From Newsgroup: comp.sys.mac.system

I'm thinking of upgrading my iMac to the new 24" M1 chip machine. The
"base" model has a 7 core GPU. For $200 more, the "base+" model has an 8
core GPU...with the rest of the specs that matter to me exactly the same.

So....pop for the 8 core GPU or save the $200?

Are the two C-notes an Apple tax- or is everyday casual home use going
to be noticeably better?

--
My wife asked me to take her to one of those restaurants where they make
the food right in front of you. So I took her to Subway...and that’s how
the fight started.
--- Synchronet 3.18b-Win32 NewsLink 1.113

From Newsgroup: comp.sys.mac.system

On 2021-05-04 8:56 a.m., Wade Garrett wrote:

I'm thinking of upgrading my iMac to the new 24" M1 chip machine. The
"base" model has a 7 core GPU. For $200 more, the "base+" model has an 8 core GPU...with the rest of the specs that matter to me exactly the same.

So....pop for the 8 core GPU or save the $200?

Are the two C-notes an Apple tax- or is everyday casual home use going
to be noticeably better?

I don't think for casual home use you'll ever miss it.
--- Synchronet 3.18b-Win32 NewsLink 1.113

From Newsgroup: comp.sys.mac.system

In article <s6rqrl$nap$1@dont-email.me>, Wade Garrett <wade@cooler.net>
wrote:

I'm thinking of upgrading my iMac to the new 24" M1 chip machine. The
"base" model has a 7 core GPU. For $200 more, the "base+" model has an 8 core GPU...with the rest of the specs that matter to me exactly the same.

you also get two usb 3 ports, gigabit ethernet, a keyboard with touch
id and a wider choice of colours.

none of that matters to you?
--- Synchronet 3.18b-Win32 NewsLink 1.113

From Newsgroup: comp.sys.mac.system

In message <s6rqrl$nap$1@dont-email.me> Wade Garrett <wade@cooler.net> wrote:

I'm thinking of upgrading my iMac to the new 24" M1 chip machine. The
"base" model has a 7 core GPU. For $200 more, the "base+" model has an 8 core GPU...with the rest of the specs that matter to me exactly the same.

The $200 difference is muchmore thatn the extra GPU core. Look more
clsoely at the spec.

So....pop for the 8 core GPU or save the $200?

If you do not care about touch ID and 3 ports instead of 2 and Ethernet,
no, you are unlikely to notice the extra GPU core much at all.

Are the two C-notes an Apple tax- or is everyday casual home use going
to be noticeably better?

I would not consider the lowest end iMac myself.

--
He felt as if he'd been shipwrecked on the Titanic but in the nick of
time had been rescued. By the Lusitania.
--- Synchronet 3.18b-Win32 NewsLink 1.113

From Newsgroup: comp.sys.mac.system

On 2021-05-04 16:01:46 +0000, Alan Baker said:

On 2021-05-04 8:56 a.m., Wade Garrett wrote:

I'm thinking of upgrading my iMac to the new 24" M1 chip machine. The
"base" model has a 7 core GPU. For $200 more, the "base+" model has an
8 core GPU...with the rest of the specs that matter to me exactly the
same.

So....pop for the 8 core GPU or save the $200?

Are the two C-notes an Apple tax- or is everyday casual home use going
to be noticeably better?

I don't think for casual home use you'll ever miss it.

It's probably better to spend the money on more RAM and storage space.

--- Synchronet 3.18b-Win32 NewsLink 1.113

From Newsgroup: comp.sys.mac.system

On 5/4/21 11:56 AM, Wade Garrett wrote:

I'm thinking of upgrading my iMac to the new 24" M1 chip machine. The
"base" model has a 7 core GPU. For $200 more, the "base+" model has an 8 core GPU...with the rest of the specs that matter to me exactly the same.

So....pop for the 8 core GPU or save the $200?

Are the two C-notes an Apple tax- or is everyday casual home use going
to be noticeably better?

Good points, all. Thanks

The spec I missed originally which I do care about though is that the
base iMac has no USB ports...and I've got several USB devices I need to
plug in and out periodically.

I guess I could use a powered USB hub with an adapter and plug it into
the iMac. Sounds like the makings of a real kludge though...

--
I do not spew profanities. I enunciate them clearly like a proper
gentleman.
--- Synchronet 3.18b-Win32 NewsLink 1.113

From Newsgroup: comp.sys.mac.system

In article <s6sj4u$ch4$1@dont-email.me>, Wade Garrett <wade@cooler.net>
wrote:

The spec I missed originally which I do care about though is that the
base iMac has no USB ports

yes it does.

the base model has two usb 4 ports.

the next higher tier adds an additional two usb 3 ports, for a total of
four ports.

<https://cdn.wccftech.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/M1-iMac-ports-740x3 71.jpg>
--- Synchronet 3.18b-Win32 NewsLink 1.113

From Newsgroup: comp.sys.mac.system

On 2021-05-04 22:51:07 +0000, Wade Garrett said:

On 5/4/21 11:56 AM, Wade Garrett wrote:

I'm thinking of upgrading my iMac to the new 24" M1 chip machine. The
"base" model has a 7 core GPU. For $200 more, the "base+" model has an
8 core GPU...with the rest of the specs that matter to me exactly the
same.

So....pop for the 8 core GPU or save the $200?

Are the two C-notes an Apple tax- or is everyday casual home use going
to be noticeably better?

Good points, all. Thanks

The spec I missed originally which I do care about though is that the
base iMac has no USB ports...and I've got several USB devices I need to
plug in and out periodically.

I guess I could use a powered USB hub with an adapter and plug it into
the iMac. Sounds like the makings of a real kludge though...

The lower-priced M1 iMac models do have USB, but it's smaller USB-C. As
you say, an adapter and hub will solve that. Realistically two ports
(or even four) isn't going to be enough, especially with rather pitiful in-built storage capacity and Apple's over-pricing of SSD and RAM, so
many people will need a hub of some sort anyway.

The port that is actually missing from the lower-priced M1 iMacs is the Ethernet port. You have to add it as a custom-build option if you need
one, and it comes on the power brick rather than the iMac itself.


