Article
Some might say the iMac doesn’t need to exist. In a world of smartphones, tablets and laptops, the static desktop computer has been increasingly sidelined over the years, to the point that it arguably represents a niche, or even ‘luxury’, product. But Apple has remained faithful to its famous all-in-one, giving it a fresh design for the 2020s, and decking it out with the latest and greatest M4 chip in 2024. And while it won’t be appropriate Mac for everyone, for the right user, it’s a stunning machine.
From a better webcam to an increase in starting RAM, via the inevitable addition of USB-C for accessories, there are incremental upgrades over the M3 model across the board. But the chip is the real star here, making it a brilliant desktop computer for creatives in particular. And it helps that it looks beautiful too. The question is, if you already have a laptop, and you’ve invested in one of the many 4k monitors out there, do you need an iMac?
Key Specifications
| CPU: | Apple M4 chip, 10-core CPU with 4 performance cores and 6 efficiency cores |
| Graphics: | Hardware-accelerated H.264, HEVC, ProRes, and ProRes RAW |
| Memory: | 16GB unified memory configurable to 24GB or 32GB unified memory |
| Storage: | 256GB configurable to 2TB |
| Screen size: | 24-inch |
| Screen type: | 4.5K Retina display |
| Resolution: | 4480-by-2520 resolution at 218 pixels per inch |
| Brightness (measured): | 500 nits |
| Ports: | 4 USB-C |
| Wireless connectivity: | WiFi, Bluetooth |
| Dimensions: | Width: 21.5 inches (54.7 cm) Height: 18.1 inches (46.1 cm) Stand depth: 5.8 inches (14.7 cm) Stand width: 5.1 inches (13 cm) |
| Weight: | 9.79 pounds (4.44 kg) |
Design, Build and Display
It’s impossible to write about the iMac without writing about the design. I’ve always loved Apple’s slick all-in-one, but the company took it to the next level with the introduction of a palette of pastel hues and a new ultra-slim profile. In a world of utilitarian silvers and greys, the iMac is almost zen-like in appearance. It’s a beautifully designed object, particularly from the back – which probably explains why Apple’s marketing images so often show it in a shop or studio environment.
As ever, the iMac features color-matched accessories. And while the Magic Mouse 2 remains one of Apple’s worst design crimes thanks to its upside-down charging, at least it’s colorful! And the addition of USB-C to the keyboard, mouse and trackpad makes the whole thing more convenient.
Of course, the iMac is almost all screen. The 24-inch (4480 x 2520 pixels) display is stunningly bright, with the M4 model, Apple has added the option to add a nano-texture display.
Price
When it comes to the question of the iMac is for, the two major barriers are portability and price. We’ll talk about the latter first. Even at its starting price of $1,299/£1,299, the iMac is expensive – and that’s before adding extras like the nano-texture display and RAM upgrades. We’ve seen a few discounts (in the UK, Very is offering the base model for £1,205).
Unsurprisingly, there aren’t tons of iMac alternatives out there. You can bag the Dell Inspiron 27 all-in-one for £699, but it’s nowhere near as powerful as the M4 iMac Pro.
Then there’s the question of whether this is your first device. $1,299 isn’t ludicrous for such a powerful computer – the M4 MacBook Pro starts at $/£1,599, for example. But in today’s world, chances are you’re going to want a laptop too, or at least an iPad. If the iMac is a second device, that hole in your wallet is starting to look pretty gaping.
Value score: 3/5
Who is it for?
Therein lies the rub. In 2025, this feels like a niche product. If you care about aesthetics, need a healthy dose of processing power, have budget to play with and are happy to stay in one place, the iMac is absolutely perfect for you. With it’s beautiful design, the iMac was made to be looked at – it’s begging to be placed in a fancy design studio or boutique store. Those who travel a lot need not apply – unless you already have a laptop and are specifically planning to use the iMac as a second at-home (or at-work) machine.
M4 iMac score card
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Design | It’s beautiful. Beautiful, I say. But it’s staying in one place. | 5/5 |
| Features | The screen, camera and accessories are great, although the lack of height adjustment and touchscreen detract. | 4/5 |
| Performance | This is without doubt one of the most powerful all-in-one computers available. | 5/5 |
| Value | Unless the iMac very specifically fits your needs, the price is high for such a niche product. | 3/5 |
Buy it if…
- You’re looking for a computer that’s also a beautiful design object
- A 24-inch display will suffice
- You already have (or don’t need) a laptop or tablet for travelling
Don’t buy it if…
- You need a bigger display
- You’re on a budget
- Portability is of any importance to you
Also consider
- Dell Inspiron 27 all-in-one
- Apple MacBook Pro
- iPad
FAQs
Q: Is the iMac worth the price?
A: It depends on your needs and budget.
Q: Is the iMac suitable for travel?
A: No, it’s designed for staying in one place.
Q: Can I upgrade the iMac’s RAM?
A: Yes, you can upgrade the RAM to 24GB or 32GB.
Q: Is the iMac compatible with my existing devices?
A: Yes, it’s compatible with most devices, but may not be compatible with all peripherals.
