The Apple iMac has long been a staple in the realm of desktop computing, renowned for its sleek design, robust performance, and seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem. With the release of the new iMac, Apple promises an even more impressive package, boasting significant upgrades in terms of hardware, display, and overall user experience. But does the new iMac live up to the hype? In this comprehensive review, we’ll dive into the features, performance, design, and value of the new iMac to help you decide if it’s worth your investment.
Specification of IMac
| Specification | 24-inch iMac |
|---|---|
| Processor | Apple M1 chip |
| CPU | 8-core |
| GPU | 8-core |
| Neural Engine | 16-core |
| RAM | 8GB (configurable to 16GB) |
| Storage | 256GB SSD (configurable to 512GB, 1TB, 2TB) |
| Display | 24-inch 4.5K Retina display |
| Resolution | 4480 x 2520 pixels |
| Color Gamut | P3 wide color gamut |
| True Tone Technology | Yes |
| Webcam | 1080p FaceTime HD camera |
| Microphones | Studio-quality three-mic array |
| Speakers | Six-speaker sound system with spatial audio and Dolby Atmos |
| Connectivity | 2 Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports, 2 USB 3 ports (higher-end models) |
| Ethernet | Gigabit Ethernet (via power adapter) |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Operating System | macOS Big Sur |
| Keyboard | Magic Keyboard with Touch ID |
| Colors | Blue, Green, Pink, Silver, Yellow, Orange, Purple |
| Dimensions | 54.7 cm x 46.1 cm x 14.7 cm (with stand) |
| Weight | 4.48 kg (9.88 pounds) |
| Environmental Features | Recycled aluminum enclosure, recycled tin, recycled plastic components, energy-efficient design |
| Starting Price | $1,299 |
Design and Build Quality
A Fresh Aesthetic
The new iMac has undergone a radical redesign, marking a departure from its predecessors. One of the most notable changes is its array of vibrant colors, reminiscent of the original iMac G3. Available in seven hues—blue, green, pink, silver, yellow, orange, and purple—the new iMac offers a personalized touch to suit any workspace aesthetic.
Slim and Sleek
Apple has managed to pack all the components into an impressively thin chassis, measuring just 11.5mm in thickness. This ultra-slim profile is achieved by integrating the M1 chip, which combines the CPU, GPU, and other components into a single unit. The result is a sleek and clutter-free design that is both elegant and functional.
Display Excellence
The new iMac features a 24-inch 4.5K Retina display, providing stunning visuals with a resolution of 4480 x 2520 pixels. The display supports P3 wide color gamut and True Tone technology, ensuring accurate color reproduction and a comfortable viewing experience. Whether you’re editing photos, watching movies, or browsing the web, the display is a joy to use.
Performance
The Power of M1
At the heart of the new iMac is Apple’s M1 chip, the same processor found in the latest MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, and Mac mini. The M1 chip integrates an 8-core CPU, an 8-core GPU, and a 16-core Neural Engine, delivering impressive performance and energy efficiency.
Real-World Performance
In day-to-day use, the new iMac handles everything from basic tasks to demanding applications with ease. Web browsing, video streaming, and productivity tasks are buttery smooth, while more intensive workloads like video editing and 3D rendering are handled with remarkable efficiency. The transition to the M1 chip has also brought notable improvements in software optimization, with many apps now running natively on the M1 architecture for enhanced performance.
Benchmarks
Benchmark tests reveal that the new iMac’s performance is on par with the latest M1-powered MacBooks. In Geekbench 5, the iMac scores approximately 1700 in single-core performance and 7400 in multi-core performance, placing it ahead of many Intel-based desktops in its class.
Features and Connectivity
Improved Webcam and Microphones
The new iMac is equipped with a 1080p FaceTime HD camera, a significant upgrade from the previous 720p camera. Coupled with the M1 chip’s advanced image signal processing, the new webcam delivers clearer and more detailed video quality, making it ideal for video calls and virtual meetings. The improved microphone array with beamforming technology ensures your voice is captured clearly and accurately.
Audio Quality
Apple has also enhanced the audio experience with a six-speaker sound system that supports spatial audio and Dolby Atmos. The speakers deliver rich and immersive sound, making the iMac an excellent choice for media consumption and creative work.
Connectivity Options
The new iMac features a variety of connectivity options, including two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports, two additional USB 3 ports, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. The power adapter also includes an Ethernet port, allowing for a wired internet connection without taking up a USB port. However, it’s worth noting that the base model includes only two Thunderbolt ports, so users who require more connectivity may need to opt for the higher-end models or use a USB hub.
