The 2024 iMac retains its iconic design, but a significant upgrade could revolutionize the product lineup. This transformative change isn’t centered around the anticipated M4 processor—though that addition is certainly commendable. Instead, it revolves around an essential increase in base memory, elevating entry-level models from a lamentable 8GB to a more robust 16GB. This enhancement, combined with the introduction of new chips, not only enriches the user experience but also renders the $1,299 iMac a cost-effective choice for a wide array of buyers.
Additional refinements include an optional nano-coated display to minimize glare, an upgraded 12-megapixel webcam that significantly enhances video quality, and a selection of new color options. While the core design remains consistent with last year’s model, the enhancements warrant consideration for an upgrade. After personally testing the latest version for various tasks such as content creation, gaming, and everyday productivity, I confidently affirm that the upgrade is absolutely worthwhile.
Apple
Apple’s 2024 iMac is powered by the formidable M4 chip, now featuring 16GB of RAM as standard, resulting in a more compelling value proposition compared to previous models.
Pros
- Powerful M4 processors
- 16GB of RAM comes standard
- Much improved webcam
- Nano-textured display option
Cons
- Upgrades still too expensive
- Needs more screen size options
- No vertical height adjustment
$1,204 at Amazon
What’s new with the latest iMac?
The visual appearance of the 2023 and 2024 iMacs shows little variation at a glance, with both models featuring a 24-inch 4.5K 500-nit display housed within a sleek 0.43-inch (11.5mm) thick chassis. The elegant stand remains, providing tilt functionality but lacking height adjustability. Considering the inclination to add this feature, it would be a welcome update for users looking for ergonomic solutions. The base model retains two Thunderbolt 4 ports, with four available in the higher-tier configurations, along with a magnetic power connector and a 3.5mm headphone jack located on the left side.
On the other hand, the most notable update is the introduction of a high-quality 12MP webcam, which offers a significant upgrade over previous iterations. This new webcam not only delivers exceptionally sharp and color-accurate video quality but also enhances your appearance during virtual meetings on platforms like FaceTime and Zoom. It includes Apple’s Center Stage feature, which intelligently keeps the subject centered on screen during calls, even when moving around. Additionally, it collaborates seamlessly with the new Desk View feature for showcasing items placed below the screen.
Steve Dent for Engadget
An exciting addition is the option for a nano-textured display glass that effectively combats glare, even in highly lit environments. Although it does slightly diminish sharpness, it’s an excellent investment if your budget allows for the additional $200. Otherwise, the display retains its vibrant clarity and colors, boasting 500 nits brightness, a comprehensive P3 color gamut, and a resolution of 4,480 x 2,250, aligning with the specifications of its predecessor. The 24-inch display is versatile enough for most users, although there are understandable concerns for those who prefer larger screen real estate. As the iMac remains Apple’s sole desktop model that integrates a display, many consumers may be left hoping for the introduction of larger options such as 27 or even 32 inches in the near future.
Steve Dent for Engadget
Apple’s color palette for the iMac has received a subtle refresh. Although the same seven color options from previous generations return, they now arrive in slightly softer, paler shades characterized as “fresh.” The model I tested showcases a very light green hue that blends seamlessly into a dim environment, which could disappoint those seeking vibrant color options.
Steve Dent for Engadget
The experience with Apple’s keyboard offers impressive speed for typing, catering to users like myself who aren’t particularly fond of mechanical designs. The Magic Mouse, while subjective in appeal, features slightly firm click pressure and precision that accommodates my preferences, along with the ability for lateral scrolling. Although the charging port is situated on the bottom—a minor design flaw—it manages to maintain a month of power between charges, allowing for convenient top-ups.
The vital updates reside beneath the surface with the introduction of the M4 processor, available in two variants. The entry-level model, priced at $1,299, includes an 8-core CPU, an 8-core GPU, 16GB of RAM, and 256GB of storage alongside two Thunderbolt 4 ports. The more advanced configurations boast 10-core CPUs, 10-core GPUs, and four Thunderbolt ports, beginning at $1,499 with the same 16GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. Notably, there is no option for an M4 Pro chip, which means all 2024 iMac models lack Thunderbolt 5 support. The higher-tier options also feature gigabit Ethernet integrated into the power brick and Touch ID on the accompanying Magic Keyboard.
The variant I tested highlighted the ongoing challenge of expensive upgrades. This configuration comprises a 10-core M4, 24GB RAM, 1TB storage, and four Thunderbolt 4 ports, as well as the nano-textured screen, pushing the overall price from the base $1,299 to a hefty $2,299. However, the silver lining is that users can forgo additional upgrades without being left with insufficient memory, a notable improvement over previous generations.
In use: Outstanding performance and friendly features
Steve Dent for Engadget
The iMac M4 exemplifies practical design, where installation is as simple as positioning it on a desk, plugging it in, and following a streamlined setup process. Its all-in-one nature allows it to occupy any small space—be it a home office or a child’s bedroom—with ease and portability, weighing only 9.74 pounds and requiring minimal cables aside from the power cord.
