iMacs, Refurbs, Older Models and Black Friday and/or Cyber Monday

[AZhappyjack]

Just asking.....
You people that are promoting a place like B&H.....
Would they of done the same under this circumstance as Apple did when I ordered directly through them online?
Sort of doubt it.....


I ordered an early 2015 loaded iMac 5K in September.....received it and had it for 3-weeks before the announcement of a refreshed 5K version coming out.
Apple has a 14 day return policy, but I called them and they politely agreed to me returning my iMac so I can get the new released late-2015 5K machine, despite it being 3-weeks since delivery.

They even emailed me a free 2-day Fedex return tag so I didn't even have to pay postage.
I immediately returned the machine........Fedex "lost" the returned machine and it was MIA.

I called Apple about it and they immediately refunded my full purchase price and said they would handle the issue with Fedex.

Couldn't be happier with Apple...
but it makes me wonder what kind of support I'd of gotten in similar circumstances with a 3rd party?

It will absolutely depend on who the third party is. I would not hesitate to deal with B&H, and, in fact, I have many times over the years. They've been around for ever and are extremely competitive, honest and reliable. But even at that, they are not Apple.

And it should come as no surprise to anyone, Apple has the best customer service of any company with whom I have dealt.

 

[iKeith]

Good point. Well, in that case I don't know why he's even bothering to look at the fusion drive.

Three reasons actually:

1) Not being technically inclined, I wanted to ask to help me understand what part of the computer is used for speed and what part is used for storage. Tech and specs are definitely not what I'm not good at. That's why I love Apple. It's the most user friendly tech I've ever seen.

2) Because if I can get a late 2014 iMac, the 1TB Fusion has 128GB SSD. That's the best of both worlds, as far as I understand.

3) And I was hoping to find the least expensive route since my internet and technical needs are so minimal. I didn't want to over-buy a computer with things I'll never use.

 

[iKeith]

Thanks again to everyone for everything. I learned enough to make an educated decision and understand specs much better, thanks to the links some of you posted to models and specs that you recommend based on my personal usage. That made all the difference. Happy Thanksgiving all!

 

[santaliqueur]

Not being technically inclined, I wanted to ask to help me understand what part of the computer is used for speed and what part is used for storage.

Well that's why we're here! Although the storage (SSD/Fusion/HDD) isn't really the thing that makes things "fast" in a computer, it's typically the thing that could make things slow. A slow hard drive (HDD) can REALLY slow down everything you do, and having a fast SSD can remove that bottleneck. Since you don't care about storage space, we are suggesting you ignore the Fusion Drive. Not that it's bad, but for what you've told us about what you're looking for, it seems that pure SSD will be a better fit. Fusion Drive is for people who want a lot of storage and some of the speed of the SSD. Since you said you aren't concerned with storage space, SSD will surely be faster than Fusion.

Regarding other specs, CPU will be the thing that makes things fast. The higher the number, the faster the CPU. For the tasks you're doing, even the slowest CPU will be fine, as they are all very fast for those types of tasks. Upgrade if you like, but your money will be better spent on SSD upgrades.

-----

When I explain computer parts to people that don't know about computers, I tell them to picture a desk with paperwork that has to be sorted out, and you're the one sorting it. In a very general way, this is how the main components of a computer relate to the desk analogy:

Storage: This is the size of the desk. The amount of documents your desk can physically hold will depend on its size. If you have more documents than your desk can hold, you'll need to get a bigger desk. Paying for a huge desk could be a waste if you never intend to use it all.

RAM/Memory: This is how many documents you can work on at a time. If you have a small amount of RAM, you can only work on a few documents. If you get more RAM, you can work on many more at the same time.

CPU: Your arms/hands are working on the documents, and the faster they move, the faster the documents can be processed.

This is a simplified way to explain computer terms to people, but it's helped some friends and family members understand things. I hope it helped you too.

 

[smckenna3]

Is Adorama ok to purchase an iMac from? I'm willing to put up with some delays for delivery, anything else I should worry about with them?

 

[twilexia]

Three reasons actually:

1) Not being technically inclined, I wanted to ask to help me understand what part of the computer is used for speed and what part is used for storage. Tech and specs are definitely not what I'm not good at. That's why I love Apple. It's the most user friendly tech I've ever seen.

2) Because if I can get a late 2014 iMac, the 1TB Fusion has 128GB SSD. That's the best of both worlds, as far as I understand.

3) And I was hoping to find the least expensive route since my internet and technical needs are so minimal. I didn't want to over-buy a computer with things I'll never use.

I don't think you should consider the fusion drive at all if you're never going to use above 20GB.

