Replacing 2014 13" rMBP

[LeafsFanNL]

Hi Folks,

I have the above mentioned Mac with 256GB storage that I payed about $1500 CAD back in 2014. I mainly use it for light work with the occasional iMove project. The only strenuous use is playing World of Warships, an online multiplayer game. It runs on my Mac using an emulator called Wine IIRC.

I spilled the best part of a drink over the lower right corner of the lower part of the chassis about a year ago. The only aftermath is crunchy arrow keys, but I figure one day it will fail. I've been planning on what to do when it happens.

So I'm looking for advice on what to do when/if it fails. I'm not interested on going back to windows, the current 13" MBP with 256GB are more expensive than I'd like, and I'd like to acquire a machine that can handle my limited gaming as well as my current Mac. I also don't need a laptop, but would prefer one.

What I have in mind is the 21" retina iMac, I'd have to custom order it with the flash memory as I couldn't take the HDD after having Flash on my MBP. That about $1700 CAD or so. The other possibility is the new MacMini, but am wondering if the i3 and on board graphics would be adequate. Am I missing anything?

 

[cruisin]

the i3 and on board graphics would be adequate

Your 2014 uses onboard Intel graphics so the 2018 Mini will be a boost. The CPU might be limited, but you can see the usage on your current Mac and then compare benchmarks to estimate the suitability of the i3. If the 2014 didn't run hot with lots of fan noise then the i3 has a good chance of being enough.

The iMac gives you better value than a MacBook as you don't need to have pay for a battery and have portable components. It also has a better CPU and graphics than a Mini, due to better components and cooling. So unless you want portability this is a iMac/Mini decision. And the Mini requires you to get your own keyboard/mouse/screen (it only comes with a power cord) so compare pricing.