Serious Problem: Apple desktop computers are becoming more and more expensive... Advice?

[BeautifulWoman_1984]

Hey guys,

I've tried solving this problem myself for several months and I haven't found a solution yet...

I'm trying to find the best "home setup possible" as I'm the only person using these devices and I don't have anyone else that I can share costs with.

Do many people have setups with exclusively Apple products?

The best solution I could think of was a "mixed solution" with a Windows 10 PC, Mac desktop computer, my 9th gen iPad and a couple machines running Linux.

I'm starting to move away from Windows because there seems to be such a focus on taking as many user files as possible to the cloud. So, I thought moving to Linux desktop computers would be the way to go. It's frustrating that I'm unable to access my Mac Mini mid2011's files because I only have one Mac desktop computer as iPad's are unable to access Time Machine.

Thank you for any advice!

 

[tstafford]

I finally retired my last windows device a few months ago. I'm all Apple end to end now.

FWIW - I agree Apple desktops (esp. monitors) are super pricey. Mini packs a lot of punch for the price but once you add keyboard, mouse, monitor - it's a lot. Plus it's now long in the tooth although that should be fixed soon.

 

[BeautifulWoman_1984]

I finally retired my last windows device a few months ago. I'm all Apple end to end now.

FWIW - I agree Apple desktops (esp. monitors) are super pricey. Mini packs a lot of punch for the price but once you add keyboard, mouse, monitor - it's a lot. Plus it's now long in the tooth although that should be fixed soon.

Thank you for your reply!

Is it really worth it to have your entire setup, all of your devices, made by Apple? Why is the benefit of having a 100% Apple environment?

Aren't there benefits to have a Windows or a Linux computer in the mix?

 

[4sallypat]

In all the years I have had a Mac for home and work, I'd have to say the current pricing for any Mx Mac (desktop or laptop) has kept low and performance even higher.

Looking back when I had to get progressively more expensive Intel Mac Minis from 2012 to finally my last Intel 2018 i7 CTO Mac Mini for $2,000 and now can get 100x more performance from an M1 Mini for 1/3 the price = better value in my books.

Now I have graduated from the Mac Mini to Mac Studio base and absolutely love it - no more lagging, no more hesitation, no spinning beach balls!

 

[MarkC426]

The best solution I could think of was a "mixed solution" with a Windows 10 PC, Mac desktop computer, my 9th gen iPad and a couple machines running Linux.

What exactly is your workflow that requires 4 desktop machines running 3 different operating systems....?

 

[ondioline]

You have to decide how to spend your money, but the 0% interest 12 month payment on the Apple Card is a pretty good deal to spread the payments out.

Considering how things are going with interest rates too I don't know if it will last much longer. Might be the time to take advantage of it.

 

[TightLines]

I finally retired my last windows device a few months ago. I'm all Apple end to end now.

FWIW - I agree Apple desktops (esp. monitors) are super pricey. Mini packs a lot of punch for the price but once you add keyboard, mouse, monitor - it's a lot. Plus it's now long in the tooth although that should be fixed soon.

I wouldn’t touch a Apple branded monitor with a 10’ pole unless they dropped the prices significantly, like major price reduction - they seemingly use the monitors as sucker bait and have massively overcharged for any of their branded displays… there are so many other options where displays are 1/3 or less the cost of an Apple branded display, and they will do just as good of a job…. AND they are just as stylish as the Apple displays IMHO too…

Avoid the Apple displays.… we see what they could charge just by looking at the iMac prices…

 

[tstafford]

Thank you for your reply!

Is it really worth it to have your entire setup, all of your devices, made by Apple? Why is the benefit of having a 100% Apple environment?

Aren't there benefits to have a Windows or a Linux computer in the mix?

