Help me decide on which iMac

Ok, so I want to get a new iMac but am a little confused on something pretty simple. After looking at the system requirements for OS X 10.6 it says it requires something like 1 GB of RAM. I also want to be able to do things like use Photoshop, After Effects, Final Cut Pro. I think Final Cut requires the most RAM at something like 4GB. When I go to select my desired computer should I get one that has at least 5GB of RAM so everything has the space it needs to run? I'm considering getting the 21.5" 3.2 GHz i3 setup fyi.

I do not claim to be an iMac expert - indeed I often request help on this very sit. But I have had 3 iMacs and used some of the Applications on your list.

I would say this: 8GB RAM is nowadays the minimum for heavy duty apps such as you suggest. You can sacrifice processor speed if you have to and sacrifice HD space, but not working memory.

I have both the (older) 21.5" iMac and the newest 27" version. The older 21.5" with 8GB RAM performs just fine so the newest 21.5" which you suggest will certainly suit your purpose just fine.

If spouse and bank manager permit, the 27" gives you much more, but at a price. From what you say, go for the 21.5", but 8GB RAM is a must.

I speak solely from experience and not from having any specialist knowledge.

Hope this helps.

Ian

Agreed with IWT, but I wouldn't base your entire choice on the amount of RAM the machine is equipped with from the factory. You can easily upgrade it aftermarket and spend less than half of what Apple charges. Definitely load it up on memory once you get the machine, but base your decision on the best processor and largest amount of disk space you can afford.

Check out Crucial.com and Otherworldcomputing.com for memory upgrades and prices.

Fair comment from cwa107.

Ian

Thanks guys! Its always hard making these kinds of decisions.