The Right Time To Buy A Brand New Mac

Now, this is tricky. It's tricky for any type of computer or gadget for that matter because new and upgraded versions will always come out. I remember a few years ago (2005, I think) when I was all set to buy a 20-inch iMac. On the day I planned on getting one, I was just so busy with work that I wasn't even able to call the store to place my order. This turned out to be quite fortunate for me because the very next day, Apple announced the release of the very first iMac with a built-in iSight. So I ended up buying that instead. I know I've mentioned that the release of upgraded models is inevitable, but in this case, it would really suck big time to find out about a new model on the very next day that you buy a product. So luckily for me, I didn't end up being in a situation that would surely have caused me to pull a few strands of hair off my head.

So the question remains - when's a good time to buy a brand new Mac? or an iPod? or a plutonium-powered flux capacitor? I usually go with the 6 months rule. If a specific model has been out for atleast 6 months, I'd much rather wait for a new release to come out. And then I also do a little research for any rumors and speculation about upocoming new models. Now, for those of you who don't have the time or patience for that, you might want to look at Mactacitc.com. Their website says - "We estimate the release date of new macs so you get a chance to buy when they are the best value." They have a list for Macs as well as iPods and Apple accessories. An item can be labeled caution - may be replaced, still good value or buy immediately. They also give information about how long a particular model has been in the market and an estimtate on when it might be replaced. Now, I have no idea how they come up with those figures so I think you should take them as recommendations instead of fact. In the end, what's important is that you make a well-informed decision before you make your purchase. Get a Mac or an iPod or an Apple accesorry that suits your specific needs. If it can do the things that you need it to do, then that's a lot more important than being on the cutting-edge all the time.

[via TUAW]