Apple: want to try, where to start?

[D.8080]

As the title says I'd like to learn how to use a Mac.
Thought buying a Mac mini (on ebay).

Any suggestions?

Thanks in advance.

D.8080

[alexzu]

Better buy a used laptop. They are much more universal, you can take it with you for a trip and prices are not high, you can get one for $300-500, depending on your budget.

[D.8080]

Thanks!
Specs to look up?

G4 are a little outdated I think

[alexzu]

Depending on what display size is ok with you, go for Air or MacBook Pro 2010+. Better choose i5-i7 over C2D of course ) From late-2012 MBPs have Retina display, but those will be more expensive, like $600+.
Last 2010 13" I sold for $335, 2012 13" (non-retina) for $525.
Try to find one with SSD - system will be much faster then regular with hard drive.

[D.8080]

Thanks for your suggestions.

Anybody else has a take on the matter???
Come on, be bold!

[vezhlys]

Latest mac minis are almost unupgradable (you can't add RAM, it is difficult to replace hard drive, etc). So take specs which appeal to you the most from the start. Older models were more upgradable but I didn't like them because of various reliability issues. And finally, I had issues with my monitor (didn't adjust right screen size, currently solvable by turning it off/on only). So probably laptop is really a better choice. If you just want to play with it and learn then anything fits if it is still in good condition (of course take with Intel CPUs). Check if model still supported before buying.

I did the same 5 years ago but I didn't like macOS and it becomes worse with bigger restrictions and poor compatibility between updates. I still have one mac mini but gradually moved to Linux.

[D.8080]

Thanks alexzu and vezhlys!

Yep, at this point I believe a laptop to be a better option.

I can get a mac mini with g4 cpu for about 20-30€, maybe I'll get one for the sake of trying a g4

[alexzu]

Just remember, that latest Mac OS does not support G4, so you'll need to find and install something older. Check Apple website for compatibility.

[skold]

Look for a 2010 or above, non retina MacBook Pro. 2011-2013 would be ideal.

These MacBooks can be upgraded, for example you can put an SSD in them, more RAM, etc. Retina MacBook Pros and anything newer have the RAM soldered to the board, so you can't replace it.

Most 2009 models and anything older can't support the newest macOS, so avoid those.

If you're just interested in learning how to use a Mac, you could go the Hackintosh route. If you have an Intel CPU there's a good chance you could just dual boot OS X. Check out https://www.tonymacx86.com/

[D.8080]

Thanks!