt. I'm reading that people are buying a 4 GB kit for $55 USD but when I checked NCIX the matching (?) DDR3 chips were $86 x 2. There's a 1 GB chip that would probably cost about $45 after s/h.

- I don't know of discounted OS X upgrade but if you are a student you can get educational discount on the OS once it's out. Mine is still on Tiger and I'm happy with that. No real reason for me to upgrade to Leopard or Snow Leopard yet. (At least not on a (almost) 4 yr-old machine that still runs really well)
People seem to be saying that snow leopard will use the CPU & GPU more effectively and may have a built-in way of using the GPU for some CPU functions. At least that's my read on it. And if the new mini has so much extra GPU capability, that could make it an interesting upgrade. Too bad Apple doesn't have a free upgrade if you bought the original OS within say a year prior to the new one's release.

[mikeinmontreal]

Mac Mini 2.0Ghz for $549 up in the Refurb store right now.

[Azer]

Link? Or are they all gone?

[mikeinmontreal]

Gone now; but check back frequently.

http://store.apple.com/ca/browse/home/specialdeals?mco=MzAyNDk3NA

[Azer]

Was it the one with the Dual Layer DVD burner?

[mikeinmontreal]

Yes. The 1.83Ghz with the combo drive is $499 when in stock.

[fyrefly]

Well the refurb mac mini's seem extinct. So I'm thinking of biting the bullet for the new model. I have a bunch of Q's for the frugal RFD people though:

- can I just use any old USB keyboard/mouse? what about the special apple keys?

Any USB keyboard should work. On most keyboards, the windows key replaces the apple key - and on several windows based-keyboards some (if not all) of the "special" keys will work. I've had a logitech keyboard and a microsoft keyboard and things like the volume keys worked on both.

- any DVI monitor will work?

The refurb minis come with a full DVI port on the back. The new 9400M minis come with a Mini-DVI to DVI dongle in the box that will connect to any DVI monitor.

- worth it to go up to 2 GB ram for $55 more?

The 2GB of RAM is way better for productivity/multi-tasking, plus the 9400M will allocate 128MB of RAM to video memory with 1GB, but it'll double the allocation to 256MB with 2GB+ of RAM.

- worth it to spend $19 on the simple remote?

What are you using the mini for? Do you need the remote? You can access front row with CMD+ESC, and use the arrow keys on the keyboard - are you often far from your computer, and want to control it while not near the keyboard? Remote can also be purchased after the fact if you feel you need it.

- since the old model did 720p is it safe to assume this will do 1080p with ease?

People report that the new MacBooks with the 9400M do 1080p, so it should be okay.

- can the plain machine (with superdrive) be used to author and backup 8.5 GB DVD's, or is extra s/w or h/w required?

Apple reports that:
"Slot-loading SuperDrive with double-layer support (DVD±R DL/DVD±RW/CD-RW): Writes DVD+R DL and DVD-R DL discs at up to 6x speed."

So the new 9400M mini's superdrive will work fine with DL DVDs. The old $549 Refurb will also do DL DVDs - but at 2.4X

- any concerns about an Nvidia GPU? isn't Nvidia in a huge scandal over embedded GPU's failing prematurely?

There haven't been any reports of the 9400M failing in the new MacBooks, and they've been out since December. So far so good.

- worth it to wait and try to get snow leopard, or will there be a cheap update option like there is for iLife?

You could wait for Snow Leopard - that'll be in June or July. Can you wait that long? There will be not cheap "upgrade" - only for computers bought after Snow Leopard is announced/shipped that do not currently have Snow Leopard on them. Apple's OS's are generally cheaper than Windows - probably ~$149 or so.

[mikeinmontreal]

FF, do you still think the refurb at $549 is a better deal than the new one at $669 edu pricing? BTW, I saw the 24-inch refurb iMac today at $1,249 (for the 1st revision - 2.4 Ghz I believe). $100 saving over the old refurb price. They coulda done better. Thanks, MiM.

[Neil]

You could wait for Snow Leopard - that'll be in June or July. Can you wait that long? There will be not cheap "upgrade" - only for computers bought after Snow Leopard is announced/shipped that do not currently have Snow Leopard on them. Apple's OS's are generally cheaper than Windows - probably ~$149 or so.
There was a news item yesterday suggesting that Snow Leopard could be delayed by quite a bit - though the source was not necessarily reliable. Of course the exchange rate could change between then and now also.

