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Product Information
| Processor | 2.5 GHz Intel Core i5 |
| RAM | 4 GB SDRAM DDR3 |
| Hard Drive | 500 GB |
| Graphics Coprocessor | Intel HD Graphics 4000 |
| Brand Name | Apple |
| Series | MD387LL/A |
| Item model number | MD387LL/A |
| Hardware Platform | Mac |
| Operating System | Mac OS X Mountain Lion |
| Item Weight | 1 pounds |
| Processor Brand | Intel |
| Processor Count | 2 |
| Computer Memory Type | SDRAM |
| Hard Drive Interface | Serial ATA |
| ASIN | B007476KRY |
| Best Sellers Rank |
#54 in Computers & Accessories (See top 100)
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| Shipping Weight | 4.6 pounds (View shipping rates and policies) |
| Shipping | Currently, item can be shipped only within the U.S. |
| Date First Available | October 23, 2012 |
Available Warranties for This Item
Product Description
Amazon.com
The Apple Mac mini packs even more power, thanks to the latest dual-core and quad-core Intel processors. It also comes with integrated Intel HD Graphics 4000, Thunderbolt, USB 3, and OS X Mountain Lion--the latest release of the world's most advanced desktop operating system.
This version of the Mac mini (model MD387LL/A) features a 2.5 GHz Intel Core i5 dual-core processor as well as 4 GB of RAM (expandable to 16 GB) and 500 GB of hard drive storage (see full specifications below). It also comes with the iLife software suite, which includes the latest versions of iPhoto, iMovie, and GarageBand.
Key Features
Small Footprint, Excellent Versatility
The Mac mini features a precisely constructed unibody enclosure that even houses its own integrated power supply into the 7.7-inch square aluminum enclosure (that's also 1.4 inches thin)--eliminating the need for an external power brick. Additionally, the Mac mini helps contain your environmental footprint with a 10 watt power consumption.
Despite its smaller size, the Mac mini offers a full range of ports for connecting to your existing peripherals--from keyboards and mice to external hard drives and displays (via the Thunderbolt and HDMI ports). And when you're ready to add more memory, the Mac mini's bottom removable panel makes the upgrade process a breeze.
Revolutionary Thunderbolt Technology
Developed by Intel with collaboration from Apple, high-speed Thunderbolt I/O (input/output) technology delivers an amazing 10 gigabits per second of transfer speeds in both directions. Built into the Mac mini, the Thunderbolt port allows you to connect to new Thunderbolt-compatible peripherals as well as existing USB and FireWire peripherals using simple adapters. You'll be able to move data up to 20 times faster than with USB 2.0 and more than 12 times faster than with FireWire 800, and you can daisy-chain up to six high-speed devices without using a hub. Thunderbolt also supports DisplayPort for high resolution displays and works with existing adapters for HDMI, DVI, and VGA displays.
USB 3
With USB 3 built into the Mac mini, you can connect your external hard drive and transfer large files in seconds instead of minutes. Every Mac mini comes with four USB 3 ports--with speeds up to 10 times faster than USB 2--and you can connect all your USB-compatible devices, including your iPhone, iPad, iPod, or digital camera.
Intel HD Graphics 4000
Intel HD Graphics 4000 delivers up to 65 percent more pixel-pushing performance than the previous generation of integrated graphics. So the video you watch and the games you play are smoother and more responsive. Flipping through photo albums is a breeze. And you've got all the power you need to edit your HD video into a film worthy of a red carpet premiere.
Specifications
| Apple Mac mini (model MD387LL/A) | ||
|---|---|---|
| Processor | 2.5 GHz dual-core Intel Core i5 (Turbo Boost up to 3.1 GHz) with 3 MB L3 cache | |
| Storage | 500 GB SATA hard drive (5400 RPM) | |
| Memory | 4 GB (two 2GB) of 1600 MHz DDR3 memory (maximum of 16 GB) | |
| Graphics | Intel HD Graphics 4000 | |
| Video | Thunderbolt digital video output (native Mini DisplayPort output); compatible with DVI, VGA, and dual-link DVI output using optional adapters | |
| Audio | Audio line in minijack (digital/analog); audio line out/headphone minijack (digital/analog); HDMI port supports multichannel audio output; support for Apple iPhone headset with microphone; built-in speaker | |
| Connections and Expansion |
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| Communications | 802.11n Wi-Fi wireless networking (802.11a/b/g compatible); Bluetooth 4.0; Gigabit Ethernet (10/100/1000) | |
| Size and Weight | 7.7 x 7.7 x 1.4 inches (WxDxH); 2.7 pounds | |
What's in the Box
Mac mini, HDMI to DVI adapter, power cord, printed and electronic documentation
Note: The Mac mini does not come with an optical drive, however OS X Mountain Lion offers the convenient DVD or CD Sharing feature, which lets you wirelessly "borrow" the optical drive of a nearby Mac or PC. So you can install applications from a DVD or CD and have full access to an optical drive without having to carry one around. Additionally, you can connect an optional optical drive (such as the Apple USB SuperDrive) via one of the USB ports.
