The choice of a mini or a micro for hosting SCADA systems is anything but clearcut. Small water utilities with relatively low computing expansion expectations may have no need for the advantages a mini-based system offers, and MS-DOS based SCADA software (on a personal computer) may work well for them. Those with needs other than SCADA are given a number of points to evaluate in deciding whether to purchase a mini or micro. Following a detailed explanation of micros, minis, and SCADA systems, the author presents a number of issues to be considered: expandability and obsolescence, especially as they relate to open systems compliance, graphics windowing techniques, open operating systems in POSIX compliance, and relational database connectivity; familiarity; price; maintenance; and utility environment. Typical hardware configurations or "shopping lists" are given for micro and mini.