Replacement for iMac G4

[arc07693]

My iMac G4 is dying. It was running fine until a day ago when I started smelling burning electronics, and now it's having all sorts of problems.

The point is, I'm not going to be using it anymore. I'm looking for a cheap replacement, I'm thinking the iMac G5, or one of the first Intel iMacs (same appearance as the G5).

What do you think?

The Mac Mini is out of the question as I have no display for it, and cannot afford one..

It has to be $~500 or lower.

Thanks!

 

[pigoo3]

My iMac G4 is dying. It was running fine until a day ago when I started smelling burning electronics, and now it's having all sorts of problems.

It has to be $~500 or lower.

Not sure of your portability needs. But you can get a 2.0ghz Core 2 Duo Macbook (2007-2008 Vintage) for $400-$500 bucks.

If you really want another desktop...then I wouldn't go for anything less than a Core 2 Duo iMac (fastest cpu speed you can find for under $500).

HTH,

- Nick

 

[zacster]

Don't get another PowerPC based mac. It just isn't worth it.

I'm running on a Core Duo (not Core 2 Duo) iMac and I'm fine with what I have, but it too is limited in that it can't run Lion. It's too bad you don't have a monitor as the mini for $599 would be a great replacement. But LCDs are cheap (borrow or steal one)and for a little more money than the $500 you've budgeted you'd have an up-to-date machine with the latest processor.

 

[pigoo3]

But LCDs are cheap (borrow or steal one)and for a little more money than the $500 you've budgeted you'd have an up-to-date machine with the latest processor.

Couldn't agree more!

A used 19" LCD display off Craig's List can be had for under $50. Can probably get a used 22" for around $80-$90 (maybe less).

- Nick

 

[harryb2448]

Yep it is time for an Intel machine capable of running Lion. Period.

 

[zacster]

I'd upgrade myself to a mini if I could use my 20" iMac as the monitor. I already have the Magic Mouse and the full size wired keyboard. I would even swap my SSD into the mini assuming that it is an easy install, otherwise I'd put it into one of my kids' MBPs.

As far as I know though the iMac can't be used as a monitor and since I'm ok with it the way it is I'll leave it at that.

 

[osxx]

Another vote for mini and a display and you might find a mini in the refurb for same warranty and then look for a used monitor people upgrade all the time for a larger one with nothing else wrong with what they had. Might give the buy/sell area here a look.