Do I really need it?

While a PC would suit your needs just fine, and be a whole lot cheaper to boot... you'll only get the experience of OSX and iMovie on a Mac. A refurb would be the best way to go if you don't want to drop the cash on a newbie.

 

Yes, if you would like to enjoy using the computers

As I see it, a PC satisfies all your needs. However, if you want to enjoy using the computers in addition to getting things done on them, I would like to recommend an MBP or an Air. I use both PCs and Macs in my work. I have found that the work was more enjoyable when I used a Mac to get it done and the same work looks boring when it was done on a PC. This feeling is partly due to the different displays used on PCs and Macs. I guess the use of a good quality display on a PC might make the PC more pleasing. To save money, a PC with a good display might be a good choice.

 

many will tell u that a pc is more than enough, imo if u have money to spare get the macbook, u wont regret it

 

I would stick with a mac. Getting a model older, as you suggested, can definitely help save some cash too!

 

buy a refurb or head to ebay and search for a computer that still has applecare. imacs are also a good idea if your computer doesn't need to be portable since you can get the same specs for a lot cheaper.


But really, since you don't need the latest and greatest, find a used version. You don't even need one with applecare, I've never had it beyond the free first year...

 

Unless you're going for the 15 inch MBP refurb of last years model is the way to go. it's tons cheeper and it's a fantastic computer

 

QFT. Many times, I think the refurb model is much better