[Neil]

FF, do you still think the refurb at $549 is a better deal than the new one at $669 edu pricing? BTW, I saw the 24-inch refurb iMac today at $1,249 (for the 1st revision - 2.4 Ghz I believe). $100 saving over the old refurb price. They coulda done better. Thanks, MiM.

They really talked up the benefits of the newer processor and the enhanced USB/firewire/display ports. The advantage to me was in the improved graphics, driving 2 displays and having the potential for 1080p playback.

One thing to keep in mind is the new model doesn't have a remote, so that's an extra $20 differential.

[Azer]

Spec-wise is there a difference between the refurbished Mini and the ones that are on clearance?

[Neil]

For anyone that has cepp with Apple, an extra 6% discount applies to the clearance models. Some telephone reps said no but the one I talked to most recently confirmed it.

[galanz]

They really talked up the benefits of the newer processor and the enhanced USB/firewire/display ports. The advantage to me was in the improved graphics, driving 2 displays and having the potential for 1080p playback.

One thing to keep in mind is the new model doesn't have a remote, so that's an extra $20 differential.

I received my new Mini a couple days ago and after installing Perian and the latest DIVX decoder I was able to watch a 1080P Pirates of the Caribbean .MKV no problem last night.

[fyrefly]

FF, do you still think the refurb at $549 is a better deal than the new one at $669 edu pricing? BTW, I saw the 24-inch refurb iMac today at $1,249 (for the 1st revision - 2.4 Ghz I believe). $100 saving over the old refurb price. They coulda done better.

I agree, tho $1249 is a decent price - the 2.8Ghz for $1399 seems still a sweet spot for the iMacs right now. If it was $1199, I woulda jumped all over it yesterday.

I still think the Refurb is a decent price - unless you want to drive two monitors or watch a lot of 1080p. The Old 2.0Ghz Mini is the same computer minus 9400m bascially (tho Max of 3GB Ram instead of 4GB) for $110 less.

They really talked up the benefits of the newer processor and the enhanced USB/firewire/display ports. The advantage to me was in the improved graphics, driving 2 displays and having the potential for 1080p playback.

the FW800 port is great, but most people have FW400 stuff, which means you have to buy a cable adapter, etc... Has anyone else maxxed out the 4 USB Ports on their mini? Is 5 going to make $110 worth of difference? IMHO, no. Otherwise I agree, if you want lots of 1080p and want to drive two displays, go for the new one (but new one only comes with 1GB of rAM which only provides 128MB of VRAM - so Auto-add at least $55 more for the 2GB RAM bump) - that makes the base $724.

Spec-wise is there a difference between the refurbished Mini and the ones that are on clearance?

No spec difference at all. Just difference in price - and brown box vs. retail box.

I received my new Mini a couple days ago and after installing Perian and the latest DIVX decoder I was able to watch a 1080P Pirates of the Caribbean .MKV no problem last night.

So the older mini can play 1080p MKVs with Perian? I didn't know that. That's good info.

Bottom Line (IMHO, obviously) If you have the extra ~$175 then spend it on the new Mini with 2GB RAM. If you want a cheap/awesome HTPC and don't care as much about 1080p and just want to hook it up to your TV... get the refurb for $549.

I have an older CoreDuo 1.66 hooked up to my Living Room TV and it still works like a charm. (Note: I don't do any 1080p unless its apple trailers)

[galanz]

So the older mini can play 1080p MKVs with Perian? I didn't know that. That's good info.

Not the old Mini, the new one. My old Mini could barely handle most 720p depending on the encoding. The new one breezed through everything I tried.

[milhaus]

Not the old Mini, the new one. My old Mini could barely handle most 720p depending on the encoding. The new one breezed through everything I tried.Yeah, not a chance on that one. I have a 1.66 CD2 Mini and 720P is as high as I can go. Frankly, I'd rather download only 720P files, given my bandwidth caps.

[mikeinmontreal]

If anyone orders or has ordered a refurb Mini, please post any extras ie. ram upgrades, hard drive upgrades, etc. I had one in my cart yesterday but took too long to pull the trigger; now I have to wait for them to put them up again.

On a side note, it looks like most of us are ehMac members.

[Azer]

Up again

[Azer]

Ah what a joke, I had one in my cart and was on the last stage of checkout but it errored out after clicking the order button because I had another Apple store tab open.

