Good to see an older gentleman talking about technology. I resisted buying Intel Mac waiting for the Arm Mac; trust me, it’s has not been easy. So far, I am doing awesome. Now, in October 2020, few months extra won’t kill me. hopefully they release something next 6 weeks
HI Nano, many thanks for viewing and commenting. Funny, you never think of yourself as and 'older gentleman', I still think of myself as a 30 year old; I just can't run as far, climb as high, walk as far, lift as much, open some jars... yeah, ok I'm getting old. 😉. Hang on in there I'm sure a new toy won't be far away.
I personally don't need Windows for anything, but due to getting my bag stolen did need a new laptop, immediately. With Apple Silicon being just around the corner, the price of a 16" MacBook Pro didn't seem worth it, and the 2016-2019 15" models have lots of issues, so I bought a 2015 15". They can be found quite cheap on the used market, I saved even more by buying one with a dying battery and replacing the battery myself. Performance is fine, obviously slower than the new 8-core machines but enough to last me until the Apple Silicon 16" gets released, which I assume will be sometime next year. If anyone reading this has an older MacBook Pro and it feels like the performance is starting to degrade, put some new thermal paste on your CPU and GPU (there are tons of videos on UA-cam showing how to do this). It has made a huge difference for this 15", the fans now don't come on at all during casual use, and the CPU speed during full load is much higher.
Congratulations! You have gone for the exact options as I did and funny enough, for the same reasons :-) 7 minutes video of 1080p 25fps in H2.64 took exactly 37.07 seconds. I'm over the moon with that performance.
This was an excellent video. Enjoy hearing how people use their apple computers to help them with real world projects. For myself, I am on an every 10-year desktop upgrade cycle with apple. But, not being a power user, I always buy a model that is several years old. Currently, I am looking to pick-up a used 2014, trash can sized imac pro to replace my 2010, mac mini (the last model with a built-in DVD super-drive). Perhaps someday in the future, I will be able to add an imac pro to my vintage mac collection.
At 3:05, option #3 was right choice. Wait about 2 or 3 years for Apple Silicon Macs. For example, the A15 generation is probably going to be leaps and bounds over the A14 generation but think of the improvements in 3 years including Parallels type solutions for running legacy Intel stuff.
I bought an imac 2 weeks ago. I needed a reliable machine. Also wanted to be able to upgrade RAM and also add extras. I went for 27in 2nd range, because I don't game at all. I would of liked a more stream line monitor but I weighed up the pros and cons with my needs and this machine won. I love it, it makes business more enjoyable. I will keep an eye on the silicon macs and will consider upgrading but only after a few years and then I may sell. Either way I get a great reliable machine that I could easily sell whilst they tweak the new models. There will be old iMacs for sale for a while I think. The monitor alone would get a fair bit. I love it I don't regret it.
I also just upgraded to the iMac 27", but spec'd it up a bit more than you did with the i9 and top-end GPU, since I do a mix of photos and video for my travelogues. I also upgraded my external storage from Thunderbolt 2 to Thunderbolt 3 using RAID0 to achieve about 450 Mbps throughput speed. My previous computer was a Mac Pro 2013, so the new iMac is a huge improvement in speed, and I managed to sell my Mac Pro for a good sum on eBay since they are still in demand to some users. That sale helped pay for the iMac upgrades. Like you, I also need to run Windows apps sometimes, so now was the time for me to upgrade so I could continue to run Windows 10 under the Parallels VM. Thanks for your photography-focused review!
Hi Mark. Considering my last top of the line iMac was purchased in 2007 and served me well until just a few years ago, I realized that I needed some desktop power to compliment my respectable maxed out 2018 MacBook Air. Went with the core i7 model also but decided on the 16GB graphics card rather then the anti reflective coating. The laptop had trouble with the large video files I was making before the Jewish holidays that just passed. I’m going to be recording and broadcasting concerts and stuff from my home office so having the big iMac to handle those was certainly needed. Great review. Best, Marc
I have been waiting to see what the new ARM Mac Book Pros will be like and most importantly, software compatability. I am using a 2015, i5 8gb, 512gb sd and it is killing me! Thanks for the video!
I changed both my Macbook and my iMac this summer to 2020 models, and I did it for three very good reasons:- 1. The hardware specs for the 2020 model are excellent, my Macbook Pro is a 16" i9 8core with 64Gb Ram top-spec 5600M GPU and 2TB of storage, my iMac is 27" i9 10 core with (self-installed 128Gb of Ram), 5700XT 16Gb GPU and 2 TB storage, both incredible specs. 2. I still use Boot camp, so I have the best of both worlds 3. I use my computers for making a living, so I cannot risk compatibility issues when AS appears, as it could take as long as 2 years before the change is fully considered successful. My productivity has increased by 50-60% using the new machines, which means I will be able to right-off the total £8k cost in 14-18 months, so in two years time, I can start again with new machines using AS if they are better, and to be honest I will probably be able to sell the machine I have for at least 30% of their current value, so all in all this is a business decision and it makes complete financial sense !
