Perfect for Switchers and Home Users

Intro
Apple's Mac Mini joined their desktop computer product line as somewhat of an oddity. This tiny OS X system was introduced to reign in more 'switchers', who may have been struggling with the premium pricing of the other Mac systems at the time. Without keyboard, monitor, or mouse, the Mac mini let existing PC users take advantage of their own peripheral hardware, further easing the decision to switch.

This review will present my experience with my mini and hopefully share enough insight to help your decision to switch or not.

Setup
I have used many different Apple products over the years. One thing that always struck me was the rather well designed packaging. The Mac Mini is no different. The unboxing experience was quite satisfying. For college students, the box is small enough to keep to pack up the system later.

System setup was simple. Plug in the power cord, mouse, and keyboard and you're ready to go. The setup wizard guided me through the rest of the setup process. The setup wizard Apple provides is very comprehensive. If you have a wireless mouse or keyboard, the wizard will assist with the setup of these devices.

For switchers, the mac mini has many different ways to migrate your old data. I found using an external USB hard drive to be the best way to accomplish this. If you're migrating from another mac and use the Time Machine backup utility, you can not only migrate your old data, but ALL your system settings and applications.

Apps
Included with the mac mini is Apple's latest operating system, OS X 'Leopard' and the home application suite iLife. OS X comes loaded with utilities and applications that make using the Mac easier. iLife is a home media applications suite that includes iPhoto, iMovie, GarageBand, and iWeb. Each of these applications enables users to exercise their creative skills in an entirely Macintosh way.

OS X Leopard includes a number of new features to make life easier. Of note is Time Machine, a backup utility that enables users to recovery any or all files from months in the past. In fairness, Windows has had this feature for years but it was only available on their server product line. Windows Vista is the first desktop OS to include this form of backup utility.

Application wise, OS X comes loaded with programs that will meet most home user's needs. It comes integrated with iTunes, Calendar, and address book to keep your media and life organized. The default mail application will support virtually any type of e-mail system (except enterprise systems like Exchange, Domino, or Groupwise). For users that want a robust business package, iWork is available for a low price to do word processing, presentations, and spreadsheets.

Features/Usability
For most people, the Mac mini's tiny footprint is the first feature they notice. This tiny computer fits in a space where most portable hard drives could easily sit. A word of caution; the Mac Mini needs room to breathe. Due to the tiny footprint, the internal components of the Mac Mini will heat up quickly. There is ventilation in the back, but the top also warms up quite a bit. Place the Mac Mini in a well ventilated area and don't stack things on top of it. Heat is the enemy of computer parts and the Mac Mini is quite vulnerable.

There is a low power internal speaker, but it is best to attach standard PC speakers to the mini for proper sound performance.

The Mac Mini is built for peripherals. With 5 available USB ports and 1 Firewire 800 port, the mac mini will support plenty of peripherals like mice, keyboards, printers, external hard drives, etc... Network wise, the Mac Mini comes equipped with a Gigabit Ethernet port for wired connections and an Airport Extreme wireless card that will support all previous versions of wireless networks.

As far as computing power goes, the Mini is no rocket. Equipped with an Intel Core 2 Duo process or either 2 or 2.6Ghz, the mini will serve most home users but not memory of processing intensive applications.  The mini is designed for entry level use and some basic office applications. While it support Garageband admirably, users who wish to migrate to Logic Express or Logic Standard should upgrade. It's the same story for graphic artists; if you want to run Photoshop, consider an iMac of Mac Pro.

The video capabilities of the Mac Mini are adequate, but not high-end. Since the system doesn't come with a monitor, you should be careful when purchasing. It's best to have (or get) a monitor that will match the native resolution of the Mac Mini's video card. Don't worry about the physical connection, the Mac Mini comes with a number of adapters for your existing DVI or VGA monitor.

Support
Apple support is legendary. On top of the standard 6 month warranty, you can purchase an extended all inclusive 3 year warranty with includes free telephone support. I had exactly 1 support experience with Apple involving a corrupted track I downloaded from the iTunes Store. They resolved my issue within a day and made me feel like an important customer. 5 stars for Apple support. 

Serviceability
The Mac Mini isn't user serviceable at all. Make sure you get the right amount of memory and processor when you buy, otherwise you will have to get the unit serviced to upgrade.

Overall
The Mac Mini is a solid product in the Apple lineup. Its price point, features, and operating system make it the ideal product for PC users to experience their first Macintosh. If well cared for, the Mini will last for years and serve you well.