And now they are gone...guess I have to wait until tomorrow.

[archimed]

Just wanted to pass on my experiences with a Mac Mini 2.0 C2D with 1 gb of ram. I use it as the media center for my 50" Pioneer Kuro. I run Plex as my media center software, and it is jaw-dropping. Anyone that watches movies/tv over here comments on how slick the interface is. I have an Apple bluetooth keyboard/mouse on the coffee table, and I directly snag torrents to the mini and add them to my plex library.

As for performance, Plex has played back any 1080p h264 videos that I've thrown at it without hiccups on this setup so far. The video gpu (GMA 950) makes no difference here, since all of the decoding is done via cpu.

Another thing: don't use Quicktime (worst), mplayer (bad), VLC (not as bad), to play back your 1080p content. There is too much cpu overhead with these programs, and they'll invariably drop frames. Plex is far more efficient in terms of cpu overhead.

I do not suggest picking up the C2D 1.83 if you plan on using it as a media center. The 1.83 is just on the edge of 1080p capability, and some folks report frame drops when they're watching movies. Sure, it plays 720p content back just fine, but occasionally you'll find yourself with a 1080p mkv that you don't want to have to transcode to 720p just to watch it.

The real problem with either of the refurb minis is hard drive size. If you're planning on using this as a HTPC, you're going to run out of space *quick*. I have two 2.5" portable WD Passport drives hooked up to the usb ports that contain my plex library. I use the mini's hard drive as a temporary storage location. The entire setup is *dead silent* and is perfect for a HT setup - my Pioneer plasma makes more noise than it.

I bought this machine used for $650 about 6 months ago, and I think that the refurb 2.0ghz (at least for a mini htpc box) is a damned good deal.

Edit: and by the way, for those asking if the 'new' 2.0 mini is a better than the 'old' 2.0 mini, it's a toss up. The new one has a mini-dvi port instead of a regular dvi port, and that adds one more converter cable to the mess. The new video card is an improvement, but it won't make a bit of difference for video playback. The new one has 5 usb ports, instead of 4, which is important if you're using a corded keyboard/mouse. The new 802.11n wireless is the most important thing - the old 802.11g card is really slow for file transfers, so you might want to consider that if fast wireless performance is a need.

[Azer]

Thanks for the post archimed you just helped me with my decision to get the refurbished Mini...if I can actually get one!

[Mr Al]

I am seriously tempted to get the new Mac Mini, but I haven't found any deals on the keyboard mouse combo. I am not too much of a fan of the Apple Mighty Mouse, though as lots of people are having problems, and I don't like the design.

Anybody see any deals on a Logitech or similar combo ? I would also take the older mouse from Apple too.

FWIW, I was listening to the Macworld podcast and they said that hooking up a FW800 external drive made the system run much faster than using the internal drive.

Mr Al

[gflux]

Another thing: don't use Quicktime (worst), mplayer (bad), VLC (not as bad), to play back your 1080p content. There is too much cpu overhead with these programs, and they'll invariably drop frames. Plex is far more efficient in terms of cpu overhead.

That's weird because Plex is based on XBMC and XBMC's video decoder uses Mplayer. Great to hear that 1080p playback ok. What format are your 1080p videos?

[Azer]

I am seriously tempted to get the new Mac Mini, but I haven't found any deals on the keyboard mouse combo. I am not too much of a fan of the Apple Mighty Mouse, though as lots of people are having problems, and I don't like the design.

Anybody see any deals on a Logitech or similar combo ? I would also take the older mouse from Apple too.

FWIW, I was listening to the Macworld podcast and they said that hooking up a FW800 external drive made the system run much faster than using the internal drive.

Mr Al

I am looking at getting the DiNovo mini from Logitech. It will work with the bluetooth in the Mini and take up very little space (I plan on using the Mini as a HTPC)

[monkey_bongo]

Thanks archimed for the review. I ordered the same one and plan to use it with Plex as well so it's good to hear it works well out of the box on playing HD content.

MrAl, I heard the same macworld podcast today! Just a note though, the refurbs only have FW400 interface since it's the older model.

