Replacing my 2020 i9 iMac 128GB

Question

Replacing my 2020 i9 iMac 128GB

Hi.

current owner of i9 2020 iMac with the Radeon Graphics and 128GB ram and I’m looking at upgrade paths.

needs: I run a consultancy where we do database work and also create video content, so need a machine for streaming with 3 cameras and editing. For this reason, I went for the Radeon card and 128GB last time out.

query: I’m going headless and looking at Mac Studio. So, looking for advice on Max v Ultra and in particular on RAM. Buying 128GB for studio is crazy £££/$$$ but then again, I don’t know if I need it given the GPU and SoC. I have an eye on a 64GB but it feels like a ram downgrade - will it matter?

iMac (2017 – 2020)

Posted on Dec 6, 2023 12:16 AM

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Answer 1

Dec 6, 2023 8:24 AM in response to DigitalJonathan

for what you are talking about? "never enough"

Look at activity monitor in you current system and think about what would happen if you had less RAM. The mantra for current MacOS is "Unused RAM is wasted RAM" but if your are already Using Swap and/or have substantial amounts compressed you are getting full.

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Answer 2

Dec 6, 2023 8:26 AM in response to Grant Bennet-Alder

Thank you. I’ll run a few tests in the next few days and see where I’m at. I’d rather buy more than I need since this will be the workhorse for the next 3-5 years and I need to anticipate future needs too

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Answer 3

WheelieNick

Level 8

40,749 points

Dec 6, 2023 4:23 AM in response to DigitalJonathan

If you want to stream with 3 cameras and editing I would go for the ultra. That one gives the best performance while performing heavy tasks

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Answer 4

Dec 6, 2023 4:59 AM in response to WheelieNick

Any view on the RAM?

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Replacing my 2020 i9 iMac 128GB

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