When considering 24 inch iMac configurations, buyers face a balance between performance, price, and future-proofing. The Apple 2024 iMac with M4 chip and 16GB RAM stands out as the best overall for its power and longevity. For those on a tighter budget, the 2023 M3-based iMac with 8GB RAM offers solid performance at a lower price. The main tradeoffs involve choosing between raw speed, storage options, and price points. Continue reading to understand how these differences impact your specific needs.
Get cleaning gear delivered free with Prime
- Fast, free delivery on millions of items
- Prime Video, Amazon Music and more included
- Member-only deals all year
Complete the kit
Key Takeaways
- The latest M4 chip models significantly outperform older M3 and M1 options in speed and efficiency.
- Memory size (16GB vs. 8GB) makes a noticeable difference for multitasking and future software updates.
- Upgrading storage to 512GB or higher offers better long-term value, especially for creative work.
- Refurbished or renewed units can save money but may have limited warranties or minor cosmetic flaws.
- Color options like Blue or Green are mostly aesthetic; choose based on personal preference, not performance.
| Apple 2024 iMac Air with M4 Chip, 24-inch, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Silver (Renewed) |  | Best Overall for Power and Portability | Processor: Apple M4, 8-core, 3.2 GHz | Display: 24-inch Retina, 4480×2520 resolution | Memory: 16GB SDRAM | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple 2023 iMac All-in-One Desktop Computer with M3 Chip, 24-inch Retina Display, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Silver |  | Best for Seamless Apple Ecosystem Integration | Processor: 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU | Display: 24-inch Retina, 23.5-inch diagonal, 4.5K | Memory: 8GB Unified Memory | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Desktop Computer with M4 Chip, 24-inch Retina Display, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Silver |  | Best for Creative Multitasking and Versatility | Processor: M4, 8-core CPU and GPU | Display: 24-inch Retina 4.5K | Memory: 16GB Unified Memory | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Desktop Computer with M4 Chip, 24-inch Retina Display, 24GB Memory, 512GB SSD, Blue |  | Best for Heavy Multitasking and Storage Needs | Processor: M4, 10-core CPU and GPU | Display: 24-inch Retina 4.5K | Memory: 24GB Unified Memory | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple 2021 iMac with M1 Chip (24-inch, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD) – Green (Renewed) |  | Best for Budget-Conscious Buyers and Everyday Use | Processor: Apple M1, 8-core CPU and GPU | Display: 24-inch 4.5K Retina | Color: Green | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple 2023 iMac with M3 Chip (24-inch, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD) Silver (Renewed) |  | Best Value for Power and Portability | Processor: Apple M3 Chip with 8-core CPU | Display: 24-inch 4.5K Retina | RAM: 8GB | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| inch imac configuration | Processor | Display | Storage | Memory |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple 2024 iMac Air with M4 Ch | Apple M4, 8-core, 3.2 GHz | 24-inch Retina, 4480×2520 resolution | 256GB SSD | 16GB SDRAM |
| Apple 2023 iMac All-in-One Des | 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU | 24-inch Retina, 23.5-inch diagonal, 4.5K | 256GB SSD | 8GB Unified Memory |
| Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Des | M4, 8-core CPU and GPU | 24-inch Retina 4.5K | 256GB SSD | 16GB Unified Memory |
| Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Des | M4, 10-core CPU and GPU | 24-inch Retina 4.5K | 512GB SSD | 24GB Unified Memory |
| Apple 2021 iMac with M1 Chip | Apple M1, 8-core CPU and GPU | 24-inch 4.5K Retina | 256GB SSD | 8GB |
| Apple 2023 iMac with M3 Chip | Apple M3 Chip with 8-core CPU | 24-inch 4.5K Retina | 512GB SSD | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Apple 2024 iMac Air with M4 Chip, 24-inch, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Silver (Renewed)
This renewed iMac Air stands out for its powerful M4 chip with 8 cores, delivering fast performance that rivals more expensive desktop models. Its vivid 24-inch Retina display ensures stunning visuals for multimedia and creative work. Compared to the 2023 M3-based iMac, the M4 provides a noticeable boost in processing speed, making multitasking smoother. However, the 256GB SSD could be limiting for users with large files, and being a renewed product might affect longevity. Its sleek, colorful design adds aesthetic appeal, fitting well in both home and office environments. For those needing a portable yet high-performing machine, this strikes a compelling balance, though storage and renewal status are tradeoffs.
Pros:- Powerful M4 chip with 8 cores offering fast performance
- Vivid 24-inch Retina display with high color accuracy
- Large 16GB RAM for smooth multitasking
- Sleek, colorful design
Cons:- Premium price for a renewed product, with potential longevity concerns
- Limited storage at 256GB SSD, may require external drives
Best for: Creative professionals and power users who want a portable, high-performance iMac with ample RAM for multitasking.
