Mac MINI, iMac which is better buy ?? I currently have G4 OS 10.3.9. I have a need to run Window base Software by installing it. Not sure what would be the best way to go. Also thinking of buying Virtual PC, Paralles, or I guess if I bought intel base computer, Boot Camp would come with it ? or .....BUY PC cheap lap top ? I am only needing it to run ONE software that Mac can not run!!! help.
2007-08-03 07:12:06 · 4 answers · asked by Anonymous in Computers & Internet ➔ Hardware ➔ Desktops
I need to install and run MICROSOFT STREETS and TRIPS 2007. This is the BEST mapping software I could find which currently is not available on MAC OS X system.
2007-08-03 07:39:09 · update #1
If its just to run one program..do you really want to hang up your G4 because if you go i mac then there is no turning back.great machine.Parallels slows me down a bit..even with 2 gbs memory but its the best for full integration and for faster speeds boot camp works great.Don't think parallels runs on OS 10.3.9 or on the G4.
Your decision's will be based on what kind of software.Graphics software will require all your resources (boot camp).Music (Parallels) Go hybrid you may have more choices in the future.I know I have not answered your question but I hope I've helped a little in your decision
2007-08-03 07:29:15 · answer #1 · answered by Gavin S 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
iMac would be the better buy over Mac Mini, by far, but only as long as you don't buy the one with intel GMA950 graphics.
Virtual PC can only go so far on a PPC Mac (I have Windows 2000 running a virtual machine on my G4 qs dual 1.4 with 1.5 GB RAM that emulates a 800-900 MHz PIII with slow graphics and a Powerbook G4 1.33 with 2GB RAM that emulates about a 300 MHz PII; your milage will vary). Some applications are fine, others are way too slow. (Not because it's running on a Mac, but because it's emulation of several pieces of hardware; before some hoser types "MACS R T3H SLOWZ!", think about why it takes a 2 GHz processor to emulate a Super NES running at 0.004 GHz...)
With an Intel-based Mac, unless you're playing games that require 3D graphics, I would go with Parallel's Desktop simply because you don't have to reboot the computer every time you switch software.
Now, if the G4 does everything that you need it to do and you're not looking at totally replacing it (or making it your secondary Mac), you could go with a cheap PC and get a KVM switch, or a laptop. If you're going to get a laptop, however, you might as well get a MacBook or a MacBook Pro.
Hope that helps.
2007-08-03 14:29:37 · answer #2 · answered by been there done that got shirt 6 · 1⤊ 1⤋
Parallels' is great. Boot camp does not come with a laptop, however you could install it. If I were you I'd get the Imac and Parallels.
2007-08-03 14:18:15 · answer #3 · answered by Pootski 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I believe an iMac would be more powerful. A Mini would be cheaper, though.
Out of curiosity, what program can't you run on the Mac already?
2007-08-03 14:18:03 · answer #4 · answered by ? 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