Looking to get my first mac

[Transbrak]

Hi there I'm looking to get my first mac. I have always ran Windows machines and am looking something that won't break the bank but will be able to run current software. What are the lowest system specs I can get away with if I choose to buy a used system. Or should I just go for the 699 new mini.

I'm assuming I should have no problem getting it to connect to my current wireless setup but what about file sharing, I have a couple of TB on my windows machine and would like to share most of my media with the mac, is that difficult or should I expect a headache getting it to work.

Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks!

 

[ITASOR]

I think that any Intel Mac, with enough RAM, should be able to run the software you need. You can probably find a great deal on a used white MacBook that is around a 2Ghz Core 2 Duo. Add 4GB RAM and you'll be good to go.

 

[ahankinson]

You shouldn't have any problems to connect to your Windows machines over Samba. If you can share between Windows machines, it's pretty much the same process.

I'd go with a new Mini. If you like it, it will last for a number of years. If you don't like it, or if you really like the Mac and want to sell up, you'll get the best resale value. See if you can buy a refurbished one, though - they're just as good as brand new, but usually about $50-$100 cheaper.

 

[cosmos]

3rd Party

Or you could always purchase from MacMall:

http://www.macmall.com/n/Mac-Mini/macNavLinks-macNavLinks.223

They have Mini base systems selling for $650 currently. If you need some additional RAM you can purchase at MacSales.com cheaper than Apple and load it with 8GB for around $125 the last time I checked.

Memory prices are crazy low compared to the past. I am old enough to remember memory selling for over $1500 per megabyte!

Gosh, I sound like my father...