Mac Mini Media Center v. Apple TV
Among those of us that are even aware of the Mac Mini Media Center or the Apple TV there is an argument over which is the better system. Of course there is no universal answer to this but there are distinct advantages to either of them.
In this post, I'll briefly discuss the difference between a Mac Mini Media Center and an Apple TV.
First, we should all understand what an Apple TV is. Personally, I am a fan of all things Apple. For the longest time I knew the Apple TV existed but I never thought about what it really does.
So what is it? Basically it's an iPod for your TV. You can access your iTunes library and you can buy content (and rent movies) from the iTunes store directly from the Apple TV.
The greatest asset of the Apple TV is it's simplicity. There's one cord that connects to your HDTV via HDMI and that's it. There isn't even a power button. It is also cheaper and more user friendly out of the box than a Mac Mini Media Center.
The problem with the Apple TV is that it is limited. The largest hard drive is 160 GB. Also it get's a little bit more complicated if you don't want to be tied to iTunes.
Once I found out about the ATV, I wanted one. I like the concept and it was looking at Apple TV reviews that led me to discover the Mac Mini Media Center.
I would choose the Mac Mini over the Apple TV just because of the added flexibility.
The Mac Mini offers it's minimalist, non-intrusive, design as well and all the power of a desktop computer. You can install boxee on Apple TV but how about game emulators, playing dvds, or even just using OSX?
A Mac Mini is definitely more of an investment in time and money but to me it is worth the price.
Want to get a tricked out ATV? Check out the eBay listings below.
 Apple TV Used Refurbished 160GB Hard Drive  US $86.01
|
 160GB AppleTV Mint condition Apple TV 160 GB 160 Gig US $91.00
|
 appleTV 160GB with Boxee XBMC Pandora Applecare US $118.50
|
 Apple TV 160 GB Original Packaging incl Remote US $90.50
|
I’m just not sold on the whole idea of an ATV. I can do the same (ie store movies and songs) on my XBox, or I’ve got a Sky box for actually watching (and now recording) TV and movies. You’re right, a Mac Mini is probably a better bet.
I think many people agree with you but for folks that are more technophobic, the ATV is probably a great device.
Are you able to adjust the display resolution, for either the Apple TV or the Mac Mini Media Center?
I’m thinking in terms of matching the resolution to your HDTV for the best picture.
This is why open source is the way to go. XBMC is a fine example of that
The Mac Mini is certainly the best way to go. Ok, it’s a little more expensive but it can handle 1080p material and gives you a fully fledged computer as well. This also makes it much more customisable.