Azer, if you've got an iPod touch or iPhone and and want a cheap alternative to the DiNovo Mini, the macworld podcast also recommended an iPhone app called Airmouse. It's a wifi trackpad/keyboard/remote app that costs $6 ... I just bought it but haven't tried it out so I can't comment on it but the reviews looks positive. At the very least, it'll hold you over until a sweet deals comes up for the Dinovo mini.

[mikeinmontreal]

Thanks archimed. Seems like a buy for me. And thanks to monkey; I was just wondering if I could use my iPod Touch instead of a KB/Mouse.

[macinfo]

Thanks archimed. Seems like a buy for me. And thanks to monkey; I was just wondering if I could use my iPod Touch instead of a KB/Mouse.

You could try Mocha VNC Lite from the App Store $Free
or Mocha VNC $5.99
or Jaadu VNC $24.99

[doombox414]

i dont knw if this a deal but found this in the clearance section

http://store.apple.com/ca/browse/home/specialdeals/clearance?mco=MTE3Njg

[archimed]

That's weird because Plex is based on XBMC and XBMC's video decoder uses Mplayer. Great to hear that 1080p playback ok. What format are your 1080p videos?

I've played back all formats with it. The only time that I had problems was with a 1080p WMV that plex could not decode its WMV 5.1 audio track .. apparently there is no codec for that specific format yet, but they're working on it.

[fyrefly]

i dont knw if this a deal but found this in the clearance section

http://store.apple.com/ca/browse/home/specialdeals/clearance?mco=MTE3Njg

These are the clearout models available - but the same model as a refurb is $100 cheaper - with the same warranty and condition as new - so it's better to wait for the cheaper refurbs (or use your EDU or EPP discount to make the clearance macs even cheaper ;) :D )

[mikeinmontreal]

Lots of apps out there exist to use the Touch or iPhone as KB/Mouse. I tried out the free Snatch Test, which worked quite well and was easy to set up, but no KB unless you pay for the full version. Tonight I will try VNC Lite.

[mikeinmontreal]

Both models in stock as of 11:10 PM March 18. I ordered one and will post if I get any bonus in Ram, HD, etc.

[darkdude]

Both models in stock as of 11:10 PM March 18. I ordered one and will post if I get any bonus in Ram, HD, etc.

Guess the 2.0Ghz one sold out. The 1.8Ghz is left.

[jonc]

The nvidia 9400 can decode through the GPU making 1080p video a breeze, could probably run on half the speed. The vid upgrade was a great choice.

[BlueMax]

The nvidia 9400 can decode through the GPU making 1080p video a breeze, could probably run on half the speed. The vid upgrade was a great choice.

Agreed! It's a desperately-needed and VERY welcome choice!

I'd have been happy if they moved to Intel's X4500 IGP, but the 9400M is all the better! The GMA950 just sucked....

[Azer]

Back up! I finally caved and ordered one with the a wireless keyboard and mouse.

[mikeinmontreal]

Great. They're gone again, so it's good that you acted fast. Mine is prepared for shipment so I should be getting my tracking number soon. I am going to try one of the kb/mouse Touch apps before deciding if I will go wireless. Let us know if you get extra Ram or HD size. Cheers!

[bill_best]

Just broke down and ordered one.

Hope it really does play 1080p MKV files like a previous poster described.

I was going to buy a popcorn hour, but this seems like a much more capable device for only $150 more.

[hta]

Did anyone end up getting any upgrades with their mac units?

[Derek]

Thanks, posted. Wonder how long it'll last...

[mikeinmontreal]

I didn't receive any upgrades. Still a great deal. Bundled it with a $99 LCD Monitor and wireless KB and Mouse that cost me very little. Nice little secondary Mac.

[fr4nugen]

I am looking at getting the DiNovo mini from Logitech. It will work with the bluetooth in the Mini and take up very little space (I plan on using the Mini as a HTPC)

Whats so great about this keyboard?

[fr4nugen]

[QUOTE=mikeinmontreal;8420352]Lots of apps out there exist to use the Touch or iPhone as KB/Mouse. I tried out the free Snatch Test, which worked quite well and was easy to set up, but no KB unless you pay for the full version. Tonight I will try VNC Lite.[/QUOTE

How has it been using your iPhone/iTouch as a keyboard/mouse?

[Rehan]

Whats so great about this keyboard? The size.
http://images.google.com/images?q=diNovo+Mini

[fr4nugen]

The size.
http://images.google.com/images?q=diNovo+Mini

Does the trackpad work like a mouse or does it only "click" ? Would be no good if you bought this and had to get a mouse as well.

