I want to buy an iMac but I have to say I'm quite underwhelmed by the specs / price combination, I can't believe that 16 gb and an i7 are not standard on the 27" version, and still fusion drive on a computer thats 2000 euros ? Not even a 300 gb SSD ? Not even one usb type c port? I would have to spend 3.176,76 euros (with student's discount) to get a version that suits what I want , way too much, do you know if apple is gonna implement some of these things I want as standard in the near future? Are they at least using skylake?
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iMac specs a bit ?? underwhelming
- Thread starter chad.petree
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I would say I agree that the iMacs Specs are underwhelming for its price. I bought the top of the line BTO with 1tb SSD, 32 gb of ram etc. Then you get a machine with pretty decent hardware, but I gotta say the ordering total of such an iMac is mind blowing. And if you put together a PC tower for the same cost, its pretty frustrating to see the extra power and latest hardware you get for the same price (though less impressive screen).
So I would say, there are multiple factors that makes it worth the price. 1. the 5k monitor. 2. build quality and the looks and design of the machine, if you want your desk to look sexy. 3. OS X and 4. you are a professional making money on using this machine and therefore can deduct the cost...then the price difference between a PC & Mac isn't that big of a deal. Also except for the mobile GPU, putting together a PC in the top tier range of an iMac isn't cheap either and the monitor isn't something you would get anywhere else.
BUT ... If you are a student, like yourself, with limited budget, I would consider what reasons you need it to be an iMac. Because theres really nothing you can do on the iMac which you cant do on a PC and you would get better hardware for a lower cost. Windows 10 is quite ok. Are you gonna play games? it would be a no-brainer to go for a PC then. And I assume the 5K resolution isn't THAT important to you.
So I would say, there are multiple factors that makes it worth the price. 1. the 5k monitor. 2. build quality and the looks and design of the machine, if you want your desk to look sexy. 3. OS X and 4. you are a professional making money on using this machine and therefore can deduct the cost...then the price difference between a PC & Mac isn't that big of a deal. Also except for the mobile GPU, putting together a PC in the top tier range of an iMac isn't cheap either and the monitor isn't something you would get anywhere else.
BUT ... If you are a student, like yourself, with limited budget, I would consider what reasons you need it to be an iMac. Because theres really nothing you can do on the iMac which you cant do on a PC and you would get better hardware for a lower cost. Windows 10 is quite ok. Are you gonna play games? it would be a no-brainer to go for a PC then. And I assume the 5K resolution isn't THAT important to you.
It all depends on exactly what you're looking for. If you're main focus is aesthetics, you're stuck with the iMac. If you're really looking for a workhorse, I don't know why so many people shy away from used PC's. You can get a couple month old, more powerful setup than that iMac (used) for about $600 USD. You can then buy a slightly more accurate 28" 4k monitor than the imac's 5k display for another $400-600 USD, even a bit larger if you want.
Use that for pro apps and even gaming, and then buy a macbook pro for everyday use. That way, most of your personal time is spent in OSX, and only when in pro (intensive) apps, you'll have to use windows 10 on your desktop. And honestly, there is no difference when using pro apps between OSX and Windows. The adobe suite, resolve, etc. are all identical experiences. All total, for a used workstation setup, 4k monitor, and a macbook pro, you can still be under your budget for the overpriced iMac. around 1800-2,000 euros.
Use that for pro apps and even gaming, and then buy a macbook pro for everyday use. That way, most of your personal time is spent in OSX, and only when in pro (intensive) apps, you'll have to use windows 10 on your desktop. And honestly, there is no difference when using pro apps between OSX and Windows. The adobe suite, resolve, etc. are all identical experiences. All total, for a used workstation setup, 4k monitor, and a macbook pro, you can still be under your budget for the overpriced iMac. around 1800-2,000 euros.
Generally, I agree with you, that at the price Apple charges its a bit under spec'd but with that said, I'm really happy with the computer. I got the M395 flavor with the 2TB Fusion drive and that machine is handling everything I throw at it, so from the other perspective its not under spec'd because its performance is stellar, but I do know what you mean.
I don't recommend people to go for a PC over a Mac because what isn't being mentioned, is Windows.
I can't think of anything less user friendly and all around abysmal than the Windows operating system.