--- Synchronet 3.18b-Win32 NewsLink 1.113

From Newsgroup: comp.sys.mac.system

On 2021-05-04 8:13 p.m., Your Name wrote:

On 2021-05-04 22:51:07 +0000, Wade Garrett said:

On 5/4/21 11:56 AM, Wade Garrett wrote:

I'm thinking of upgrading my iMac to the new 24" M1 chip machine. The
"base" model has a 7 core GPU. For $200 more, the "base+" model has
an 8 core GPU...with the rest of the specs that matter to me exactly
the same.

So....pop for the 8 core GPU or save the $200?

Are the two C-notes an Apple tax- or is everyday casual home use
going to be noticeably better?

Good points, all. Thanks

The spec I missed originally which I do care about though is that the
base iMac has no USB ports...and I've got several USB devices I need
to plug in and out periodically.

I guess I could use a powered USB hub with an adapter and plug it into
the iMac. Sounds like the makings of a real kludge though...

The lower-priced M1 iMac models do have USB, but it's smaller USB-C. As
you say, an adapter and hub will solve that. Realistically two ports (or even four) isn't going to be enough, especially with rather pitiful
in-built storage capacity and Apple's over-pricing of SSD and RAM, so
many people will need a hub of some sort anyway.

The port that is actually missing from the lower-priced M1 iMacs is the Ethernet port. You have to add it as a custom-build option if you need
one, and it comes on the power brick rather than the iMac itself.

You say that last part like it matters.
--- Synchronet 3.18b-Win32 NewsLink 1.113

From Newsgroup: comp.sys.mac.system

On 2021-05-05 04:24:40 +0000, Alan Baker said:

On 2021-05-04 8:13 p.m., Your Name wrote:

On 2021-05-04 22:51:07 +0000, Wade Garrett said:

On 5/4/21 11:56 AM, Wade Garrett wrote:

I'm thinking of upgrading my iMac to the new 24" M1 chip machine. The >>>> "base" model has a 7 core GPU. For $200 more, the "base+" model has an >>>> 8 core GPU...with the rest of the specs that matter to me exactly the >>>> same.

So....pop for the 8 core GPU or save the $200?

Are the two C-notes an Apple tax- or is everyday casual home use going >>>> to be noticeably better?

Good points, all. Thanks

The spec I missed originally which I do care about though is that the
base iMac has no USB ports...and I've got several USB devices I need to >>> plug in and out periodically.

I guess I could use a powered USB hub with an adapter and plug it into
the iMac. Sounds like the makings of a real kludge though...

The lower-priced M1 iMac models do have USB, but it's smaller USB-C. As
you say, an adapter and hub will solve that. Realistically two ports
(or even four) isn't going to be enough, especially with rather pitiful
in-built storage capacity and Apple's over-pricing of SSD and RAM, so
many people will need a hub of some sort anyway.

The port that is actually missing from the lower-priced M1 iMacs is the
Ethernet port. You have to add it as a custom-build option if you need
one, and it comes on the power brick rather than the iMac itself.

You say that last part like it matters.

It was rather pointless for Apple to remove it from the computer case.
Yet another of their growing silliness for "form of function".


--- Synchronet 3.18b-Win32 NewsLink 1.113

From Newsgroup: comp.sys.mac.system

In message <s6sj4u$ch4$1@dont-email.me> Wade Garrett <wade@cooler.net> wrote:

On 5/4/21 11:56 AM, Wade Garrett wrote:

I'm thinking of upgrading my iMac to the new 24" M1 chip machine. The
"base" model has a 7 core GPU. For $200 more, the "base+" model has an 8
core GPU...with the rest of the specs that matter to me exactly the same.

So....pop for the 8 core GPU or save the $200?

Are the two C-notes an Apple tax- or is everyday casual home use going
to be noticeably better?

Good points, all. Thanks

The spec I missed originally which I do care about though is that the
base iMac has no USB ports...and I've got several USB devices I need to
plug in and out periodically.

The base iMac has two USB-4/TB-3 ports.

The other iMacs have two USB-4/TB-3 ports and two USB-3 ports.

In all cases, the ports use the USB-C connector.

I guess I could use a powered USB hub with an adapter and plug it into
the iMac. Sounds like the makings of a real kludge though...

You will need a hub if by "USB devices" you mean "USB devices using
USB-A ports"

--
WHO KNOWS WHAT EVIL LURKS IN THE HEART OF MEN? The Death of Rats
looked up from the feast of potato. SQUEAK, he said. Death waved
a hand dismissively. WELL, YES, OBVIOUSLY *ME*, he said. I JUST
WONDERED IF THERE WAS ANYONE ELSE. --The Truth
--- Synchronet 3.18b-Win32 NewsLink 1.113

From Newsgroup: comp.sys.mac.system

In article <s6tgmi$d24$1@gioia.aioe.org>, Your Name
<YourName@YourISP.com> wrote:

The port that is actually missing from the lower-priced M1 iMacs is the >> Ethernet port. You have to add it as a custom-build option if you need
one, and it comes on the power brick rather than the iMac itself.

You say that last part like it matters.

It was rather pointless for Apple to remove it from the computer case.
Yet another of their growing silliness for "form of function".

it's less clutter and keeps the ethernet cable out of the way, plus it
isn't possible for it to be in the case anyway, as the connector is too
big. most people will be using wifi, which is capable of faster speeds.
--- Synchronet 3.18b-Win32 NewsLink 1.113

From Newsgroup: comp.sys.mac.system

On 5/4/21 11:13 PM, Your Name wrote:

On 2021-05-04 22:51:07 +0000, Wade Garrett said:

On 5/4/21 11:56 AM, Wade Garrett wrote:

I'm thinking of upgrading my iMac to the new 24" M1 chip machine. The
"base" model has a 7 core GPU. For $200 more, the "base+" model has
an 8 core GPU...with the rest of the specs that matter to me exactly
the same.

So....pop for the 8 core GPU or save the $200?

Are the two C-notes an Apple tax- or is everyday casual home use
going to be noticeably better?

Good points, all. Thanks

The spec I missed originally which I do care about though is that the
base iMac has no USB ports...and I've got several USB devices I need
to plug in and out periodically.

I guess I could use a powered USB hub with an adapter and plug it into
the iMac. Sounds like the makings of a real kludge though...