[mildlyaddicted]

Back in stock again.

[4got10]

Back in stock again.

If so then they are already gone

[mildlyaddicted]

Wow! That was quick. I just refreshed the page I had open at the time I said they had stock and it now says out of stock. Crazyness.

[rageguy]

they are in stock at random times. i suggest you set the home page of your browser to that page. i bought one after a week of non stop refreshing every hour. paid on monday, shipped on wednesday, delivered by fedex on friday. came in a ugly white box. the computer condition is brand new mint. works great and fast.

i got the 2.0ghz model with the superdrive. very fast, plays 1080p videos with no problems in plex. plays unreal tournament 2004 with ~30fps at max resolution. plays quake 3 smoothly of course.

549+tax is very very worth it. the 499 model isnt so worth it though, because smaller hd, combo drive only, and slower cpu.

[bokep]

they are in stock at random times. i suggest you set the home page of your browser to that page. i bought one after a week of non stop refreshing every hour. paid on monday, shipped on wednesday, delivered by fedex on friday. came in a ugly white box. the computer condition is brand new mint. works great and fast.

i got the 2.0ghz model with the superdrive. very fast, plays 1080p videos with no problems in plex. plays unreal tournament 2004 with ~30fps at max resolution. plays quake 3 smoothly of course.

549+tax is very very worth it. the 499 model isnt so worth it though, because smaller hd, combo drive only, and slower cpu.

what's wrong with you

[Derek]

I see stock right now... both the $499 and $549 versions.

[mildlyaddicted]

I can't believe how fast the stock fluctuates. Seriously. This morning there were only the $499 ones. Then by 4pm there were neither. And now they have both!!

[soliddog]

I got my 2.0Ghz mini with free upgrades of both ram (1GB->2GB) and harddrive (120GB->160GB)!

I was all excited when I got my machine, until I realized that these *free* upgrades might void my warranty, so I made a call to apple to inquire about the applecare coverage, and the agent told me that my machine should be covered by the applecare warranty and I might go for applecare later on before my warranty expires

[videonerd]

Back in stock!


Refurbished Mac mini 1.83GHz Intel Core 2 Duo
1GB memory
80GB hard drive
Combo drive (DVD-ROM/CD-RW)
Intel GMA 950 graphics processor with 64MB of DDR2 memory
$499.00


Refurbished Mac mini 2.0GHz Intel Core 2 Duo
1GB memory
120GB hard drive
SuperDrive (DVD±R DL/DVD±RW/CD-RW)
Intel GMA 950 graphics processor with 64MB of DDR2 memory
$549.00

[BlueMax]

I got my 2.0Ghz mini with free upgrades of both ram (1GB->2GB) and harddrive (120GB->160GB)!

Congrats! Apple refurbs are notorious for free upgrades but there's no guarantee you'll get them.

Man... it's tempting - but remember that the NEW minis are not much more expensive and the base models now have the superdrive (as well as the 1000x better Geforce 9400 video!)

EDIT: Hmmm.. $729 is about $100 more than I thought for that model. That makes the $550 machine look pretty good.

[mflat]

Refurb'd mac minis are back up on the Apple.ca store.

[Mr Al]

Congrats! Apple refurbs are notorious for free upgrades but there's no guarantee you'll get them.

Man... it's tempting - but remember that the NEW minis are not much more expensive and the base models now have the superdrive (as well as the 1000x better Geforce 9400 video!)

EDIT: Hmmm.. $729 is about $100 more than I thought for that model. That makes the $550 machine look pretty good.

I am waiting for the new Mini to go refurb. Hopefully it should be around $629.00

Mr Al.

[Mr Al]

I just ordered the 2009 Mac Mini with the new chipset 1G, 120GB refurbed for only $619.00 !

Nice bonus is there is no WEEE fee since it's a refurb so I saved $13.44 too. It looks like they sold out quick though. They had some of the 2GB, 320GB 2009 models too, but they sold out too. These new ones go quick!

Hopefully it will have some free upgrades too :cheesygri... fingers crossed. If not, it's time to buy a new putty knife.

Mr Al

[hempopotamus]

I got my 2.0Ghz mini with free upgrades of both ram (1GB->2GB) and harddrive (120GB->160GB)!

