I am in the market for a new desktop computer to replace my aging Windows desktop which I built myself. I am trying to decide if I want the Mac Mini, or the iMac, the 2.0ghz Mini or the 24″ iMac. I have a Dell 20″ LCD monitor which I would use with the Mini, but a 24″ screen would be much nicer. However, I don’t have a lot of money to spend, so the Mac Mini makes the most sense for me, however, why bother getting a computer I doubt will be powerful enough for my tastes. At $1,799 the iMac would be the most expensive computer I have ever paid for myself.

Mac Mini Pros

• small
• quiet
• I could use my exisiting Dell 20″ monitor to save some money

Mac Mini Cons

• smaller and slower hard drive
• would have to use my ugly Dell 20″ monitor
• slower cpu
• no iSight built in
• sad video card

iMac Pros

• faster hard drive
• new, great looking monitor
• iSight built in
• takes up less desk space
• comes with a new keyboard and mouse
• great video card

iMac Cons

• price

What I really want is a Mac Pro, but I really can’t afford that $2,499 baseline price tag. I think the Mac Pro I would want would come in at over $5,000.

So, when I have the money I will have a serious decision to make. I think I am leaning towards the iMac at the moment, in the end I think I will be happier.