The iMac Summer 2010 Model is Better Suited for Productivity Than Entertainment

When it comes to the world of computers, users are faced with two fairly distinct options: an Apple or Windows based machine. While both have distinct advantages and disadvantages, many folks find themselves firmly ensconced in one camp or the other. For many different reasons seldom do fans cross hardware lines. Fortunately for Apple fans the Summer 2010 edition of the iMac included several upgrades from previous models. While all in one computing needs are still in their somewhat infant stage with regards to mass appeal, the iMac Summer 2010 provides a nice unit for its price tag, which can range from $1000 to $1200, like the one the folks at CNet took a look at.

The machine specs out with a 21.5" monitor, and since the hardware is included in the design of the iMac, that is pretty much the entire machine. Of course, the Apple wireless keyboard is also included, but savvy Apple fans would probably like to enhance their unit with the Apple Magic Trackpad to make the iMac perform more like an iPhone. The machine runs fast and efficient thanks to the Intel Core i3 3.06GHz processor and 4GB of DDR3 Ram. The 500GB Serial ATA hard drive has more than enough space for the average computer user, and the CD/DVD slide loading drive is always welcome, though how many folks are still burning CD's or DVD's is something of a question. The Firewire port and four USB ports are likely to be used far more than the burner, due to the popularity of flash or thumb drives and external hard drives. An Internet connection is performed wirelessly courtesy of the pretty much standard wireless 802.11 card. Of course, some degree of option upgrade is available when the unit is ordered, but that process tends to bump up the purchase price even higher.

Apple fans will notice the typical suite of Apple software installed, and while the software provides many different applications like word processing, iTunes for music, and other typical programs like Safari perform much better thanks to the upgraded processor and memory. Since most of the upgrades were performed on the inside, many of the iMacs continue to sport the same appearance. But the speed is what everyone will notice first and likely second. The screen looks great, and the sound is nice, but really fail to blow any of the HD screens or surround systems out of the water.

Since the iMac Summer 2010 edition is focused primarily on productivity, no blu-ray player and no high definition screen are included. This is a computer that should be used in the office for content creation or writing a school paper. While the media the computer handles looks fine, this is a student or professional version of an Apple. Considering the high purchase price, the unit performs very well so long as it is kept for the desire purpose and tasked with entertaining the family. This is a machine built for work, and it can really deliver on that platform.

sources:
Best Buy
www.bestbuy.com
www.apple.com
http://reviews.cnet.com/desktops/apple-imac-summer-2010/4505-3118_7-34139833.html
personal experience