Limited Warranty And Service
The Mac mini comes with 90 days of free telephone support and a 1-year limited warranty, which can be extended to 3 years with the AppleCare Protection Plan.
Installed Software
At the heart of every Mac mini--and every Mac--is OS X Mountain Lion, the world's most advanced desktop operating system. Since the software built into every Mac is created by the same company that makes the Mac, you get a fully integrated system in which everything works together perfectly. OS X works with the processor in your Mac to deliver the best possible performance. Power Nap even takes advantage of the Mac hardware to keep the entire system up to date while it sleeps.
| OS X Mountain Lion | Mac App Store, Safari, Mail, Messages, Calendar, Contacts, Reminders, Notes, Time Machine, FaceTime, Photo Booth, Game Center, iTunes, and more |
|---|
iLife helps you do more with photos, movies, and music than you ever thought possible. In iPhoto, you can browse, edit, and share your photos in stunning new full-screen views. Create epic Hollywood-style movie trailers from your home video in iMovie. And GarageBand gives you everything you need to make a great-sounding song--including tools for keeping your song in perfect rhythm and guitar and piano lessons.
| Apple iLife suite | iPhoto, iMovie, and GarageBand |
|---|
AppleCare Protection Plan
Because Apple makes the hardware, the operating system, and many applications, the Mac is a truly integrated system. And only the AppleCare Protection Plan gives you one-stop service and support from Apple experts, so most issues can be resolved in a single call. Extend the complimentary service and support on your Mac to 3 years from the original Mac purchase date with the AppleCare Protection Plan. You get direct telephone access to Apple experts for technical questions, and you get global repair coverage--including both parts and labor--for your Mac and select Apple peripherals.
Optional Accessories and Related Products
Apple Thunderbolt Display
The world's first Thunderbolt display doesn't just give you more pixels. It gives you more possibilities. Built-in Thunderbolt technology lets you connect as many as six devices through a single port and transfer data up to 20 times faster than with USB 2.0.
Apple Wireless Keyboard
Incredibly thin and streamlined, the Apple Wireless Keyboard lets you type on your desk, on your lap, or anywhere within range. Wherever you put it, the keyboard will take up minimal space. Just like your Mac mini.
Apple Magic Mouse
Magic Mouse is unlike any other mouse you've ever used. The Multi-Touch surface lets you use gestures to swipe through photos and scroll down web pages. And the entire mouse is the button, so you can click anywhere.
Apple Magic Trackpad
Magic Trackpad is the first Multi-Touch trackpad designed to work with your Mac desktop computer, and it supports a full set of gestures. Click, scroll, swipe, and rotate to control what's onscreen. Use it along with your mouse or as an alternative to one.
Apple USB SuperDrive
Compact and convenient, the Apple USB SuperDrive connects to your Mac mini with a single USB cable and fits easily into a travel bag. It lets you install software and play and burn both CDs and DVDs, including double-layer DVDs.
Time Capsule
Time Capsule is the revolutionary backup device that works wirelessly with Time Machine in OS X Leopard or later. It automatically backs up everything, so you never have to worry about losing important files. It also doubles as a full-featured 802.11n Wi-Fi base station. Choose from 2 TB and 3 TB models.
Product Description
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Customer Reviews
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Design:
Pros:
-This computer looks excellent. The Mini's body hasn't changed since late 2010- and for a good reason. The desktop is tiny, fitting right under my monitor with room to spare. It's sleek and looks good anywhere.
-It's very simple, it's just a box. The removable cover on the bottom is a soft rubber (the same as the panel with all the ports). Due to the removable cover's height and size, the computer appears to be floating about 1/3 an inch above the desk.
-Looks great anywhere and feels nice as well.
-Removable cover makes the RAM easy to upgrade and also gives you more access to the inside so you can clean it out.
Cons:
-The ports on the back (i.e. headphones) are a bit difficult to access- you have to lean over to look behind the computer or move it.
-The monitor does occasionally flicker during active use (about once a day), but Apple and Intel are aware of the problem and are releasing a fix. It's not very bad.
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Performance:
Pros:
-The 2.5 GHz i5 is pretty speedy. I've had 15+ tabs running with music playing and a game running (Bastion) and it doesn't slow down.
-Write speed for the HDD is pretty good. 5400 RPM isn't ideal, but it works well for the price.
Cons:
-4 GB of RAM is a little lacking, but it is easily upgradable. For $85.00 you can get 16 GB of RAM and easily install it yourself: Corsair Vengeance 16GB (2x8GB) DDR3 1600 MHz (PC3 12800) Laptop Memory (CMSX16GX3M2A1600C10)
-Integrated graphics. 3D rendering slows it down considerably.
