Do I need to spend more on an iMac?

[obelix112za]

This is what I'm saving to buy in the next few months:
20" iMac, 2GB, 250GB HDD, 2.16GHz processor. etc...

I'll be running XP Home through parallels on my iMac as well.
My question to you is how much Harddrive space does Windows take once installed?

The reason I'm asking is that I'll be playing Serious Sam and Unreal Tournament 3 on my iMac (through Windows & Parallels), and I'm wondering if not to get the 3GB RAM, 2.33 Processor and maybe the 500GB HDD?
It's allot of money xtra, and I'm also buying a new printer, new external HDD's and a Canon EOS 1D MKIII, so of course it's all very expensive, so I'm trying to work out where I can save a bit.
Do I really need the xtra RAM, Harddrive space etc...?

Thanx

 

[Dustman]

Forget running any game except windows solitare through parallels. it'd be like watching a slide show, even though they claim it's possible, its not quite realistic yet. Also, Bootcamp is free from apple and will perform a billion times better. As for your question about ram, 3gbs is probably over-kill. (I recommend 1.5 GBs, or 2.0 if you still want to use parallels) however for HD space, 250 GB is probably ample, but if your running windows too, doesnt have hurt to have more if you think you might fill it.

EDIT: To answer your question, No. lol

 

[Maclarny]

1. Get rid of all your specific iMac plans. If you haven't been reading up on the rumors, new ones are expected within a month. I, too, am waiting for a new iMac.
2. Again, I'll be in the same boat with you on the gaming issue. If you intend to do gaming on your Intel mac, forget Parallels; It's getting better but you'll likely be very disappointed, especially if you try to run any game close to new with that software. I'd recommend picking up an OEM copy of Windows XP Home or Vista to install with Bootcamp. Granted, you'll have to restart every time you want to run a Windows game, but it will run at full speed.
3. Windows takes about 6-8 gb of HD space; I, personally, wouldn't need 500 GB of HD space (~250 would be ideal), but, again, if you think you do, you may as well get it.
4. Unless you'll be doing a lot of multitasking and media work on your Mac, 3 GB of RAM is excessive and expensive; 2 GB is a perfect amount.
5. The processor would be your best investment; Your iMac will run faster and will last longer, but again, you have to find the right medium for you.

Finally: I can't stress this enough, looking to buy an iMac now would be foolish as new ones are right around the corner. I've hoped I've helped you a bit with your other decisions, however. Cheers.

 

[obelix112za]

Maybe not

Yes Maclarny, I know about the new iMac's. This is just the current configuration I had in mind. Will see what the new ones has to offer and then adjust.
Thanx to you guys I think I'll be able to save a few Euro's.

On Apple.com they say it's new iMac's (although they look the same and has the same specs?)

Thanx