2012 Mac Mini Displays?

[mac2o]

Thinking of taking the plunge. My 2006 Imac is totally on its last legs and seems to be so slow.

I'm kinda OCD and would like a monitor that matches the mini. The apple monitors are nice, but a little pricey. Any suggestions? Is there a way to use my existing imac as a monitor until I can find something else? I really don't need anything bigger than the 17 incher matte display I have now.

Also, how hard would it be to install a SSD?

Seems to be cheaper to buy the mini and install the SSD and memory myself, then having apple to install for me.


Thanks!

 

[COrocket]

Using a imac as a display for another computer (called target display mode) was introduced a couple years after the 2006 imac. For older computers there may be software or a hack to do it, but I'm not familiar with it. If you look around there are some very nice 3rd party displays that are pretty inexpensive and have some nice modern features. You may be able to find one that is to your liking.

You are correct that it is cheaper to DIY upgrades with the mini. The difficulty of an SSD install depends on the users comfort with disassembling computers.
This guide shows the process very well http://www.ifixit.com/Guide/Installing+Mac+Mini+Late+2012+Hard+Drive+Replacement/11716/1
I've never taken apart a mac prior to my SSD install, and I came out OK so i don't think there is anything too tricky about it.