hey guys, im going into 9th grade, and im going to a high school based on science, technology, mathmatics, and engineering. and my dad's gift for me for getting into this high school was $2000 to spend on whatever i want *i currently have a Dell XPS M1330, 120gb hd, which is full and i constantly have to delete stuff to make room for my ever-increasing iTunes library. so i was wondering, would it be better to get an iMac+iPad with remote desktop running from a dell mini hackintosh, or a 1700 macbook pro? other notes: i have a 14" monitor with a usb hub and dvi+vga input. i do alot of word composing, and i will probably have to run windows also. at the school, they give you a laptop to use but im pretty sure you dont get to take it home. the dell mini, well i dont know the specs but i can leave it running in my room 24/7 if needed, and have it so the computer does nothing when i close it. if i want an iMac, i don't want a 27" one, i dont need that kind of screen. the lowest end 21.5" iMac with no upgrades is more than enough i have 15+ GB in media, and maybe 2 gb in pics. i am also getting an iPod Touch 32gb, but i plan on waiting for a camera (facetime hopefully also) i also don't mind spending 30$ on apps to make the iPad better. -i also have a bluetooth mouse and keyboard for my laptop.
It seems like there are a lot of people cutting out the middle man and going with a desktop + iPad. I'd go with the iMac + iPad over a macbook pro.
I see nothng wrong with your choice of the iMac + iPad. You can get into debates about various alternative components, but that is a very powerful combo which will serve you well.
I think the desktop combo, especially the iMac is a good choice with the iPad. People usually ask if an iPad is a good choice instead of a notebook or desktop. I always reccomend that someone needs a computer, then get an iPad to complete the package, because it's a wonderful addition but for practical purposes such as school or work, you still need a full on computer. Having both is just right
I don't see the point in spending money on ANOTHER laptop. Just get an external hard drive. I saw a 1TB on slickdeals.net for like 69 bucks. Spend the money on the iPad, and then spend the rest on something you can actually use or need.
I have all 3. Now, with that said - I am a Graduate student & I bring the iPad to class w/me. The iMac is my main workhorse when @ home. The MBP hardly leaves its case since I got the iPad. Trust me - go w/ the iMac & iPad! It's a winning combo!
Here is what I would do. Buy a Mac Mini $799 Buy a second monitor to go with your current one to have dual monitors.$200-$300 Buy a 32Gig iPad 3G $729 Buy a 1TB external Hard Drive $69 (this can double as an external storage as well as mac mini backup via time machine) I have a mac mini setup at my house with two 22" monitors and love it.
