Hey guys,
I'm currently using a 2009 Mac Pro tower with a 27" Cinema display and a MBP Retina for all my photography work. Interested in the iMac mainly for the Retina display but also for the streamlined body.
As of not I'm in no rush for a new computer since I'm already well covered. But I will eventually get the iMac Retina since a dedicated Mac Pro plus a high end 4K monitor will cost significantly more.
So the question is when is the next iMac Retina update and what kind of improvement are speculated?
Also what are issues with the current iMac R?
Thanks!
Contrary to the popular opinion on this forum, neither the base nor the upgraded iMac Retina model have real issues. Sure, the retina resolutions are more demanding and some things just seem more smooth on maxed-out non-retina models - but I wouldn't bet the next generation of iMac will make things much better. My guess is that it will take a few generations to get a consistently smooth experience in 5K. In fact, it is quite comparable to a Retina MacBook Pro (which has a lower resolution than 5K, but also less powerful hardware). The experience is similar, and since you have a Retina MBP, you already have an idea how the 5K feels when it comes to animations. In my opinion, it runs quite well. If you focus on some UI animations and specifically look at fps, yes, you can see a stutter here and there - but nothing major. If you just focus on using the computer like you normally would - everything is blazing fast (apart from Mission Control animations with lots of windows open, especially on the base model - that's the only real slowdown and I'm not even sure it's a hardware reason)
So - if you want the Retina screen now, then get the 5K iMac now. The next generation will be a bit faster, but not a game-changer like the Retina screen is now. If you just generally want a new iMac, and don't mind waiting, then use your current setup as long as you can and then upgrade
Anyway, I don't think waiting for newer things in the world of technology is a good idea. A better, shinier thing is always around the corner. Buy the computer when you need it and don't think about the next thing.
Again, I want to repeat: there are no real issues with the Retina 5K iMac. It's one of the best Macs Apple ever made. It is fast, beautiful inside and out, slim and quiet, and has an amazing screen.