I'm just about to purchase a brand new, 27" iMac.. would it be worth waiting for update? Do we think there's going to be a major update?
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Big update in the sep/oct release of new iMac
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Unlikely. Still rocking a late 2012 iMac. Given how small a % Mac desktops are of Apples sales, I'd say there won't be s major update for a few years yet. Just minor spec bumps.
Nobody knows.
The 5k iMac is currently about the most up-to-date Mac in that it got bumped to a Skylake processor last year. Its the Macbook Pro range that's desperately waiting for an update. I'd feel "safer" buying an iMac now than any other model.
There are some new AMD GPUs just coming out which could end up in a new iMac but that's pure speculation at this stage. Also, it seems plausible that, at some stage, Apple will roll out Thunderbolt 3/USB C across the range.
Same old reply: unless you have deep pockets, buy new kit when you need new kit (unless, maybe, you know there's an announcement coming out), wait when you don't.
Oh - and in case you didn't get the memo - either go Flash-only or get the 2TB Fusion drive.
Hmm. That's interesting about the GPU - I am wanting to play *some* games on the iMac, nothing too special though.
How good is the graphics card in the 27" right now? will the new cards make a huge difference?
USC-C ports running DP 1.3, TB3, USB 3.1 high speed, DDR-4 memory.....etc.
While those items may not cause anyone to upgrade, it gives pause to those who are contemplating their first iMac. Much depends on the retail closeout pricing on late 2015 models and now much the 2016 models will cost.
While those items may not cause anyone to upgrade, it gives pause to those who are contemplating their first iMac. Much depends on the retail closeout pricing on late 2015 models and now much the 2016 models will cost.
Despite the 5K display, the current iMac design hasn't been changed in nearly 4 years. That's just about the limit for Mac models historically. Given the target market of an iMac will expect to see Thunderbolt 3/USB-C, it makes sense that we'll see a brand new iMac this fall since they'll need to adjust the backing anyway to accommodate these new ports.
Frankly, I would not buy any Mac without USB-C right now. I know as of this moment, that only includes the 12-inch MacBook, but trust me every computer with legacy USB-A and Thunderbolt 1/2 ports will feel very dated in about 6-12 months. USB-C is the future. It replaces virtually every port we've been using for decades.
Frankly, I would not buy any Mac without USB-C right now. I know as of this moment, that only includes the 12-inch MacBook, but trust me every computer with legacy USB-A and Thunderbolt 1/2 ports will feel very dated in about 6-12 months. USB-C is the future. It replaces virtually every port we've been using for decades.
the iMac is due for a redesign this year (although that doesn't necessarily mean it will happen). Other than that, you can probably expect faster DDR4 RAM, Thunderbolt 3 ports, more/cheaper storage, and the new AMD GPUs. The new GPUs will be the significant change as the 400-series isn't just a re-brand like the 300-series so there should be more of a significant boost in performance this time. Right now the graphics are fine but if you go lower end then there may be some stuttering due to the fact it has to power a 5K display. That shouldn't happen with the 400-series. In conclusion, I would wait if you can.
Since I'm able to wait for Apple's late 2016 Mac offerings, I will but that decision isn't for everyone particularly if you need a machine now. The late 2015 iMac top BTO is a fine machine, so purchasing now isn't a bad thing. No matter when you buy there is always some newer technology around the corner.
Worth us subjective. To some, it may be, to others, getting a machine now is of primary concern.
Some of the projected components are USB-C/TB3, a better dGPU and kabylake processor.
Personally, if you need something now, why not buy it and enjoy it now. If you don't need it and can wait, then save your money for the fall.
The new generation of graphic cards are the biggest update seen in many years, due to new technology. So yes, it will likely be quite a difference. But if you don't plan on doing serious gaming, it likely won't matter much to you.