So even given the fact that Macs in terms of hardware are not such a good value, I still will only recommend Mac and will never recommend a Windows PC under any circumstances.
I can't think of anything less user friendly and all around abysmal than the Windows operating system.
So even given the fact that Macs in terms of hardware are not such a good value, I still will only recommend Mac and will never recommend a Windows PC under any circumstances.
I don't have a maxed out iMac 5k Display (Late 2014) that does everything I want it to. I even play games on the Windows side using bootcamp at max resolution with pretty good results. Things would be better with a more spec out computer, but don't let gearheads (that's what I call them) scare you away from a certain computer that you're eyeing. I have been using computers for over 30 years and I used to build my own PC starting in 2000. Computer specifications have improved vastly over the years, once was considered a screaming machine as a computer is considered a Volkswagen Beetle very fast these days. I have no problems with Windows, but I have more experience with that OS than I do with OS X. The biggest problem I feel people have with Windows is that there are some many computer configurations a person can have with Windows -vs- OS X where Apple has maintain a pretty much closed system when it comes to hardware. That helps quality control a lot for Apple knows what is going into their computers. Bottom line my piece of advice, take advice with a grain of salt when it comes to buying a new computer (even mine).
Depends how you look at it.
Compare the price to a 4k or 5k IPS display (not some cheap crappy TN screen) that's 27 inches in size, and work out what the components inside an iMac would cost you to add to that price.
Then consider that it is a single "supported" device with a single source of support you can contact for any problems you may encounter. Oh and if you're comparing to a PC, be sure to get the non-crippled "PRO" version of Windows 10 to get feature parity (somewhat, you still can't disable a bunch of the malware in Windows 10) with OS X.
Yes, i wish the iMac spec was better too, but in terms of what you get for the money (when you actually compare like for like with a PC alternative, and don't leave out half the stuff you get with the Mac that you'd need to pay for on the PC side) they're actually pretty reasonable.
Compare the price to a 4k or 5k IPS display (not some cheap crappy TN screen) that's 27 inches in size, and work out what the components inside an iMac would cost you to add to that price.
Then consider that it is a single "supported" device with a single source of support you can contact for any problems you may encounter. Oh and if you're comparing to a PC, be sure to get the non-crippled "PRO" version of Windows 10 to get feature parity (somewhat, you still can't disable a bunch of the malware in Windows 10) with OS X.
Yes, i wish the iMac spec was better too, but in terms of what you get for the money (when you actually compare like for like with a PC alternative, and don't leave out half the stuff you get with the Mac that you'd need to pay for on the PC side) they're actually pretty reasonable.
I understand this argument, respect it, and agree with it.
However.
It does not alter the fact that strictly in terms of specs, and nothing else, the 5K iMac is not a good value (only in terms of its specs, not in respect to any other component of it).
In respect to the overall package idea that it offers (5K monitor along with the computer and everything else), it becomes, undoubtedly a good deal. Because, correct me if I'm wrong, most 5K monitors are as expensive or more expensive than the iMac and don't include a computer. So that is something that needs to be mentioned.
However, if we are disregarding the package angle, it absolutely cannot be denied that the 5K iMac simply does not deliver on specs for the price. But again, that doesn't mean that the product is a bad buy. It is actually quite a good buy.
Overpriced as one may or may not consider it, it is easily worth it at its various cost tiers (besides the spinner).
So what are you saying, we should just discount the fact that it ships with an inbuilt 4k or 5k display?
Yes, i get what you're saying - you can get much better computer spec (disregarding the monitor) for cheaper. But that 4k/5k (and 5k is Apple only - there is no PC alternative) screen is not free. It's not even cheap. A 4k IPS display is real money and a large chunk of the total iMac cost. And it is what you are paying for.
Yes, it sucks that Apple do not have a non-Mac-Pro machine without a built in display, with decent 3d in it. But, this is unfortunately the reality of the situation.
That doesn't make the iMac bad value though, it just makes it not aligned with your particular desires.
I feel your pain...
Apple are not about cranking out max processor/ram/storage component spec at minimum cost.
They build systems. You may like their systems, you may not. It does not alter the value of the components they ship vs. the retail cost though.
I mean I bought one, but it's fine.