Not ideal for: Users with extensive storage needs or those seeking a brand-new device with full warranty coverage.
- Processor:Apple M4, 8-core, 3.2 GHz
- Display:24-inch Retina, 4480×2520 resolution
- Memory:16GB SDRAM
- Storage:256GB SSD
- Operating System:macOS
- Weight:22.1 pounds
Our verdict“This renewed iMac Air is best suited for users who prioritize performance and portability, accepting some storage and warranty tradeoffs.”
Apple 2023 iMac All-in-One Desktop Computer with M3 Chip, 24-inch Retina Display, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Silver
This 2023 iMac with M3 chip offers balanced performance with an 8-core CPU and 10-core GPU, ideal for everyday tasks and media consumption. Its 24-inch Retina display provides excellent clarity and brightness, comparable to the newer M4 models, but with slightly less raw power. Compared to the M4-powered options, the M3 chip may feel less responsive under heavy multitasking, especially with only 8GB RAM. It includes Apple’s Magic Keyboard with Touch ID and Magic Mouse, enhancing the user experience. Its limited RAM and storage make it less suited for intensive workflows, but for general users, it remains a solid choice within the Apple ecosystem. This pick is perfect for those who value seamless device integration over raw performance.
Pros:- Powerful M3 chip with 8-core CPU and 10-core GPU
- Vivid 24-inch Retina display
- Excellent ecosystem integration with Magic Keyboard and Mouse
- Fast Wi-Fi 6E and modern connectivity options
Cons:- Limited to 8GB RAM, restricting heavy multitasking
- 256GB SSD may be insufficient for storing large files
- Premium price for entry-level specs
Best for: Apple users seeking a reliable, well-integrated desktop for everyday use and light creative work.
Not ideal for: Heavy multitaskers or users with large storage needs who require more RAM and space.
- Processor:8-core CPU, 10-core GPU
- Display:24-inch Retina, 23.5-inch diagonal, 4.5K
- Memory:8GB Unified Memory
- Storage:256GB SSD
- Brightness:500 nits
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3
Our verdict“This iMac is best for users valuing smooth Apple ecosystem integration and adequate performance for everyday tasks, with some limitations on RAM and storage.”
Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Desktop Computer with M4 Chip, 24-inch Retina Display, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Silver
This 2024 iMac with the M4 chip and 16GB RAM offers a significant boost in multitasking and creative workflows compared to the 2023 models. Its 24-inch Retina display supports a billion colors, making it ideal for photo editing, design, or media production. The M4 processor’s 8-core CPU and GPU deliver quick, smooth performance, rivaling more expensive setups. Its sleek design and multiple ports, including support for two 6K displays, make it highly versatile. However, the 256GB SSD can be limiting for large project storage, and the premium price might be a hurdle for budget-conscious buyers. This model is perfect for creative professionals who need robust performance and a vibrant display in a compact form.
Pros:- Powerful M4 chip with 8-core CPU and GPU
- Bright, color-accurate 24-inch Retina display
- Supports two 6K external displays
- Multiple Thunderbolt 4 ports for expandability
Cons:- Limited storage at 256GB SSD, not ideal for large files
- Premium price point may be restrictive for some
- No dedicated graphics card option
Best for: Creative professionals and multitaskers who want a compact, visually stunning powerhouse.
Not ideal for: Users needing extensive local storage or on a tight budget, due to cost and storage limits.
- Processor:M4, 8-core CPU and GPU
- Display:24-inch Retina 4.5K
- Memory:16GB Unified Memory
- Storage:256GB SSD
- Ports:Four Thunderbolt 4, support for two 6K displays
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3
Our verdict“This iMac is best for creative users who need performance and display quality in a compact, versatile package, accepting storage limits and cost.”
Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Desktop Computer with M4 Chip, 24-inch Retina Display, 24GB Memory, 512GB SSD, Blue
This 2024 iMac with a 10-core CPU and GPU, plus 24GB RAM, is designed for demanding workflows and extensive multitasking. Its 24-inch Retina display offers excellent color fidelity and clarity, perfect for creative professionals or power users. The 512GB SSD provides ample storage for large files, outperforming models with 256GB storage. The inclusion of multiple Thunderbolt 4 ports and support for two 6K displays makes it highly expandable. However, the high price could deter budget-conscious buyers, and the non-upgradeable storage limits future expandability. Compared to the 2024 M4 models with less RAM, this configuration offers a more balanced performance for intensive tasks, though at a higher cost.