I received the exact same upgrades in the machine that I took delivery on this week.

[hdom]

I almost pull the trigger on the 320GB version for $799 but was forced in a meeting and by the time I came out, they were all gone...

Have to keep checking now. :razz:

Yeah, there are some tutorials out there on the DIY upgrade.

I just ordered the 2009 Mac Mini with the new chipset 1G, 120GB refurbed for only $619.00 !

Nice bonus is there is no WEEE fee since it's a refurb so I saved $13.44 too. It looks like they sold out quick though. They had some of the 2GB, 320GB 2009 models too, but they sold out too. These new ones go quick!

Hopefully it will have some free upgrades too :cheesygri... fingers crossed. If not, it's time to buy a new putty knife.

Mr Al

[BlueMax]

I just ordered the 2009 Mac Mini with the new chipset 1G, 120GB refurbed for only $619.00 !

Nice bonus is there is no WEEE fee since it's a refurb so I saved $13.44 too. It looks like they sold out quick though. They had some of the 2GB, 320GB 2009 models too, but they sold out too. These new ones go quick!

Hopefully it will have some free upgrades too :cheesygri... fingers crossed. If not, it's time to buy a new putty knife.

Mr Al

That's the one I'd sure like!! Too bad DDR3 is so much more expensive. :( When you get it, can you let me know if it's 100% silent, even under load?

[SirLurksAlot]

For those close to the US or with Amerifriends, Apple.com had the mac mini for $349. I beleive it was the same model as the $499, thought not 100% sure. Worth checking out if you can.

[Mr Al]

Got it yesterday! Looks brand new. Unfortunately, no free upgrades.

It's quite a bit slower than my iMac 2.8 I will have to do some upgrades.



Mr Al

[Vidkid72]

I bought one of these a few months back for 549 for ipod/iphone programming and love it. I kind of wish I'd got a newer one with the dual display capabilities though so I can have one screen for Xcode and one for Interface Builder.

No free upgrades with mine though. :(

[napoleon1769]

Isn't that a bit expensive for the specs?

[hdom]

Just got the 2GB, 320GB 2009 models for $799. The US site sells for $$699US, so it is not bad with the current exchange rate. Also took advanage of the printer rebate deal, so printer and mini for <$1K.

[jnut]

I kind of wish I'd got a newer one with the dual display capabilities though so I can have one screen for Xcode and one for Interface Builder.

I have a single display mac mini as well and wished I could use dual screens with it like I currently do with my PC.

The cheapest solution for me was to get a USB external display device like http://www.evga.com/uvplus/ which can be had for $40-$80 depending on what external resolution you want. I then installed the DisplayLink Mac beta drivers http://www.displaylink.com/support/mac_downloads.html to get it running under leopard. And now I'm back to dual screen bliss.

[BlueMax]

Isn't that a bit expensive for the specs?

Let's see you build an entire PC the size of 5 stacked CD cases.

[Vidkid72]

I have a single display mac mini as well and wished I could use dual screens with it like I currently do with my PC.

The cheapest solution for me was to get a USB external display device like http://www.evga.com/uvplus/ which can be had for $40-$80 depending on what external resolution you want. I then installed the DisplayLink Mac beta drivers http://www.displaylink.com/support/mac_downloads.html to get it running under leopard. And now I'm back to dual screen bliss.

You rock, thank you for this!

[Neil]

The new model with 2 gb RAM and 320 GB drive is currently in stock ($799)

[goob3r]

Both the 120gig and 320gig mini in stock right now at $619 and $799 respectively. I just picked up the 120gig one. Will upgrade all the RAM and HDD myself to save money.

1GB memory
120GB hard drive
8x SuperDrive (DVD±R DL/DVD±RW/CD-RW)
NVIDIA GeForce 9400M with 128MB memory
$619.00

2GB memory
320GB hard drive
8x SuperDrive (DVD±R DL/DVD±RW/CD-RW)
NVIDIA GeForce 9400M with 256MB memory
$799.00

The refurb cannot be combined with the back to school iPod promotion, but it can be with the printer promotion! http://www.apple.com/ca/promo/

Free: Canon PIXMA MX320 Office All-In-One Printer: http://store.apple.com/ca/product/TV384VC/A?fnode=MTY1NDA1MQ&mco=Njk5OTM3NA&s=priceLH

[milhaus]

Both the 120gig and 320gig mini in stock right now at $619 and $799 respectively. I just picked up the 120gig one. Will upgrade all the RAM and HDD myself to save money.