This stuff is all a personal decision obviously, for me it's the following:

• I have no need for a Linux machine
• I used to find that there were things I needed Windows for occasionally - this hasn't been the case (for me) in a couple of years
• I like the nearly seamless cross-device sync that iCloud provides (cloud file storage, syncing of things like iMessage, e-mail, podcasts, etc.)
• iMessage - I can't live w/o it
• Ease of use - I find Apple very stable and easy to live with
• Enjoyment - I like the experience
• And so on

Side note: As you will see from the comments, the monitor is a highly contentious issue. Apple clearly charges a ton. It's worth it to me, but I fully understand why others would go a different direction. I am actively searching for a third monitor for my desktop (Studio w/ two ASD and an ancient Acer). I'd love to do something different than Apple, but I bet I just buy another ASD. . .

 

[NT1440]

I finally retired my last windows device a few months ago. I'm all Apple end to end now.

FWIW - I agree Apple desktops (esp. monitors) are super pricey. Mini packs a lot of punch for the price but once you add keyboard, mouse, monitor - it's a lot. Plus it's now long in the tooth although that should be fixed soon.

In this scenario one would think someone with a multi-computer set up already has *the* peripherals they want to use.

If that’s the case, the Mac Mini is a great low cost option in the lineup that punches way above it’s price point (unless you’re looking to game on it for some reason).

 

[MarkC426]

A lot of 'price comparisons' with Apple and others is sometimes not as cut and dry.
A lot can be said for the stability and reliability with Macs.

I have had many a headache over decades with PC problems (at work), either hardware or Microcrap software, or just generally driver incompatibilities.

People complain the 2019 Mac Pro is expensive, but if it's compared to a similar spec PC with high quality components it is not much different.

 

[Fruit Stand]

I don't really see or understand where this "Apple desktops are more expensive" narrative at all. Acquisition costs for all Macs are much lower today than any other point in the time I've owned and purchased Macs.

I also used to work at Apple retail and can tell ya the cost vs. performance value is at its best today than any other time.

I think non-Apple computers and hardware in general has become more expensive and is almost in line with Apple's pricing but without the reliability, longevity and support that Apple's Macs come with.

That's just me.

 

[Ifti]

Apple ecosystem at home.
So I have 2 MacBooks - one (M1 Max MBP16) always stays on my desk as my editing machine, and the other (M2 MBA) is my general portable system.
Also have an iPhone/Apple Watch etc.

Wife and kids have iPhones.
Eldest daughter has a MacBook Pro, but other 2 have Windows laptops for now - they are too young for MacBooks!

So even though we are heavily into Apple devices at home, I still choose to keep a Windows laptop as my work-issued system (Dell XPS 13). For my work a Windows system is best (IT Networking) considering all the networks I work with are all Windows based. Just comes down to compatibility for me.

 

[Gudi]

Thank you for any advice!

A one year old mid-tier 24" M1 iMac in Rosé can be bought second-hand for less than $1000. This machine can last you a decade and double as a TV for the low price of 27 cents per day. Be careful with your shopping and it's basically free.

Aren't there benefits to have a Windows or a Linux computer in the mix?

No. Would you like to own a ****** car next to your nice car?

 

[pmiles]

Speaking from the other side of the fence...

I just recently purchased my first Windows machine since 2001. As much as I have liked the Mac ecosystem over the years, the sad truth is, it's time for me to move on. My biggest complaint with Macs right now is that they are essentially throw away devices because everything is basically soldered to the mainboard. There is no potential for upgrades whatsoever... making their shelf life quite short. My last Mac was a 2010 Mac Pro... and while it still has life in it, it cannot really run the latest Windows OS without a lot of work at my end. In essence I've been running an older MacOS for years now because the newer flavors are just not my cup of tea anymore. I came to the Mac ecosystem when the Windows OS was just in a dreadful state and when OSX was just in its infancy. The ability to dual boot both native Windows and MacOS on the same hardware made for a very clean setup for me and worked well for decades. My father dual booted Linux for years before passing away.

If I were to get a new Mac, I'd have more desktop clutter than ever before just to regain some of the additional storage and ports that are not available on the newer Macs. SoC might be the greatest thing of all time but it comes at a price (metaphorically) that I no longer wish to pay.

