Just picked up a used 2018 Mac Mini i3 for $400.

[testudoaubreii]

Hello. I have been in the market for a macOS device for a minute. I have been looking in used section because of my budget. So, I was on Craigslist yesterday and came across this 2018 Mac Mini, with an i3 3.6GHz/8GB/256GB SSD for $400. It has 300 days until the manufacturer's warranty is up and is eligible for Apple Care.

Of course, I was skeptical, but after talking with him, I decide to meet up at the Apple store. Turns out he works for the local news station and it is a brand new device. He said he realized that he listed it too low, but when he started getting inquiries, decided to leave as is to maybe help some one out. That someone happened to be this lowly, low-budgeted college student.

I have it now and it is up and running like a champ.

Anyhow, I thought it was a really great deal and wanted to share it. And, as a new convert to macOS, I was wondering if I would be able to get any advice for a newbee.

Thank you in advance for your help and response!

 

[Apple_Robert]

I recommend using Carbon Copy Cloner for backups. It can make a bootable clone of your mini. https://bombich.com
They also offer generous edu discount.

I also recommend using a password manager like 1Password, so that you can keep yourself better protected.

When creating your Apple ID, make sure to have at least 1 (preferably two) trusted phone numbers listed, so that you can retain access to your account, should something happen. Make sure 2 factor Authentication is turned on.

I suggest you turn on Filevault (under preferences > security). It will encrypt your computer so that only you the admin can log on and decrypt the drive. Make sure you tick the box that allows for changing the password with your AppleID.

Get a good adblocker like Adguard.

Take heed to this article. Print it out for handy reference. You may need it one day.

 

[testudoaubreii]

I recommend using Carbon Copy Cloner for backups. It can make a bootable clone of your mini. https://bombich.com
They also offer generous edu discount.

I also recommend using a password manager like 1Password, so that you can keep yourself better protected.

When creating your Apple ID, make sure to have at least 1 (preferably two) trusted phone numbers listed, so that you can retain access to your account, should something happen. Make sure 2 factor Authentication is turned on.

I suggest you turn on Filevault (under preferences > security). It will encrypt your computer so that only you the admin can log on and decrypt the drive. Make sure you tick the box that allows for changing the password with your AppleID.

Get a good adblocker like Adguard.

Take heed to this article. Print it out for handy reference. You may need it one day.

Thank you so much for the info. Very useful.