Question for Mac Mini users

[Buck119]

I’m planning on buying a new computer. It will be an Apple computer.
I am undecided between an 21.5” iMac and a Mac Mini.
I like the idea of the iMac because of the 4K Retina Display.
However, my preference would be for the Mac Mini mainly for the fact that I could secure it in a safe when I’m not using it, even if I know that to get a similar quality monitor I would have to spend several hundred $$$ making the whole package more expensive than an iMac.

My question is about the solidity of the iMac and specifically about the HDMI port since I would connect it and disconnect it almost on a daily basis.


(Not interested in other brands, other than Apple, thanks).

 

[MarathonRunner]

We've been using Mac Minis at my office for 10 years (although we always bought pre-owned ones). We've had very few problems with any of them. My concern with the iMacs has always been if something goes wrong, you are totally down. At least with the Mac mini, if it gives you problems, you don't have to buy a new monitor. We don't disconnect the monitors every day, but the boxes are solid. Overall, I don't think you will go wrong either way.

 

[Snack]

Won’t you be unplugging - plugging the hdmi connector into whichever model you choose? Mini would be easier for portability, for sure although iMac’s are very solid though we never put them up at night, worked around them for years.

 

[Michael Martin]

I have a Mac mini its been solid, FYI The iMacs are not upgradeable by the user any more, neither are the new Mac mini’s, that is why I purchased an older one, i just upgraded to a new Mac book pro, i will sell my mini if your interested, also have a Thunderbolt Display

 

[Buck119]

Thanks guys!

Michael Martin i think we are too far, I live in Woodstock, but I’ll send you a PM.

 

[Ex313]

If you are going to lock the mini up every night, consider getting a port replicator to connect to the USB C port.
It will reduce the wear and tear on your HDMI port and make it easier to set it up every time you use it.

 

[Buck119]

Thanks, good idea.
I see that on amazon there are short female to male HDMI extensions, maybe I can use one of them and leave it permanently plugged into the Mini?

 

[Mr. Booshie]

You could keep the mini IN the safe and still use it. Just use AirPlay to your monitor.

 

[Ex313]

Thanks, good idea.
I see that on amazon there are short female to male HDMI extensions, maybe I can use one of them and leave it permanently plugged into the Mini?

A port replicator would be better IMHO. Consider that HDMI requires just a bit of force to put in pull out.
A USB C connector just goes in and comes out.

 

[Ex313]

This would be a nice one.

https://satechi.net/products/type-c-aluminum-stand-hub-for-mac-mini