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AFAIK, there's no way to use the display on your iMac G4 without some serious hardware hacking. It does highlight one advantage the mini has - you don't have to buy a new display every time.

It really comes down to how much performance you feel is acceptable. What sort of applications to you run or intend to run? The integrated graphics chip in the mini will handle HD well, so the mini actually works as part of a home theatre. You also get digital audio out for surround, but you need a special cable. I hook up my MB using that and an HDMI adapter all the time to play back computer files on the TV.

As for longevity, if you're still using an iMac G4, my guess is that your needs aren't too great and the mini should last you a while. The mini will last about as long as an iMac or a MB. If it were me and the choice were between the entry-level iMac and the mini, I'd go with the mini. However I want more graphics power, so I'd probably go with a higher-spec'd iMac with better graphics. Another option would be to spend a bit more and go with the MacBook or 13" MacBook Pro. They have similar specs as the mini, but they go places. If you want longevity from the same system, the only real option is the Mac Pro, but you can buy a few minis or MacBooks for that price.

Last edited by robco (2009-09-28 7:28 pm)

Mine has been the digital center of my home theater for almost 3 years now. It's on nearly 24/7 and I've never had a single problem with it. I drive it with Apple Remote Desktop so no need for a mouse/keyboard. It's an awesome little machine. The only thing that would rule it out would be if you wanted to do some hardcore gaming.

Thanks for the comments!

Yes, I have had my iMac G4 for too long. I use it for surfing the web, watching movies and videos, and playing music. It slows down when I play videos or use Numbers. So, I am not a power user or a gamer (that is what the Xbox 360 is for), but I want something that will last. I am glad to hear that others have used their Mini's for a long time.

But if I get a Mini, I will need to get a monitor. That's a bummer. If I am going to be spending over a thousand dollars, maybe I should get a laptop?

Well, I guess I would get the $599 model because money will be tight, but I am wondering if I should get the $799 model with more RAM and a faster chip. By the time I max those out, I am looking at $1049. Would that be a waste of money, or should I just get a MacBook?

I just don't know...

I WOULD get  a new mini, because I have one and the newer models are SO much better than the one I have now.

I would NOT get one right now because there are rumors of an updated version soon.

sjds8 wrote:

Thanks for the input. I am probably going to still go with the Mac Mini. I was thinking of getting it in January. Should I go with the higher chip speed or is that a waste of $150 (based on my computer needs)?

Buy the cheap one. If you want to upgrade the RAM, do it later. Buy the RAM from ABA (Anybody But Apple.)

I suspect your computer needs will be met just fine.

ukimalefu wrote:

I WOULD get  a new mini, because I have one and the newer models are SO much better than the one I have now.

I would NOT get one right now because there are rumors of an updated version soon.

Good point.  What he said.

I still miss it a little.

When you wrote that, I thought about my first computer, an Apple IIc. I miss that thing a little too...

Anyway, so there is no way to use my current iMac G4 as a monitor for a Mac Mini? Frankly, that surprises me.

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