 

[santaliqueur]

Is Adorama ok to purchase an iMac from? I'm willing to put up with some delays for delivery, anything else I should worry about with them?

Adorama is also very reputable. Unsure about delays in shipping. Along with B&H, Adorama started as a photography store in NYC in the 70s. They both sell mostly photography equipment.

 

[iKeith]

Well that's why we're here! Although the storage (SSD/Fusion/HDD) isn't really the thing that makes things "fast" in a computer, it's typically the thing that could make things slow. A slow hard drive (HDD) can REALLY slow down everything you do, and having a fast SSD can remove that bottleneck. Since you don't care about storage space, we are suggesting you ignore the Fusion Drive. Not that it's bad, but for what you've told us about what you're looking for, it seems that pure SSD will be a better fit. Fusion Drive is for people who want a lot of storage and some of the speed of the SSD. Since you said you aren't concerned with storage space, SSD will surely be faster than Fusion.

Regarding other specs, CPU will be the thing that makes things fast. The higher the number, the faster the CPU. For the tasks you're doing, even the slowest CPU will be fine, as they are all very fast for those types of tasks. Upgrade if you like, but your money will be better spent on SSD upgrades.

-----

When I explain computer parts to people that don't know about computers, I tell them to picture a desk with paperwork that has to be sorted out, and you're the one sorting it. In a very general way, this is how the main components of a computer relate to the desk analogy:

Storage: This is the size of the desk. The amount of documents your desk can physically hold will depend on its size. If you have more documents than your desk can hold, you'll need to get a bigger desk. Paying for a huge desk could be a waste if you never intend to use it all.

RAM/Memory: This is how many documents you can work on at a time. If you have a small amount of RAM, you can only work on a few documents. If you get more RAM, you can work on many more at the same time.

CPU: Your arms/hands are working on the documents, and the faster they move, the faster the documents can be processed.

This is a simplified way to explain computer terms to people, but it's helped some friends and family members understand things. I hope it helped you too.

What a phenomenal way to explain a computer! I got a lot out of that. For me:

Storage Needs: I have a couple dozen documents on Text Edit that I have saved. My only other need for storage would be Podcasts (audio only) that are anywhere from 30 - 120 minutes long. At one time, I had 800+ of them on my computer and it still didn't take up much space.

RAM/Memory: I'm not a multi-tasker. I do one thing at a time. I currently have 4GB SDRAM and it's never been a problem.

CPU: This is the most helpful thing I learned from the folks in this thread; that, for my needs, even a 1.6 GHz will do just fine. My money will definitely be going into Flash Storage. I am avoiding the Fusion Drive, unless I end up buying a 2014 model, where the 1 TB Fusion Drive includes 128 GB Flash Storage and not just 24 GB. If this is still wrong thinking, please correct me.

Thanks, santaliqueur!

 

[iKeith]

I don't think you should consider the fusion drive at all if you're never going to use above 20GB.

I completely understand what you're saying and I've taken the advice on board. Like I explained in the previous post above this one, I'm taking that advice and won't be considering the 1 TB Fusion Drive at all, unless I end up getting a 2014 model where it still comes with 128GB, instead of 24GB.

Would you still recommend staying away from it in that case?

I can't say I'll never use more than 20GB for storage. In the past, I've stored hundreds of audio podcasts that were up to 2.5 hours long. (Mostly in the 45 - 60 minute range.)

 

[iKeith]

Just out of curiosity, has anyone ever used Eagle Bid?

 

[Richdmoore]

Just out of curiosity, has anyone ever used Eagle Bid?

Those "auction" sites are usually a very bad deal. How they work is that you pay each time you "bid" (usually an automatic increase of the bid each time, like a penny or nickel is a separate charge) each time, and you get charged even if you don't win the item.

The products are usually purchased for the express purpose of being sold this way, so the item are generally new, but of course since they don't consider themselves a retailer you may not have the normal protection available as if you purchased an item from a real store.

Most people simply bid, are forced to pay for the bid fees and get nothing in return.

Here is an article that explains it better than I can.

http://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-10-2011/online-penny-auctions-real-or-ripoffs.html

 

[iKeith]

Those "auction" sites are usually a very bad deal. How they work is that you pay each time you "bid" (usually an automatic increase of the bid each time, like a penny or nickel is a separate charge) each time, and you get charged even if you don't win the item.

The products are usually purchased for the express purpose of being sold this way, so the item are generally new, but of course since they don't consider themselves a retailer you may not have the normal protection available as if you purchased an item from a real store.

Most people simply bid, are forced to pay for the bid fees and get nothing in return.

