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Buying a new iMac - now or wait?

I know this may be a difficult one to answer, but I am interested in peoples' opinion...


I have been looking to replace my home computer for some while and after much deliberation have decided to go for an iMac (having always been a PC man previously). I do quite a bit of video encoding and other processor-intensive stuff, so I am going to go for a 27" i7 model with an SSD drive as well. I am bursting with excitement about it (childish, I know, but I am).


Then I find out there are new 2012 models, perhaps around the corner. Do you think I should wait a few weeks (months) to see what the new models offer? Or should I jump in now? I'd hate to buy now to find there's something much better only days away. On the other hand, I hear the Ivybridge processors are no real improvement (performance wise) over Sandybridge. And I don't do gaming, so a better graphics card is of dubious benefit.


What's your thoughts? I'd be grateful for any opinions.


Thanks

PC, Windows XP Pro, SP3

Posted on Apr 24, 2012 7:46 AM

Reply
23 replies

Apr 25, 2012 5:05 AM in response to Borisbulldog

We can't guess their policy either, I'm just relaying info from the terms of use. As experienced users in this forum, if we see something that doesn't look right, we can inform moderators, and they can make their own judgement calls. Few computer companies pre-announce significant product advancements, as way back in the 1980s, a company called Osborne purportedly went out of business doing that. Everyone held off purchases until it was too late for them to meet production schedule. As an experienced user, as long as the opinions don't tread on the spirit of the other rules, and simply enhance the technical troubleshooting aspect of the forum, they typically are allowed to stay. There is a difference between saying: we believe a product may work to solve your problem that already exists, and one that doesn't even exist yet. Try not to cross that line, and you'll do fine.

Apr 25, 2012 5:08 AM in response to a brody

And before you say: http://www.apple.com/macosx/ already has features of Mountain Lion posted, I say yes, it does. But until release they are subject to change. Remember how Apple announced tethering on their AT&T phones one summer, only to find out that AT&T only allowed it in certain countries once it was released. Mountain Lion's system requirements are not stated, and until it actually is stated, I wouldn't cross that line either.

May 19, 2012 11:35 AM in response to a brody

I understand. And I don't mean to rock the boat - but sometimes it is fun to do so. LOL. Really, "Few computer companies pre-announce significant product advancements, as way back in the 1980s, a company called Osborne purportedly went out of business doing that." No offence but ti's exceedingly rare that such announcments hurt. I mean HP and many other seem to be doing fine. Tell me something, a brody. Just how many hours, out of their life, does one have to spend on this site to reach a level 9?

May 20, 2012 8:50 AM in response to Chippy99

If you search for "mac buyers guide" you'll get some useful tips.


I'm waiting since I have a 2010 iMac and want to sell it and get a Macbook Pro.


In the past, I've also made use of information about new products to get good deals on older products. Apple doesn't drop prices much, but I have purchased refurbished or older products through Apple at discounts, bought on the used market, or bought from retailers clearing their shelves.


I've also bought products mid-cycle with no regrets, because I needed or wanted them. Apple products tend to hold their value.


I disagree with the comments on the iMac. The superdrive is a chronic issue, but this is true for many superdrive models. My friends who do film/creative work love their iMacs.


I always recommend the 3-year warranty. Apple customer service is very good ... if the machine is under warranty.


I've owned two Minis and my i3 21.5" iMac is definitely faster ... more than I need, actually.


Never had to consider the pc vs mac issue since I've used Apple products for 25 years. 🙂

Buying a new iMac - now or wait?

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