IMac 21" vs 27" (or Mac Mini?)

Question

I am having trouble deciding between the two. Visiting an Apple Store would make my decision however this is not available so I am posting here.
I mainly read/write Word documents/PDFs, use e-mails, do a small amount of Stock trading, and some light gaming - so no reason to see higher specs as a pro of the 27" - the computer will probably be used for 2-3 years meaning futureproofing is not really a reason to value the higher specs either. I do like to multitask however after the introduction of the multiple desktops in Lion, I have been very comfortable swiping between screens rather than using applications side-by-side.
I was considering a Thunderbolt display for my MacBook Air however I think I would rather have a second computer. Not actually considered the Thunderbolt Display + Mac Mini however I believe the Mini is aimed at people who already have a display - I would need to purchase a Thunderbolt display as well bringing the price up to, or less than, that of a superior iMac?
I have several questions:
To 27" owners, can you comfortably see the whole screen when sitting in one position or is it awkward to read content around the edges?
Does the 27" display make things bigger, or if I opened a document on the 27" would it simply leave more empty space?
How dense are both the displays? For example if I opened a 1,000 x 1,000 pixel square on both the 21" and 27" computers would they have the same dimensions in inches?
What is the recommended viewing distance to sit from both screens?
Off topic from my main question - where is the best location to position the iMac to reduce screen glare? It will be used in room with a south-facing window. I have the option of putting the iMac right in front of a window (with the back to the window obviously) - is this the best position?

Answer 1

Jpdunford wrote:
I have several questions:
To 27" owners, can you comfortably see the whole screen
Yes
Does the 27" display make things bigger, or if I opened a document on the 27" would it simply leave more empty space?
It would depend on the resolution.  Mine is set to 1600 x 900 because I am a "baby boomer."  I do not need to wear my glasses.
How dense are both the displays? For example if I opened a 1,000 x 1,000 pixel square on both the 21" and 27" computers would they have the same dimensions in inches?
What is the recommended viewing distance to sit from both screens?
For the 27":  This would depend on how good your eye sight is & the screen resolution.
Off topic from my main question - where is the best location to position the iMac to reduce screen glare?
There is no glare.
It will be used in room with a south-facing window. I have the option of putting the iMac right in front of a window (with the back to the window obviously) - is this the best position?
NO!  The reason is because, if your window is open & it rains, there is a chance that the back of your iMac will get wet.  Also, direct sun light can do some damage.
My iMac is actually next to a window.  However, my computer desk has a very high back wall & is enclosed.