2011 Mac Mini server or iMac i7

[macintoshse1]

Looking in to getting a new system I don't game on my computer that what the PS3, Xbox 360 and Wii are for on the 52". Main use will be page layout work, photos and handbreak. So price being close to equal which would you choose. I'm still not crazy about the idea of the iMac all in one design, lose the monitor lose the computer. With the mini lose the monitor buy a new monitor and move on. Opinions needed thanks.

Mac mini server $1000
(2) 27" Apple Thunderbolt displays $2000
SuperDrive $80
Thunderbolt cable $50

total $3130

iMac 27" i7 $2200
(1) 27" Apple Thunderbolt displays $1000


total $3200

 

[miles01110]

Why are your choices split between a low-end server and a more conventional computer? Do you need the server or not?

 

[gooberlx]

Well, it'll be interesting to see if PCs can use the iMac as a target display if/when thunderbolt/lightpeak adapters or cards are available.

If you intend to stick with Mac, im pretty sure the new 27" iMacs can serve as a target display for other thunderbolt equipped macs. So there's that possibility if you want to move to Mac mini or Mac pro in the future.

Admittedly that's a thick and power hungry monitor then....

 

[crazzyeddie]

Obviously the iMac will give you more features for your money. Bigger, faster HDD, more RAM expansion, DVD drive, faster video card, etc...

If nothing else, having two Thunderbolt ports seems like a worthwhile feature for the $70 difference.

 

[lee14160]

Really, are you not looking at performance. A Mac Mini is just that mini. Go with the i7, and trust me you will be much happier. In fact you won't be attempting to kick your self in the *** every day.

 

[gooberlx]

Oh I didn't notice you want to run two 27" displays, I'd say the imac then. I think the available memory for the mini's hd3000 (384mb) might be lacking to smoothly run that much resolution.

I could be wrong though.

Edit:
From here

It's not all about compute and bandwidth, memory size matters as well. Unfortunately other than the upgraded 27-inch system, everything else only ships with a 512MB frame buffer. That's enough to drive the integrated panel but if you're running a high resolution external display as well you may notice some slowdown

I think they're talking about general usage there, not specifically gaming. Kinda hard to discern though.

 

[Macman45]

The iMac

Is the way to go, up the graphics ram to 2gb and go for the i7. Mine eats everything I throw at it, multi displays and heavy duty video work....Just a breeze.

There are other options that do not appear on the store site, so talk to a specialist (email or message me and I will put you in touch with the best Apple have)

 

[iamthedudeman]

Really, are you not looking at performance. A Mac Mini is just that mini. Go with the i7, and trust me you will be much happier. In fact you won't be attempting to kick your self in the *** every day.

Well I don't think a geekbench score over 9500 is "mini".
That is faster than any other 27 iMac save for the 2011 27 and 27 2010 models. And still slightly better than the 2011 3.1.

Really' are you not looking at performance?

And in case you had not noticed the Mini he is referring to has a i7.

When applying to the mini now the only thing "mini" about the performance is the form factor.