Considering rMBP 15 <> iMac 27

[fotuwe]

Hey folks!

Actually I am running a rMBP 15" (early 2013) - base model (i7,256 SDD, 8GB). I am carrying it every day to work for my PhD doing researches, text-work. At home I am using it for some Diablo3 and mainly for image processing (working also as a photographer).

So basically I am very pleased with my MBP. Why am I still asking?
One of my friends is selling his iMac 27" (late 2012) with maxed out specs (3,4 GHz i7, 3 TB Fusion, 680MX 2GB, 16GB RAM. He bought it in April'13 with a 3year warranty.

Now he is selling it for 1500€ because he is switching back to windows. This mac is like brand new (I did some support during the whole period so the mac is 100% fine). It is a "special offer" just for me.

Considering this offer I feel like I have to buy it. It would give me some great workspace at home for my photography etc ... In addition to the iMac I would buy an older Macbook Air 11" to carry it with me .

Whats your opinion on that? Would you switch considering that offer?

 

[maflynn]

How much computer usage do you do where you now live (dorm/home/etc)? If the majority of usage is not in your home office but else where as you move around, then the iMac may not be a good fit.

Also to consider, you own a rMBP going from a retina display to a tiny 11" MBA screen, which will be much slower is a huge adjustment. Also do you play games when you're out and about, or just in your home office? That will help determine whether you should make the switch.

While the iMac is a great machine and the 27" display is awesome, it sounds like you're trying to fit a square peg into a round hole. It doesn't seem like a great fit for your stated needs, regardless of how great the deal may be.

 

[shaunp]

Get both. It's only money!

 

[fotuwe]

I need one powerful machine.
My "heavy" work is done at home on my desk so it doesnt matter if its an rMBP or an iMac.
I chose the 11 Air because it should enough for some research/latex/office @ work.

The rMBP give me portability vs. bigger screen, more HDD. Performance wise it is a tie I guess (at least thats what I see at mactracker)

 

[lezmace]

Just get an external Monitor for your home workplace

 

[maflynn]

It seems in your heart you've already made the decision, and perhaps are looking for some justification on the decision. If you don't need the power/screen size of the portable computer then the iMac is a good choice.

I like the iMac and I'll be getting one for my kids one of these days but I think the rMBP is a better computer for students, in general. Only you know what's best for your specific needs and it seems the iMac may be it

----------

Just get an external Monitor for your home workplace

Great advice, you get the best of both worlds

 

[fotuwe]

Thx for you answers!

I didn't decide yet ... I am aware losing my portability with my main machine. I believe I get more value for my money on this certain iMac.
Yet I know it's not only about value. I have had an iMac late 2011. Really loved the bigger screen - which even got improved as far as I know ..

A hard decision!

 

[yjchua95]

Thx for you answers!

I didn't decide yet ... I am aware losing my portability with my main machine. I believe I get more value for my money on this certain iMac.
Yet I know it's not only about value. I have had an iMac late 2011. Really loved the bigger screen - which even got improved as far as I know ..

A hard decision!

Go for the iMac, that 680MX is still a pretty good card.