iMac

I am in the market for a new Mac computer. I like the 27 " imac, but my budget only allows me to get the 21.5 ". A refurbished one would cost about $1100.00 for the 21.5". Would you buy a refurbished one or brand new which cost approx.$200.00 more? And what about the 21.5 compare to the 27" Any suggestions and/or feed backs?
Thanks.

Apple refurbs are some of the best in the industry-- They look brand new except for the packaging, and sometimes come with extra upgrades you didn't pay for (extra ram/larger hard drive). If you want the 27 inch, you should wait until you can afford it-- the extra resolution is definitely worth the money.

I second the advice to wait for the 27 inch if you want the 27 inch. I chose the 21.5 inch only because the 27 inch is way to big for me, but if the size isn't an issue and you can wait, you should do it.

As for refurbs, I would definitely buy one. Refurbs are almost always worth purchasing over brand new - you save money, and you get something that is just as good as something new and it had a hands on inspection before leaving the refurb facility. Something brand new items can't brag about.

The 21" iMacs use older IPS technology, but it's still IPS I would still wait and save though. The larger iMac screen is really nice. Just keep looking at the refurb shop and a good deal will pop up eventually.

My iMac buget allowed for the higher end 21.5" vs the lower end 27." In the end, I went with the 21.5" and extra RAM. The larger screen would be nice, but I'd go for more performance over screen size any day of the week.

Hmmmm. My 27 cost $1,455. I added RAM afterwards, but it doesn't seem like you are far from getting the 27. It is spectacular.

Refurbs from Apple are never a problem. I get the "family and friends" discount from Apple, and I've still bought refurbs when I didn't want to use the F&F discount.

I've never been disappointed with Apple refurbs. If you have any issues just go to the Apple Store and they will make it right.

Thank you for all the informative suggestions. I"ve made up my mind. Will get a refurbished one, 27" and keep on checking till I find a good deal. Thanks folks.