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Hardware:
Pros:
-Comes with a DVI to HDMI cable. Useful if you don't have an HDMI monitor available.
-The computer feels very sturdy.
-4 USB 3.0 ports and a SD card slot.
-Bluetooth compatible.
Cons:
-The power cable is a bit short.
-No Thunderbolt cable.
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Software:
Pros:
-Comes loaded with OS X 10.8.2 (Mountain Lion) which is a very sleek OS.
-No bloating with things like antivirus programs, etc.
-The software is all integrated with the company, so you're guaranteed support.
-Comes with Bootcamp, so you can put Windows 7 on the computer (either dual boot or full switch).
Cons:
-Gatekeeper- you actually need to go into System Preferences and allow 3rd party programs to open (not downloaded from the app store).
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Overall, the 2012 Mac Mini is a very good, reasonable priced (surprising from Apple) computer for any casual user. If you're looking for something a bit more powerful, consider the more expensive Mini or an iMac.
Source: I own this computer.
It only comes with 4 GB of RAM, and I would recommend upgrading to at least 8 GB, which is a very easy upgrade (no tools required) and is only about $50 currently (I got 16 GB for $90). The one downside of this computer is the hard drive, because Apple uses a 5400 rpm Hitachi for this model. For basic web browsing and other everyday tasks this is fine, but upgrading mine to an SSD greatly increased performance for my more demanding use. Upgrading the hard drive is more difficult (and probably voids the warranty). I did add a second internal hard drive to this model, but this was a lot more difficult (basically everything has to be removed from the case) and requires the purchase of a hard drive cable and mounting hardware.
No major changes have been made from the previous version, but the internal upgrades make the Mac Mini a much more powerful computer that is powerful enough for most users, but professional applications and tasks like video encoding will be limited by the processor and integrated graphics.
Update:
Apple has finally released a firmware update that appears to have fixed the HDMI flickering issue that was experienced by many users, so there are no longer any major problems with this computer.
However, there is a random anomaly with this computer: it does not use the standard version of Mac OS 10.8 Mountain Lion. When I tried installing the OS to my SSD, the Mac Mini did not allow me to use an install flash drive created with a copy of 10.8 downloaded from the Mac App Store, so I had to use network recovery to download a new copy (and waste time). Furthermore, I am unable to redownload a purchased copy of Mountain Lion using the Mac Mini because "OS X Mountain Lion is not compatible with this computer." This is not a big deal, but is kind of weird and does prevent being able to make or use an install flash drive.
My first impressions: Everything was so simple and user friendly from when I first booted it up and walked through registration. It seemed to run very quickly. I upgraded the ram when I first got it to 8gb from the standard 4gb, because of all the reviews on how easy it was to upgrade ram in this comp and the price being very inexpensive. I paid about $40 for 8gb of ram compared to $100 to upgrade through Apple. Installation was super easy.
Also, my wife is a performing artist and needed a quick demo video for a conference she was being considered for. Sadly, we have limited footage of the type we needed. But, one of the reasons we bought the mac was for ease of video editing. It was time to put the new mac to the test. The only footage I had was on a DVD. I had serious doubts about the mac and imovie being able to "rip" footage from a DVD to the comp easily without downloading some complicated software. All I did was insert the disc into the external DVD drive that I already owned. And an import bubble opened immediately to easy capture the footage into imovie! I was amazed! Plus, I was able to learn imovie pretty quick, even though I am used to premiere and final cut. Most things were intuitive and the rest I just Googled/youtubed the answer.
Finally, I was hesitant that my other devices would not be compatible with the mac: keyboard, mouse, screen, DVD drive, printer (3yrs old). Especially bc the people at the Apple store will not let you even test the devices out on the mac. I got different responses from the employees at the store. It seemed like I knew more than them.
But, to my delight, all the devices work great (with minor exceptions)!
Mouse: great
keyboard: great
19 inch display: great: mac mini comes with a hdmi to DVI converted which is what my monitor has
Printer: very good: I though this might be tricky bc it is about 3 years old and is one of those printers that has the special "windows specific" software. I read online that there was a mac driver for my printer, but one reviewer said it was incorrect, which made me nervous. I was willing to buy a new printer for about $120 if need be, but did not want to when I already have a great "all-in-one" laser printer.
Long story short, I downloaded the mac printer driver and it printed just fine, whether connected directly to the mac via usb or when the printer was connected to my router via Ethernet (printer has no wifi) The only issue came when I tried scanning to the mac. Since there is no fancy software for the mac for this printer, it is very basic and I discovered it only works consistently when the printer is connected directly to the mac via usb (which is fine for me). I did manage to print wirelessly to the printer while the printer was connected to router via Ethernet, but it did not work consistently.
DVD drive (HP): usually works, but sometimes the disc is not always read and I have to take it out and put it back in. The apple employees warned me that non-mac disc drives usually do not work, but it has managed to accomplish my goals.
