Apple Mac Pro (2010)

The new Mac Pro isn’t significantly different from last year’s model, which isn't a bad thing. Apple created a good formula with the original Mac Pro and with the Nehalem update fixed some of the remaining issues with its design.

Tried-and-trusted tool-free-access chassis ; Plenty of configuration options ; Excellent performance, especially with apps that exploit multiple CPU threads and cores

Expensive, particularly as high-end options are added ; No ATI CrossFire support to exploit dual-GPU configurations ; No eSATA or USB 3.0 support ; No HDMI ports or adapters

The 2010 Mac Pro is a very fine workstation-class desktop. Its stylish and practical design is little changed from previous versions for a good reason: it works. The top-end 12-core system reviewed here, with its £6,759 (inc. VAT; £5,752 ex. VAT)...

Excellent performance; internal expansion slots; upgradeable drive bays

Cheaper iMacs would probably suit most business users better; doesn't include monitor

The Mac Pro range will appeal to professional users in fields such as audio and video editing who need more power than is available from the consumer-oriented iMac. The tower design is also very easy to open and upgrade.