Is this a good idea? I plan to get an old 27" iMac (likely a 2012 or 2013) and get a logitech K400 Plus Wireless Touch Keyboard, for a youtube TV

[jackson6]

PLUS

and then i can control the iMac from my couch with the keyboard + touchpad, and in doing so I can watch youtube, twitch, netflix in my living room with my 27" iMac. I have never done this before, is this a good idea and will there be any unforeseen problems?

 

[KaliYoni]

is this a good idea

I don’t view using obsolete hardware for anything that requires connection to the Internet as a good idea, especially for any uses that involve ad banners and video ads. Apple does not provide any updates for the versions of macOS used by obsolete Macs. As well, many browsers either won’t work or won’t be able to establish secure connections due to expired security certificates or outdated code.

If I was facing a similar need to yours, I probably would buy an Apple-refurbished AppleTV, a Bluetooth keyboard, and a 32” television. All that would easily cost less than $400-$500.

 

[Bigwaff]

will there be any unforeseen problems?

Good luck using YouTube with ancient browser and Mac OS. Also, speakers may sound crappy in large space.

 

[green_diyos]

Good luck using YouTube with ancient browser and Mac OS. Also, speakers may sound crappy in large space.

Or the speakers are busted and it needs replacing.

I have a Late 2012 iMac 27" and if Apple released a iMac 32" with the iMac 24" back in May 2021 I'd have picked one up in a heart beat.

I'd personally get a TV unless I was living alone.

 

[User #07242024]

No, YouTube and browser need latest update.

 

[jackson6]

No, YouTube and browser need latest update.

Not true at all, YT works on years-old browsers that have not been updated. So don't post what u dont know, u are contributing to misinformation.

 

[Fishrrman]

If you want to buy obsolete hardware, then go to it.
But don't expect much approval from others here.

 

[jackson6]

If you want to buy obsolete hardware, then go to it.
But don't expect much approval from others here.

understood. but I can also run Firefox dynasty if I want a modern browser too, this is for the doubters out there https://github.com/i3roly/firefox-dynasty

so the old stuff can still be good and useful.

 

[Macomatic]

I use a MacMini M1 with an Apple wireless keyboard and trackpad together in a plastic holder (purchased somewhere on Amazon) as a Home Theater PC (HTPC) connected to my tv. The tv has a YouTube app but the YouTube content is plagued by advertising that way. Instead of using the YT app on the tv, by using a the MacMini connected to the tv by HDMI, and a browser (Firefox) on the MacMini with plug-ins to block the ads, I never see any ads on YouTube on my tv. The MacMini can also play file formats that the tv can't. And having a full keyboard and trackpad is much better than the lousy remote control that came with the tv. So I recommend that over using an old Intel based iMac as a "YouTube tv" as you call it.

 

[Lounge vibes 05]

You’re better off buying a cheep TV and an ATV.

 

[Snowlover]

PLUS

and then i can control the iMac from my couch with the keyboard + touchpad, and in doing so I can watch youtube, twitch, netflix in my living room with my 27" iMac. I have never done this before, is this a good idea and will there be any unforeseen problems?

I say why not? If a 27" screen is big enough for you and you can get the imac for good price.
( I've seen them that era for under $150 on craigslist here).
Just use firefox dynasty browser on macos. Or put windows 11 on it.

I'm using a 2014 mac mini and 40" Sony tv for home entertainment. I put windows 11 on it because I need to tether my android phone for internet and it just works on windows. Also just using a mouse since win 11 has nice onscreen keyboard with icon that opens with one click. (I'm a horrible typist so this is fine for me).

 

[User #07242024]

Not true at all, YT works on years-old browsers that have not been updated. So don't post what u dont know, u are contributing to misinformation.

Sorry for being unclear, my mac is 2011 so older than what you’re planning to buy. Third party browser support has ended but you can still watch YouTube on Safari or special browser for old machines like Firefox Dynasty if you want.

But like many said, better get other machine for YouTube tv viewing.

 

[Allen_Wentz]

PLUS

and then i can control the iMac from my couch with the keyboard + touchpad, and in doing so I can watch youtube, twitch, netflix in my living room with my 27" iMac. I have never done this before, is this a good idea and will there be any unforeseen problems?

Yes. A 2012 iMac display is not the equal of a new iMac . A not unforseen problem is that all displays wear out with age. Sorry but buying an old display means by definition buying an age-deteriorated viewing experience that will be getting worse every year.

Plus this is tech, and tech improves every year...

 

[Nguyen Duc Hieu]

PLUS

and then i can control the iMac from my couch with the keyboard + touchpad, and in doing so I can watch youtube, twitch, netflix in my living room with my 27" iMac. I have never done this before, is this a good idea and will there be any unforeseen problems?

This is a bad idea. Unless you have limited room space.
A normal TV hung on your wall, with Apple TV app, voiced remote controller is all you need.
Spending something like 150$ on an Apple TV 4k device might increase your experience.

 

[benmuetsch]

I don't think the idea is too bad but you will need to use OCLP. Why not get at least a 27" from late 2014?
Their CPUs are much more capable and they need less patching, install Sonoma or Sequoia and you are good to go for 5 years watching Youtube and stuff..