Base iMac 5K or slightly upgraded 13 inch MacBook Pro?

[Oviraptor323]

So I have the choice between an iMac 5K (Baseline) or a slightly upgraded MacBook Pro 13 inch as a desktop replacement. Which would be better for my needs if I'm just going to be browsing the web, light gaming, and photo editing? Thanks!

 

[azure247]

Easily the imac

 

[Sirmausalot]

No comparison. For editing photos, you want the amazing screen.

 

[ucfgrad93]

Another vote for the iMac.

 

[iemcj]

For photo editing you're honestly considering the 13" screen? Good god. I'm typing on my 13" macbook pro and only under the most dire of circumstances would I even dream of working on pictures here. Has nothing to do with the hardware, it's the small screen size and using the track pad. Just horrifying!!

 

[redheeler]

Although the iMac may feel a bit more sluggish due to the 7200 RPM HDD on the base model, it will certainly beat the 13" rMBP in most other areas. The 27" 5K display is excellent.

 

[G.McGilli]

So I have the choice between an iMac 5K (Baseline) or a slightly upgraded MacBook Pro 13 inch as a desktop replacement. Which would be better for my needs if I'm just going to be browsing the web, light gaming, and photo editing? Thanks!

Do you want to be looking at a 13" screen, or a 27" screen?

That's your answer.

 

[ryannel2003]

One time 13" rMBP owner and current 27" iMac owner here and the 27" screen is incredible. Definitely much nicer to look at than the MBP though it was no slouch itself. It really comes down to wether or not you want portibility. I gave up the MacBook for an iPad mini as a mobile device and I'm happy.

 

[maflynn]

iMac all the way, larger screen, better internals. The 13" rMBP is a nice machine if portability is a need, but as stated you'll be using it as a desktop.

 

[garirry]

For desktop-only use, get the iMac all the way. If you can, upgrade to an SSD for much better performance.