Here is an article that explains it better than I can.

http://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-10-2011/online-penny-auctions-real-or-ripoffs.html

I appreciate the explanation. It seemed a bit odd when I was watching an auction for a few minutes. Companies profit from people's desires, especially when it's trying to get something for nothing. Personally, I have a minuscule amount of trust for the internet and companies in general. I stick with what I know. Thanks again.

 

[santaliqueur]

won't be considering the 1 TB Fusion Drive at all, unless I end up getting a 2014 model where it still comes with 128GB, instead of 24GB.

Would you still recommend staying away from it in that case?

Yes I would avoid staying away from it in your particular case, because it's never going to be faster than pure SSD. And, it seems you're likely to leave 95% of it empty anyway.

The stock CPU will be just fine for you as others have said. Any upgrade money will be best spent on the smallest pure SSD (non Fusion) drive. Even though it's small compared to other options available, it seems you're unlikely to use most of the space. Podcast audio doesn't take up too much space (even 800 of them).

 

[iKeith]

Yes I would avoid staying away from it in your particular case, because it's never going to be faster than pure SSD. And, it seems you're likely to leave 95% of it empty anyway.

The stock CPU will be just fine for you as others have said. Any upgrade money will be best spent on the smallest pure SSD (non Fusion) drive. Even though it's small compared to other options available, it seems you're unlikely to use most of the space. Podcast audio doesn't take up too much space (even 800 of them).

Really? I'm surprised, but glad to get your take on it. Your post has me a lot further to making a final decision. Honestly, it seems that the best choice for me (if I'm understanding correctly), is to get a base model with the 256 GB SSD, which will comfortably meet all of my needs and not eat my entire savings.

So, it appears, in order to not go into over-kill, and to save money, THIS ONE is the best for my needs. Yes? No? If I get it from B&H, I can save $95 in taxes, too. (Unless anyone knows of any Black Friday/Cyber Monday Deals???)

 

[iKeith]

Has anyone ever used Gazelle to sell their old computer? I filled out their survey and I'd get $100 for my mid-2007 iMac. If I trade it in with Apple, they'll give me a $65 gift card.

Does anyone know of any other means of selling my current iMac? I can't possibly imagine that anyone would buy it on Craigslist. The only thing wrong with it (other than it's slowing down) is that the screen is starting to show some wear. Not scratches, but a sweeping gray wisp coming from the upper left hand corner and also some gray line "image burn." It's all 98% unnoticeable when you're on the computer though.

 

[santaliqueur]

Really? I'm surprised, but glad to get your take on it. Your post has me a lot further to making a final decision. Honestly, it seems that the best choice for me (if I'm understanding correctly), is to get a base model with the 256 GB SSD, which will comfortably meet all of my needs and not eat my entire savings.

So, it appears, in order to not go into over-kill, and to save money, THIS ONE is the best for my needs. Yes? No? If I get it from B&H, I can save $95 in taxes, too. (Unless anyone knows of any Black Friday/Cyber Monday Deals???)

The reason I'm suggesting the SSD over anything else is because nothing will be faster than the SSD. In certain situations, the Fusion drive could be as fast, but it will never be faster. You mentioned speed as your primary concern, and SSD will be the fastest available option for you.

Gazelle is good, but you'll likely get more on Craigslist. Even though you might think nobody would buy it, they probably would. Gazelle would be good for a no-hassle sales option, but you'll get less money from them, compared with Craigslist.

 

[santaliqueur]

Really? I'm surprised, but glad to get your take on it. Your post has me a lot further to making a final decision. Honestly, it seems that the best choice for me (if I'm understanding correctly), is to get a base model with the 256 GB SSD, which will comfortably meet all of my needs and not eat my entire savings.

So, it appears, in order to not go into over-kill, and to save money, THIS ONE is the best for my needs. Yes? No? If I get it from B&H, I can save $95 in taxes, too. (Unless anyone knows of any Black Friday/Cyber Monday Deals???)

That computer you linked would be the one I'd suggest for you. It's got the SSD, 1.6 i5 GHz CPU, and 8GB RAM. All the base options, except SSD because of speed. And it's only $1,299.

 

[iKeith]

The reason I'm suggesting the SSD over anything else is because nothing will be faster than the SSD. In certain situations, the Fusion drive could be as fast, but it will never be faster. You mentioned speed as your primary concern, and SSD will be the fastest available option for you.

Gazelle is good, but you'll likely get more on Craigslist. Even though you might think nobody would buy it, they probably would. Gazelle would be good for a no-hassle sales option, but you'll get less money from them, compared with Craigslist.

I'll give it a shot. I'll do a complete secure erase and reinstall with my Snow Leopard disk and then let the new buyer install all the upgrades and updates. Any price suggestions? I'd like to give someone a good deal but not undersell myself. $200?

