Advice on upgrade to intel mac

I am currently using a PowerPC G5 dual 2.3 ghz with 3.5 GB ram, bus speed 1.15 and running 10.5.8. I have some new software that will only run on 10.6. Since this machine can't be upgraded to 10.6, I am considering getting a newer mac. I've never had the latest and greatest---so getting a used mac is my preference. I'd like to pay under $500, and have the option to add memory, hard drive, etc. myself (like I have done on the G5). Can anyone suggest an intel mac ?

First I'm going to assume that you're ok with a desktop computer...since you currently have a desktop.

Basically what you're looking for is an Intel Mac that that can still run OS 10.6...and also be about $500 or less. Off the top of my head...a couple of desktop Mac's that best fits this is are:

- a 2009 21" iMac
- a "Mid-2010" Mac-Mini

* Nick

Thank you, Nick. I have no problem with a desktop computer. Would I still be able to swap out hard drives, add memory, etc. to a mini? I'm not a computer whiz, but I do enjoy being able to do those things to my G5.
Also have 2 printers, scanner and an external hooked up to current computer. I'd still need to keep those externals.

Jackie

penletters said:

Would I still be able to swap out hard drives, add memory, etc. to a mini?

Also have 2 printers, scanner and an external hooked up to current computer. I'd still need to keep those externals.

Click to expand...

The ram & hard drive in a "mid-2010" Mac-Mini are definitely user changeable/upgradeable. The ram is VERY easy...the HD swap is more difficult (but doable)...but definitely way harder than in a Powermac G5.

As long as those external devices aren't too ancient and are compatible with OS 10.6...they should work ok. And assuming they plug in via USB.

I will throw one more idea your way. It could also be possible to get a 2010/2011 13" MacBook Pro for under $500. If you were interested in a laptop.

- Nick

The externals are 10.6 compatible and USB. I'm not interested in a laptop. (like my big keyboard and monitor and have no need to transport this anywhere). Is there a reason to go with the mid-2010 mini vs. later models? Any feeling whether 10.10 will cut core 2 duo processors?

Jackie

penletters said:

Is there a reason to go with the mid-2010 mini vs. later models?

Click to expand...

Yes...they are not capable of running OS 10.6 (one of your requirements).

- Nick

What I should have said was that the software needs "at least 10.6 to run." Does that change things?
Jackie

penletters said:

What I should have said was that the software needs "at least 10.6 to run." Does that change things?
Jackie

Click to expand...

Yes...that makes a difference. The original post said the software you were concerned about would ONLY run on 10.6...which certainly has less flexibility.

One thing I would warn about. Since you are currently running a Powermac G5 with OS 10.5.8...if you upgrade to a newer computer...and a much newer OS version...that if you have any other older applications that you depend on...they probably will not work.

So if you can go with an even newer Mac-Mini...then heck...you might as well go with a brand new 2012 model for $599 (not too much above your budget). Keep in mind...the "oldest" Os that can run on this is OS 10.8.1.

You probably wouldn't save very much $$$ getting a used 2011 model.

- Nick