So for good or bad, I am returning to the Windows ecosystem. Unlike you, I am not looking for a mixed solution that includes the MacOS anymore. To me, it is the OS that turns me away these days, unlike when I switched when it was the number one draw. To each their own.

If you have a real need for the MacOS, then the price is worth it. If it's just the SoC hoopla that has you looking at these machines, then maybe you will find that it is more restrictive (at this time) than you would like. When I switched to the Mac, there was zero question or hesitation whatsoever. My switch back to the Windows ecosystem is the same for me now. If you are not at that point, then perhaps a little more research and a wait are better for you in the long run... unless you have money to burn. There's no point in having what is arguably the fastest Mac ever if all it is a paperweight in terms of usability to you. That's where I am at the moment. This may not be you.

 

[rpmurray]

… there are so many other options where displays are 1/3 or less the cost of an Apple branded display, and they will do just as good of a job…. AND they are just as stylish as the Apple displays IMHO too…

Please provide a list of these mythical beasts. In particular I'm looking for a really nice 5K display that's 1/3 the cost of the Apple Studio Display.

 

[HDFan]

Apple desktop computers are becoming more and more expensive.​

A Mac Studio with studio display compared to its mid tier equivalent iMac Pro is nearly 1/2 the cost of the iMac Pro.

they seemingly use the monitors as sucker bait and have massively overcharged for any of their branded displays… there are so many other options where displays are 1/3 or less the cost of an Apple branded display, and they will do just as good of a job….

The only monitor with an equivalent display in that price range is the LG. For a couple hundred dollars more the Studio Display has much better build quality and some additional features.

 

[Gudi]

I came to the Mac ecosystem when the Windows OS was just in a dreadful state ...

This could've been any time really.

The ability to dual boot both native Windows and MacOS on the same hardware made for a very clean setup for me and worked well for decades.

So you didn't came to the Mac, only half the way.

My father dual booted Linux for years before passing away.

And my grandfather disassembled his motorbike and hid the parts, so that the Russians couldn't steal it.

SoC might be the greatest thing of all time but it comes at a price (metaphorically) that I no longer wish to pay.

And why would you want the greatest thing of all time, if it doesn't run Windows? Imagine how bad Windows on ARM must be, if Microsoft refuses to sell you a public license!

So for good or bad, I am returning to the Windows ecosystem.

Which is by no means a dying ecosystem, only because it is unable to make the transitions to a newer cpu architecture, which - as you admit - might well be the greatest thing of all time.

 

[Juicy Box]

Saying Mac desktops are expensive isn't really accurate. Today, M1 Mac Mini is the cheapest Mac Apple has ever sold when adjusting for inflation, and can sometimes be found at a sub-$500, open box at Best Buy.

Not only is it cheap, but until the M1 Pro and Max were launched, it had the highest single core performance of any Mac, ever.

At launch, and even now, the M1 Mac Mini is a powerful and capable computer at a budget computer price.

I'm trying to find the best "home setup possible" as I'm the only person using these devices and I don't have anyone else that I can share costs with.

We cannot address this without knowing exactly what you need to do with your computer(s).

Aren't there benefits to have a Windows or a Linux computer in the mix?

No, unless you need Windows and/or Linux. We cannot answer this for your specific use case.

It's frustrating that I'm unable to access my Mac Mini mid2011's files because I only have one Mac desktop computer as iPad's are unable to access Time Machine.

You lost me.
Not sure what you are saying here. Can you not access your MM files with your other Mac?

A Mac Studio with studio display compared to its mid tier equivalent iMac Pro is nearly 1/2 the cost of the iMac Pro.

To be fair, you are comparing the Mac Studio to a 5 year old iMac Pro.

 

[kschendel]

It's really going to depend on what you do and what programs / applications you need.

In this home office, we have a 15" late 2013 rMBP that is my "office" machine, and a 27" 2019 iMac that the wife uses for everything. All my work is done on a linux PC that I put together, and there's another 7 linux PC's built from used / spare parts that I spin up a few times a month for work purposes. (I do database server stuff and use the cluster for testing and debugging.) No Windows at all here, but then none of my workflow needs Windows.

