Mac Mini or iMac

[Renec]

I just ordered a new mac mini core duo, but now I'm thinking that the graphics might not be good enough. Anyone who has a intel mac mini able to comment on how the graphics are?

Does it do things like Quartz effects and stuff?

Thanks,

Renec

 

[Eidorian]

You have Quartz Extreme AND Core Image support. It's just the 3D graphics aren't all that impressive and you're going to need more than 512 MB of system RAM.

 

[pknz]

If your worried about graphics, and have the cash go for an iMac.

 

[jsw]

I have the 17" Intellimac, bumped to 2GB, and the duo, bumped to 1GB.

The overwhelming majority of the time, response is very similar. The iMac does 3D graphics much better, and the mini has that 80MB hit due to integrated graphics which can slow things a lot on a 512MB setup.

For 2D stuff, I see a slight edge to the iMac in normal usage (I have them side-by-side right now). 3D stuff (all I really have is WarCraft III) shows a clear and large iMac advantage.

Specs and benchmarks aside, for most usage, I'd guess they'd "feel" the same to you if you didn't have them - as I do - right next to one another.

 

[JW8725]

I was in this same situation a few days ago. After adding mouse, keyboard, monitor and RAM you'll notice the mac mini isnt much cheaper than the imac. I didnt bother going for the mini in the end. For a few bob more you can have the benefits of the imac. Oh and if the 17" is too small for ya then the DVI adapter allows for a second monitor should you so wish which is just what I'm about to do.

 

[Danksi]

After adding mouse, keyboard, monitor and RAM you'll notice the mac mini isnt much cheaper than the imac.

I think this has always been the case with the Mini and the iMac, even more so now that the iMac is slightly cheaper and the Mini more expensive.

If you have the keyboard, mouse, screen then the Mini is a good choice (money wise) if not then the 17inch iMac is better value for money.

This is why I ended up with my 17inch iMac G5, even though I had a spare screen, I sold it in the end.