Great review and analysis! My 2012 iMac thunderports stop working 2 weeks ago so I’ll be ordering a 2020 iMac 27” 8 core 2TB and then upgrade it with 64GB OWC RAM this coming week! I usually use computers 8-10 years so the current iMac will be the smart move in my case. Stability with my recording software is of the upmost importance and I’ve had great stability with no fan noise with my 2012 intel so I’ll be sticking with Intel for one last 8-10 year run! Cheers! 🤘
Great insight, Mark... I just ordered one for myself and expecting it to arrive within the next few days. Same options as yours with the exception that I added the large numeric keyboard and the track pad 2. In the end it came down to my need for a desktop now and the uncertainty of how the next system will perform out of the gate. I believe that by the 21 inch version not getting an update this year that will be the first one to get the redesign. Also, I want to keep my option of being able to use Microsoft software suite. Enjoy your new system!!!
@@LouisLuzuka I went with the top tier 8-core 10th generation i7 processor and upgraded the SSD. I also added the 10 Gigabit Ethernet, larger keyboard with the numeric section, and the magic trackpad 2.
@@LouisLuzuka, not really... I actually believe that for my use, I got probably more that what I needed. I got the 1TB as I can always add an external SSD for a lot cheaper. Also, after reading how the nano testure can be damaged or the durability being put in question, I decided to not get. There are also a few YB videos where they discuss that the font and graphics look a little washed out, or not as bright when compared to the normal glossy screen.
I’m still happy with my 2011 iMac 21” and 2015 MacBook Pro 13”. And impressed that Apple still deliver upgrades to such ‘old’ hardware. Being retired I can afford to wait a minute or so for a panorama or render, and have never needed to export more than 20 images at one time, so processor speed is not important. The reliability and quality of the hardware matters most to me : neither machine has given any issue. That said, I would be interested in a nano screen, so if the new Silicone iMacs offer that, I will be tempted.
Hi, Many thanks for viewing and for commenting. I agree, the biggest fastest machine isn't always needed. I'm fairly confident that the Nano will see its way on to other devices in the future. So far I'm more than happy with it.
I'm still using my 2011 iMac and I'm so happy that I will wait until Apple Silicon comes... For my laptop I have a problem I wanted to buy the 16 Macpro but I'm not sure now... it's too expensive for a dying model ...
I have the 2011 iMac and it still runs great, but apple stopped doing software updates. They always find a way to get on my nerves. I just purchased the 2020 iMac, and it’s exciting and depressing at the same time because of the expense.
Personally I’m waiting for Apple silicon before I make my decision. I’m in desperate need of an upgrade but I have to see what Apple release to make sure I don’t miss out on something incredible for the sake of waiting a few months. I may end up buying the 27inch intel because I can’t wait a whole year before they release a pro machine as rumours are pointing to low end machines to start with.
Congratulations on your 1K subs! I hope to get there someday soon 🤩 If I had the cash, I'd be very tempted to get the 2020 27" iMac. I'm currently running a 2015 13" base Macbook Pro and it struggles with editing in FCPX when I use text plugins (which is basically always) and transitions (which is also basically always). I can't wait to see what Apple has in the pipeline regarding Apple Silicon iMacs. As long as they run FCPX like a red hot knife cutting through butter, and (a nice to have) run Windows on a VM, that's basically all I really want.
When it takes 43% less time to finish, the performance gain is actually 70%. But still not as much of an improvement as one might expect from a 7 year difference (plus desktop vs. mobile). The main reason is probably that CPU performance gains have indeed decreased in the last decade or so (even more true for Intel than AMD). Add to that, a lot of CPU improvements are related to tasks for which newer CPU have specialized units, like hardware en- and decoding, and in recent years, Adobe has been notoriously bad in taking advantage of such hardware optimizations. Other than that, I agree that the 8 code i7 is the smarter choice. Due to its higher base clock speed, it can actually (slightly) outperform the i9 in some situation. And even in most heavily multi threaded tasks, the i9's advantage is quite marginal. A small premium might have been justified, but given how much Apple charges for it, I would definitely not recommend it.
As much as I really want a 2020 iMac I just cannot justify that price with Apple silicon machines looming. However given that it's likely at least a year, probably more like two before the iteration of Arm iMac comes out that I know I would want, I picked up a mid spec (i5) Mac mini as my workaday machine while the heavy lifting continues to be done by my older i7 8700K PC.