Pros:- High-performance M4 chip with 10-core CPU and GPU
- Vibrant 24-inch Retina display with support for two 6K monitors
- 24GB RAM ideal for heavy multitasking and creative apps
- 512GB SSD for substantial local storage
Cons:- Premium price may be prohibitive for some buyers
- No mention of upgradeability or expandability beyond ports
- Limited to 512GB SSD, which might still be small for some users
Best for: Power users and creative professionals who need maximum performance and storage capacity in a compact form.
Not ideal for: Budget buyers or those who do not require extensive multitasking capacity or large local storage.
- Processor:M4, 10-core CPU and GPU
- Display:24-inch Retina 4.5K
- Memory:24GB Unified Memory
- Storage:512GB SSD
- Ports:Four Thunderbolt 4, supports two 6K displays
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3
Our verdict“Best suited for demanding multitaskers and creatives needing high performance and storage, accepting a higher price point.”
Apple 2021 iMac with M1 Chip (24-inch, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD) – Green (Renewed)
This renewed 24-inch iMac with M1 chip offers reliable performance in a vibrant green design. Its 4.5K Retina display provides crisp visuals, suitable for general use and media consumption. The M1 chip’s 8-core CPU and GPU handle everyday tasks smoothly, making it a good choice for budget-conscious users who want Apple quality. Its 256GB SSD limits storage for large files, and the renewal status might affect warranty and longevity. Compared to newer M3 or M4 models, the M1 is slightly less powerful but still capable for most tasks. This model is ideal for students, casual users, or those on a tight budget, who value a colorful aesthetic and decent performance without breaking the bank.
Pros:- High-resolution 4.5K Retina display with vibrant colors
- Efficient M1 chip with solid performance
- Sleek, colorful design
- Modern connectivity options
Cons:- Limited to 8GB RAM, restricting heavy multitasking
- Renewed product may have limited warranty
- 256GB SSD may be insufficient for large or multiple files
Best for: Students and casual users seeking an affordable, reliable Mac with vibrant design.
Not ideal for: Power users or creatives with intensive workflows requiring more RAM and storage.
- Processor:Apple M1, 8-core CPU and GPU
- Display:24-inch 4.5K Retina
- Color:Green
- Memory:8GB
- Storage:256GB SSD
- Design:11.5 mm thin
Our verdict“This renewed iMac offers a compelling balance of affordability and performance for everyday users, with some limitations on storage and longevity.</verdict>”
Apple 2023 iMac with M3 Chip (24-inch, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD) Silver (Renewed)
This renewed 2023 iMac with the M3 chip offers a compelling balance between performance and affordability, especially when compared with the newer M4-based models like the 2024 iMac Air. The M3 processor provides a significant boost in speed for multitasking, creative work, and daily use, making it a smart choice for users who need reliable power without the premium price tag. Its 24-inch 4.5K Retina display ensures vibrant visuals that are ideal for media consumption and light editing, though it falls short of the M4 models’ enhanced graphics and improved energy efficiency. The sleek, colorful design makes it a standout on any desk, but the packaging and accessories might not be original, which could impact the unboxing experience for some. Compared to the 2023 iMac with 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD, this configuration’s larger storage is a plus, yet the 8GB RAM could be limiting for heavy multitasking. Overall, this pick makes the most sense for budget-conscious buyers who want a capable all-in-one with modern internals.
Pros:- Strong performance with the latest M3 chip that handles multitasking smoothly
- Vivid 4.5K Retina display enhances media and creative work
- Vibrant, all-in-one design available in multiple colors
Cons:- Accessories may not be original, affecting the unboxing experience
- Limited to 8GB RAM, which can be restrictive for heavy multitasking or future-proofing
- Product may arrive in generic packaging, lacking premium unboxing
Best for: Creative professionals and students seeking a powerful, visually stunning display at a lower cost.
Not ideal for: Power users or those needing extensive storage and memory for demanding tasks, who should consider the newer M4 models instead.
- Processor:Apple M3 Chip with 8-core CPU
- Display:24-inch 4.5K Retina
- RAM:8GB
- Storage:512GB SSD
- Color:Silver
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3
- Camera:1080p FaceTime HD
- Audio:Stereo speakers with wide stereo sound
- Operating System:macOS Ventura
Our verdict“This renewed iMac balances performance and price well, making it ideal for users who prioritize a vibrant display and solid processing power without the latest features.”
