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I Bought an iMac

I bought my MacBook two years ago, and I love it. However, it occurred to me that I spend most of my time with it at my desk. My next computer purchase was obvious.

Last August, Apple updated the iMac line, giving it more power and an updated aluminum and black exterior—signaling a definitive turn in Apple’s overall esthetic from its iconic white to a more professional look first unveiled with the iPhone. Moreover, they increased the screen sizes. While previously available in 17″ and 20″ versions, rumors speculated about an obscenely large 23″ version. In fact, Apple ditched the 17″ size completely, kept the 20″, and introduced a **24**” model.

I wasn’t in the market for a new computer quite yet (not with my paycheck!), but I figured I could at least pick out my next computer. Three base models were offered: a lower-end 20″, a higher-end 24″, and a middle-of-the-road 20″ with same upgraded specs as the 24″. And so I spent the better part of a year debating between the juiced-up 20″ or the 24″. One retailed for $1,499 and the other $1,799. Four inches, or $300? I compared them in the store on numerous occasions. Do I really need the extra four inches? With the money I saved by going for the 20″ I could get an TV.

And then, three things happened:

  1. Apple updated the iMac line. They all got higher specs, but the 24″ now gained a marginally faster processor than is available in the 20”.
  2. I got a $600 economic “stimulus” from the federal government. I was going to buy an iMac anyway, but this helped me justify it.
  3. Finally, I read a review and, apparently, the quality of the screen of the 24″ is actually substantially better than the 20”.

And so I relented, and bought it. The process, however, was more dramatic than it sounds. I actually considered filming it, but chose not to. The short version is that I covered my face when I clicked the submit button to buy it, then, frightened at spending that much money, peeked through my fingers at the screen.

At any rate, I am now the proud owner of a 24″ iMac. It is shockingly bright, and very fast. My MacBook was no slouch, but I’m amazed at just how much snappier this is.