You factor in the screen with the price, yeah. I mean you have to.
But if we're only talking about specs, well then I will leave that up to you or anyone else to make that determination.
Of course, you would ask when only talking about specs is exactly the correct thing to do.
Wrong forum to ask a question like this anyway. It's like asking a Manchester United fan if the tickets to the game are to expensive.
You'll get Slapt all over the place.
Yes Apple products are way overpriced. "But then you get the premium Apple devices offer" the fanboys will tell you.
And Apple can fill there bags tenfold of course.
the fanboys will tell you the pricing is correct since they have all this special knowledge about Apples R&D, product design en engineering, marketing etc.
If you want to use osx and don't want a hacking tosh your stuck anyways. It's mac and this is what the mac ecosystem is like.
Your even in more trouble if you want an upgrade. First off most devices don't open. How's that for *** you customer, you want an upgrade? Go buy something new.
And if it does open check out the pricing of ram and fusion drives/ssds.
Seeing those prices they must be cherry picked by Elfs by full moon.
I can't understand that people still take this from there favorite brand. They are making such extreem profits on most of there products and there is no loyalty whatsoever to its customers/users.
So much for the Mac greed rand.
Succes with your buy. And you'll like the product sure. But it will be outdated quicker and you will have the option to upgrade (your morgage)
You'll get Slapt all over the place.
Yes Apple products are way overpriced. "But then you get the premium Apple devices offer" the fanboys will tell you.
And Apple can fill there bags tenfold of course.
the fanboys will tell you the pricing is correct since they have all this special knowledge about Apples R&D, product design en engineering, marketing etc.
If you want to use osx and don't want a hacking tosh your stuck anyways. It's mac and this is what the mac ecosystem is like.
Your even in more trouble if you want an upgrade. First off most devices don't open. How's that for *** you customer, you want an upgrade? Go buy something new.
And if it does open check out the pricing of ram and fusion drives/ssds.
Seeing those prices they must be cherry picked by Elfs by full moon.
I can't understand that people still take this from there favorite brand. They are making such extreem profits on most of there products and there is no loyalty whatsoever to its customers/users.
So much for the Mac greed rand.
Succes with your buy. And you'll like the product sure. But it will be outdated quicker and you will have the option to upgrade (your morgage)
Seriously. Why don't you back that up?
Go price up a 4k IPS display that runs at 60hz or more and the same level of kit in an iMac and report back on the best price you can find. I'll even let you just compare raw component costs, not including having to assemble it yourself or pay someone to do it. I'll even let you waive the cost of Windows 10 Pro. And I'll waive the cost of a nice all in one enclosure, and you can put it in the nastiest crap case you can find. And you can also use a $15 garbage mouse and keyboard combo to control it with.
Lets see how you go? Show us just how overpriced it is? Surely you should be able to buy something in component form without assembly far cheaper? That's the claim you're making...
Should be easy, right?
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I agree with what people are saying that the iMac is not all about specs. You get a beautiful computer design in an aluminum case plus a top quality 5k screen.
What I don't get is what would cost to apple if they put better specs on all of their iMacs NOT just on the top model. I mean really? Apple puts a high end screen and manages to keep the price relatively low compared to other 5k screens on the market but cannot afford ssd on all the iMacs WITHOUT raising the prices? Sorry but I cannot buy that.
What I don't get is what would cost to apple if they put better specs on all of their iMacs NOT just on the top model. I mean really? Apple puts a high end screen and manages to keep the price relatively low compared to other 5k screens on the market but cannot afford ssd on all the iMacs WITHOUT raising the prices? Sorry but I cannot buy that.
Just to keep it fair, the suggestions you're making are very misleading. For what it's worth 27" + 4k IPS displays are as low as $349 brand new (TN one's starting at $199 on sale), and most in the $500 range outpace the iMac in color accuracy (AND they are matte. No one will argue against this being a huge advantage.) And you get far better components - and more - than what's inside of the iMac, at a fraction of the price. Especially if you go used (used PC market loses value rapidly, and is great for those who don't care about 'brand new.' Also, you don't need windows 10 pro for any kind of 'feature parity." I do still hate windows, and try my best to completely avoid windows 10; but using pro apps, you're not missing out on anything between versions.
