G5 for basic home use?

[bashveank]

My mom's using an Ubuntu box right now and is more or less happy with it, but she's been thinking about getting a new computer. Her budget isn't very high, around $600 tops, but I think she would like a used iMac G5 from eBay. She only ever surfs the web, checks email, and works with her photos.
So would a G5 be a good choice, or is it too old and obsolete?

 

[GimmeSlack12]

I think that would work fine. But if you could spring for a Core Duo iMac instead you'd be that much better off. A bit more future proof.

 

[drummerlondonw3]

are you needing a headless mac specifically?

if so, a newer mac mini would probably outperform an older G5, and with a much smaller footprint obviously

d

 

[TEG]

It would work, but you could get a Mac Mini for that price. The mini would be a better investment, especially if Snow Leopard drops PPC support.

TEG

 

[Abstract]

How much is a refurb iMac in America?

Anyway, the Mac Mini just looks nicer and less intimidating. That, or I guess a G5 tower would be OK.

 

[bbq2k]

are you needing a headless mac specifically?

if so, a newer mac mini would probably outperform an older G5, and with a much smaller footprint obviously
d

I second that. The G5 is a fine processor, but the future of Intel is much brighter. Also, you can get a new Mini for under $600. Make sure you get some extra RAM though.

 

[bashveank]

Ok, I hadn't thought of a Mini, that sounds like a better option. Thanks, all.