iMac 21.5" 2017 options

[elmarjazz]

I have to admit, I like the 21.5” size iMac. Desk space is at a premium, and I’ll be using this as a replacement for my MBP 17”, so it just feels 'normal' and looks good to my eyes. Also, like my MBP 17” I will probably be putting it in to the car for bi-weekly moves to another house - so again, the smaller 21.5” is manageable.

I’ll be doing photo and video editing, but mostly just using it for writing and internet otherwise. End cost after custom upgrades is a consideration.

Will be ordering the top end 3.4GHz, 500gb SSD and unfortunately Apple installed RAM.

The question is how much RAM? Minimum 16GB, but without a user upgradable option should I just bleed a bit of cash for the 32GB?

Thoughts?

 

[JasonMovieGuy]

I think 16GB of RAM should be fine. If it was upgradable like the 27 then I'd say order on Amazon and get a 32GB kit , but seeing as the 21 is not allowing that I would stick with a 16Gb configuration. Unless your workload is going to be super extensive. The fact that you've also gone with the top tier model means you'll have a strong amount of power over all.

 

[elmarjazz]

Checked my activity monitor and using about 11GB now (of 16Gb) without any of my editing software open. One delay and wait option I could think about, is getting just 16GB now (and hoping it isn't too slow), waiting a few years for the warranty to expire and doing a full upgrade/teardown to get to the RAM/SSD. Not really a fun thought 16-32-16-32...

 

[JasonMovieGuy]

Hmmm.. in that case, 32GB of RAM then to future proof. But it's odd 11GB is being used and you don't have any editing software open? What else are you using to use that much RAM?

Remember also, the MacBook Pros all are 16GB of RAM- even the top tier 15" , I believe. I have professional editor friends who use them and say they're plenty fast.

 

[kschendel]

You can add RAM, it's just hard. If you're coming from a 17 inch MBP then I think you'll be fine with 16 Gb, and you can add ram later if it turns out to be really necessary.

 

[Chupa Chupa]

16GB is fine. By the time you would need more you'd also probably want a faster machine too, maybe bigger internal drive or heartier graphics. Buy the computer you need today, not the one you think you'll need tomorrow. Tomorrow may never come.

 

[elmarjazz]

thanks for the advice. Yes, 16GB should be enough for now. Looking at the user install video (and with the actual cost of 32GB) of an upgrade makes me think the Apple price isn't so bad (half joking here). This isn't a 'high-end' computer and I guess I'm trying to make-up for this with some more RAM, also it could be in a couple short years I'll want something better anyway.

Also, with saving about $400 by not getting 32GB I can put the money towards that external SSD drive needed. Any recommendations?