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Need some advice regarding imac

gadgetgirl85

gadgetgirl85

macrumors 68040
Original poster
Mar 24, 2006
3,807
373
I am about to buy a 2.4" 2.93 GHZ iMac. I could probably do with a 2.66 but i am making sure I am covering all bases plus I want to keep it for at least 3 years. I am wondering whether I should order the standard or the better graphics card? I don't play many games (other than The Sims 3) and don't do anything video editing wise etc. Will I be ok with the standard?
 
I am always an advocate of getting the best you can afford
But yes, the standard should be fine for your needs

Woof, Woof - Dawg
pawprint.gif
 
I agree if you're gonna get one, might as well get the one with the 4850.

The thing that sucks though is that it needs to ordered online. Don't know why apple don't carry them in their stores.
 
The next upgrade on the graphics card is $270 and will bring me to over 3k which I can't afford :( If I wanted to play around in photoshop would I still need the better graphics card?
 
well, if you would be better off with a higher end graphics card, if you want the computer to last 3 years or more. Who knows what you will be using the computer for in 3 years. Needs may change.
 
HBOC said:
well, if you would be better off with a higher end graphics card, if you want the computer to last 3 years or more. Who knows what you will be using the computer for in 3 years. Needs may change.
Click to expand...

If I want to install Windows 7 on my computer in the future (when its properly released), will the graphics card affect anything?
 
viccles said:
If I want to install Windows 7 on my computer in the future (when its properly released), will the graphics card affect anything?
Click to expand...
Your Windows Experience score. :rolleyes:

Seriously my GMA X3100, aside from the preliminary driver, runs Windows 7 just fine.
 
Eidorian said:
Your Windows Experience score. :rolleyes:

Seriously my GMA X3100, aside from the preliminary driver, runs Windows 7 just fine.
Click to expand...

I think people are overestimating my usage of what I do on my iMac. I surf the net, listen to music, do assignments etc. I am doing a psychology degree so there is nothing more complicated than using SPSS ( stats program). I know 2.93 is overkill but in my mind psychologically it will 'future proof' me more than the 2.66. I barely play games (as I said other than the sims 3) and occasionally play around with graphics.

I don't really understand the difference between the two graphics cards (don't really know anything about them). Can somebody please explain it to me and why/if it would be worth my while? It won't affect my day-to-day tasks...or will it?
 
I'm wondering is there a huge difference between the 120 and 130 graphics cards? I wouldn't be able to afford more than to upgrade to the 130 if its really worth it?
 
viccles said:
I'm wondering is there a huge difference between the 120 and 130 graphics cards? I wouldn't be able to afford more than to upgrade to the 130 if its really worth it?
Click to expand...

GT130 has two times more GDDR3. There's no significant difference in those cards so, if Sims 3 is the only game you'll be playing, GT120 will be fine for you. If you want better one, get ATI 4850
 
Hellhammer said:
GT130 has two times more GDDR3. There's no significant difference in those cards so, if Sims 3 is the only game you'll be playing, GT120 will be fine for you. If you want better one, get ATI 4850
Click to expand...
The GT130M is 48 shaders over 32 and a 192-bit memory interface over 128-bit.

It's not just video RAM.
 
I just need somebody to explain in simple terms for me. I wouldn't go to a shop because they would probably tell me I need the most expensive graphics card because they could see I have absolutely NO idea. I am so confused! :( Can somebody please explain about graphics cards to this very confused girl! :) I have posted what I will be my Imac in a couple of posts above if that helps any. I do play Sims 3 currently on a Mid 08 20" iMac and it seems to run reasonably for me?
 
Eidorian said:
If you already have an iMac why are you buying another one?
Click to expand...

Because I want to buy a 24". Yes, I know I could get a screen but I don't have room etc etc. I'm looking at an extra $300 for the top grade graphics card
 
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