What do you all think?
A MacBook can easily connect to a monitor, keyboard, and mouse for a desktop setup while still being a portable laptop. The iMac lacks this portability, making it a strictly desktop option. Personally, I’m not a fan of the iMac and would recommend the Mac mini instead for desktop use.
@Shannon
True, but a MacBook with the necessary peripherals (monitor, keyboard, mouse) ends up being more expensive than an iMac. A 5K monitor is over $1000, plus about $200 for a keyboard and mouse.
Mac mini.
The iMac has a sleek design and is a great choice if budget isn’t a concern. It’s important to note that the MacBook Air and iMac serve different purposes—one is portable while the other is stationary.
@Peyton
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Ultimately, it depends on how much you value portability. If it’s not a big deal, go with the iMac! It offers a nice large screen, and it includes a keyboard and mouse or trackpad. Personally, I lean towards the iMac since I use my smartphone for on-the-go tasks.
@Bela
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That said, I understand that long-time Mac users might prefer a larger display (like a 27" or 32") and potentially more power, akin to an ‘iMac Pro’.
If portability isn’t a requirement, the iMac is vastly superior.
What do you prefer: a desktop computer or a laptop?
If you need portability, obviously choose the MacBook Air; if you want a stationary device for home use, then go for the iMac or Mac mini.
I’d go with a MacBook and pair it with an ultrawide monitor or one of your choice—portability is a big plus!
Forget the iMac; I’m running a HP Elitedesk in hackintosh mode. It cost me £50 from a place recycling them (i5, SSD, 8GB RAM). I also got a MacBook Pro (because I wouldn’t be caught dead with an Air). I have a Touch Bar, not for any practical reason—just because I can. It sits unused and that feels luxurious.
You should get that laptop immediately! My first Mac was an Air, and it was an absolute gem; it handled far more than I expected from such a compact device. Plus, it was incredibly lightweight. The iMac? Just a big screen. So is a TV. You can’t take it with you when work sends you on trips, or when you want to binge-watch Love Island on a long train ride. It doesn’t let you balance a drink as you lounge on the couch while streaming Netflix nor does it offer that smooth touch while typing. It can’t serve as a giant iPad that handles your calls and texts. Laptops simply do more.
I’m curious about that massive television—did you get a QLED? I received a super bright QLED as a gift, and it practically burns my eyes when set to maximum brightness. It’s thrilling; it really gets people excited.
I have an M2 Mac mini, the lowest spec, and it’s fantastic. I already had a good monitor, and I mostly use it for GarageBand, but it’s more than capable for anything else I throw at it.
If you truly need an iMac, you wouldn’t even be asking this question. The iMac caters to specific needs. You might be happier with the MacBook Air since it can be configured similarly to the iMac and also offer other functionalities.
@Denny
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Consider your needs based on function. Assess what’s essential—a monitor for the desktop, laptop use, etc. Budget for both options and determine what you need now versus later.
Options:
- iMac + MacBook Air
- MacBook Air + best monitor you can afford
- Just choose one and manage any functional compromise.