The 2024 iMac looks the same as ever, but there’s one update that promises to change the lineup dramatically. It’s not the M4 processor, although that’s nice. No, I’m talking about the increase in base memory that finally takes the entry-level model from a poor 8GB to 16GB. This, along with the new chips, promises to finally make the $1,299 iMac cost-effective for most buyers.
There are a few other changes, like an optional nano-coated display, an updated 12-megapixel webcam, and an assortment of new colors. Otherwise, things are pretty much the same as last year, which might leave you wondering if it’s worth the upgrade. After testing one for content creation, gaming, and productivity, I can tell you the answer is definitely yes.
Apple iMac M4
Apple’s 2024 iMac comes with the powerful M4 chip and starts with 16GB of RAM, making it a better value than previous models.
What’s new in the latest iMac
The 2023 and 2024 iMacs look pretty much the same. The 24-inch 4.5K 500-nit display and the computer itself are housed in the same thin 0.43-inch (11.5mm) thick frame. It’s still sitting on a petite stand that tilts but doesn’t have an adjustable height setting.
While tilt-only is a common setup on all-in-one PCs, at this point it would be nice to see Apple also do the simplified height adjustment it does on the Studio Display.
On the plus side, there are two Thunderbolt 4 ports on the base model and four on the more expensive versions, plus a magnetic power connector and 3.5mm headphone jack on the left side — all the same as before.
What’s new is a higher quality 12MP webcam that’s a huge change from previous models. It finally delivers sharp and color-accurate video on par with the rest of the computer, so you can look your best on FaceTime or Zoom.
It supports Apple’s Center Stage feature that auto-centers the subject during video calls, even if you’re moving around. The new webcam also works with the new Desk View feature that lets you show objects below your screen.
You can now get the iMac with optional nano-textured display glass that prevents glare, even if the light is directly on it. Although it does reduce sharpness a bit, I’d recommend it if you can afford the extra $200.
Otherwise, it’s the same clear and colorful display with 500 nits of brightness, a wide P3 gamut, and a resolution of 4,480 x 2,250, all of which are the same as before.
The 24-inch size might be too small for some people, but I found it to be adequate for most tasks, and I’m used to using dual 32-inch screens. Still, given that the iMac is Apple’s only desktop model with integrated displays, it would be nice to see a 27 or 32-inch option on a future model, even if it does make it less compact and portable.
The iMac M4’s color palette has also been refreshed a bit. Although it still comes in the same seven colors as before, they’re now in slightly lighter shades that Apple calls “refreshing.” In fact, the model I tested is a very light green that’s so subtle it’s hard to see even in low light. I’m a fan of light colors, but anyone expecting bright colors may be disappointed.
Accessories have also been updated. Both the new Magic Mouse and Magic Keyboard (with optional Touch ID) now charge via USB-C rather than Lightning like the iMac M3, which negates a major complaint in our last review. As always, all accessories, including the cable, are colour-matched to your iMac – a lovely touch.
I love the feel of Apple’s keyboards for speed typing, as I don’t use mechanical keyboards. The Magic Mouse is a familiar one, but the slightly firmer click pressure and accuracy suits my tastes and I like the ability to scroll side-to-side as well as up and down.
Yes, the charging port is on the bottom, which is a bit of a design letdown, but it can hold a charge for up to a month – and you just need to plug it in for a few minutes to get enough power for a workday.
The main updates are inside with the M4 processor, which is available in two variants. The base $1,299 model comes with an 8-core CPU, 8-core GPU, 16GB of RAM, 256GB of storage, and two Thunderbolt 4 ports. All other versions have a 10-core CPU, 10-core GPU, and four Thunderbolt ports, starting at $1,499 with 16GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. There is no M4 Pro option, and therefore no Thunderbolt 5 port on any 2024 iMac. Every version except the base model also has Gigabit Ethernet (on the power brick) and Touch ID on the Magic Keyboard.
The model I’m testing shows that Apple’s upgrades are still very expensive. It has a 10-core M4, 24GB of RAM, 1TB of storage, and four Thunderbolt 4 ports, as well as a nano-textured screen. These three options (an additional 8GB of RAM, 1TB of storage, and an updated screen) raise the $1,299 price to $2,299. However, the good news is that not buying them won’t cost you an unacceptable amount of memory like before.