At its special event today, Apple announced a refresh to the Mac mini, along with the MacBook Air. The new version looks pretty much the same as the old one - that"s from 2014 -, but with updated internals.
The new Mac mini features a four-core 3.6Ghz eighth-generation Intel Core i3 processor for its base model along with 8GB of DDR4 RAM and 128GB of storage. On the other end, the highest-end model offers a six-core 3.2Ghz eighth-generation Intel Core i7 that can Turbo Boost up to 4.6Ghz, 64GB of DDR4 RAM and 2TB of storage. As for the GPU, all models are sticking with Intel"s UHD Graphics 630.
It"s also worth noting that Apple is using removable SO-DIMMs for the RAM and PCIe SSDs for all storage options. Apple is also including its T2 security chip inside.
While the Mac mini looks pretty much the same as the 2014 model, Apple says it features a new Space Grey finish and its enclosure is made out of 100% recycled aluminum, just like the new MacBook Air.
As for ports, the Mac mini includes four Thunderbolt 3 Type-C ports, two USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A ports, HDMI 2.0, an Ethernet port, as well as a 3.5mm headphone jack. Apple is also giving an option to upgrade that Ethernet port from Gigabit to 10-Gigabit for $100.
Apple will begin shipping the new Mac mini starting November 7, and it"s available for purchase starting today. The base model starts at $799, with the highest-end configuration going for $4,199.