Performance outcomes exceeded my expectations across various tasks, from video editing to gaming. Key benchmarking results illustrated tangible enhancements over the previous iMac M3 in both processing power and graphics capabilities, showcasing improvements of approximately 20 percent in single-CPU tasks, and over 30 percent in GPU performance.
The iMac M4 outpaces the 14-inch MacBook Pro M4 in speed, though it lags behind the 16-inch model featuring an M4 Pro chip, particularly in terms of graphics performance. In fact, GPU capabilities rank lower compared to both the Mac Mini and MacBook Pro M3 Pro models, yet anticipate competing positively against most rival Windows PCs, including those featuring a Snapdragon X Elite chip. However, it underperforms when juxtaposed with systems housing dedicated graphics from NVIDIA and AMD.
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Computer |
Geekbench 6 |
Geekbench 6 GPU |
Cinebench 2024 |
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Gaming reveals certain limitations in the iMac’s GPU performance, as resolution is capped at 1080p for games like Resident Evil 7 Biohazard and Baldur’s Gate 3 to achieve acceptable frame rates above 30 fps. However, as an all-in-one primarily designed for productivity tasks such as Excel and virtual meetings, it still serves as a respectable gaming machine.
Content creation is equally impressive on the iMac M4. The configuration supports rapid storage speeds (2.94/5.14 GB/s read/write), integrated video decoding capabilities, and enhanced processing power. For example, while editing high-resolution 8K 24p clips on DaVinci Resolve may not be the norm, it successfully handles these demanding tasks. Also, it performs effectively with Premiere Pro, Photoshop, and Lightroom Classic. The sole hiccup arises during playback of raw 8K video, a demanding task beyond its intended capabilities; however, my 16-inch MacBook Pro equipped with an M3 Pro handles such tasks efficiently, albeit at a premium cost that is nearly $1,000 more.
Steve Dent for Engadget
The iMac M4 also excels in delivering an excellent entertainment experience thanks to its vivid and sharp display. It accommodates 4K HDR content, supporting both Dolby Atmos and Spatial Audio through a robust six-speaker system that features two force-canceling woofers. While utilizing high-quality headphones yields the best sound experience, the audio quality from the built-in speakers exceeds that of any previous all-in-one models I have used. Watching films and series on streaming platforms like Netflix and Prime Video, including titles such as The Diplomat and Don’t Look Up, resulted in a rich, colorful, and immersive viewing experience.
Finally, advancements in AI functionality were emphasized during the informal Mac Week event surrounding the M4 Macs. The iMac M4 received an impressive 51,421 Geekbench 6 quantized AI score, reflecting competitive results comparable to both the M4 Pro and M4 Max models (all iterations of the M4 chip include 16 “Neural Engine” AI cores). In a hands-on test, I transcribed a 69-minute podcast episode using the Whisper Transcription app, which took just three minutes and four seconds. While this time aligns with results from the MacBook Pro M4, it fell a minute short when compared to the M4 Pro model.
Should you buy the iMac M4?
Steve Dent for Engadget
Although the design of the iMac remains unchanged, the upgrade may appear less enticing. However, the transition to 16GB of standard memory is a game-changer that enables users to undertake resource-intensive tasks previously limited on entry-level iMacs, such as 4K video editing and AAA gaming. Ultimately, I would recommend considering the iMac M4 over the M3 or older versions unless you can secure a 16GB RAM model at a lower cost.
While still pricey, I suggest avoiding the base model and instead focusing on the $1,499 configuration, which includes 256GB of storage, four Thunderbolt 4 ports for easy expansion, and the Magic Keyboard with Touch ID. Though it remains a significant investment, this option provides a highly capable and extensible machine that is $400 less than the minimum recommended price from the previous year.
How does the new M4 processor improve the performance of the 2024 iMac compared to its predecessor?
X and Apple TV+ is a pleasure, with clear dialogue and impressive depth of sound providing an engaging cinematic experience.
the iMac M4 positions itself as a strong contender for users seeking a reliable all-in-one desktop that excels in both productivity and entertainment. While the price may be a deterrent due to costly upgrades and limited configuration options, the performance improvements, especially with the new M4 processor, make it a notable advancement over its predecessor. Whether for home, work, or casual gaming, the 2024 iMac continues to uphold Apple’s reputation for sleek design and impressive functionality, making it a worthy investment for many users in the market for a new desktop computer.
### Summary of Key Features:
– **Display:** 24-inch 4.5K display, 500 nits brightness, available nano-textured glass.
- **Processor:** M4 with options for 8-core and 10-core configurations.
– **RAM:** 16GB standard, upgradeable.
– **Connectivity:** Thunderbolt 4 ports, headphone jack, and a magnetic power connector.
– **Webcam:** Upgraded 12MP webcam with Center Stage feature.
– **Audio:** Enhanced six-speaker system supporting Dolby Atmos and Spatial Audio.
- **Price:** Starts at $1,299 for base model; higher configurations can reach $2,299 or more.
This blend of stylish design, strong performance metrics, and a comprehensive feature set makes the new iMac an appealing choice for various users, despite some limitations in upgrade options and size variations.