Software and Ecosystem
macOS Big Sur
The new iMac ships with macOS Big Sur, Apple’s latest operating system. Big Sur has been optimized for the M1 chip, providing a responsive and seamless user experience. The OS introduces a refreshed design, new features, and enhanced security, making it a robust platform for both work and play.
Integration with Apple Ecosystem
As part of the Apple ecosystem, the new iMac offers seamless integration with other Apple devices. Features like Handoff, Continuity, and Universal Clipboard allow users to effortlessly transition between their iMac, iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch. Additionally, the iMac can serve as a hub for managing smart home devices via the Home app and Siri.
Value for Money
Pricing and Configurations
The new iMac starts at $1,299 for the base model with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. Higher-end configurations with additional RAM, storage, and connectivity options are available at higher price points. While the new iMac is not the most affordable desktop on the market, its combination of design, performance, and features make it a compelling option for many users.
Longevity and Future-Proofing
Apple’s transition to its own silicon promises long-term support and software updates, ensuring the new iMac remains relevant for years to come. The M1 chip’s efficiency and performance also suggest that the iMac will continue to handle demanding tasks well into the future, making it a sound investment for those seeking a reliable and future-proof desktop.
Comparing to the Competition
iMac vs. Mac Mini
The Mac mini, also powered by the M1 chip, offers a more affordable entry point into the Apple desktop ecosystem. However, it lacks the integrated display, speakers, and webcam of the iMac, requiring users to invest in additional peripherals. For users who already have a high-quality monitor and peripherals, the Mac mini may be a more cost-effective option.
iMac vs. Windows All-in-Ones
In the all-in-one desktop market, the new iMac faces competition from several Windows-based alternatives, such as the Microsoft Surface Studio 2 and the Dell XPS One. While these devices offer their own unique features and advantages, the new iMac stands out with its superior design, performance, and integration with the Apple ecosystem. For users who prefer macOS and the benefits of Apple’s ecosystem, the new iMac is a clear winner.
User Experience
Everyday Use
The new iMac excels in providing a smooth and enjoyable user experience. The combination of the M1 chip and macOS Big Sur ensures that tasks are completed quickly and efficiently. The redesigned Magic Keyboard with Touch ID adds an extra layer of security and convenience, allowing users to unlock their iMac and make secure purchases with a simple touch.
Creative Work
For creative professionals, the new iMac is a powerful tool that can handle demanding applications like Adobe Photoshop, Final Cut Pro, and Logic Pro with ease. The high-resolution display, coupled with accurate color reproduction and wide viewing angles, makes it an ideal choice for photo and video editing, graphic design, and other creative endeavors.
Gaming
While not traditionally known for gaming, the new iMac’s M1 chip offers respectable performance for a variety of games available on macOS. Titles optimized for Apple silicon run smoothly, providing an enjoyable gaming experience. However, users seeking a dedicated gaming machine may still find better options in the Windows PC market.
Customer Support and Warranty
AppleCare+
Apple offers a standard one-year limited warranty and 90 days of technical support with the purchase of a new iMac. For added peace of mind, users can opt for AppleCare+, which extends the warranty to three years and includes coverage for up to two incidents of accidental damage. Apple’s renowned customer support ensures that any issues are promptly addressed, providing a hassle-free experience for iMac owners.
Software Support
The new iMac benefits from Apple’s robust software support, with regular updates to macOS ensuring security, performance, and new features. The transition to Apple silicon also means that the iMac will receive support for many years to come, making it a reliable choice for long-term use.
Conclusion: Is the New iMac Worth the Hype?
The new iMac is undoubtedly an impressive piece of technology, combining a stunning design, powerful performance, and seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem. Its vibrant display, improved webcam, and enhanced audio quality make it a versatile and capable desktop for a wide range of users, from casual users to creative professionals.
While the price may be a consideration for some, the value offered by the new iMac in terms of performance, features, and longevity makes it a worthwhile investment for many. Whether you’re upgrading from an older iMac or switching from a Windows PC, the new iMac is a compelling option that delivers on its promises and lives up to the hype.
In conclusion, the new iMac is a testament to Apple’s commitment to innovation and quality. Its combination of design, performance, and ecosystem integration make it a standout choice in the desktop market. For those seeking a reliable, future-proof, and aesthetically pleasing desktop computer, the new iMac is undoubtedly worth considering.
