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Trying to Decide..new mini or iMac

L

lowonthe456

macrumors 6502
Original poster
Oct 27, 2007
438
0
Hey gang,

My gf boughter her first mac...a 2010 mac mini. I like it alot more than the previous...especially with the HDMI port!

So I have decided to get a desktop mac this time around...I have always had lappys since my performa 6100/60 in the mid 90's...

I'm trying to see about a new iMac (1200$) vs a mini+monitor+kb+mouse(?$)

I dont need rediculous horse power so the speed difference isnt really an issue, i'll add ram myself anyway. For me, I can start getting keyboard and mouse and monitor over the next few months, then save for the mini and be done.

The biggest disadvantage to this is that the iMac is better integrated (all in one)

Anyone like to add pro's and cons?
 
Mac Mini - 699$
Decent monitor (22-24") - 200$
Keyboard and mouse - 100$
2x2GB RAM from aftermarket - 100$

Total: 1100$

21.5" iMac - 1199$

iMac comes with better CPU, GPU, HD, display, speakers, more RAM.... etc.... If you don't have the peripherals already, just get an iMac as it's great value for what you get when compared to Mini
 
agreed on all fronts, but as a single dad, 1200 takes alot of time to get together...whereas aquiring things over time helps....
 
If you have, or can get your hands on for cheap, a keyboard, mouse, and monitor, go for the mini. That's pretty much what I did with the new 2010 model. Since I already had all three, and I was looking to get a new computer cheap, I went with the mini.

If you're going to have to buy all the above peripherals anyway, and you have no interest in using your computer as part of your entertainment system, then do yourself a favor and step up to the power of the iMac. It may take a little longer to save up for, but hey -- by then maybe the iMac will get an HDMI port too! If you've got a serviceable computer that will hold out for a while longer, just be patient...
 
I'd recommend saving for the new iMac. The iMac is significantly faster and more capable than the Mini in almost every aspect. The only thing missing is a native HDMI output port; an external adapter can be had.
 
Hellhammer said:
To save some $, get a refurb. 3.06GHz previous gen iMac goes for 929$ from the refurb store

http://store.apple.com/us/product/FB950LL/A?cid=AOS-US-AFF-FEED
Click to expand...

Agree with this. If you read the Mac Performance Guide, Lloyd recommends start with the refurb store. They have the same warranty as new plus you can buy Applecare just like with new ones.

This is good reading while you save $$.:D

http://macperformanceguide.com/Mac-Refurbished.html

http://macperformanceguide.com/index_topics.html#ChoosingConfiguring
 
Whilst the iMac is faster it comes with a glossy screen, which you may not like. I like a choice when it comes to monitors.

Personal preference for me is the Mini. Great stable little box, plus it has a good resale value.
 
I've been in the same position as you, I'd love an iMac but it seems like a waste with me already having a 23" monitor (2048x1152 meaning I have to buy dual-link DVI, annoyingly) keyboard, mouse and speakers so I'm going to get a Mini. I've heard they have good resale value as well, which is good for me since I'll be selling it for a Macbook in two years.

So really unless you already have a keyboard, mouse and screen an iMac would be much better value for the money.
 
I finally talked my wife into switching to the Mac, and replaced her 10 year old white box (running windows 2000) with an new mini. We already had a good 21" monitor, keyboard, and mouse, so the mini was a good choice for her as it's just word processing and web.
 
I have to say that i am kinda snobby so if I buy a mac it has to be all apple. An apple cinema display 24 inch is $850+tax i would get the iMac, plus the iMac is more powerful and easier to resell.
 
I use my mini for office and Internet. Depending on your use, you may not need more power than the mini, which I am completely pleased with. No games. Also, no computer I have ever encountered is silent and cool like the mini. The mini is sure to be faster than your old tech anyways, plus just bump the RAM and swap an SSD for more of a boost. Pick your own periferals.
 
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