Warning. Voids warranty. I'm not kidding you.

[goob3r]

Warning. Voids warranty. I'm not kidding you.

From many sources, including Apple themself it won't.

http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?threadID=1978433&tstart=135

[milhaus]

From many sources, including Apple themself it won't.

http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?threadID=1978433&tstart=135

Well, I'll go with what I heard from Apple techs; officially, it will. There are no user serviceable parts in the new Intel minis. I was able to talk my way into them covering the damage I found, but it's a risk, and I was told they were making an exception. From the manual:

"Your Mac mini doesn’t have any user-serviceable parts. Do not attempt to open your Mac mini. If your Mac mini needs service, consult the service and support information that came with your computer for instructions about how to contact an Apple Authorized Service Provider or Apple for service.

If you open your Mac mini or install items, you risk damaging your equipment, and such damage isn’t covered by the limited warranty on your Mac mini. "

Up to you if you want to risk it. As with my MBP, I'd pay $40 for someone (Apple Cert.) to upgrade the RAM and HD, rather than risk warranty issues. BTW, the ideal tool is a metal cheese slicer ...

[BlueMax]

Both the 120gig and 320gig mini in stock right now at $619 and $799 respectively. I just picked up the 120gig one. Will upgrade all the RAM and HDD myself to save money.

I just wish it used cheap DDR2 instead of pricey DDR3. They should have modded it just a little to take 3 sticks of it at least. :)

[monkey_bongo]

Well, I'll go with what I heard from Apple techs; officially, it will. There are no user serviceable parts in the new Intel minis. I was able to talk my way into them covering the damage I found, but it's a risk, and I was told they were making an exception. From the manual:

"Your Mac mini doesn’t have any user-serviceable parts. Do not attempt to open your Mac mini. If your Mac mini needs service, consult the service and support information that came with your computer for instructions about how to contact an Apple Authorized Service Provider or Apple for service.

If you open your Mac mini or install items, you risk damaging your equipment, and such damage isn’t covered by the limited warranty on your Mac mini. "

Up to you if you want to risk it. As with my MBP, I'd pay $40 for someone (Apple Cert.) to upgrade the RAM and HD, rather than risk warranty issues. BTW, the ideal tool is a metal cheese slicer ...

Your quote from the manual doesn't say that opening the mac mini voids your warranty. It says there is a risk that you may cause damage in the process and then it won't be covered.

I've upgraded with no problems. It's not a difficult process but requires a bit of bravery the first time because it feels like you're breaking the top case but it's solid aluminum so no worries. I suppose you can use a metal cheese slicer but I think most instructions use a $3 flexible drywall spudger.

To be honest, if you're using it as a HTPC, you may not even need to open it up. Just add a huge FW400/800 or USB2.0 external drive and it plays everything fine. You don't even need to upgrade the RAM yet either. I'm using Plex or Hulu Desktop app with SABNZBD+ and VNC server running in the background with no problems on 1GB. I've played HD 1080P MKV fine at the moment I'm going to save the cash until SSDs and RAM are dirt cheap.

[Mr Al]

I installed 4GB and a 500GB 7200 Seagate in my 2009 model, and it's quite a bit quicker.

I do have a little buyers remorse though. Even after the upgrades, it's still noticeably slower than my iMac 2.8Ghz 24". (The 2.8Ghz 24" is available for $1399 refurb. on the Apple store). It is more flexible though, as it can be used as a HTPC or regular Mac / PC.

I have opened mine up several times (one of my ram sticks I bought was defective), and you have to careful as many of the parts are fragile, but as long as you take your time and don't force anything, it's not that difficult.

Mr Al

[Mr FAT Head]

If you want to get a cheaper HTPC it might be worthwhile waiting for the dual core Ion.

Or you could get something like this: http://www.newegg.ca/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813500022

+ $30 2gb RAM
+ $70 HDD (320gb~)
+ $50 Case and PSU
+ $25 DVD

$335~ + Processor

It's a mini-ITX form so it should be just a bit larger than the Mac Mini, and it has wireless as well.

Not bashing the Mac Mini - you can't get a computer 5 CDs thick at that price, but you can get one 10 thick for a bit less. ;) Anyways the refurbs are gone now.