Mac mini Late 2012

Technically a "configure-to-order" version of the MD388LL/A Mac mini "Core i7" 2.3 (Late 2012/Aluminum Unibody), the Mac mini "Core i7" 2.6 (Late 2012/Aluminum Unibody) is also documented as a separate model for easier reference. Besides the processor, the two models are identical.

This Apple Mac mini is powered by a 22-nm Quad Core "Ivy Bridge" 2.6 GHz Intel "Core i7" (3720QM) processor, with four independent "cores" on a single chip and a 6 MB shared L3 cache. It includes 4 GB of 1600 MHz DDR3 SDRAM (PC3-12800), a 1 TB hard drive, and Intel HD Graphics 4000 that shares system memory. It lacks an internal optical drive, though an external one was offered for US$79.

Its connectivity suite includes a Firewire "800" port, four USB 3.0 ports, HDMI, Thunderbolt, combined "audio line in (digital/analog)" and "audio line out/headphone (digital/analog)" minijacks, a 10/100/1000Base-T Gigabit Ethernet port, 802.11a/b/g/n Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.0, and an SDXC card slot.

Compared to its predecessor, this model is visually identical but has a faster internal architecture with a more powerful processor and faster RAM. However, it has slower graphics but adds USB 3.0 ports.

All Mac mini systems are sold by default without a display, keyboard, or mouse, but a wide variety of Apple and third-party options are available.

The 2.6GHz quad-core i7 Mac mini from late 2012 was the top-tier build-to-order option for consumers, and it stood as a testament to how much power could be packed into a small chassis. This model was highly sought after by prosumers and creative professionals for its exceptional processing capabilities, making it a formidable machine for intensive tasks like video rendering and audio production. The Ivy Bridge architecture, combined with faster RAM and the addition of USB 3.0 ports, made it a significant upgrade in terms of overall system responsiveness and connectivity. However, the move to integrated Intel HD 4000 graphics, a step down from the discrete AMD GPU in the previous year's high-end model, was a notable compromise that limited its appeal for graphics-heavy work and gaming. Nonetheless, its potent quad-core performance and user-upgradable RAM solidified its status as a legendary and highly versatile Mac.