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

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

Pros:

• Attractive, sleek, and solid industrial design.
• Quite fast.
• Currently shipping 21.5" and 27" models have beautiful LED-backlit displays created for optimum use with 16:9 high-definition video.
• RAM is very easy to upgrade and the processor can be upgraded as well.
• Dual-layer DVD write support, 802.11n, and Firewire "800" standard in all configurations.
• Official dual display support and built-in iSight for easy video conferencing.
• SD Card slot standard in currently shipping "Late 2009" models.
• Reasonable value.

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.
• Glossy display in all models. Discontinued 20-Inch models have lower quality 6-bit displays with more limited viewing angle.
• Keyboard design is polarizing -- some will like it, some will not.
• Limited legacy support -- uses "Rosetta," no support of MacOS 9/Classic applications, no internal modem.
• Depending on the desired configuration, it may be less expensive to purchase an Intel-based Mac mini.
• Premium compared to generic "white box" PCs.

Essentially, if you are looking for a relatively inexpensive and powerful Mac, and have no MacOS 9/"Classic" applications, and no "mission critical" applications that are incompatible or run too slowly using "Rosetta", then an "Aluminum" iMac model would be an excellent choice particularly if you appreciate an all-in-one design.

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

Site sponsor PowerMax has new 21.5" and 27" iMac models (as well as used iMacs) available for sale free of sales tax. Operator Headgap Systems specializes in heavily upgraded systems with an eye on backwards and future compatibility.

Also see: What are the "pros and cons" of the "White" iMac "Core Duo/Core 2 Duo" models? Is one right for my needs?