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Do you think the new iMac will be worth the wait for everyday computing?

R

rsted222

macrumors regular
Original poster
Apr 12, 2011
105
0
My '06 intel iMac is sick and I'm about to make a move. I just use it for everyday stuff...iPhoto, internet, and watching movies. That being said, will I see that much of a difference between the current low-end iMac and what's about to come out. Not sure that sandybridge and thunderbolt are worth the wait.

You can get a great deal on the 21.5" i3 RIGHT NOW on eBay/Macmall....for about $1040 plus free shipping (and no tax).

What say you?
 
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Depending on how old your current one is, the new one currently being sold could be a major upgrade for you. But I do believe the pending release will also be a major upgrade over the current model ..... or not!

My current iMac is about four years old, so I know a current model would be a major upgrade. Especially if I went with the high end 27".

That being said, I am thinking a different direction ....

15" MBP + 30" External Display
 
Not sure how "great" a deal that is. I mean Apple computers never go on sale, but really that's not even a $100 off.

I'd suggest that you wait. Then get the current model at a better discounted price or pick up the current model refurb at even a better discount. Both will drop once the new model is released.

If you computer is DOA and you need one, get it now. Otherwise join the club and wait it out.
 
For what you listed, the current model is just fine. However I would still wait. If only because the 2011 imacs will result in prices being dropped on the 2010 imacs and you can get a better deal then.
 
For me it represents another year that I'll be able to use it. As you can tell by my sig, I tend to hold on to things for a while. If not for the drying up support for PPC architecture, I'd probably use my G5 for another couple years. Heck, I could even skip the new iMacs. But part of me REALLY wants a new desktop.
 
This is a tough call.

....a roll of the dice. I'm leaning towards purchasing now because I really just use iPhoto and the internet.....based on the comments, there shouldn't be much of an upgrade for that.

By the way, thanks for the comments and keep up coming. Still haven't decided.
 
rsted222 said:
....a roll of the dice. I'm leaning towards purchasing now because I really just use iPhoto and the internet.....based on the comments, there shouldn't be much of an upgrade for that.

By the way, thanks for the comments and keep up coming. Still haven't decided.
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I know your talking about general computing here, and like others have mentioned, the current model will do you just fine...

But a new model might come out as soon as two weeks from now. It's so imminent, I vote to wait. Better, faster tech for the same price. That is definitely worth a short wait.
 
rsted222 said:
My '06 intel iMac is sick and I'm about to make a move. I just use it for everyday stuff...iPhoto, internet, and watching movies. That being said, will I see that much of a difference between the current low-end iMac and what's about to come out. Not sure that sandybridge and thunderbolt are worth the wait.

You can get a great deal on the 21.5" i3 RIGHT NOW on eBay/Macmall....for about $1040 plus free shipping (and no tax).

What say you?
Click to expand...

I think you may be looking at this the wrong way. For the tasks you are doing, a three year old computer with a C2D would be more than enough. However, does it make sense to NOT wait to get more for the same amount of money? In my opinion, it doesn't make sense NOT to wait no matter what your daily tasks are. You will gain more for the same money by just being patient. Also, your computer will have a higher resale value when you go to sell it.
 
the current gen is more then ample for everyday computing hell my 2009 2.66 C2D 24" is still quick in everyday tasks.

But honestly unless your current computer is dead your better off waiting the few months because that few months will equate into a longer lifespan for the device.
 
Do you think the new iMac will be worth the wait for everyday computing?
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No. I use my 21.5" i3 for everyday computing - website browsing, Aperture, iTunes. I am very happy with my experience. And this machine can handle much more than that.
 
If I have to wait much longer im going to buy a windows machine......:cool::cool::cool:....well maybe not.
 
Basic rule: don't buy any computer until you need it.

Corollary: if you need a computer, buy one.

That's all that needs to be said.
 
My computer could die any die (logic board issues)

I started this thread hoping to be pointed in the right direction, but it looks like the verdict is split. This is tough because I really am running out of patience....I'm ready for a great computer. It's been 4 plus years.

UGH!!!
 
rsted222 said:
I started this thread hoping to be pointed in the right direction, but it looks like the verdict is split. This is tough because I really am running out of patience....I'm ready for a great computer. It's been 4 plus years.

UGH!!!
Click to expand...

If your computer works even if it is slow just waaaaaaiiiit just a little bit more for the new ones.
 
I am in somewhat the same boat as the OP. In my case, my windows pc is starting to go. I always said I would go to a Mac fort my next PC. But, the question is do I get it now, or wait? For me, I told my wife, I would rather wait and get newer software and hardware and wait til my unit dies. But, I like the latest and greatest. My advice to you, listen to other peoples advice and then make the decision you feel you are comfortable with. In the end, you are the only one that matters when buying for yourself. Good luck.
 
rsted222 said:
I started this thread hoping to be pointed in the right direction, but it looks like the verdict is split. This is tough because I really am running out of patience....I'm ready for a great computer. It's been 4 plus years.

UGH!!!
Click to expand...

no the verdict is not split the advice is clear...........wait!!!!! lol

but your question on everyday computing everyone agrees that even previous gens are more than ample.

so as everyone has said if you need one now buy it, if not then wait.
 
I would wait if I were in your shoes.

I must admit that the waiting game is getting to be too much. Hopefully the refreshed iMacs will sport standard quad-core's on the 27 inch mid-range model.

Even if you opt for the 21 inch iMac (which it seems you are), I would probably wait because you might have more options pricewise.
 
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