Need: 24-inch monitor; Have: $1k; Would like: Help figuring out how to get there

[chris401]

I am a fan of the 24-inch iMac--the simplicity of design is great, the monitor size is perfect for my needs, and the specs are way more than adequate for my intended uses. Unfortunately, I have a budget of $1k this time around, and I haven't been able to find a deal that allows me to get this computer for that budget including refurbs, student and/or government pricing.

Any suggestions if we assume that my priority is screen real estate and specs are secondary (although still important)? Assume also that I am OS-agnostic, although in truth I would much prefer having OS-X and boot into Windows only when needed. I sure love my 06 Macbook. Many thanks in advance . . .

EDIT: To the extent any brave souls are willing to suggest a PC-based solution, I am open to that as well. Although I understand this might not be the right forum for that. Thks

 

[234412]

1 grand is fine, in the UK lowest price for an imac is 800 so you should be alright take a look your self on the apple store website ?

 

[ADent]

Mac mini - $599. 24" monitor on sale - $330 (see today's dealmac for a Samsung).

For $974 ( $644 + $330 ) you can get a new mini with a 2GB RAM upgrade installed (MacMall) and the 24" monitor.

You will need a keyboard and mouse with the mini. For $36 you can get a wireless KB/mouse Microsoft setup at MacMall.

I just picked up a MS 4000 Natural KB (good, but not as good as my MS Natural Keyboard Pro) and Natural Mouse 6000 and that really help me out for a bit more money from Amazon.

* Haven't used MacMall in years, check around for lower prices and what, if any, complaints MacMall has.

 

[chris401]

Mac mini - $599. 24" monitor on sale - $330 (see today's dealmac for a Samsung).

For $974 ( $644 + $330 ) you can get a new mini with a 2GB RAM upgrade installed (MacMall) and the 24" monitor.

You will need a keyboard and mouse with the mini. For $36 you can get a wireless KB/mouse Microsoft setup at MacMall.

I just picked up a MS 4000 Natural KB (good, but not as good as my MS Natural Keyboard Pro) and Natural Mouse 6000 and that really help me out for a bit more money from Amazon.

* Haven't used MacMall in years, check around for lower prices and what, if any, complaints MacMall has.

Thanks ADent!

 

[Moriarty]

Don't buy a Mac Mini. They have been over 400 days without being upgraded. Unless you don't mind buying really stale technology.

 

[ADent]

The mini is not the hottest unit, but it is about 80%-90% as fast as the low end MacBook.

I would much rather have a mini and 24" screen than just a MacBook for that $1,000.

 

[PaulexPC]

I have a 1.83 Core Duo mini and a 19" monitor and think it's just great. Certainly fast enough for web browsing and basic computing. Of course if you are doing large video edits or something intense then you might be annoyed with the speed. But I think a mini and good screen are just fine for the average Joe.

You are paying a premium to have a Mac OS. You could get a Windows box for a couple of hundred bucks less. That's because the Mini hasn't been updated in a long time.