Looking for a Decent Mac Mini for Web Dev under $500?

Wonderstache on 04/12/2019 - 14:08

Hi there, I'm looking at getting a Mac Mini to do cross OS web dev testing on and I was wondering if anyone can recommend a second hand model for under $500 that would work fine with the latest MacOS?

I would simply use it to remote into and use Safari dev tools (and iPhone/iPad debugging).

I came across this on ebay but I'm unsure if it's bad or not: https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Mac-Mini-A1347-Late-2014-i5-4260…

I don't know much about the performance and compatibility of Mac Mini's so any help or guidance would be appreciated.

Thanks!

Computing Apple Computer Desktop Computer

Comments

  • verio on 04/12/2019 - 14:47
    +1

    I understand the budget limitations but you are entering the world of pain without an SSD in your Mac.

    • Wonderstache on 04/12/2019 - 15:19

      My colleague told me about replacing one with an SSD, maybe this is the way I go. Thanks mate.

  • npc on 04/12/2019 - 14:52

    One of our devs is using the exact same model with HDD upgraded to SSD. I haven't heard about any troubles.

    • Wonderstache on 04/12/2019 - 15:20

      Cheers mate, I think this might validate my choice. :) Are they running the latest MacOS?

      • npc on 04/12/2019 - 15:50

        Not entirely sure, but assuming that it is the latest.

  • tgame on 04/12/2019 - 14:54
    +1

    If you are using this only for browser testing, it should be fine.

    If your intention is to use it to developing and testing then you will much happier if you upgrade it with an SSD and more RAM like 8GB

    just my 2c :)

    • Wonderstache on 04/12/2019 - 15:31

      Thanks, seems like the suggested action is to upgrade both.

  • jace88 on 04/12/2019 - 15:32

    I think the one you mentioned is the last Mac Mini which could be easily user upgraded for the 2.5", adding an extra drive, upgrading RAM, etc… The problem is given it's age (>5 years), you may not be able to run the latest Mac OS. I actually own one a similar vintage Mac Mini as well but haven't upgraded it as I bought it back in 2013 to be a box to plug into the TV for my parents to watch TV on the couch with the k400… and I was amazed at how much they go for on the second hand market.

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