I can't think of anything you 'get with the mac that you need to pay for on the PC side.' If anything, on the mac, you have to pay 5x the actual price of the internal upgrades whenever you go up from the base model; and then you're limited to the mobile graphics and no internal add-ons.
Sorry but what? You're comparing the used pc market to a brand new AIO with one of the best 5k displays in the market?
Yea, I can buy a used GTR for 60k that will out run a new ferrari italia that cost 300k too, whats your point?
These fights on the forums are always pointless, but can people stop comparing apples to oranges? Displays vary greatly in cost and quality. And you picked the some random out of stock monitor VS iMac's, which offers one of the best displays used across the industry. You just can't compare things like that.
No - iMacs are not the best value/performance personal computer you can buy if you are on a budget... But with the introduction of retina displays, the new iMac offers WAY more value/performance than all previous generations. If anything, you should should have complained about this 2 years ago.
Any who, reiterating my previous example, a brand new BMW and a beat up Toyota will both get you from point A to point B, some would even argue the beat up Toyota is more reliable, but people still buy BMWs. Why don't you guys take it up to the bimmer forums?
- No thunderbolt
- no USB ports on the desk (pick a monitor with USB)
- the SSD is 1/3 of the speed you would get in an iMac
- no speakers.
- No wireless.
You're doing the same thing people always do. Comparing oranges to apples. And then claiming that apples are so much more expensive. Well if you buy lesser hardware and leave stuff out, sure.
You don't need those things? Fine. Buy something else. But they cost money and are supplied in the iMac.
As far as things you lose in non pro versions of Windows go... Limit of 5 connected users to shares over the network, can't join a domain, can't encrypt your drive (no bit locker - FileVault included on Mac), no Remote Desktop (screen sharing included on Mac).
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You have to buy Apple devices at the right time when they are appearing first time with brand new features. I bought the 2014 i7 4GHz 5K iMac with 256 GB SSD and at that time it was top notch spec wise and priced right. I upgraded cheap with 32GB RAM and 1 TB Thunderbolt SSD and that iMac has the same performance and price than the actual 2016 iMac (the 2015 update did not change that much) but I used it for nearly two years now.
You may have to wait for the next iMac with some ground breaking new features and upgraded specs to get a better price/performance ratio....
Don't buy it then if it's not for you buy something else. That's what I don't understand about these forums, I just don't understand the whining about it.
Apple have no obligation to make what YOU want, they make the products they want to and what they consider the best compromises for an all round computers. That's what manufacturers do and Apple are very good at getting it right for a huge number of people hence their sales figures in a declining PC market.
If you disagree buy something else there is plenty of choice out there.
im not saying the build is inherently better, i acknowledge the iMac has several advantages over the build, especially if we compare the 5K model. im not doing this out of spite for the iMac, i just enjoy speccing out machines and i actually wanna know myself how much a whitebox costs compared to an equal iMac. i know we wont come to a point where we agree in unison that either is better, i just think its fun to compare
Also for @throAU
http://pcpartpicker.com/p/sFbnsY
i have updated the list to include speakers, wi-fi and monitor usb ports. as well thunderbolt. as for the SSD, please tell me what iMac SKU we are comparing with. according to apple`s own site, no iMac comes with a non-sata SSD as default. the model ive been comparing with is the $2,299.00 Radeon R9 M395 5K iMac seen here http://www.apple.com/shop/buy-mac/imac
also, why bring up Windows? its true that non-pro Windows is lacking and all, but you told me to waiver Windows so assumed we were only comparing hardware. though we can of course throw Windows pro in there as well
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See that's the thing though. Apple puts all those awesome and expensive features on the iMac with an underwhelming 5200 rpm spinner. Just why? It doesn't make sense.
There's no question that Apple's prices are high and there's no question that generally (pricing aside) you'll be happy with a Mac. The problem is that in the current climate, prices are dropping for PC counterparts and Apple continues to charge high prices without even updating the hardware to the latest offerings. That's a big problem in terms of offering consumers value for already over priced product.
I love my iMac, it screams even with only 8gb RAM ATM, and i know a windows computer will start to take a sh*t my iMac (if looked after properly) will still be going strong.
RTJ
RTJ
