[DYLANHABKIRK]

I'm looking to buy the newer model of the iMac for work (Graphic Designs, and More) - since I'm using my 2013 Retina MacBook Pro 13" - I find the big display tempting, alongside the extensive memory, among other things.

I didn't see a thread for this; so my question is: Should I buy a new iMac, or hold off until the next refresh? I really hope to see a retina display iMac, which would make work more easy, and accurate.

Does anyone have an opinion on the display quality? or any advice?

I haven't heard any speculation on when we may see a retina iMac, since early 2013.

Thanks Everyone!

[Fausty82]

I am not convinced that we will see a retina iMac any time soon. It’s probably a couple generations away, IMHO.

[Algus]

Larger screens require significantly higher resolution in order to achieve what Apple terms a "retina" display. To give you some perspective, the 2560x1600 screen resolution that is used by the 13'' Macbook Pro classifies it as retina. A very similar resolution is used on the 27'' iMac and Apple's 30'' Thunderbolt display: 2560x1440. Higher resolution monitors do exist but these monitors are approaching the 4k Ultra HD range and still cost several thousands of dollars.

Fausty82 is likely right in that a retina iMac is probably several years off and we'll probably only see the 21.5'' with a retina display at first, assuming Apple keeps both current form factors. The iMac lineup was just refreshed at the end of September so if you are planning to buy new, you don't need to worry about new models coming out in the next couple of months.

[DYLANHABKIRK]

Larger screens require significantly higher resolution in order to achieve what Apple terms a "retina" display. To give you some perspective, the 2560x1600 screen resolution that is used by the 13'' Macbook Pro classifies it as retina. A very similar resolution is used on the 27'' iMac and Apple's 30'' Thunderbolt display: 2560x1440. Higher resolution monitors do exist but these monitors are approaching the 4k Ultra HD range and still cost several thousands of dollars.

Fausty82 is likely right in that a retina iMac is probably several years off and we'll probably only see the 21.5'' with a retina display at first, assuming Apple keeps both current form factors. The iMac lineup was just refreshed at the end of September so if you are planning to buy new, you don't need to worry about new models coming out in the next couple of months.

Thanks for the comment. It certainly helps me firm my decision!

Thanks!

[abazigal]

Have you considered simply getting a larger monitor instead? Knowing Apple, they will likely just double the resolution and call it a day.