Most reliable Mac Mini Model

Question

Any thoughts on what has been proven to be the most reliable Mini or a particular problem model. Hope to buy a used one soon. I'd prefer a PPC over an Intel just because i'd rather not run my older apps in Roseta. May be that not a real issue but i just don't know for sure. And could care less about running any form of Windows. But if you think the Intel Machines hold up better I'd consider them. But not just because of their superior performance.
Hey thank you for any of your valuable feedback
PK

Answer 1

I don't think there has proven to be much of a difference in reliability terms between PPC and Intel minis - though even if there had been signs that say the PPC units were more inherently reliable, it's not really a good guide to future behavior since these systems are getting older and older, so an early lower failure rate doesn't do much more than imply that might remain so.
It's also difficult to tell from reports here, since PPC models were in the supply chain for a somewhat shorter period of time, and there has been a wider number of Intel models, each potentially with their own issues.
I really think you'd be best to look at what your specific needs are to determine how to best meet them. Even if history could tell us that one type of machine has a better reliability record than another, how well behaved any individual unit will turn out to be is much more a factor to do with luck and prior treatment.
That said, I have two PPC minis of my own (both running constantly since new) and had no problem with either. I am also responsible for 15 or so minis (all but one Intel models) in various networks I manage, and so far none have proven unreliable. I've been using minis since they first came out in January 2005 (my 1.25 mini is a 'day one' unit).
If you have PPC applications and no plans to upgrade in the foreseeable future, a PPC mini may prove to be the better option, though it must be said that some PPC software will run faster (even with Rosetta) on an Intel model if it has enough RAM.) If you have any need for Classic or pre-OSX software, you will have little option but to go for a PPC unit, since Classic doesn't run on the Intel platform.
However, if you have any reason to think your future needs might grow to include new software, you will almost certainly be better off with an Intel mini (if a Core Duo then preferably with 2Gb RAM, while if a C2D, then 3Gb or even 4).
The only reason I would buy a PPC model by now is if I needed a Mac mini and funds were very tight, or if I was buying to meet an immediate need, with the expectation of replacing the system in the not-too-distant future if my needs were likely to evolve at all.