I got the new 2020 imac yesterday too. My justification is that I run my businesses on this mac, and as much as I am looking forward to the apple silicon macs, I am not switching my business to it straight away. This mac will be perfectly fine and supported for the next 2 to 3 years. I will get an apple silicon laptop when one comes out and use that to test everything that I need for my business.
Hi Steve, many thanks for viewing and for the comment. I think this is a view that many who rely on their machines for business have taken; stick with the known for the time being and let the current unknowns mature.
I had a 2012 iMac and I went for a new 2020. So I made the plunge, so far after a week I'm really happy. The 5K screen is really a big improvement over the 2012 screen, it is making re-edit some of my images. I made the same choice of specs you picked, although I went with 128GB ram upgrade (not from Apple). Did you see the vids that the ram configuration (mixing ram module sizes) slows down your performance; may be worth checking out. Sorry I reviewed you vid again and noticed you went with 2 X 16GB, please disregard my previous sentence.
Hi Daniel. Many thanks for viewing and for your comment. Looks like you'll have a beast with the 128GB ram. Noting that you had updated the comment re the 2 x 16GB ram, the comment you make about mixing ram is still very valid, and one that I've been checking out. Whilst I haven't mixed in the old ram with the new ram, there are those who indicate that this is actually possible without any detrimental effects, provided you install the mixed sets in the correct order. However, I haven't had the bottle to try it out myself, given that Apple don't seem to support this approach. Enjoy your new machine 😉
I’ve just ordered an iMac. I have a 2017 MacBook Pro, but when I would view a photo in Lightroom’s full screen mode when connected to a 4K monitor, I would wait a second or two for the pic to appear. This doesn’t happen when using the MBP by itself or when connected to a lower res monitor like the 2010 Apple Display. Then scrolling through the full screen pics takes too long so I’m hoping the upgrade computer resolves these issues. With Lightroom, it’s not clear to me whether performance issues are CPU, GPU or memory related. I’ll also look at Basecamp to use Windows from an external SSD.
From looking at various on line groups, the issues around external hi res monitors seems to crop up fairly regularly. My Lightroom performance has certainly improved over my older machine, but then it was a late 2013 MacBook Pro! Many thanks for viewing and for the comment.
Thanks for this review. I'm actually thinking of getting a similar spec machine as a replacement for my M1 mac mini, partly to benefit from the screen, and partly to have access to sensible quantities of RAM. One question I have is: What is the fan noise like? The M1 mini is completely silent, which is good. I know it has a fan, but I have never heard it. I think the 2020 iMac (similar spec to yours) is a tool that will do the job well for me until the M1 pro / max versions come out, but I worry that the fan noise might be intrusive. I like a quiet work environment. Appreciate your insight.
Hi Steve. Thanks for viewing and for your comment. The fan for the most part, probably in excess of 90% of my use, is very quiet; you hardly know its there. However, when the machine is under heavy load, such as doing some Lightroom edits when you have a lot of local adjustments active on the image (especially spot removal) it does start to remind you that there is a fan present and can get pretty loud, though it is not as loud, nor as freuent as my old 15" 2013 MacBook Pro, when that was undertaking the same activity. But once you close that particular image the fan soon returns to normal. Whilst it can get loud I've not found it intrusive; as I say, the noise is usually short lived, but I suppose it will depend on the activity you undertake. I hope that helps?
I think it's a good idea to leverage the latest version of the Intel model while they're ironing the kinks out of the latest. This is after two previous versions of similar technology rollovers from Apple since 1984.
Hmm. Am in that dilemma now. I have a MacBook and at first it was great as I used it much in the way you would an iPad Pro these days. However, I now edit content on it and it struggles with space and with only one port on the side it is increasingly annoying. However, I have waited a year to see what Apple would do and I only use Apple apps so far so Apple silicon would work well for me, but can I wait yet another year for the iMac to be launched?? I was planning on going for it this month until I saw another Apple launch event in November...so for now I am stuck on the fence!!
Hi Mark, I’ve just “stumbled upon” your channel....and delighted I did! - 1) Because I’m thinking about replacing my 2013 27” iMac and 2) I really like your style of presentation and clarity of content - Thanks. You said you upgraded your RAM with third party “sticks” that’s one big reason to buy now, as I doubt that feature will be on the new machine. Which supplier did you use for the RAM and presumably you are happy with their product. Did you leave the 8GB in place, or is that unwise to do? - Thanks again from a new Subscriber - Peter.