Not everyone can work that way; some people need Windows due to corporate mandate, or apps that run best on Windows, or compatibility with other Windows PC's. Without knowing your specific situation and details, it's hard to give good advice.

 

[Fishrrman]

If you want to replace the 2011 Mac Mini, be aware that the m2 version of the Mini seems to be due for release very soon (before the end of the year).

It looks like there -might be- an "M2Pro" version as well as a plain-vanilla M2 model.

IF there's an M2Pro Mini, THAT's the one to get, and should be good for 5-7 years, at least.

As for the cost... well... if you want it, and can justify buying it, you'll pay.

 

[AJK13K]

I finally retired my last windows device a few months ago. I'm all Apple end to end now.

FWIW - I agree Apple desktops (esp. monitors) are super pricey. Mini packs a lot of punch for the price but once you add keyboard, mouse, monitor - it's a lot. Plus it's now long in the tooth although that should be fixed soon.

I evolved from windows by starting with an early iPad, saw it’s value to my information needs and kept upgrading it as Apple added features. I then looked for a good used Mac and got a great very clean 2014 Macbook air used. I made the transition from windows to the Macbook. I am no longer a systems programmer but rather a user of function.

Years ago (I am 78) we talked about the paperless office, with my current setup - MacBook, iPad, iPhone …, I am close to that. All the info I need to run my home is accumulated on one of my platforms, shared in the cloud with the others. For example, when I want to know when to order salt for my water softner, I look at the usage spread sheet (check for anomalies) and email an order to my supplier.

The above is a simple example but i use similar for all my paper work, taxes, warentees, evaluating replacements ….

i no longer spend my time fixing windows but rather in managing my life in a structured way.

Art k

 

[EdwardC]

I use MacOS as well as Windows (11 Pro for Workstations) and I'm not sure when you say Windows is wanting to send your files to the cloud? If your speaking of One Drive then turn it off. I have zero issues with Windows 10 or 11 and all in all is a very solid OS. I use a HP workstation for my day to day office / CAD use for my remote job. I have an M1 mini with 16gb of RAM and would seriously suggest not getting anything with less.

 

[pdoherty]

Hey guys,

I've tried solving this problem myself for several months and I haven't found a solution yet...

I'm trying to find the best "home setup possible" as I'm the only person using these devices and I don't have anyone else that I can share costs with.

Do many people have setups with exclusively Apple products?

The best solution I could think of was a "mixed solution" with a Windows 10 PC, Mac desktop computer, my 9th gen iPad and a couple machines running Linux.

I'm starting to move away from Windows because there seems to be such a focus on taking as many user files as possible to the cloud. So, I thought moving to Linux desktop computers would be the way to go. It's frustrating that I'm unable to access my Mac Mini mid2011's files because I only have one Mac desktop computer as iPad's are unable to access Time Machine.

Thank you for any advice!

What are you doing that you need four (Mac, Windows, 2xLinux) computers for?

 

[jz0309]

Hey guys,

I've tried solving this problem myself for several months and I haven't found a solution yet...

I'm trying to find the best "home setup possible" as I'm the only person using these devices and I don't have anyone else that I can share costs with.

Do many people have setups with exclusively Apple products?

The best solution I could think of was a "mixed solution" with a Windows 10 PC, Mac desktop computer, my 9th gen iPad and a couple machines running Linux.

I'm starting to move away from Windows because there seems to be such a focus on taking as many user files as possible to the cloud. So, I thought moving to Linux desktop computers would be the way to go. It's frustrating that I'm unable to access my Mac Mini mid2011's files because I only have one Mac desktop computer as iPad's are unable to access Time Machine.

Thank you for any advice!

What “problem” are you trying to solve??
Not sure you can get good advise without more detail

 

[Ashbash75]

eh, what? I've been using windows for decades and all my data is local.