The lower-priced M1 iMac models do have USB, but it's smaller USB-C. As
you say, an adapter and hub will solve that. Realistically two ports (or even four) isn't going to be enough, especially with rather pitiful
in-built storage capacity and Apple's over-pricing of SSD and RAM, so
many people will need a hub of some sort anyway.

The port that is actually missing from the lower-priced M1 iMacs is the Ethernet port. You have to add it as a custom-build option if you need
one, and it comes on the power brick rather than the iMac itself.

This has been a great thread for me! I didn't realize how much stuff
that I need/want is missing from the new iMacs. In fact, I'm
reconsidering whether I should buy one.

The M1 Mac Mini looks like it may be a better choice. It's loaded with
ports, has the same processor, an 8 core GPU and a 256 SSD.

I've got an extra Magic Mouse/Keyboard and an old monitor in the closet- though I'd probably buy a new one.
--- Synchronet 3.18b-Win32 NewsLink 1.113

From Newsgroup: comp.sys.mac.system

In article <s6u9j2$gkl$1@dont-email.me>, Wade Garrett <wade@cooler.net>
wrote:

The M1 Mac Mini looks like it may be a better choice. It's loaded with ports, has the same processor, an 8 core GPU and a 256 SSD.

it doesn't have a wide gamut 4.5k retina display that the imac has.

I've got an extra Magic Mouse/Keyboard and an old monitor in the closet- though I'd probably buy a new one.

the keyboard that's included with the imac (mid-tier and higher) has
touch id, which will work with an m1 mini (or other m* macs), although
they aren't selling the keyboard separately yet.
--- Synchronet 3.18b-Win32 NewsLink 1.113

From Newsgroup: comp.sys.mac.system

On 2021-05-05 12:15 a.m., Your Name wrote:

On 2021-05-05 04:24:40 +0000, Alan Baker said:

On 2021-05-04 8:13 p.m., Your Name wrote:

On 2021-05-04 22:51:07 +0000, Wade Garrett said:

On 5/4/21 11:56 AM, Wade Garrett wrote:

I'm thinking of upgrading my iMac to the new 24" M1 chip machine.
The "base" model has a 7 core GPU. For $200 more, the "base+" model >>>>> has an 8 core GPU...with the rest of the specs that matter to me
exactly the same.

So....pop for the 8 core GPU or save the $200?

Are the two C-notes an Apple tax- or is everyday casual home use
going to be noticeably better?

Good points, all. Thanks

The spec I missed originally which I do care about though is that
the base iMac has no USB ports...and I've got several USB devices I
need to plug in and out periodically.

I guess I could use a powered USB hub with an adapter and plug it
into the iMac. Sounds like the makings of a real kludge though...

The lower-priced M1 iMac models do have USB, but it's smaller USB-C.
As you say, an adapter and hub will solve that. Realistically two
ports (or even four) isn't going to be enough, especially with rather
pitiful in-built storage capacity and Apple's over-pricing of SSD and
RAM, so many people will need a hub of some sort anyway.

The port that is actually missing from the lower-priced M1 iMacs is
the Ethernet port. You have to add it as a custom-build option if you
need one, and it comes on the power brick rather than the iMac itself.

You say that last part like it matters.

It was rather pointless for Apple to remove it from the computer case.
Yet another of their growing silliness for "form of function".

But you agree there is no actual downside, right; putting a connector on
the floor where the cable will in all likelihood being coming from, right?
--- Synchronet 3.18b-Win32 NewsLink 1.113

From Newsgroup: comp.sys.mac.system

On 5/5/21 10:36 AM, nospam wrote:

In article <s6u9j2$gkl$1@dont-email.me>, Wade Garrett <wade@cooler.net> wrote:

The M1 Mac Mini looks like it may be a better choice. It's loaded with
ports, has the same processor, an 8 core GPU and a 256 SSD.

it doesn't have a wide gamut 4.5k retina display that the imac has.

I've got an extra Magic Mouse/Keyboard and an old monitor in the closet-
though I'd probably buy a new one.

the keyboard that's included with the imac (mid-tier and higher) has
touch id, which will work with an m1 mini (or other m* macs), although
they aren't selling the keyboard separately yet.

Not a problem on the lesser screen resolution- what's there will be just
fine. And I'm not a fan of touch ID.

I don't use it on any of my devices. I'm not about to let a private
sector organization have my fingerprint.

I had a big go-around with my state's driver's license department when
they wanted an index fingerprint to renew. (I lost).

But I won when a local bank branch wanted my thumbprint in order to cash
a check drawn on their bank that I presented for payment.

--
There are two distinct classes of men in the nation: those who pay
taxes, and those who receive and live upon the taxes.
- Thomas Paine, 1792
--- Synchronet 3.18b-Win32 NewsLink 1.113

From Newsgroup: comp.sys.mac.system

In article <s6uue7$o4b$1@dont-email.me>, Wade Garrett <wade@cooler.net>
wrote:

The M1 Mac Mini looks like it may be a better choice. It's loaded with
ports, has the same processor, an 8 core GPU and a 256 SSD.

it doesn't have a wide gamut 4.5k retina display that the imac has.

I've got an extra Magic Mouse/Keyboard and an old monitor in the closet- >> though I'd probably buy a new one.

the keyboard that's included with the imac (mid-tier and higher) has
touch id, which will work with an m1 mini (or other m* macs), although
they aren't selling the keyboard separately yet.

Not a problem on the lesser screen resolution- what's there will be just fine. And I'm not a fan of touch ID.

I don't use it on any of my devices. I'm not about to let a private
sector organization have my fingerprint.

your fingerprint is not sent anywhere. full stop.

fingerprints are hashed and stored in the secure enclave on the phone
or keyboard. matching is done within the secure enclave and a yes/no is
sent to the operating system.

nothing is sent to apple or anywhere else.

it's not possible for an app to extract the hashed data, and in the
event there's an exploit to somehow bypass that, the only thing it
could get is hashed data, which can't be reversed.

I had a big go-around with my state's driver's license department when
they wanted an index fingerprint to renew. (I lost).

that's entirely different.