Hi Peter. Many thanks for viewing and for your comments. I think that your assumption is probably correct and that RAM will not be user upgradable on future iMacs, it will therefore be crucial to speck out the correct model at time of ordering. Which nicely brings me to the question you pose, as it was Crucial memory sticks that I ended up with 😉. I actually got them from a site called Mr Memory here in the UK. I've used them a few times now and each time I've been happy with the service they offer (I have no affiliation with the company). They make it very easy to identify the correct memory for your machine. The majority of sizes do not have a brand identified, which can be off-putting, though each time I've ordered I've either got Crucial or Kingston memory. I didn't leave the original 8GB in; I've seen conflicting advice on this, some say you can mix the original pair of RAM sticks with a different sized pair of RAM, provide you position them in the correct, alternate, slots. Others, including Apple, however advise against this. So I erred on the side of caution. I hope that helps? Many thanks for subscribing👍
@@MarkLindstrom - Thanks Mark, that’s very helpful, I’m in the UK so I’ll use the same supplier, if I buy the current iMac. Just one final question, when Apple release the new version, do they immediately stop taking orders for the version it’s replacing? - if the 2 “run alongside” for a short period, I’m thinking I’ll wait first to see what the new model offers....just don’t want to miss out on an Apple supplied current version, if I can avoid it......nice joke on Crucial too :- )
@@petertaranscorsese2900 Normally Apple will swap straight over to the new model when a new one is released; note released and not announced. You can usually still get the 'off the peg' models from the usual third party retailers for a while, but if you want to customise your Mac, then once the new model goes on sale, then that's it the older models are removed from the site, apart from the reconditioned offers. There's an Apple event expected later this month but there's no current rumours of an iMac replacement yet. However, the iMac Pro has already been listed as available only while stocks last, and Apple have indicated that it is to be discontinued once stocks are gone. Apple have suggested users opt instead for the 2020 iMac. Which would suggest that there is still some time before a replacement for the current iMac is announced; but you can never tell!!
Hi Sanjay, many thanks for viewing and for the comment. Personally I haven’t seen any issues with blurred text on the nano screen, in fact it’s better than my previous monitor, an ASU’s Pro Art screen. Unfortunately though I’m unable to compare it against a standard iMac screen. I know that there have been some reviews where they have been able to do the direct comparison and their findings is a that there is very slight difference. But from seeing those reviews, for me and my needs, the difference was negligible.
I made my purchase of a 21.5” i5, 6 core, 16G ram iMac back in January, before the WWDC event. So I wasn’t even aware of the change until after I had made my purchase. But I was definitely ready for a new machine. Since it may be a while before they actually release the desktop iMacs with the ARM chips, I’m confident that I made the right decision for now. However, if they release a new MacBook Air or Pro with Apple Silicone, then I may opt for that soon too, one to stay and one to go.....
The main thing is that the machine does what you need it to do. All the rumours seem to point to the smaller devices being the first to be updated to Apple Silicon, so you might not have long to wait. Many thanks Patrick for the view and commenting.
I was running a Mid-2012 MBPRet. Apple supported the model with Catalina, but only barely. We moved up to a 27" iMac. Didn't even give it a second thought on the Apple silicon Macs. I'm happy with the purchase, and like you...will probably drool over the new models. Then again, I...no we all, drool over new Mac models as they are released any how, right?
I’m going to go with the current model (10 core i9 and 1TB; not getting the Dick Turpin Apple memory and no need for the nano screen. The iMac will come in handy for data analysis so the switching back and forth between Mac and Windows (and also using UNIX) is ideal.
I'm still not sure, buy a 27 inch 2020, or wait for the Arm mac. I want a second computer for in the bedroom ( I do have a game-pc downstairs), i'll going to use it for browsing, music listening and such stuff. My main concern is that this iMac will not be future proof ( I guess it won't get new os updates in the future because of silicon), other than that, this imac is excellent for the things I want to do.
Well I have 3 computers here. PC : Running Windows and gaming on that one. Laptop 1 : A year old Lenovo Ideapad with 8th gen i7, 16 gb of RAM and 1 tb SSD. It's my main workhorse. Running on Linux with Windows installed in a virtual machine. Laptop 2 : 2017 MacBook Air. i5 cpu, 8 gb of RAM and 256 gb SSD. My former workhorse. And still does the job nicely. Although it's noticeably slower compared to the Lenovo. Not going to upgrade anytime soon. I'll wait and see what Apple will be up to. :)
Have you notice whether or not the text isn't as crisp? Watched a video showing the difference between nano and non-nano, the text on the nano wasn't clear but on the non-nano it was crisp. I'm curious is you notice anything like this, especially with fine detail on photographs? Thanks for the video, much appreciated.
