Hi, I'd appreciate suggestions for an affordable option for developing using Xcode 9. My current 2009 Mac Mini is apparently way too old to run MacOS 10.12.6. Since I have the screen and keyboard already, is there a more recent Mini that would be up to the job? Thanks
Any recent (since 2014~15? - be sure it runs current macOS)/current mini will do the job, just be sure to max the physical ram and buy twice as much SSD/HD than you imagine you'll need.
As for 'budget mac'...lots of competition for macs from devs, so....if it's real cheap, that means it's not in demand and not likely something you'd want.
See the Apple Store online for good deals on refurb's but be quick if you spot one you like...they don't last long.
Double-check what type of connector your display uses as it may not work with a new Mac (or require a sometimes expensive conversion box).
Buy a used 2012 mac mini i7 and upgrade to 16GB ram and an SSD. Faster than most current macbooks according to github com/ashfurrow/xcode-hardware-performance, although that machine's benchmark's aren't uploaded for xcode 9.
Thanks for your replies – all useful info.