But I won when a local bank branch wanted my thumbprint in order to cash
a check drawn on their bank that I presented for payment.

i haven't seen that in several decades.
--- Synchronet 3.18b-Win32 NewsLink 1.113

From Newsgroup: comp.sys.mac.system

On 2021-05-05 15:24:03 +0000, Alan Baker said:

On 2021-05-05 12:15 a.m., Your Name wrote:

On 2021-05-05 04:24:40 +0000, Alan Baker said:

On 2021-05-04 8:13 p.m., Your Name wrote:

On 2021-05-04 22:51:07 +0000, Wade Garrett said:

On 5/4/21 11:56 AM, Wade Garrett wrote:

I'm thinking of upgrading my iMac to the new 24" M1 chip machine. The >>>>>> "base" model has a 7 core GPU. For $200 more, the "base+" model has an >>>>>> 8 core GPU...with the rest of the specs that matter to me exactly the >>>>>> same.

So....pop for the 8 core GPU or save the $200?

Are the two C-notes an Apple tax- or is everyday casual home use going >>>>>> to be noticeably better?

Good points, all. Thanks

The spec I missed originally which I do care about though is that the >>>>> base iMac has no USB ports...and I've got several USB devices I need to >>>>> plug in and out periodically.

I guess I could use a powered USB hub with an adapter and plug it into >>>>> the iMac. Sounds like the makings of a real kludge though...

The lower-priced M1 iMac models do have USB, but it's smaller USB-C. As >>>> you say, an adapter and hub will solve that. Realistically two ports
(or even four) isn't going to be enough, especially with rather pitiful >>>> in-built storage capacity and Apple's over-pricing of SSD and RAM, so >>>> many people will need a hub of some sort anyway.

The port that is actually missing from the lower-priced M1 iMacs is the >>>> Ethernet port. You have to add it as a custom-build option if you need >>>> one, and it comes on the power brick rather than the iMac itself.

You say that last part like it matters.

It was rather pointless for Apple to remove it from the computer case.
Yet another of their growing silliness for "form of function".

But you agree there is no actual downside, right; putting a connector
on the floor where the cable will in all likelihood being coming from, right?

Probably easier to accidentally kick it on the power brick which is
normally on the floor ... but there was simply no need to remove it
from the computer, other than Apple pointlessly wanted the iMac even
thinner.


--- Synchronet 3.18b-Win32 NewsLink 1.113

From Newsgroup: comp.sys.mac.system

On 2021-05-05 14:20:17 +0000, Wade Garrett said:

On 5/4/21 11:13 PM, Your Name wrote:

On 2021-05-04 22:51:07 +0000, Wade Garrett said:

On 5/4/21 11:56 AM, Wade Garrett wrote:

I'm thinking of upgrading my iMac to the new 24" M1 chip machine. The >>>> "base" model has a 7 core GPU. For $200 more, the "base+" model has an >>>> 8 core GPU...with the rest of the specs that matter to me exactly the >>>> same.

So....pop for the 8 core GPU or save the $200?

Are the two C-notes an Apple tax- or is everyday casual home use going >>>> to be noticeably better?

Good points, all. Thanks

The spec I missed originally which I do care about though is that the
base iMac has no USB ports...and I've got several USB devices I need to >>> plug in and out periodically.

I guess I could use a powered USB hub with an adapter and plug it into
the iMac. Sounds like the makings of a real kludge though...

The lower-priced M1 iMac models do have USB, but it's smaller USB-C. As
you say, an adapter and hub will solve that. Realistically two ports
(or even four) isn't going to be enough, especially with rather pitiful
in-built storage capacity and Apple's over-pricing of SSD and RAM, so
many people will need a hub of some sort anyway.

The port that is actually missing from the lower-priced M1 iMacs is the
Ethernet port. You have to add it as a custom-build option if you need
one, and it comes on the power brick rather than the iMac itself.

This has been a great thread for me! I didn't realize how much stuff
that I need/want is missing from the new iMacs. In fact, I'm
reconsidering whether I should buy one.

The M1 Mac Mini looks like it may be a better choice. It's loaded with ports, has the same processor, an 8 core GPU and a 256 SSD.

I've got an extra Magic Mouse/Keyboard and an old monitor in the
closet- though I'd probably buy a new one.

Even the Mac Mini can have not enough ports. On my old Mac Mini I've
got a wired keyboard, wired mouse, wired printer, two external hard
drives ... no ports left for the DVD drive or USB keyring drices. I had
to buy a hub, which depsite supposedly being powered (with it's own
power brick plugged into a wall socket), doesn't actually supply enough
power for the DV or hard drives.

Yes, I could have a wireless keyboard and mouse, and a wireless-capable printer, but not only is that all extra cost, wireless stuff can often
be a pain in the backside (including the issue of keep replacing
batteries / recharging them).

Another incredibly stupid thing from Apple is that they only ship
wireless keyboards and mice, yet their own support documents tell you
it's best to use a wired keyboard for startup key commands!!

--- Synchronet 3.18b-Win32 NewsLink 1.113

From Newsgroup: comp.sys.mac.system

On 2021-05-05 20:16:06 +0000, Wade Garrett said:

On 5/5/21 10:36 AM, nospam wrote:

In article <s6u9j2$gkl$1@dont-email.me>, Wade Garrett <wade@cooler.net>
wrote:

The M1 Mac Mini looks like it may be a better choice. It's loaded with
ports, has the same processor, an 8 core GPU and a 256 SSD.

it doesn't have a wide gamut 4.5k retina display that the imac has.

I've got an extra Magic Mouse/Keyboard and an old monitor in the closet- >>> though I'd probably buy a new one.

the keyboard that's included with the imac (mid-tier and higher) has
touch id, which will work with an m1 mini (or other m* macs), although
they aren't selling the keyboard separately yet.

Not a problem on the lesser screen resolution- what's there will be
just fine. And I'm not a fan of touch ID.

I don't use it on any of my devices. I'm not about to let a private
sector organization have my fingerprint.

I had a big go-around with my state's driver's license department when
they wanted an index fingerprint to renew. (I lost).

But I won when a local bank branch wanted my thumbprint in order to
cash a check drawn on their bank that I presented for payment.

Apple's TouchID doesn't send yor fingerprint to Apple. It's only ever
stored on your devices and even then it's not stored in a way that can
be used as an actual fingerprint replacement.

Having said that, I have no interest in using TouchID either. Just
another pointless sales gimmick, that can easily go wrong, to appease
the lazy-ass generation.