Hi Jeff. Many thanks for viewing and for the comment. I am aware that some other reviews have been able to do a direct comparison between the glossy and nano screens and have discerned that the nano screen is a little less sharp with text. All I can say is that in comparison with my older Asus Pro Art screen, the Nano screen is a lot sharper and I'm more than happy with it.
I bought a 13" M1 MBP to replace my Intell i5 2020 version ... but have just bought a 27 inch 2020 iMac 3.3ghz i5. I upgraded the Ram to 64GB myself and the Geekbench scores are not greatly down from the M1 - for example 6900 multi core on the iMac and 7500 on the M1 MBP. Do I notice a difference using Lightroom Classic ... well so far, absolutely not ! I was tempted by the i7 iMac but more wanted the 5K screen than the computer - though oddly I am finding it's performance rather good !! We also have a 2010 iMac 27 inch here being used as the wife is a professional photographer.
Windows also runs on ARM too (for OEMs). Hence, technically, there's still a possibility in the future that there will be Boot Camp for Apple Silicon (hopefully) or at least hypervisor/virtualization. Time will tell.. 🤷🏻♂️
You're correct in that Windows does run on ARM, for OEMs; though Microsoft are reported as not being very responsive to licensing versions to run on Mac ARM machines....yet. As you say, only time will tell. Many thanks for viewing and for your comment.
Hi Mark, excellent video thank you. I'm facing an identical choice to you in that my 2012 Macbook Pro is definitely running out of steam. My thoughts like yours are replace the Macbook with an iMac / iPad Pro combo. I'm prepared to wait for the Apple silicon iMac but wanted to ask you, (apologies if you've already answered this,) how do you find an iPad for every day use?
Hi John, Many thanks for the view and comment. To be honest my needs for portability have declined no end this year.. for some unexplained reason 😉 However in deciding whether to go for the iMac or another MacBook, I took a look at how often I actually took my old MacBook out of the house, and it was now on a very limited number of occasions, holidays and sometimes when I wanted to shoot tethered on location. Making the assumption that my portable requirements will not necessarily require me to produce a finalised version of my images, I've been experimenting with a few solutions, which do work, but are not as elegant as just using a traditional laptop. The current workflow for imaging on iPads is still a little clunky in comparison. However, I also took the view that the iPad platform will mature even more over the years. With the arrival of Apple Silicon the suggestions are that not only will the Apple Silicon devices be able to run IOS apps, but IOS devices should be able to run new Apple Silicon MacOS apps, which will be very interesting if true.
I've never used a mac. I'm going to try finding a store where I can try one out and see how it differs from Windows. I'm getting fed up with Windows temporary files that corrupt my editiing software, or at least hinder it.
I suspect current Macs will be supported for 5 years. I have a 2020 iMac on order. One thing that pushed me over is the thought these are the last Macs with user upgradable RAM and I want to LOAD MINE UP with RAM. My current iMac still does what I need but it is 6 years old. It is a late 2013 model that has every upgrade option when I ordered it. The mechanical part of the Fusion drive failed a couple of years ago and it was replaced with a 2TB Samsung SSD. I ordered a 2TB storage in the new one and 8GB of RAM intending to upgrade it. I am getting the 8 core i7 model. It will pretty much double all the specs of my current machine.
I have some windows programs I run too. I suspect a virtual machine will run fine on the next general macs. Bootcamp will be gone. No doubt about that. I went with the i7 processor. Max Tech ran tests and said the i9 is only about 15% faster.
Hi Dennis.Many thanks for viewing and commenting. From what I've seen and read so far, there are still question marks over whether Windows will run through virtual machines. Though no doubt the brain boxes will find a way eventually.
@@MarkLindstrom I’ll probably get the last of the intel MacBooks when I upgrade next year. So many reviews on UA-cam just focus on raw performance when it’s irrelevant if you can’t run your business critical apps. The ability to run windows if key to me.
Great celebrations ... I also brought iMac 2020 27 inches in first week month of October ... speed is really amazing screen colours are ok, and Apple need work more on ergonomic of mouse and keyboard ...
Nice video! I have a 2015 iMac and faced with a similar decision. I have decided to wait for the silicon iMac next year. That said, I think your decision to buy the new 2020 Intel iMac is a good decision. I actually bought one for my Daughter last month and she loves it. These iMacs are great machines and I can’t wait to see what Apple delivers next year.
Many thanks for viewing and for your comment. I got 2x 16gb Crucial DDR4 PC4-21300 2666MHz 260-pin SODIMM modules. So far I don't seem to have had any issues.
