Mac mini 2012 i5 or i7 choose ?

[macmini2012]

Usage: Parallel 8 (run Windows 7/, Xcode, RAW Photo edit (sometimes)

Option 1: i5 model, 16GB, 128 SDD

Option 2: i7 model, 16GB, 1T HDD 5400rpm (original)



And What is the lifetime of mac mini (performance)? Can use for 3~4 yrs?

[b0bb]

[aquaman]

All of my Mac minis are still going strong. They have proved to be most durable over the years. Chances are that it will only become obsolete with future OS X updates.

As for which Mac mini, I would go with the i7 model with a SSD.

All kidding aside, the performance of the quad-core i7 is substantially better than that of the dual-core i5. So, I think that's where I would put my money. Even more so if you're worried about future proofing.

[macmini2012]

I know i7 + SSD should be better choice.

But within my budget, choice option 1 or option 2 ONE only.

[b0bb]

[Badger]

Option 2. I have the same model with a Fusion drive and it's crazy fast. You'll always have the ability to upgrade to a SSD down the line. You can even go with dual drives and retain the stock 1TB for files and backups. So... I say go with the i7 for now. You'll also have more room for Parallels, Windows 7 and other VMs with the larger drive.

[macmini2012]

So, I buy i7 model now ?

And then buy RAM , SSD , if necessary or budget ok later right ?

[Smithcraft]

Yes.

SC
_________________
Grumpy old man of computing.

[Desktop] G4 mini - 1.5Ghz 1GB 80GB HDD - Newer miniStack v2 500GB - 10.5.8

[Media System] Intel i5 mini - 2.33Ghz 8GB 500GB HDD - 4 x Hitachi 2TB HDD in a qBOX-SF - 10.7.5 (Thanks Phil!)

Make sure it has pins!

[g5g5]

Here's what I'm thinking about doing...

1. Buying the Core i7 server model

2. Placing an order for 16GB of RAM on Newegg (or whoever has best price).

3. Placing an order for a 256GB SSD on Newegg (or whoever has best price).

4. Placing an order for a 2.5" enclosure like this from Newegg.

5. Swaping out one of the 1TB drives for the 256GB SSD.

6. Upgrading RAM to 16GB.

7. Putting the stock 1TB drive in USB 3 enclosure for Time Machine.

8. Enjoying!

I just need to sell about $400 worth of old gear on Craigslist before proceeding.

I know that isn't your overall plan, but I wanting to share mine.

My vote is for option two though.
_________________
1.25GHz Mac Mini / 1.8GHz iMac G5 / 2.0GHz C2D Mac mini (2009)
4GB iPod mini / 2G iPod shuffle / 16GB iPhone 3G
Apple TV 2
iLife's a Bitch!

[macmini2012]

Thanks brothers!

I have been bought i7 Model , finally.

[g5g5]

[marv777]