faster bus vs better video

[rudy102]

I'm looking to by one of the 20' 2.4 core 2 duo imac refurbs from apple store, but I can't make up my mind which one to go with.

The choices:
1. first gen alu with 800Mhz bus but better graphic card with more memory (HD 2600 Pro with 256Mb)

OR

2. 2nd gen alu with 1066Mhz bus but with the basic HD 2400 card with 128Mb.

Price difference is negligible.

Which is a better choice if I don't play games and use it only for basic stuff (iphoto, MS office, internet, balancing check book ) plus imovie editing?

Thanks for your advice.

 

[dannyboxer]

If you can afford it I would really advise getting a 24" model as they have a lot better screens.

Also if you can afford to wait I would advise waiting until mid November when LED screens may be fitted on the iMac which would mean a great improvement. This is only a rumor though but it makes sense seeing as the new cinema display has a 24" LED screen.

danNy

 

[Sun Baked]

Down the road, the graphics card will become the limiting factor faster than the CPU.

So choosing a model with the 256MB card will serve you better, since this is already the requirement for a lot more pro apps now.

 

[rudy102]

If you can afford it I would really advise getting a 24" model as they have a lot better screens.

Thanks, but 24" is out of the picture due to budget and space constraints...

Besides, my daughter has a 1st generation 20" aluminum imac and the screen quality is a world above of what I have now (please don't ask what I have now). 20" imac screen is beautiful to me.

 

[AC773]

Another vote for the first-gen; the graphics card trumps the bus speed. Keep in mind though; if you're going to be doing any serious editing where you care about the color, get the 24" or a good second monitor. The 20" uses a cheaper TN panel that is inaccurate and subject to color shifting.