The new, improved Apple Mac Mini 2010 aims to improve upon the sometimes sluggish performance of its predecessor while keeping or enhancing its famously smooth lines and quality packaging. But does it succeed?
Design
What a lovely looking little machine this is. Using the Apple one-piece unibody technique the casing is made from a single lump of aluminium, which gives it a very stylish, dignified look. It is also flatter than the older version of the Apple Mac Mini, as well as having a bigger top surface area and now has the power supply tucked inside it.
The underside of the machine has a plastic access portal, where you can take out and replace the memory very easily.
Notable Specifications
Aha, I hear you say, what about the CPU? Well, I’ll tell you then. Intel Core 2 Duo units, 2.4GHz or 2.66GHz, depending upon the model and the price.
Memory-wise we are talking about 2GB, although you can upgrade it to a limit of 8GB. The Apple Mac Mini 2010 includes 802.11a/b/g/n support for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 2.1+EDR.
The new model has improved graphics too, thanks to the inclusion of a Nvidia GeForce 320M card. Apple state that the addition of this nifty card doubles the graphics performance.
Another couple of innovations come in the shape of the HDMI video output port and the SD memory card slot.
Summary
This is not the cheapest machine around but it offers a vastly improved performance from previous generations and has kept the ultra trendy look. If you want an Apple Mac Mini 2010, or you want to upgrade from the old version, and can afford it you won’t regret it. If you have a tight budget then you will probably feel happier looking elsewhere.
