New Mac Mini Concept docks to Apple’s new LED Cinema displays
November 27th, 2008 by SteveApple’s Mac Mini has been neglected for so long that it is now surely due either for an update or death. In the hope that Apple’s entry-level machine is not yet to be confined to history Isamu Sanada has designed a concept that speculates upon a slim-line new Mac Mini that docks with the new range of Apple LED Cinema displays.
The design above is designed to dock with Apple’s new 24-inch LED Cinema displays and comes with:
- One USB port
- A built-in Mini DisplayPort
- A slot-loading media drive
The single USB port is a disappointment considering the current Mini has four and I expect the addition of a clunky USB hub would ruin the slim lines of this setup somewhat.
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Tags: Apple, cinema, concept, display, Isamu Sanada, led, mac, mac mini, mini, new, new mac, new mac mini,
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May 28th, 2010 at 10:34 am
I must say that I'm very impressed with the design of this concept, however I can see a potential flaws which inevitably mean that this idea would not make it to fruition with Apple.
Taking into account the prices of iMacs, Mac Mini's & Apple LED Cinema Display screens, you soon come to realise how the costs involve just don't add up. Allow me to explain.
Mac LED Cinema Display with Mac Mini Docking Port,
Cost Involved: Mac Mini 2.26GHz with 160GB HDD = £510 or Mac Mini 2.53GHz with 320GB HDD = £663 + Apple LED Cinema Display (24″ Flat Panel) = £649
So that's a total cost of £1'159 for a Mac Mini 2.26GHz with 160 HDD version or £1'312 for a Mac Mini 2.53GHz with 320GB
Now if we compare this to a to the current range starting from just £969 for a iMac 21.5″ 3.0GHz with 500GB HDD & you start to wonder why anybody would pay £190 more for a lower spec machine? It just does not add up.
Especially when you consider that for just over £66 more than the £1'312 Mac Mini 2.53GHz with 320GB version, you could get a £1'378 mid range iMac 27″ 3.0GHz model with 500GB HDD, why anyone be temped to go for the Mac Mini setup?
The Mac Mini has always been sold as an entry level Mac which is nice & affordable, therefore being ideal for people switching from PC to Mac who already have display, keyboard or mice.
I think Apple will more than likely keep the Mac Mini going in it's current setup for sometime yet as it serves as a perfect setup to introduce new users to Macs looking for an affordable model, who will then more than likely spend more money on a higher spec model when they come to upgrade their computer next time round!