Apple's Latest iMacs Are a Worthy Desktop Buy: 10 Reasons Why
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Nearly lost amid all of the talk about the new iPhone 5S and 5C was Apple's announcement on Sept. 24 that it has launched a new iMac version. The computer's basic design hasn't changed in the update, but Apple has added some new features that should appeal to those who want an all-in-one desktop and don't want to buy a Windows machine. Chief among the improved features are processor options starting with the 2.7GHz Intel Core i5 processor that can be beefed up to run at 3.4GHz. People who buy the new iMacs will also have the opportunity to upgrade the operating system from the current OS X Mountain Lion to the Mavericks version when it Ships. Apple's iMacs are still quite expensive compared with their Windows counterparts and the company's penchant for utter control is still annoying to some, but overall, the new and improved iMacs look like a decent buy for certain customers. Take a look at this eWEEK slide show to see why the latest iMacs will continue to be the favorite of many computer buyers.
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Apple's Latest iMacs Are a Worthy Desktop Buy: 10 Reasons Why
By Don Reisinger
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The Design Is Still Top-Notch
Apple smartly kept the new iMac's design exactly the same as the old model. That means that the device will still come with an extremely slender frame measuring just 5 millimeters at its thinnest point. The device also comes with a screen size up to 27 inches, providing outstanding visuals. Overall, it's a great design.
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Who Doesn't Want a Better Processor?
Apple has bundled a new and improved processor in the iMac. The new model starts with a 2.7GHz quad-core Intel Core i5 processor but can be beefed up to 3.4GHz. Those who want even more power can get their hands on a 3.5GHz quad-core Intel Core i7 processor. In other words, this thing delivers on power.
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Apple Has Added New Graphics
In addition to improving its processing speeds, Apple has boosted the iMac's graphics. The 21.5-inch model comes with the Iris Pro for integrated graphics, but either model can be bumped up to a dedicated Nvidia GeForce GPU. The 27-inch model, in fact, can be purchased with the extremely powerful GeForce GTX780M. Not bad.
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The Latest and Greatest WiFi Is Included
Apple has bundled the latest WiFi spec, 802.11ac, in the new iMac. According to the company, the device can deliver up to three times the performance of an N-generation device when connected to an ac-compatible base station. It's nice to see Apple ushering in a new WiFi generation.
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Better Flash Storage
The iMac's flash storage has also been improved, according to Apple. The device now has PCIe-based flash storage that will make both the company's Fusion Drive hybrids and flash drives up to 50 percent faster in terms of data writing and reading than previous models.
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OS X Is Still a Fine Option
Apple's iMac will ship with OS X Mountain Lion. Although it's been available for about a year, the operating system is a solid option for most users and is quite stable. Better yet, it's secure. At this point, OS X is a fine option and makes the iMac all the more appealing.
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It's the Only Affordable Apple Desktop
Apple plans to launch the new Mac Pro this year, joining the iMac as the only two desktops the company sells. However, the new Mac Pro, like its predecessor, promises to come with a hefty price tag. At a starting price of $1,299, the iMac is by no means cheap, but it's at least affordable to more customers. That should count for something.
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It's Just Fine for the Enterprise
The corporate world has always wondered if the iMac is really right for the office. With the latest upgrades featuring better performance and better storage efficiency, it seems quite clear that it is. Granted, some applications won't work with the iMac, but that's a small price to pay for an industry that's increasingly going toward bring-your-own-device (BYOD) implementation.
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You Have the Option to Upgrade
One of the nice things about buying the iMac now is that it provides owners with the option to decide whether they should stick with Mountain Lion or go with Mavericks when that operating system launches this year. Waiting until Apple delivers Maverics before buying an iMac means choosing an operating system that might come with some bugs at last to start. There's something to be said for having options.
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Space Savings Is Huge
The iMac's small desktop footprint cannot be undervalued. Apple's iMac is just 8 inches deep when the stand is included and because it's totally wireless, the device can be mounted to a wall for even more desk savings. If it's space-savings owners are after, the iMac delivers.
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