 

[iKeith]

That computer you linked would be the one I'd suggest for you. It's got the SSD, 1.6 i5 GHz CPU, and 8GB RAM. All the base options, except SSD because of speed. And it's only $1,299.

Exactly my thoughts. I went to Apple's site to build the same thing and it still came to $1299. But, through B&H I'd save $94.17 in taxes. Then, if I can sell my current iMac on Craigslist, that would increase the savings a bit more. Very helpful stuff, santaliqueur!

 

[santaliqueur]

Exactly my thoughts. I went to Apple's site to build the same thing and it still came to $1299. But, through B&H I'd save $94.17 in taxes. Then, if I can sell my current iMac on Craigslist, that would increase the savings a bit more. Very helpful stuff, santaliqueur!

I'm in the same position. I have a 27" iMac on the way, and a 2009 iMac that I'll be selling. Backup everything important, reinstall the most current version of OS X that you can, and let the new buyer update it.

As far as asking price, eBay completed listings will be a great way to determine value.

 

[iKeith]

I'm in the same position. I have a 27" iMac on the way, and a 2009 iMac that I'll be selling. Backup everything important, reinstall the most current version of OS X that you can, and let the new buyer update it.

As far as asking price, eBay completed listings will be a great way to determine value.

I know I must sound very naive, and I guess I am. My life has just always been more simple than most. No TV, radio, stereo, DVDs, CDs, video games, never owned a microwave, etc., Folks ask if I'm Amish! LOL

As far as setting up the computer to the most current version OS X that I can, I only want to take it up to the point where it asks me to enter my name, etc., I'm not sure how far into the updating that is, but... I don't know how long it will take, but I will probably do a secure erase.

I have very, very little to back-up. It fits on one USB drive. Just a few documents.

 

[santaliqueur]

I know I must sound very naive, and I guess I am. My life has just always been more simple than most. No TV, radio, stereo, DVDs, CDs, video games, never owned a microwave, etc., Folks ask if I'm Amish! LOL

As far as setting up the computer to the most current version OS X that I can, I only want to take it up to the point where it asks me to enter my name, etc., I'm not sure how far into the updating that is, but... I don't know how long it will take, but I will probably do a secure erase.

I have very, very little to back-up. It fits on one USB drive. Just a few documents.

No worries about feeling naïve, many of us envy a simple life like that.

Do a secure erase, and then take the OS X installation as far as you want to. Just don't enter personal information, and you're good. The buyer won't have any personal information, and if he wants to reformat/reinstall, he can.

Even though you don't have a lot to back up, you should still back up your important things off-site. Dropbox, iCloud Drive, whatever. If someone stole your computer with the USB drive plugged into it, you'd lose all those documents. Off-site backup can prevent you from losing everything. Best of all, it's free!

 

[iKeith]

No worries about feeling naïve, many of us envy a simple life like that.

Do a secure erase, and then take the OS X installation as far as you want to. Just don't enter personal information, and you're good. The buyer won't have any personal information, and if he wants to reformat/reinstall, he can.

Even though you don't have a lot to back up, you should still back up your important things off-site. Dropbox, iCloud Drive, whatever. If someone stole your computer with the USB drive plugged into it, you'd lose all those documents. Off-site backup can prevent you from losing everything. Best of all, it's free!

Honestly, if my computer were stolen, there really isn't anything on it that I couldn't live without. Most of the documents are recipes because I love to cook. My life really is that simple.

I did a very quick check on eBay. Mid-2007, 24" iMacs are being listed, on average, for between $305 - $370. On Craigslist, in my area, they're being listed for $400 - $750. So, I will plan on listing it for $200 to be done with it and because of the slight gray sweep in the top left corner of the screen. That will put my new iMac back down to $1,099 from $1,299, essentially making the 256 SSD free. And, it won't eat my entire savings.

Since there aren't any sales on the iMac I've currently chosen to get, I've decided not to rush out and buy one just yet. I'm going to keep my eyes open for awhile longer. Especially in the Apple Refurbish store.

 

[santaliqueur]

You could probably list it for $300 and still sell it quickly, if $400 is comparable to what your machine is selling for.

If you see something you like on the Apple Refurbished Store, grab it. They are pretty much brand new, and they are tested. When you get it, we expect pictures!

 

[iKeith]

You could probably list it for $300 and still sell it quickly, if $400 is comparable to what your machine is selling for.

If you see something you like on the Apple Refurbished Store, grab it. They are pretty much brand new, and they are tested. When you get it, we expect pictures!

I promise to post pictures if/when I get a new one. (It's nice not to have to be in a rush since there are no sales on what I'm looking for.) Here's a picture of my current set-up.