The experience lasted more than 744 hours, only explaining my user experience. If there are any errors, please correct them in the comments section.
Preface#
The first Mac device that truly belongs to me. The one I bought is the 2018 version of the entry-level model. Although it's not as good as the M1 version, I wanted to buy one that could last me through college, and I happened to need (want) a Mac, so I chose it. Although it's the entry-level model, it's still sufficient for typing and writing small things. As for why I didn't choose Windows, it's because I can use school computers with Windows, and I haven't had a deep experience with Mac OS, so I bought it to experience it.
Appearance#
Mac Mini has always been known for its compact body and comparable functionality to the MacBook for mobile office use. This 2018 version of the Mac Mini is no exception. The body, like the MacBook Air, is made of 100% recycled aluminum alloy, which is very environmentally friendly (costs 50 yuan, Apple pays for it) and feels very good. The space gray appearance, paired with the black and silver Apple logo, is not only suitable for placement in a room, but also as part of home decoration when connected in the living room, without losing its elegance.
The body has four Thunderbolt 3 ports, two USB 3.0 ports, one HDMI 2.0 port, one Gigabit Ethernet port, one 3.5mm audio jack, and one power port. The ports are quite abundant, and with the dock I bought, it's enough.
The size of the body doesn't take up much space on the desk, but a bunch of cables do.
System#
I bought this Mac Mini from its original owner who had upgraded it to Mac OS Big Sur and didn't upgrade it further because they felt that this version was good enough. After I got it, I didn't upgrade the system either. I feel that Big Sur is sufficient for now, and I'll upgrade when I need to (I'm worried that there won't be much storage left after the update on the 256GB drive).
Most of the software I used on Windows can also be used here, such as Magic Cat and other software. What I'm still getting used to is the keyboard operation. It feels really different from the operation on Windows. I hope I can get familiar with it quickly.
Handoff is quite useful, although sometimes there are some small issues, but the probability of these small issues occurring is quite low. The ones I use the most are AirDrop and iCloud. I can just throw the files into them, and then I can see them on my iPad/iPhone. It's quite convenient, and I don't need to open QQ to transfer files anymore. Although I have to pay 6 RMB every month, it's still affordable, just the cost of a breakfast.
Entry-level?#
Why is it called the entry-level version? Because the one I bought is the entry-level model, which uses the 8th generation Intel Core i3-8100 quad-core processor, Intel UHD Graphics 630 graphics chip, 8GB 2666MHz DDR4 memory (4*2), and a 256GB SSD. But I can add more memory later, although it's a bit difficult, but a little difficulty can't stop me. It's just replacing two memory modules, nothing difficult (hopefully). But now I regret getting the 8GB version. It starts to lag when running multiple software in the background. But since it was my own decision, I'll stick with it (so pitiful, sob).
Conclusion#
With the current configuration (not as good as M1), it's enough for me to use. iCloud synchronization is also very convenient, and it would be better to experience it with more Apple devices. Besides the fingerprint smudges, there are no major issues with the body. But when someone comes to my house and asks if it's the M2 version, all I can do is shake my head because they do look very similar.