What are the "pros and cons" of the White Intel iMac models? Is one right for my needs?

Please note that all models mentioned in this Q&A have been discontinued. The "White" iMac Core 2 Duo systems were replaced by the "Aluminum" iMac Core 2 Duo line.

Like any other purchase, only you can make the decision whether or not one of the iMac "Core 2 Duo" or iMac "Core Duo" models are the right Mac for you, but you can evaluate the pros and cons of these systems to see if your needs are met. This summary may be helpful in making a decision:

Pros:

• Attractive, compact, and innovative case design.
• Both the "Core Duo" and "Core 2 Duo" models are relatively fast, particularly when running "Universal" applications.
• RAM is easy to upgrade and the processor can be upgraded as well.
• Gigabit Ethernet, AirPort Extreme, and Bluetooth 2.0+EDR all standard (*). The iMac "Core 2 Duo" 2.16 24-Inch has a Firewire "800" port as well.
• Burns dual-layer DVDs (*).
• Official dual display support.
• Built-in iSight camera for easy video conferencing.
• Relatively inexpensive.
• Competitively priced compared to all-in-one PCs. The iMac "Core 2 Duo" 2.16 24-Inch is competitively priced when compared to the Mac Pro.

Cons:

• All-in-one design limits internal expansion. The hard drive and processor are difficult to upgrade yourself and Apple provides no support for end-user upgrades beyond RAM.
• MacOS X applications forced to run via "Rosetta" generally are no faster, and often are slower, than the same applications running on recent PowerPC-based Macs.
• No support of MacOS 9/Classic applications.
• No internal modem.
• Built-in iSight may prevent use in high-security environments.
• Depending on the desired configuration, it may be less expensive to purchase an Intel-based Mac mini.
• Premium compared to generic "white box" PCs.

Cons (*):

These disadvantages apply only to the iMac "Core Duo" 1.83 17-Inch (IG) and iMac "Core 2 Duo" 1.83 17-Inch systems.

• No Bluetooth support.
• Does not write DVDs (does write CDs).
• Integrated graphics "borrow" system RAM/slower than dedicated graphics.

Basically, if you are looking for a relatively inexpensive and powerful Mac, and have no MacOS 9/"Classic" applications, and no existing "mission critical" applications that are incompatible or run too slowly using "Rosetta", then an Intel-based iMac would be a good choice.

If cost is a higher priority, an Intel-based Mac mini may be better depending on desired configuration.

Site sponsor PowerMax has new and used iMac models available free of sales tax. Site sponsor Operator Headgap Systems specializes in heavily upgraded systems with an eye on backwards and future compatibility.