iMac i7 + iPad: Too much fire power?

[antonf]

My question: Is this too much for me?

Every little upgrade is only about $200 each item but it starts adding up, Plus I want an iPad. I want this machine for at least 3 years if not 4. I own a macbook so I don't want a MBP. I just need some help deciding if i5 is enough to last, RAM more important than processor or screw it i'll make the money back later.

Options:
iMac i7 + 8GB of RAM = Do it if it will help down the road
iMac i7 + 4GB of RAM = Processor better than RAM?
iMac i5 + 8GB of RAM = RAM Better than processor.

I am thinking i7 with 8gb of RAM, this way I don't have to spring for an upgrade so soon. I don't want to have computer envy in 2 years.

 

[bobbytallant]

Get the i7 and bump the RAM up later if you need to.

 

[aelalfy]

Get the i7 and bump the RAM up later if you need to.

Wise man. OP Listen to him. It will cost you less to upgrade RAM on your own than it would thru apple store. Even though that cap is tighting, it still exists.

Thanks
AE

 

[alust2013]

It would be helpful to know what you plan to do with this computer. For my personal uses, I would only get the higher-clocked i3 or dual core i5, probably 21.5". But if you do a lot of processor-heavy stuff, then you may want the quad.

 

[antonf]

I will use this computer for work/play. I will use it daily as I work from home. I am leaning toward the i7 + 4GB. This way in the future, this computer will stay competitive and I can upgrade the ram if I want.

Normal day-to-day:
Chrome
iTunes
GarageSale (eBay)
Mail Client
Torrent (legal things of course)
Skype
VLC


Near Future:
PhotoShop (more and more)
Counter Strike
Other Games as they come out on steam.