--- Synchronet 3.18b-Win32 NewsLink 1.113

From Newsgroup: comp.sys.mac.system

On 5/5/2021 5:22 PM, Your Name wrote:

On 2021-05-05 15:24:03 +0000, Alan Baker said:

On 2021-05-05 12:15 a.m., Your Name wrote:

big snip

It was rather pointless for Apple to remove it from the computer case.
Yet another of their growing silliness for "form of function".

But you agree there is no actual downside, right; putting a connector
on the floor where the cable will in all likelihood being coming from,
right?

Probably easier to accidentally kick it on the power brick which is
normally on the floor ... but there was simply no need to remove it
from the computer, other than Apple pointlessly wanted the iMac even thinner.

It's supposed to be a real computer which means you're going to regret the missing Ethernet RJ45 and USB A ports and you'll soon tire of the loss of
port convenience even if you do intend to use Wi-Fi most of the time.


--
Ken Hart
kwhart1@frontier.com
--- Synchronet 3.18b-Win32 NewsLink 1.113

From Newsgroup: comp.sys.mac.system

In article <s6v6nt$kbk$1@gioia.aioe.org>, Ken Hart
<kwhart1@frontier.com> wrote:

It was rather pointless for Apple to remove it from the computer case. >>> Yet another of their growing silliness for "form of function".

But you agree there is no actual downside, right; putting a connector
on the floor where the cable will in all likelihood being coming from,
right?

Probably easier to accidentally kick it on the power brick which is normally on the floor ... but there was simply no need to remove it
from the computer, other than Apple pointlessly wanted the iMac even thinner.

It's supposed to be a real computer which means you're going to regret the missing Ethernet RJ45 and USB A ports

there is no missing rj45 and usb-c is the new standard, including
windows pcs.

to connect older devices with usb-a, simply use a usb-c to usb-a cable.

and you'll soon tire of the loss of
port convenience even if you do intend to use Wi-Fi most of the time.

how could someone regret the supposed loss of 'port convenience' if
they do everything over wifi?
--- Synchronet 3.18b-Win32 NewsLink 1.113

From Newsgroup: comp.sys.mac.system

On 2021-05-05 2:22 p.m., Your Name wrote:

On 2021-05-05 15:24:03 +0000, Alan Baker said:

On 2021-05-05 12:15 a.m., Your Name wrote:

On 2021-05-05 04:24:40 +0000, Alan Baker said:

On 2021-05-04 8:13 p.m., Your Name wrote:

On 2021-05-04 22:51:07 +0000, Wade Garrett said:

On 5/4/21 11:56 AM, Wade Garrett wrote:

I'm thinking of upgrading my iMac to the new 24" M1 chip machine. >>>>>>> The "base" model has a 7 core GPU. For $200 more, the "base+"
model has an 8 core GPU...with the rest of the specs that matter >>>>>>> to me exactly the same.

So....pop for the 8 core GPU or save the $200?

Are the two C-notes an Apple tax- or is everyday casual home use >>>>>>> going to be noticeably better?

Good points, all. Thanks

The spec I missed originally which I do care about though is that >>>>>> the base iMac has no USB ports...and I've got several USB devices >>>>>> I need to plug in and out periodically.

I guess I could use a powered USB hub with an adapter and plug it >>>>>> into the iMac. Sounds like the makings of a real kludge though...

The lower-priced M1 iMac models do have USB, but it's smaller
USB-C. As you say, an adapter and hub will solve that.
Realistically two ports (or even four) isn't going to be enough,
especially with rather pitiful in-built storage capacity and
Apple's over-pricing of SSD and RAM, so many people will need a hub >>>>> of some sort anyway.

The port that is actually missing from the lower-priced M1 iMacs is >>>>> the Ethernet port. You have to add it as a custom-build option if
you need one, and it comes on the power brick rather than the iMac
itself.

You say that last part like it matters.

It was rather pointless for Apple to remove it from the computer
case. Yet another of their growing silliness for "form of function".

But you agree there is no actual downside, right; putting a connector
on the floor where the cable will in all likelihood being coming from,
right?

Probably easier to accidentally kick it on the power brick which is
normally on the floor ... but there was simply no need to remove it from
the computer, other than Apple pointlessly wanted the iMac even thinner.

You're really reaching.
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From Newsgroup: comp.sys.mac.system

On 2021-05-05 3:37 p.m., Ken Hart wrote:

On 5/5/2021 5:22 PM, Your Name wrote:

On 2021-05-05 15:24:03 +0000, Alan Baker said:

On 2021-05-05 12:15 a.m., Your Name wrote:

big snip

It was rather pointless for Apple to remove it from the computer
case. Yet another of their growing silliness for "form of function".

But you agree there is no actual downside, right; putting a connector
on the floor where the cable will in all likelihood being coming
from, right?

Probably easier to accidentally kick it on the power brick which is
normally on the floor ... but there was simply no need to remove it
from the computer, other than Apple pointlessly wanted the iMac even
thinner.

It's supposed to be a real computer which means you're going to regret the missing Ethernet RJ45 and USB A ports and you'll soon tire of the loss of port convenience even if you do intend to use Wi-Fi most of the time.

I'm sorry, but are you SERIOUSLY suggesting that it can't be a "real
computer" if it doesn't have an ethernet port?
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From Newsgroup: comp.sys.mac.system

On 5/5/2021 4:20 PM, Wade Garrett wrote:

snip

The lower-priced M1 iMac models do have USB, but it's smaller USB-C. As
you say, an adapter and hub will solve that. Realistically two ports (or
even four) isn't going to be enough, especially with rather pitiful
in-built storage capacity and Apple's over-pricing of SSD and RAM, so
many people will need a hub of some sort anyway.

The port that is actually missing from the lower-priced M1 iMacs is the
Ethernet port. You have to add it as a custom-build option if you need
one, and it comes on the power brick rather than the iMac itself.

This has been a great thread for me! I didn't realize how much stuff
that I need/want is missing from the new iMacs. In fact, I'm
reconsidering whether I should buy one.

The M1 Mac Mini looks like it may be a better choice. It's loaded with ports, has the same processor, an 8 core GPU and a 256 SSD.

I've got an extra Magic Mouse/Keyboard and an old monitor in the closet- though I'd probably buy a new one.