HI Louis, Many thanks for watching and for your questions; I'll answer all of them in this single response if that's OK?. The Nano glass, for me, is a great option and I'm more than happy that I selected it. As I mentioned in the video, my room can be bright; but if you have a more controlled environment you might not get any benefit from it. And as Adrian has mentioned, others have commented that the Nano Screen is perhaps not as pin sharp as the standard screen, but to be honest, it's plenty sharp for me. I expect it's only when you can see both the standard and Nano screens side by side, that you'll discern a difference. As for the durability concerns, it doesn't really bother me; I don't have any young children with sticky fingers that might necessitate heavy cleaning. And as the screen is not touch sensitive, it shouldn't get too grubby in the first place. As for how I picked my specs, there was no real science to it. As my focus on Video editing continues to grow, dependent on how the channel goes, I believed the 8 gig video option and the 8 core 10th Gen would provide me with sufficient power and performance to see me through the next few years. I also thought that the 16 gig video and 10 cores, would not be worth the extra money, for me! As I mentioned in the video, I didn't go with 2Tb storage because I use network storage, hence the upgrade to 10 gigabit ethernet. The 1 Tb is plenty for my current needs. If I need any additional local storage, prior to upgrading my network, I will just add an external SSD. I hope that helps?
Mark Lindstrom yes that helps plenty! You basically picked what works for you! Nano glass is intriguing me The 8 cores is enough for me, but as the years go by I’m editing raw video so it seems like the 10 core 16Gb graphics is for me. I’m not familiar with network storage but, again I use a Drobo on thunderbolt 3 so I’m not in need on NAS so I might skip gigabit And 1TB is perfect but I’m aiming for 2TB out of convenience, just love the speed of the internal ssd and it would be nice to not worry about transferring files Glad you’re enjoying your computer ! Ya I’m still not sure on nano glass it looks beautiful tho ❤️🥺😍
Hi John. Many thanks for viewing and for the comment. I got my memory from a UK company, MrMemory.co.uk; they make it very easy to ensure that you get the correct RAM, as you just identify the computer make/model you are buying for and they then list the options. You can either elect for their standard memory, or for Kingston Memory. I just went with the standard option and they sent me Crucial memory; which I'm more than happy with. Very speedy service; no complaints. I got 2 x 16GB DDR4 PC4-21300 2666MHz 260-pin SODIMM I hope that helps
I've been buying Macs since 1994. I've tried a couple PCs also, but most of my computers have been Macs. I also have a MacBook Pro, an iPad, and iPhone. I recently bought a new 2020 iMac 27" and it works just fine. However, I'm at the end of my love affair Apple products and I don't think I'm going to buy any more of them. Being too expensive is the one thing I've tolerated because I perceived some value and benefit for the extra expense, but they currently seem to no longer be evolving a la Steve Jobs, but rather, are making themselves and their products less user friendly. One example is the endless changing of cable connectors making many accessories unusable or requiring expensive adapters. I just paid 45 bucks for a little Thunderbolt 3 cable....that is very annoying. The other thing has to do with their resistance to assist third party repair shops and the Right-to-Repair movement in general. I tried to get some help from Apple to retrieve data from my old iMac that wouldn't boot up. They tried to help me run through a couple of basic procedures that I already attempted and after that didn't work, they just told me I was out of luck. I went on UA-cam and spent about $50 for some tools and connectors and was successful in retrieving my data, restoring my HD, and getting the old iMac back in working condition. Apple told me it couldn't be done, but it was actually fairly easy. So, I think my Apple days will end when what I still have dies or becomes obsolete. I just don't see them moving in the right direction as a company.
or 4. get a NAS Drive which runs virtualisation - I have a QNAP TVS-871T (8 bay) and can connect to a windows session (hosted by the NAS) via my iMac Pro ! The NAS also thunderbolt connectivity - which my iMac is also using.
Definitely an option Nigel. Eventually I'll be upgrading my storage and when I do come to move to Apple Silicon, if my needs are still for mixed OS, I'll consider it. Many thanks for the view and commenting.
Hi Eli. For me I have no issues with the sharpness of the Nano screen. I know that those who have been able to test the Nano and standard screens side by side, have identified that the standard screen is slightly sharper. Without the ability to do a direct comparison all I can say is that the Nano screen is a lot sharper than my existing ASUS Pro Art screen, and I'm more than happy with it. Many thanks for viewing and for the comment.
Interesting, my 2011 27” iMac 🖥 still works, runs a bit hot and slow, but never failed yet. Love the big screens, my 2019 MacBook Pro is much faster, downside is screen size. Liked and subscribed 🙂
Fantastic review! Great reason why you chose to go with it. I’m holding off a little, but sadly my 27” 2013 loaded iMac just died! So i need to decide rather quickly. Thanks so much!
