Should I get a 21" Imac?

[redryder]

I currently have a unibody macbook (2008 model). I run aperture 3 on it, and it can get a bit sluggish. I have also been thinking of getting an external monitor for the macbook.

Instead of getting an external monitor, I could get the 21" imac and just leave the macbook for outdoor use. Would I get a major speed boost? I'd rather not get the 21" imac if the speed boost is not significant, as I could save up and get the i7 Imac later next year.

I mainly use the macbook for photo and video editing and word processing.

On my current budget, I have two options -

1) Get a $200 22" IPS monitor (1680x1050), and stick with the macbook until the next gen imacs are released. By end 2011 I could afford the top-of-the-line Imac.

2) Get a 21" imac now, and no upgrades for at least 4-5 yrs.

 

[spinnerlys]

The base iMac has the same graphic card (9400M) as the MB, so you won't get better performance, unless you upgrade the GPU (which costs another 300USD).

 

[IndustrialSpace]

Can't you borrow a few hundred bucks and get the i7 now?

Or perhaps go refurbished.

You won't be happy with a 21.5 C2D in a couple of years.

 

[Hellhammer]

Can't you borrow a few hundred bucks and get the i7 now?

Or perhaps go refurbished.

You won't be happy with a 21.5 C2D in a couple of years.

I agree. 27" i5 is only 1699$ from refurb store, that's only 500$ more and you get twice as fast CPU, dozens of times better GPU and enormous 27" screen.