Which is right for you? iMac Vs Mac Mini

Upgrading your Mac, or making the switch from a Windows computer, can be daunting. With so many options and different price points, it’s incredibly difficult to choose.

Do you want the simplicity of an all-in-one device like the iMac, or do you need the portability and customisation of a Mac Mini?

Both the Mac Mini & the iMac are powerful computers that are capable of handling everything from the most basic tasks like creating documents and browsing social media, to streaming TV shows and editing videos, but which is suitable for you?

In this blog, we’ll do a deep dive into both the iMac and the Mac Mini, including the history of the Mac, to help you make a decision.

Apple and the history of the Mac

Both the iMac and the Mac Mini were launched at important moments in Apple’s history, after already having decades of selling computers under their belt.

The history of the iMac

The very first iMac G3 was created and launched by Steve Jobs when he returned to Apple in 1998. Nobody had ever seen anything like it before, as it was an all-in-one system that housed both the actual computer and the monitor, with its translucent shell that came in several bright colours. The first iMac was designed to be used specifically for the internet, hence the “i” prefixing “Mac”. Many will argue that the invention of the iMac completely saved Apple and helped build its future success.

The history of the Mac Mini

Where the iMac was about innovation and creating something completely new, the Mac Mini was created to attract new Mac users away from Windows, who were used to a more modular computer. The idea behind the Mac Mini was to make it more accessible for Windows users – who would already have a monitor, keyboard and mouse – to easily make the switch. It was, and still remains to be, a lower-cost alternative to an iMac, with a similar level of portability to a MacBook.

The new product launches of both the Mac Mini and the iMac built the foundation for the Macs that we sell at MacFinder today.

What is an iMac?

The iMac is really the Apple desktop computer that everyone knows of. Whilst it’s come a long way from the original brightly coloured iMac G3, it’s still iconic and fairly unique that it’s an all-in-one system where the screen is the actual computer – all you need to get started is the Apple keyboard and Magic Mouse that come in the box.

The modern iMac boasts a 24” high-definition screen, a built-in webcam for video calls and a studio-quality microphone, making it a good-all round computer suitable for any home or office space.

Who is the iMac suitable for?

The iMac is suitable for a wide range of people as it’s an incredibly powerful machine.

Space savers

If you want a tidy setup without needing much space, the iMac is for you. It features just one power cable, with peripherals like the keyboard and mouse being wireless.

Technophobes

The iMac just works. It’s easy to set up and you don’t need to worry about having to buy an external monitor, mouse, keyboard, webcam and microphone.

Students

If you’re using an iPad to take notes in lectures, an iMac will complement it perfectly, so you can upload your notes to iCloud, type them up and write essays in your dorm room.

Creative professionals

If you’re a creative professional without the budget for a Mac Studio and an additional 4k screen, the iMac gives you one of the best quality screens and the hardware right out of the box, as well as the incredible performance of the M-series Apple chips.

Why you should buy an iMac

• Works right out of the box with no additional hardware
• Huge 4.5k retina display
• Clean, minimalist design
• High-powered and capable of nearly any task

What is a Mac Mini?

The Mac Mini is a great, lower-cost alternative to the iMac, which is ideal if you’re switching from Windows and already have additional hardware like a Monitor, keyboard and mouse, or if you need to transport it between home and the office.

The Mac Mini is high-powered, featuring the Apple M-series chip, but is also incredibly compact.

Out of the box, it is just a computer, but a very good one at that, that’s capable of running most software. It is also available in a Pro version if you need something with a little more juice for more complex software.

Who is the Mac Mini for?

The Mac Mini fits a wide variety of purposes, so it is suitable for many different people.

Windows veterans

The Mac Mini is a perfect entry point for those who have always used Windows. Sure, the OS is different, but you can use your existing peripherals.

Customisers

If you don’t want to be restricted to the built-in 24” monitor of the iMac and need an ultra-wide screen or a high refresh rate gaming monitor, the Mac Mini is perfect for you.

Families

The Mac Mini is ideal for use as a family computer as they’re affordable, can do everything the whole family needs and are compact.

Hybrid workers

Splitting your time between home and the office? The Mac Mini is ideal as it’s lightweight, portable and can be used on any monitor at home or in the office.

Why you should buy a Mac Mini

You should buy the Mac Mini if you’re looking for an Apple computer with a low entry price, particularly if you’re switching from Windows, you want more flexibility, or just want a simple, compact computer for basic tasks, with the ability to upgrade the chip.

iMac Vs. Mac Mini – how to choose

There are a few different things we need to consider for you to make a decision on whether to buy an iMac or a Mac Mini.

Price

When buying anything, price is of course a factor. Whilst buying Apple products is never cheap, buying refurbished is a lot more affordable for exactly the same equipment.

The price of refurbished iMacs

The price of a refurbished iMac varies wildly, depending on performance and condition. Some examples would be:

Intel iMac – From £355

M3 iMac – From £1,015

M4 iMac – From £1,075

The price of refurbished Mac Minis

The Mac Mini is typically a lot more affordable than an iMac, as we’ve previously mentioned, as all that comes in the box is the computer and power cable. The Mac Mini only uses Apple’s own M-series silicone chip, but the price still varies based on the chip and storage..

M1 Mac Mini – From £245

M2 Mac Mini – From £330

Prices correct as of 22nd January 2026.

Screen and peripherals

iMac

If you want an Apple computer where everything comes in the box, including a 4.5k retina screen, the iMac is a great choice, as an Apple monitor on its own will cost over £1,000.

Mac Mini

If you already have a monitor that you’ve bought, and a preferred mouse and keyboard, the Mac Mini could be an ideal choice.

Usage and performance

If you’re not carrying out super high-performance tasks or gaming, the 24-inch iMac could be a better choice for you, as it doesn’t have support for the M-series Pro chips but the regular M-series chip is powerful enough for the majority of users. If you need a level of portability and a bit more power, however, you may be better off with the Mac Mini.

Ports & connectivity

iMac ports

The iMac is designed for simplicity and minimalism, featuring just two Thunderbolt ports on the base version, meaning if you need to connect USB devices, you’ll need to buy a hub.

Mac Mini ports

The Mac Mini is more customisable, featuring more Thunderbolt ports, an HDMI port and a USB port.

So which will you choose? The Mac Mini or the iMac?

Whilst we can’t make a decision for you, we hope this article has armed you with all of the information you need to make a decision on whether the Mac Mini or iMac is best for you and your needs.

If you’re still confused about your options and need a little help, please feel free to reach out to our support team.