Mini options

Hey all,

Recently I signed up for an iOS dev class, and part of the requirements is that I have some system that can run at least Mountain Lion. I could use the Apple systems on campus, but that involves a commute anytime I want to use them. I could create a Hackintosh, though right now the only hardware I have access to is an AMD-based desktop (so, no-go as far as I know, unless someone knows how), a tablet, and an older Thinkpad which lacks the CPU power needed for running a virtual machine. So, I'm exploring the possibility of picking up a Mini.

Apple's educational pricing on the current cheapest model is $579 and tax (sure, there's the $100 Store gift card, though I don't see myself using it). I could get something a bit older (anything early 2009 or newer), though the two sources I've checked (Apple's Outlet and MacMall) don't carry anything that's less expensive right now. Craigslist isn't showing much either.

That said, does anyone have any suggestions as to where I could look for an inexpensive Mini? Thanks

 

I think Other World Computing sells used/refurbished Macs. Might give them a look.

 

Hmm, $369 for an early '09 model, not too bad. Thanks for the suggestion.

EDIT: Accounting for upgrading to Snow Leopard, and then Mountain Lion, it seems that the pre-tax price will be around $410.

 

The early 2009 Mac Mini is capable of running Mavericks so you would only need to pay for Snow Leopard.

 

Thanks. Though I decided that I won't take the class. Sat through a session and it seems that having a laptop would be far better for the class.

 

hackintosh an old D620 or D630?