How We Picked
Our evaluation focused on key factors that matter most to buyers of 24 inch iMacs: processing power, memory, storage, build quality, and overall value. We prioritized the latest chipsets (M4 over M3 or M1) for future-proofing, and looked at RAM and storage configurations to match different user needs. Price was also a factor, especially in comparing new versus renewed options. The rankings reflect a balance between performance, longevity, and affordability, helping buyers choose the best fit for their intended use and budget.| inch imac configuration | Connectivity |
|---|---|
| Apple 2024 iMac Air with M4 Ch | — |
| Apple 2023 iMac All-in-One Des | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Des | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Des | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Apple 2021 iMac with M1 Chip | — |
| Apple 2023 iMac with M3 Chip | Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3 |
Factors to Consider When Choosing 24 Inch Imac Configurations
Choosing the right 24 inch iMac configuration involves more than just specs. You should consider your primary use—whether for casual browsing, creative work, or professional tasks—and how future-proof you need your machine to be. Beyond raw specs, factors like upgradeability, color, and resale value can influence your decision. Making an informed choice means understanding these broader considerations and their impact on long-term satisfaction.Performance and Chipset
The chip powering your iMac determines its speed and efficiency. The latest M4 chip offers notable improvements over the M3 and M1, especially for demanding tasks like video editing or 3D rendering. If you plan to keep your iMac for several years, investing in the newest processor can save you from early obsolescence. However, if your use is mostly light or casual, the older chips still deliver plenty of power at a lower cost.
Memory and RAM
Memory size plays a pivotal role in multitasking and overall responsiveness. 16GB of RAM, as found in the top-tier models, supports more demanding workflows and future software updates. For everyday tasks, 8GB may suffice, but it could limit multitasking and slow down more intensive applications over time. Consider your typical workload and whether you prefer to pay upfront for more RAM or upgrade later if possible.
Storage Capacity
Storage impacts your ability to store files locally and affects system performance in some cases. Larger SSDs, like 512GB, are advantageous for users working with large media files or installing many applications. Smaller capacities may suffice for light users but can lead to inconvenience or additional cloud storage costs. Think about your storage needs now and in the future before choosing a configuration.
Design and Color Options
While performance is key, aesthetic preferences matter for many buyers. The 24-inch iMac offers several color options, adding a personal touch to your workspace. Keep in mind that color choices are purely cosmetic and do not affect performance. If you plan to resell or gift your iMac, consider whether the color aligns with your overall setup and style.
Price and Value
Pricing varies significantly depending on specs, new versus refurbished, and storage options. The most recent models with higher specs naturally cost more but offer better longevity. Refurbished or renewed units can provide substantial savings, though they might come with minor cosmetic imperfections or shorter warranties. Balance your budget with your performance needs to find the best long-term value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it better to buy a new or refurbished 24 inch iMac?
Buying a new iMac guarantees the latest hardware, full warranty, and the newest features, making it ideal for users seeking maximum longevity. Refurbished models, however, often come at a significantly lower price and are tested thoroughly to meet quality standards. They can be a smart choice for budget-conscious buyers who are comfortable with minor cosmetic imperfections and shorter warranties, provided they purchase from reputable sources.
How much RAM do I really need for everyday use?
For most general tasks like browsing, office work, and media consumption, 8GB of RAM is sufficient. However, if you multitask heavily, run creative applications, or plan to keep your iMac for many years, opting for 16GB provides extra headroom and smoother performance. Remember, more RAM can extend the useful life of your device, reducing the need for future upgrades.
Should I prioritize storage capacity or performance?
This depends on your usage. If you handle large media files or install many applications, a larger SSD (512GB or more) offers more convenience and better performance in managing data. Conversely, if your storage needs are modest, opting for a smaller SSD can save money without compromising daily performance. Cloud storage options can supplement smaller internal drives if needed.
Are color options worth considering in my decision?
Color choices are strictly aesthetic and do not influence performance or functionality. However, selecting a color that matches your workspace or personal style can enhance your satisfaction with the device. If resale value matters, consider whether the color aligns with popular preferences, but remember that the core specs are what truly determine your iMac’s value.
Is it worth paying extra for the latest M4 chip?
The M4 chip provides improved speed, efficiency, and future compatibility, making it a good investment if you want a machine that stays relevant longer. For users with intensive workflows or who want to future-proof their purchase, paying extra for the latest processor makes sense. However, if your tasks are light, you can save by opting for models with earlier chips, which still handle everyday tasks comfortably.
Conclusion
The Apple 2024 iMac with M4 chip and 16GB RAM stands out as the best overall choice for users seeking power and longevity. For those on a tighter budget or with basic needs, the 2023 M3-based iMac offers reliable performance at a more accessible price point. The best premium options include configurations with larger SSDs and more RAM, suitable for creative professionals. Beginners or casual users will find the 2021 M1 model a solid entry point, while those wanting a balanced mix of features and cost should consider the renewed units. Ultimately, your ideal configuration hinges on your specific use case, budget, and preference for future-proofing versus initial cost.
Halloween Picks
halloween
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
