iMac vs. Macbook Pro for Art and Design Student

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Level 1

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iMac vs. Macbook Pro for Art and Design Student

Hello,

first off, I'm sorry if this is in the wrong section of the forums - it seemed like the best place, but I wasn't entirely sure.
Secondly, I can imagine you guys get asked this question a lot, so i guess I'm sorry for that!

Here's the situation - I'm going to College in England this September. I need a computer to accompany me with my course, and what I'll be doing with it. I'm studying Art and Design, but I already have a strong interest and a lot of experience in graphic design, vector illustration and web design - so it needs to fit my personal use as well.

I knew instantly that I not only wanted but needed an iMac. I saved up, compared the models and then, rather unfortunately, came to a stop.

Here's the problem - I need the processing power to handle the full Adobe CS5 suite, some 3D modelling and rendering and plenty of photos and music. However, Portability would be nice... although my college has 3 Mac suites, I think that being able to carry my work around and edit on the go will be an obvious plus. If I do go for the iMac, do you recommend me getting the 21.5" or the 27"? I (just) have money for either so that isn't really a problem, but is it worth the extra money for a larger screen and better graphics? Is the Macbook Pro powerful enough? The way I see it, I'm spending £2000+ To only get near the power of the iMac...

I hope you guys can help me out here, and thank-you in advance!

(And sorry for the long post...!)

Message was edited by: ubermatik

Posted on Jun 2, 2010 11:18 AM

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Answer 1

TildeBee

Level 7

31,923 points

Jun 2, 2010 2:42 PM in response to ubermatik

Uber --

Welcome to Apple Discussions!
We're other Mac users here, asking questions and sharing solutions.

You've done a great job of describing your needs.
So, I would get the 21" iMac.
You will need a graphics workhorse, and the iMacs are great for that, IMHO.

I love my MBP, and the portability is great, however, doing extensive design work,
you'll be much happier with the iMac.

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Answer 2

ubermatik Author

Level 1

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Jun 3, 2010 4:57 AM in response to TildeBee

Hi Bee!

Thanks very much for your advice!
However, why do you suggest the 21.5" over the 27"? Do you think it is worth the extra screen size, because I can afford either?
It seemed to me that the iMac was the best option also - I'm in need of the power, but I'm still deliberating over size.
Also, on a side note, do you know of any iPhone apps that can help me with transferring files from home to college I'm getting an iPod Touch as part of the new deal Apple are running and I just wondered if there were any apps that I would find handy for transporting files etc.?

Thanks again!

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Answer 3

TildeBee

Level 7

31,923 points

Jun 3, 2010 10:28 AM in response to ubermatik

uber --

My hubby has a 24" and frankly, it's too big, IMHO.
So it's just my personal opinion.
Have you been to the Apple Store and worked on both of them?
I think that would be a great idea.

I'm sorry, but I don't have an iPhone to be able to
answer your 2nd question really well. I'm hoping others will
pop in here for you.

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Answer 4

elmac

Level 5

4,252 points

Jun 3, 2010 11:25 AM in response to ubermatik

Hi, get a MBPro (fully tricked out//Matt Screen) then at home use an external monitor of whichever size you need...
iPhone? -> you can use your iPhone or iTouch as an external HD..BUT it depends on the computers at the college Macs or PC's -- personally I would invest in a good EHD...L

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Answer 5

R C-R

Level 6

17,794 points

Jun 3, 2010 11:29 AM in response to ubermatik

Just my 2¢:

It never hurts to have more screen real estate, especially for graphics, 3D, & similar work that may need a lot of open windows, tool pallets, etc.

I'm just a hobbyist, but I use every bit of my 24" iMac's screen space for Photoshop Elements, Anime Studio Pro, & similar apps, & I would like to have still more.

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Answer 6

ubermatik Author

Level 1

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Jun 3, 2010 11:36 AM in response to R C-R

Thank-you everybody for your advice! It's really helped. I don't really see the point in buying a MBP for near £2000, and then to be disappointed because it doesn't have enough power - especially when I can get more power AND a bigger screen for a lower price... And at my College, it's all previous generation iMacs.
I think I'm going to go for the 27" iMac, 1TB...

Any last comments or thoughts? Do you see what I'm saying about the prices?

Thank-you!

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Answer 7

elmac

Level 5

4,252 points

Jun 3, 2010 11:47 AM in response to ubermatik

Hi, just love to see you carry your 27" to a convention//meeting//presentation!!!!
You did say PRICE did not matter! ... My 2010 MBP is superbly fast......L

Message was edited by: elmac

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Answer 8

ubermatik Author

Level 1

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Jun 3, 2010 11:46 AM in response to elmac

Haha, yeah, that would be funny... I need an iLugger!
But my college has macs their, and I'm getting an iPod like I said... Do you still think portability would be an issue?

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Answer 9

elmac

Level 5

4,252 points

Jun 3, 2010 11:49 AM in response to ubermatik

Hi, at the end of the day i t ' s y o u r c h o i c e -
either my MB or MBP are always with me...Happy makking...L

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Answer 10

ubermatik Author

Level 1

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Jun 3, 2010 11:56 AM in response to elmac

Yeah, you're right, I'm just gonna have to go for a model and stick with it, or I'll be doing this forever... it needs ordering tomorrow night anyway...

Thank-you everyone! You've been exceedingly helpful!

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Answer 11

elmac

Level 5

4,252 points

Jun 3, 2010 12:10 PM in response to ubermatik

Hi, our//my pleasure - Tx for the star.
ps. like me you will probably end up with laptops & desk Macs.....L

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