iMac 2017 video RAM question

[spencecb]

I know the iMac is due for an update, but my current iMac is now nine years old, and I just can’t wait any longer. I will probably upgrade to the new one when it is refreshed, if there is enough of a difference. I’m currently debating on the mid-level or high end 27”. My biggest question is is the increased video RAM enough to justify getting the top of the line? I would imagine having only 4GB of Video RAM is anemic for a 27” 5k display...

Thoughts?

I’m retiring a 24” Core 2 Duo. This will be quite the upgrade...

 

[Darmok N Jalad]

Depends what you expect to be doing. I have the base 2017 5K, which uses the Radeon Pro 570 with 4GB. I have had no complaints at all. I do everyday stuff and also use Lightroom. If you're talking games, none of the GPUs will be able to drive them at 5K, as that would require something like a GTX 1080. You should be able to do 1080P gaming, no problem.

 

[spencecb]

Depends what you expect to be doing. I have the base 2017 5K, which uses the Radeon Pro 570 with 4GB. I have had no complaints at all. I do everyday stuff and also use Lightroom. If you're talking games, none of the GPUs will be able to drive them at 5K, as that would require something like a GTX 1080. You should be able to do 1080P gaming, no problem.

That makes sense. I went ahead and got the 8GB one, because at the end of the day it will have more resale value if I decide to upgrade whenever the 2018 iMacs are released.

Can’t wait to pick it up tonight!!

 

[Darmok N Jalad]

I have heard you may get more fan noise with the faster models, but I can’t confirm it. I can tell you that I never hear the fan on my base model.

I think you’ll be very happy with what you get. The display improvement will be quite noticeable.

 

[spencecb]

I have heard you may get more fan noise with the faster models, but I can’t confirm it. I can tell you that I never hear the fan on my base model.

I think you’ll be very happy with what you get. The display improvement will be quite noticeable.

Oh it’s going to be night and day difference. I loved my 24” iMac, and I definitely got my money’s worth out of it. Nine years and still going! Can’t wait to love my 27”!

 

[spencecb]

The display is absolutely gorgeous. That, alone, is worth this upgrade. So clear and vibrant!!