Apple Mac Mini is a budget-friendly alternative to larger desktops that still packs a punch in terms of power and performance.Apple education pricing program offers discounted rates for devices including the Mac Mini for students and teachers.The 2018 Mac Mini model features a high-powered 8th-Gen Intel Core i5 processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 512GB solid-state drive.The Apple Mac Mini M1 model with 256GB SSD and 8GB RAM is now available renewed for 47% off.The newer 2021 Mac Mini M2 with Apple's 8-core CPU and 10-core GPU is discounted at 12% off.When selecting a Mac Mini model, consider the hardware configurations and age of the device, with 2018 and 2020 models being recommended.The Mac Mini delivers a lot of value and power for an affordable price, but lacks a display and peripherals which come at an added cost.Overall, the Mac Mini is a good option for those seeking a compact but powerful Apple desktop without having to break the bank.Other Apple devices such as the MacBook and iMac are alternatives to consider if you require a pre-built display and compatible peripherals.Check out reputable retailers for great Mac Mini deals, both new and renewed.