Mac Mini and me. (Review of Apple's Cheapest Computer)

My old reliable Acer laptop finally started to die. Feeling sad and remorseful I dutifully did everything a good computer owner should do when their machine starts giving you the "Blue Screen of Death" and "Windows has recovered from an unexpected shutdown". I scanned for viruses, added RAM and reformatted several times to no avail. With no signs of improvement I began scanning the sale papers for a replacement machine. However with Windows 7 coming by the end of the year and my hatred of anything Vista my problems were twofold. 

With a dying machine, limited budget and not many other viable options I wandered into the Apple Store. I knew I could not justify the cost of a MacBook Pro but I loved my new iPhone. So with an open mind I walked in expecting the usual sales clerks who knew nothing and lots of gadgets. Was I surprised!!!

The young man who met me at the door was courteous and trendy. He asked me a few questions about what I needed, what I wanted and my experience level with computers. He then led me to a comfortable table where a Mac Mini sat waiting. He showed me how to do the basics on this $599 320gb HD with 4gb RAM wonder of modern technology. I quickly realized that I could use this tiny machine as a DVD player and Home Theater machine once my iTunes Library was imported. I was utterly amazed.

After about half an hour in the store I walked out with a new Mac Mini, wireless keyboard, wireless mighty mouse and Boise speakers for less than what a new desktop grade replacement would cost. With 90 days of free Apple Care and a 1 year warranty under my belt I was on my way home with a new computer/media center. Set up was a breeze, OS X is easy to get used to and my iPhone syncs flawlessly. Safari, the default browser, is a little hard to get used to but is reliable. The Airport function for wireless networking is almost idiot proof and it is the quietest computer ever. I tried using an XBox 360 last year as a primary DVD/HTC system but its growling drive could wake the dead.

Overall I am extremely pleased with my purchase but I would not recommend it for your main home theater setup primarily due to the need for a Mini-DVI to HDMI adapter and lack of a good audio out. However for a dorm, bedroom or office set up you can't beat it for the price. You can get the Mac Mini at either the Apple Store, Best Buy or Amazon (for a few bucks less).
Apple Mac mini MB463LL/A Desktop

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