MP All Models What to get to replace a 2013 Mac Pro>

[allan53]

I have a 2013 Mac Pro with a 2 TB ssd internal drive, 64 gb of memory, d500 3gb graphics card. The processor is 3.5 ghz 6 core xenon e5. I have 2 external monitors, a NEC 27 inch (2560 by 1440) and an Eizo 24 in (1920 by 1200). I have 4 external drives in an OWC case.

If I want to upgrade to something similar (several problems with the Mac Pro) what would be the best to get without going for the new Mac Pro? Would it be a mini or a iMac or iMac Pro? I would be happy using my monitors with a mini or the NEC with an iMac. I would want performance better than what I have now. I don't want to spend $7k or whatever an upgraded new Mac will cost.

I am a photographer using PS, LR, C1. I really don't do video or [lay games.

 

[MCal27]

Simple.. get the mini. Boost the memory to 64gb, your existing external storage will work with the Apple tb2 to 3 adapter. Only thing you will loose is internal storage really. My i5 mini geekbench’s way faster than my 6 core nMP used to..

 

[CC88]

My i5 mini geekbench’s way faster than my 6 core nMP used to..

It's a 1035 vs 814 in single core (around 27%) and 4812 vs 4620 in multi core (around 4%) according to geekbench.

It all depends on what type of applications are in use but sure a 27% boost is noticeable in single core.

 

[bsbeamer]

If Mini is really what you're considering for a replacement, also take a look at the 15" MBP - if you can live with 32GB RAM. 8-core i9 processors vs 6-core i7 makes a difference for Adobe work, regardless of initial/base clock speed. The AMD GPUs in the 15" vs none in the Mini helps too.

You won't have to worry about thermal throttling too much with photo work, but both will experience it a little. Adding a docking station style solution can almost turn it into a desktop-like environment. If you go with the Mini, consider adding an eGPU.

Good luck.

 

[MCal27]

Seconded. I added a sonnet puck eGPU to mine. One of the cheapest but works great

 

[Flint Ironstag]

If those apps utilize GPU, OP might want to go with something more than an eGPU puck. They top out around 5 TFLOPs, right? He has close to that now with the d500s.

OP, check benchmarks for your apps at barefeats before making a decision.