My definition of a (real) computer is one with loads of current, future, and legacy ports so that you can get done easily whatever you may need to do.

My advice is buy the computer with the most types of ports you might need.

--
Ken Hart
kwhart1@frontier.com
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From Newsgroup: comp.sys.mac.system

In article <s6vjaf$udv$1@gioia.aioe.org>, Ken Hart
<kwhart1@frontier.com> wrote:

My definition of a (real) computer is one with loads of current, future, and legacy ports so that you can get done easily whatever you may need to do.

fortunately, the rest of the world has a very different definition.

what makes a computer 'real' is if it does the tasks the user needs to
do, not how many ports it has, especially when those ports will not be
used. there's no point in paying for something that isn't needed.

a laptop with 'loads of current, future and legacy ports' would be big,
heavy and wildly impractical.

My advice is buy the computer with the most types of ports you might need.

that is incredibly bad advice.
--- Synchronet 3.18b-Win32 NewsLink 1.113

From Newsgroup: comp.sys.mac.system

In article <s6vhqp$7e2$2@dont-email.me>, Alan Baker
<notonyourlife@no.no.no.no> wrote:

On 2021-05-05 3:37 p.m., Ken Hart wrote:

It's supposed to be a real computer which means you're going to regret the missing Ethernet RJ45 and USB A ports and you'll soon tire of the loss of port convenience even if you do intend to use Wi-Fi most of the time.

I'm sorry, but are you SERIOUSLY suggesting that it can't be a "real computer" if it doesn't have an ethernet port?

it does have an ethernet port, which is optional on the low end model
because many people do not need it and don't want to pay for something
they won't actually use. it would be nice if it could be removed from
the higher tier models.

there are high end servers that are very real but don't have ethernet
or usb-a ports because they're too slow for what those computers will
be used for.
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From Newsgroup: comp.sys.mac.system

On 2021-05-05 7:12 p.m., Ken Hart wrote:

On 5/5/2021 4:20 PM, Wade Garrett wrote:

snip

The lower-priced M1 iMac models do have USB, but it's smaller USB-C.
As you say, an adapter and hub will solve that. Realistically two
ports (or even four) isn't going to be enough, especially with rather
pitiful in-built storage capacity and Apple's over-pricing of SSD and
RAM, so many people will need a hub of some sort anyway.

The port that is actually missing from the lower-priced M1 iMacs is
the Ethernet port. You have to add it as a custom-build option if you
need one, and it comes on the power brick rather than the iMac itself.

This has been a great thread for me! I didn't realize how much stuff
that I need/want is missing from the new iMacs. In fact, I'm
reconsidering whether I should buy one.

The M1 Mac Mini looks like it may be a better choice. It's loaded with
ports, has the same processor, an 8 core GPU and a 256 SSD.

I've got an extra Magic Mouse/Keyboard and an old monitor in the
closet- though I'd probably buy a new one.

My definition of a (real) computer is one with loads of current, future,
and
legacy ports so that you can get done easily whatever you may need to do.

My advice is buy the computer with the most types of ports you might need.

So... your latest computer...

...does it have a parallel port?

Have you used that port in the last... ...5 years? 10?
--- Synchronet 3.18b-Win32 NewsLink 1.113

From Newsgroup: comp.sys.mac.system

On 2021-05-06 01:45:05 +0000, Alan Baker said:

On 2021-05-05 2:22 p.m., Your Name wrote:

On 2021-05-05 15:24:03 +0000, Alan Baker said:

On 2021-05-05 12:15 a.m., Your Name wrote:

On 2021-05-05 04:24:40 +0000, Alan Baker said:

On 2021-05-04 8:13 p.m., Your Name wrote:

On 2021-05-04 22:51:07 +0000, Wade Garrett said:

On 5/4/21 11:56 AM, Wade Garrett wrote:

I'm thinking of upgrading my iMac to the new 24" M1 chip machine. The >>>>>>>> "base" model has a 7 core GPU. For $200 more, the "base+" model has an
8 core GPU...with the rest of the specs that matter to me exactly the >>>>>>>> same.

So....pop for the 8 core GPU or save the $200?

Are the two C-notes an Apple tax- or is everyday casual home use going
to be noticeably better?

Good points, all. Thanks

The spec I missed originally which I do care about though is that the >>>>>>> base iMac has no USB ports...and I've got several USB devices I need to
plug in and out periodically.

I guess I could use a powered USB hub with an adapter and plug it into >>>>>>> the iMac. Sounds like the makings of a real kludge though...

The lower-priced M1 iMac models do have USB, but it's smaller USB-C. As >>>>>> you say, an adapter and hub will solve that. Realistically two ports >>>>>> (or even four) isn't going to be enough, especially with rather pitiful >>>>>> in-built storage capacity and Apple's over-pricing of SSD and RAM, so >>>>>> many people will need a hub of some sort anyway.

The port that is actually missing from the lower-priced M1 iMacs is the >>>>>> Ethernet port. You have to add it as a custom-build option if you need >>>>>> one, and it comes on the power brick rather than the iMac itself.

You say that last part like it matters.

It was rather pointless for Apple to remove it from the computer case. >>>> Yet another of their growing silliness for "form of function".

But you agree there is no actual downside, right; putting a connector
on the floor where the cable will in all likelihood being coming from,
right?

Probably easier to accidentally kick it on the power brick which is
normally on the floor ... but there was simply no need to remove it
from the computer, other than Apple pointlessly wanted the iMac even
thinner.

You're really reaching.

Not really. The depth of an Ethernet port is probably more than the
thickness of the M1 iMac, so Apple removed it to be able to get the
iMac thinner.

Not the first time they've done something like that. They removed the headphone socket from iOS devices simply because it was too big for the thickness they wanted.


--- Synchronet 3.18b-Win32 NewsLink 1.113

From Newsgroup: comp.sys.mac.system

On 2021-05-06 01:47:05 +0000, Alan Baker said:

On 2021-05-05 3:37 p.m., Ken Hart wrote:

On 5/5/2021 5:22 PM, Your Name wrote:

On 2021-05-05 15:24:03 +0000, Alan Baker said:

On 2021-05-05 12:15 a.m., Your Name wrote:

big snip

It was rather pointless for Apple to remove it from the computer case. >>>>> Yet another of their growing silliness for "form of function".