I absolutely love your title. This is exactly what I’ve asked myself a few times. I haven’t used it yet, and have had at least three months. It’s pretty to look at. I’m this way about electronics. I’ll have it for months before I use. Your video is helpful.
I'm in a similar sort of predicament to you although I am coming over from WIndows to Mac for the first time. The 27" iMac i7 is the one I have been considering. I am more geared towards using stuff like Reason, Logic, and Abelton though, and less photo and video work. I wonder is there a reason why this Bootcamp won't work on the new silicon iMac's and MBPs when they start to appear? I loved Win XP. 7 is what I am currently on it is okay but not as good as XP was. I never made the upgrade to Win 10 as I absolutely hate that O/S. However! Microsoft decided to make this new Flight Simulator after a decade of nothing just as I am likely jumping ship to Apple and I think it is only realistically available on Windows 10 as it is not really something that can be used on an Xbox. I also think Flight Simulator might work through Bootcamp but it may have some issues. Whether I get the Intel iMac or wait for Silicon I may still need to get a separate mid-priced Windows desktop with recommended specs just for Flight Sim as much as I don't want to buy a Win 10 system. If so I will probably go with an AMD Ryzen to save some money and get just as good performance if not better pound for pound as the Intel equivalent.
Hi, Many thanks for the view and comment. I think much of the problem is more to do with licensing; and Microsoft's unwillingness to licence to third party Arm devices.
@@MarkLindstrom Thanks. On my iMac the display goes off and wakes as well, however the problem is the computer does not hibernate when the display goes off, the CPU fan spins all the time, HD is spinning as well. I have 2019 iMac, this is since Catalina update. This is happening if I let it go sleeping by itself or with Hot Corners option, however if I put it to sleep manually by going to Apple menu and then choosing Sleep then it hibernates. Could you please test it by letting it sleep by itself or with Hot Corners? You will clearly hear the fan spinning, or you can easily notice the computer does not hibernate if the display turns on right after you press the mouse button. If it hangs for two seconds then it was in hibernation.
I bought my 2017 MBP in 2019.. So you can imagine how I feel when they announce the switch to ARM... I was 😡.. But after I understood the reason and totally agree with them. Apple made a great move that gives them control to their product road map and don’t have to deal with Intel’s state of chaos. In addition gives their users a seamless integration with iPhone and iPad apps. As for me I’m exploring my switch to Linux. I mostly use my MBP to code and I could do the same on a Chromebook or Linux desktop. I’m planning to share my MBP with my wife and just sold her MBA that just fell out of support. Let’s see where this takes me, maybe back to where I started...
Thanks. Waitee forever for this graphics update. Apple, please make modular Max’s! I remember buying a MacBookPro right before USB-C. I can’t advantage of that port now. I must be careful since Apple is costly to make sure a computer lasts five years if it’s gonna be over 3500 as a graphics machine.
I've been buying Macs since 1997 and honestly with this move to ARM I will stop using Macs, I'm tired of paying for expensive machines and losing support in a few years, unlike Windows the Adobe CS 6 package no longer runs on new machines and as I have perpetual licenses I will continue on Intel until I can no longer, I will buy used machines if necessary and stock because the type of work I do I do not want subscriptions that increase my cost, not to mention the absurd values that is to buy Macs in the country where I live, different from USA, in the rest of the world a Mac costs the same as a semi-new car, unfortunately I think my Mac fan days are over!
I want one of these..... But the design is putting me off. I think it is going to look positively ancient when the new Apple silicon iMacs are released. Just like the old MacBook Air designs look really dated compared to the newer MacBook designs. I think I will hold off and wait.
You do lose fine detail with nano screen. You could of applied a plastic screen protector with anti glare. Geekbench i think just measures the cpu and not gpu. Your new GPU would be well above the old iMac gpu in performance.
@@RadPuppies ...your use case might be different than mine. I use it for remoting into the office PC. When I share my screen with my coworkers in a meeting it would start to lag as I am typing.
Hi Jose, many thanks for viewing and for your comment. Sorry, but I deliberately didn’t show the view so as to maintain privacy; I’ll leave it people’s imagination as to what the view might be. 😉
I don’t see anything wrong with that. The 1st machine with silicon chip might have teething problems and some software may not be compatible at 1st Better to wait for one year or more and then trade in
The Elephant in the room, no iMac from this model on will allow you to upgrade the memory, if anything people should be running to buy this iMac. It's a work horse, this explains why Apple wants to take their time upgrading a new iMac. Plus the black bezel is easier on my eyes than a white one. I have one program that absolutely requires Windows so I use Microsoft Remote Desktop, the Windows laptop is in another room hooked to power and I access it when I need it.
