Replacing my iMac 27" (2015 model)

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Replacing my iMac 27" (2015 model)

I've been waiting forever for a larger iMac to replace my iMac 27 intel machine which is now unplugged and sitting in the corner of my office. Even if a new replacement were to appear next year, I'm wondering if it wouldn't make sense to go a more powerful newer MBP with a large screen. (Currently using M1 MBP 32GB 2TB.) In the past I've found that iMacs were quicker than equivalent MBPros. I wonder if that is an illusion.

I use a lot of memory (running multiple programs) for academic work in the humanities, and have always gone with a powerful machine, one that would be future-proof and not taxed by tons of open windows and programs competing for RAM etc.

MacBook Pro 14″, macOS 14.6

Posted on Oct 31, 2024 12:50 PM

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Answer 1

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Old Toad

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210,615 points

Nov 1, 2024 1:36 PM in response to jinet

No, the one I'm looking at is LG 32UN500-W Monitor 32" UltraFine (3840 x 2160) Display w/speakers, currently $329 @ Amazon.

As I'm losing my eyesight I looking for one that I can reduce the resolution thus making the text in menu bars larger and easier to see. Don't need as many pixels as your monitor.

With the new M4 introduced I'm hoping to convince my wife that I just gotta have it. That'll be the biggest hurdle.

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Answer 2

Old Toad

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210,615 points

Oct 31, 2024 3:57 PM in response to jinet

Apple just released the MBP with the M4 chip. You can get a 16" M4 MBP with 48 GB memory(standard), 2 TB storage for $3999.

You can get an M4 Pro Mini with the same RAM and storage for $2399. That with a 32" 4K LG monitor w/speakers for $350 and you're $1250 ahead with lots more screen real estate to work with.

Just some food for thought.

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Answer 3

FoxFifth

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472,227 points

Nov 1, 2024 1:29 PM in response to Larry989

A 2017 iMac can be upgraded to the latest version of Ventura macOS 13 but no later.

If you new Mac mini doesn't come with Sequoia 15.1 installed, you can upgrade it by going to Apple menu > System Settings > General > Software Update. I would recommend having a current backup before updating (and at all other times).

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Answer 4

FoxFifth

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472,227 points

Oct 31, 2024 1:01 PM in response to jinet

The 24" screen size of the iMac is perfect for me, but if I wanted a large screen size (or if Apple discontinues the 24" iMac screen size and I needed to replace mine), I would strongly consider one of the new Mac minis. Mac mini - Apple

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Answer 5

jinet Author

Level 1

49 points

Oct 31, 2024 1:54 PM in response to FoxFifth

I did look at that and was going to ask. I just don't know how powerful they are compared to the equivalent specked out MBP. Perhaps it's all theoretical since we don't have the new larger iMac. The attraction is having a separate screen that can outlast the 'brains' (thinking in terms of ecology, not economy).

thanks.

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Answer 6

Larry989

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16 points

Nov 1, 2024 12:41 PM in response to Old Toad

I have a 2017 IMac running Ventura 13.7.1 and I just ordered a Mini.

I think the Mini will show up with Sequoia installed so I was thinking I need to do a software update to Sequoia, but when I go to software update there is no Sequoia option?

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Answer 7

jinet Author

Level 1

49 points

Nov 1, 2024 1:04 PM in response to Old Toad

Thanks. Reassuring. I have never laid eyes on the LG Monitor. Is it as sharp as the Ultra Fine? (Seeing that what you mentioned may be branded UltraFine. My current monitor (which I love) was twice the price for only 21.5". Perhaps the prices dropped?)

This is my current model: LG 22MD4KA-B UltraFine 4K Display 21.5" UHD 4096x2304 4xUSB-C

It costs around $500 today.

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