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The new Mac mini tops out with a six-core Intel 8th-gen processor, enhanced security thanks to the Apple T2 chipset, and upgradeable memory.

Despite coming only in the same space grey hue as the prosumer-targeted iMac Pro, the Mac mini retains its consumer branding theres no Pro in the name, contrary to early rumors.

With a starting price of 799, the Mac minis higher price this year is creeping into the iMacs 1,100 territory, even though Apples compact desktop doesnt ship with its own display.

If youre set on picking up a new Mac mini, heres what you need to know heading into the configuration process.

The entry-level Mac mini starts with a quad-core 3.6GHz Coffee Lake Core i3 processor, though you can opt for a more powerful 3.2GHz six-core Core i7 processor or go for the 3.0GHz six-core Core i5 model instead.

The jump from quad-core to six-core processors will provide the most noticeable performance improvement, so if youre looking for the best value, the Core i5 is a good choice.

Storage starts at 128GB for the base quad-core model or 256GB on the six-core configuration.

On the six-core Core i5 model, upgrading from a 256GB drive to 2TB quickly bumps the 1,099 price to 1,899.

The SSD can only be configured at purchase, as its not an upgradeable component on this desktop.

More frugal shoppers can choose a lower capacity SSD to save money and add an external SSD or hard drive later.

Best of all, even if you opt to stick to the base 8GB of RAM at purchase, memory is easily upgradeable by removing a plastic cover on the bottom of the Mac mini.

Configuring the Mac mini with 64GB of RAM adds 1,000 to the cost.

But even at 16GB, youll need to add another 200 to your base memory configuration.

Make sure whatever processor you choose can actually use the amount of memory you add on.

The Mac mini also comes with an HDMI 2.0 port, power port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, 3.5mm headphone jack, and four Thunderbolt 3 over USB-C ports, allowing prosumers the opportunity to connect up to a total of three displays (depending on resolution and refresh rate).

The improved performance on this years model, along with its ability to pair with an eGPU, moves the Mac mini into a more premium territory.

Fully upgraded, the Mac minis price quickly increases to 3,199 when configured with with a six-core 8th-generation Intel Core i7 processor, 64GB RAM, a 2TB SSD, and a 10Gb Ethernet port.

However, keep in mind that you may still need to add a 99 Magic Keyboard, 79 Magic Mouse, and a display to the price if you dont already have them.

And when you have to add in the peripherals and a display, Apples standard 1,099 iMac may be the more affordable option for most consumers, if you dont mind a 21.5-inch screen or a hard desk drive rather than an SSD for storage.

Best Games For Mac 2014