But you agree there is no actual downside, right; putting a connector >>>> on the floor where the cable will in all likelihood being coming from, >>>> right?

Probably easier to accidentally kick it on the power brick which is
normally on the floor ... but there was simply no need to remove it
from the computer, other than Apple pointlessly wanted the iMac even
thinner.

It's supposed to be a real computer which means you're going to regret the >> missing Ethernet RJ45 and USB A ports and you'll soon tire of the loss of
port convenience even if you do intend to use Wi-Fi most of the time.

I'm sorry, but are you SERIOUSLY suggesting that it can't be a "real computer" if it doesn't have an ethernet port?

I don't know about "real computer", but anyone who knows about tech
will tell you that a wired connection is (usually) better in most ways
than a wireless one. Removing what is probably a less-than-10c socket
from the iMac to satisfy their ever-thinner policy was simply silly.

--- Synchronet 3.18b-Win32 NewsLink 1.113

From Newsgroup: comp.sys.mac.system

On 2021-05-05 8:20 p.m., Your Name wrote:

On 2021-05-06 01:45:05 +0000, Alan Baker said:

On 2021-05-05 2:22 p.m., Your Name wrote:

On 2021-05-05 15:24:03 +0000, Alan Baker said:

On 2021-05-05 12:15 a.m., Your Name wrote:

On 2021-05-05 04:24:40 +0000, Alan Baker said:

On 2021-05-04 8:13 p.m., Your Name wrote:

On 2021-05-04 22:51:07 +0000, Wade Garrett said:

On 5/4/21 11:56 AM, Wade Garrett wrote:

I'm thinking of upgrading my iMac to the new 24" M1 chip
machine. The "base" model has a 7 core GPU. For $200 more, the >>>>>>>>> "base+" model has an 8 core GPU...with the rest of the specs >>>>>>>>> that matter to me exactly the same.

So....pop for the 8 core GPU or save the $200?

Are the two C-notes an Apple tax- or is everyday casual home >>>>>>>>> use going to be noticeably better?

Good points, all. Thanks

The spec I missed originally which I do care about though is
that the base iMac has no USB ports...and I've got several USB >>>>>>>> devices I need to plug in and out periodically.

I guess I could use a powered USB hub with an adapter and plug >>>>>>>> it into the iMac. Sounds like the makings of a real kludge
though...

The lower-priced M1 iMac models do have USB, but it's smaller
USB-C. As you say, an adapter and hub will solve that.
Realistically two ports (or even four) isn't going to be enough, >>>>>>> especially with rather pitiful in-built storage capacity and
Apple's over-pricing of SSD and RAM, so many people will need a >>>>>>> hub of some sort anyway.

The port that is actually missing from the lower-priced M1 iMacs >>>>>>> is the Ethernet port. You have to add it as a custom-build option >>>>>>> if you need one, and it comes on the power brick rather than the >>>>>>> iMac itself.

You say that last part like it matters.

It was rather pointless for Apple to remove it from the computer
case. Yet another of their growing silliness for "form of function".

But you agree there is no actual downside, right; putting a
connector on the floor where the cable will in all likelihood being
coming from, right?

Probably easier to accidentally kick it on the power brick which is
normally on the floor ... but there was simply no need to remove it
from the computer, other than Apple pointlessly wanted the iMac even
thinner.

You're really reaching.

Not really. The depth of an Ethernet port is probably more than the thickness of the M1 iMac, so Apple removed it to be able to get the iMac thinner.

No, no.

You're reaching about it being a problem because you might kick it.

Not the first time they've done something like that. They removed the headphone socket from iOS devices simply because it was too big for the thickness they wanted.

I'm sorry, but you're wrong.

The first iPhone without a headphone socket was the iPhone 7.

It was 7.1mm thick.

Do you want to guess how thick the iPhone 6s which immediately preceded
it was?

Go on, take a guess!

And the iPhone 8 which succeeded it? 7.3mm
--- Synchronet 3.18b-Win32 NewsLink 1.113

From Newsgroup: comp.sys.mac.system

In article <s6vn9k$alr$1@gioia.aioe.org>, Your Name
<YourName@YourISP.com> wrote:

It was rather pointless for Apple to remove it from the computer case. >>>> Yet another of their growing silliness for "form of function".

But you agree there is no actual downside, right; putting a connector >>> on the floor where the cable will in all likelihood being coming from, >>> right?

Probably easier to accidentally kick it on the power brick which is
normally on the floor ... but there was simply no need to remove it
from the computer, other than Apple pointlessly wanted the iMac even
thinner.

You're really reaching.

Not really. The depth of an Ethernet port is probably more than the thickness of the M1 iMac, so Apple removed it to be able to get the
iMac thinner.

apple did not remove anything.

what they did was *move* the ethernet port to the power adapter, which
is a far more practical location that will reduce clutter for those who actually use the port (not everyone does).

the imac has wifi 6, which is faster than ethernet, so many people will
choose to use wifi instead.

Not the first time they've done something like that. They removed the headphone socket from iOS devices simply because it was too big for the thickness they wanted.

nope. they removed the analog headphone jack because it's no longer
needed when there is a far more capable digital headphone jack, plus
most people use bluetooth or the built in speakers anyway.

the analog headphone jack was actually too *long* (not thick) to be
able to make no-bezel phone, plus it's more difficult to make the phone
water resistant with a hole in the bottom and removing it eliminates a
very common failure point.

thickness of the phone had absolutely nothing to do with the decision.
--- Synchronet 3.18b-Win32 NewsLink 1.113

From Newsgroup: comp.sys.mac.system

In article <s6vo4h$6gp$1@dont-email.me>, Alan Baker
<notonyourlife@no.no.no.no> wrote:

Not the first time they've done something like that. They removed the headphone socket from iOS devices simply because it was too big for the thickness they wanted.

I'm sorry, but you're wrong.

The first iPhone without a headphone socket was the iPhone 7.

It was 7.1mm thick.

Do you want to guess how thick the iPhone 6s which immediately preceded
it was?

Go on, take a guess!

