TOUGH DECISION: 20" iMac 2.4 GHz or 2.26/2.53 GHz Mac Mini

[jpardue93]

I am not new to Macs, I have built several MacBooks including the one I currently use as my main computer. I have been trying to save for an older iMac (2007 or 2008 generation) for a few months, and I just got enough. So of course I was extremely happy. But then I found the Mac Mini, sure it's cheaper but it doesn't have a screen which I really LOVE on the iMacs. One reason I want a desktop computer is for gaming. Not hardcore but just games like Left 4 Dead, The Sims 3, Call of Duty etc. I have heard many things about the ATI Radeon 2400 HD (iMac's graphics card) and the nVidia GeForce 9400M (Mac Mini's graphics card). I was just wondering which would be better for the type of gaming I would be using. I know the ATI is 128 MB while the nVidia is 256 MB. I thought the nVidia would be better because it was double what the ATI has, but I have read the ATI is actually better. Actually I have heard many stories about either one being better, but wanted to get some advice on here before I made my final decision.

Thanks for advice in advance.

 

[Max(IT)]

neither are fit for gaming ....

The 20" iMac doesn't have such a great display ( the 24" model was much better), so I would buy a Mini an add a 22" good monitor.
But keep in mind that it is NOT a gaming machine.

 

[arcobb]

My rig is a 2.0 Ghz Mac Mini and a 24inch Apple Cinema display. It does anything I toss at it and I have no complaints what so ever. I've lightly played a couple games like Call of Duty and it worked good for me, however I am not a gamer. I do lots of graphic design stuff and it does CS4 like a champ, and meets my needs for video production just fine.

I like the idea of upgrading just parts I want over time instead of everything. The iMac is cleaner cable wise, but once you have everything set up it is no big deal at all. If my mini gets long in the tooth a newer mac mini is $700 instead of $1500 ~ $2000. If I want a new key board, I'll buy just that. À la carte.

Anyway ... I am in Mini Love!

 

[Mr Bow]

I have the same setup as arcobb and am really happy with it for the same reasons. Much as I like the iMac, the all in one design is a pain - boxed up under the bed in my spare room is an iMac G5, the computer was a bit slow and I was happy to replace it. But, it has a perfectly good 20" monitor that I can't use any more, not so happy.....

Gaming-wise it isn't the best of course, but enough for a bit of bimbling in WoW etc. As arc says, when I'm ready I can pick up a new mini and keep everything else.

By the way, what do you mean by "...I have built several MacBooks including the one I currently use.."?

 

[Max(IT)]

Bought

 

[Mr Bow]

Disappointing....but probably correct. I had visions of him with a block of aluminium, a pile of components and a dodgy print out of instructions from the net

 

[Max(IT)]

Disappointing....but probably correct. I had visions of him with a block of aluminium, a pile of components and a dodgy print out of instructions from the net