Mac mini/1.66GHz

Apple moves to an all dual-core hardware lineup with the introduction of this low-end mini. No longer equipped with a 1.5GHz Intel Core Solo chip, this model now runs on a 1.66GHz Intel Core Duo -- without any change to its $599 price tag. Other specs -- the60GB hard drive, integrated Intel graphics, and 512MB of installed RAM -- remain unchanged from the previous entry-level Mac mini offering.

Reviewed Full Review

Apple made an excellent choice in dropping the underpowered Core Solo-based model. As a budget Mac, a supplemental home computer, a server, or a home media set-top box, the Mac mini's price and size make it an impressively versatile system, though the integrated graphics won't meet the demands of gamers.

Pros: Decent dual-core processor performance; Gigabit Ethernet; analog- and digital-audio input and output; built-in AirPort Extreme and Bluetooth 2.0; includes Front Row software with Apple Remote.

Cons: Integrated graphics reduces available RAM; not suitable for gaming; RAM is difficult to upgrade; not enough built-in RAM.

Basics

Reviewed Price: $599

Processor: 1.66GHz Intel Core Duo

Information about this system on Apple's website

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Lab Tests

Speedmark 4.5 Score152
Cinema 4D XL 9.5.211:25
iMovie 6.011:15
iTunes 6.0.41:39
Photoshop CS23:04
Compressor4:22
Unreal Tournament 200419.3fps
Tested ConfigurationMac OS X 10.4.7, 1GB of RAM

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