And the iPhone 8 which succeeded it? 7.3mm

the iphone 11 and xr are thicker still, at 8.3 mm

meanwhile, the ipod touch, which has an analog headphone jack, is 6.1
mm thick.

after the analog headphone jack was removed, iphones have been getting *thicker*.
--- Synchronet 3.18b-Win32 NewsLink 1.113

From Newsgroup: comp.sys.mac.system

In article <s6vnek$c5c$1@gioia.aioe.org>, Your Name
<YourName@YourISP.com> wrote:

I don't know about "real computer", but anyone who knows about tech
will tell you that a wired connection is (usually) better in most ways
than a wireless one.

no they won't, because that is not true.

Removing what is probably a less-than-10c socket
from the iMac to satisfy their ever-thinner policy was simply silly.

apple didn't remove anything.

they *moved* the ethernet port to the power adapter, which reduces
clutter for those who use it. they also made it optional for the entry
level model since not everyone needs it.
--- Synchronet 3.18b-Win32 NewsLink 1.113

From Newsgroup: comp.sys.mac.system

On 2021-05-06 03:15:40 +0000, Alan Baker said:

On 2021-05-05 7:12 p.m., Ken Hart wrote:

On 5/5/2021 4:20 PM, Wade Garrett wrote:

snip

The lower-priced M1 iMac models do have USB, but it's smaller USB-C. As >>>> you say, an adapter and hub will solve that. Realistically two ports
(or even four) isn't going to be enough, especially with rather pitiful >>>> in-built storage capacity and Apple's over-pricing of SSD and RAM, so >>>> many people will need a hub of some sort anyway.

The port that is actually missing from the lower-priced M1 iMacs is the >>>> Ethernet port. You have to add it as a custom-build option if you need >>>> one, and it comes on the power brick rather than the iMac itself.

This has been a great thread for me! I didn't realize how much stuff
that I need/want is missing from the new iMacs. In fact, I'm
reconsidering whether I should buy one.

The M1 Mac Mini looks like it may be a better choice. It's loaded with
ports, has the same processor, an 8 core GPU and a 256 SSD.

I've got an extra Magic Mouse/Keyboard and an old monitor in the
closet- though I'd probably buy a new one.

My definition of a (real) computer is one with loads of current, future, and >> legacy ports so that you can get done easily whatever you may need to do.

My advice is buy the computer with the most types of ports you might need.

So... your latest computer...

...does it have a parallel port?

Have you used that port in the last... ...5 years? 10?

I was using ye olde Mac modem port within the last five years ... it
was on my beige G3 with a dial-up internet connection as my "daily
driver" before that computer died. :-(


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From Newsgroup: comp.sys.mac.system

In article <s6vv3j$s7i$1@gioia.aioe.org>, Your Name
<YourName@YourISP.com> wrote:

My definition of a (real) computer is one with loads of current, future, >> and
legacy ports so that you can get done easily whatever you may need to do. >>
My advice is buy the computer with the most types of ports you might need.

So... your latest computer...

...does it have a parallel port?

Have you used that port in the last... ...5 years? 10?

I was using ye olde Mac modem port within the last five years ... it
was on my beige G3 with a dial-up internet connection as my "daily
driver" before that computer died. :-(

not with a parallel port, you weren't and that's a nearly 25 year old
computer, from an era when dial-up modems were common.

usb modems started to appear ~20 years ago and will work on a modern
computer, even though there is no reason to use one anymore.
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From Newsgroup: comp.sys.mac.system

In message <s6vn9k$alr$1@gioia.aioe.org> Your Name <YourName@YourISP.com> wrote:

On 2021-05-06 01:45:05 +0000, Alan Baker said:

On 2021-05-05 2:22 p.m., Your Name wrote:

On 2021-05-05 15:24:03 +0000, Alan Baker said:

On 2021-05-05 12:15 a.m., Your Name wrote:

On 2021-05-05 04:24:40 +0000, Alan Baker said:

On 2021-05-04 8:13 p.m., Your Name wrote:

On 2021-05-04 22:51:07 +0000, Wade Garrett said:

On 5/4/21 11:56 AM, Wade Garrett wrote:

I'm thinking of upgrading my iMac to the new 24" M1 chip machine. The
"base" model has a 7 core GPU. For $200 more, the "base+" model has an
8 core GPU...with the rest of the specs that matter to me exactly the
same.

So....pop for the 8 core GPU or save the $200?

Are the two C-notes an Apple tax- or is everyday casual home use going
to be noticeably better?

Good points, all. Thanks

The spec I missed originally which I do care about though is that the >>>>>>>> base iMac has no USB ports...and I've got several USB devices I need to
plug in and out periodically.

I guess I could use a powered USB hub with an adapter and plug it into
the iMac. Sounds like the makings of a real kludge though...

The lower-priced M1 iMac models do have USB, but it's smaller USB-C. As
you say, an adapter and hub will solve that. Realistically two ports >>>>>>> (or even four) isn't going to be enough, especially with rather pitiful
in-built storage capacity and Apple's over-pricing of SSD and RAM, so >>>>>>> many people will need a hub of some sort anyway.

The port that is actually missing from the lower-priced M1 iMacs is the
Ethernet port. You have to add it as a custom-build option if you need >>>>>>> one, and it comes on the power brick rather than the iMac itself. >>>>>>

You say that last part like it matters.

It was rather pointless for Apple to remove it from the computer case. >>>>> Yet another of their growing silliness for "form of function".

But you agree there is no actual downside, right; putting a connector >>>> on the floor where the cable will in all likelihood being coming from, >>>> right?

Probably easier to accidentally kick it on the power brick which is
normally on the floor ... but there was simply no need to remove it
from the computer, other than Apple pointlessly wanted the iMac even
thinner.

You're really reaching.

Not really. The depth of an Ethernet port is probably more than the thickness of the M1 iMac, so Apple removed it to be able to get the
iMac thinner.

No probably about it. The new iMacs are too thin for Ethernet, USB-A,
HDMI, or even an audio jack. They had to move the audio jack to the
side, but even that is too thin for the other ports.

Not the first time they've done something like that. They removed the headphone socket from iOS devices simply because it was too big for the thickness they wanted.

It was more the amount of space inside that it took up, actually. My
iPhone 12 is plenty thick enough for an audio jack, but it takes up a
lot of interior space, not an issue on the iMac or the iPad.

--
There is NO Rule six!
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