Apple Silicon will require developers to rewrite their applications. For some large companies it may be OK, other probably not. I feel once we have identical code bases I will probably keep the wiped over the MacBook. Windows is clearly the main platform for Gaming, interchangeability will never be Apple strong point thus for gamers at least Windows/PC will remain dominant. Since Apple stopped making software, I can't say I have a preference of windows vs Mac, Adobe photoshop etc is very similar, for office work Microsoft Office is still my No1... Mac's are mighty computers which most rarely utilise, I'd be surprised if the iPad Pro would not support 70% of most users....
Hi Frank. You don't indicate whether you think it should be lower or higher? Having run the tests numerous times all I can say is that the single core result is fairly consistent @ 1360's. Many thanks for viewing and for the comment.
Thanks for this video. I think I will wait for Apple silicon and then buy a very cheap used iMac 2020 i7. ;-) Or will I? Well... no. Apple silicon is way to tempting for me. Meanwhile, have fun with your new machine, seriously.
@@MarkLindstrom Hello Mark, finally I followed your decision. But I simply bought the i7 base model with 5500 XT and without any extras like 10 Gbit ethernet or nano texture yesterday. :-) When Apple silicon is safe to buy and run it (2 yrs ahead?), I may go to an iMac Pro like machine, if there will be one of this kind.
I'm using apple hardware so I can escape from freaking Windows, I'm always installing 2 sided windows in my house so I can relax, I still have vista nightmares
We need more reviews where the reviews says takes a bit longer no big deal I will have a cuppa ... wonderful 👏👌..another thing, doesn’t 27inch look tiny these days ..
I would never return to windows, on my second iMac and macbook pro. when I am forced to use windows at work I get stressed out at the crappy interface, the constant antivirus updates required, the whole windows thing of pissing you off before you get started, my iMac is a world of calm and stress free computing....
Good to see an older gentleman talking about technology. I resisted buying Intel Mac waiting for the Arm Mac; trust me, it’s has not been easy. So far, I am doing awesome. Now, in October 2020, few months extra won’t kill me. hopefully they release something next 6 weeks
HI Nano, many thanks for viewing and commenting. Funny, you never think of yourself as and 'older gentleman', I still think of myself as a 30 year old; I just can't run as far, climb as high, walk as far, lift as much, open some jars... yeah, ok I'm getting old. 😉.
Hang on in there I'm sure a new toy won't be far away.
I personally don't need Windows for anything, but due to getting my bag stolen did need a new laptop, immediately. With Apple Silicon being just around the corner, the price of a 16" MacBook Pro didn't seem worth it, and the 2016-2019 15" models have lots of issues, so I bought a 2015 15". They can be found quite cheap on the used market, I saved even more by buying one with a dying battery and replacing the battery myself. Performance is fine, obviously slower than the new 8-core machines but enough to last me until the Apple Silicon 16" gets released, which I assume will be sometime next year.
If anyone reading this has an older MacBook Pro and it feels like the performance is starting to degrade, put some new thermal paste on your CPU and GPU (there are tons of videos on UA-cam showing how to do this). It has made a huge difference for this 15", the fans now don't come on at all during casual use, and the CPU speed during full load is much higher.
Bag stolen 🥺🥺🥺
Sorry to hear about getting your laptop nicked. New thermal paste is certainly a good route to go. Many thanks for the view and comment.
Congratulations! You have gone for the exact options as I did and funny enough, for the same reasons :-)
7 minutes video of 1080p 25fps in H2.64 took exactly 37.07 seconds. I'm over the moon with that performance.
Many thanks Mikey. Enjoy your new toy 👍
@@MarkLindstrom You too Mark
This was an excellent video. Enjoy hearing how people use their apple computers to help them with real world projects. For myself, I am on an every 10-year desktop upgrade cycle with apple. But, not being a power user, I always buy a model that is several years old. Currently, I am looking to pick-up a used 2014, trash can sized imac pro to replace my 2010, mac mini (the last model with a built-in DVD super-drive). Perhaps someday in the future, I will be able to add an imac pro to my vintage mac collection.
Many thanks for viewing and for the comment 👍
At 3:05, option #3 was right choice. Wait about 2 or 3 years for Apple Silicon Macs. For example, the A15 generation is probably going to be leaps and bounds over the A14 generation but think of the improvements in 3 years including Parallels type solutions for running legacy Intel stuff.
Many thanks David for the view and comment. Yep the new machines will continue to evolve and improve; so I'm happy to hang on a while.
I bought an imac 2 weeks ago. I needed a reliable machine. Also wanted to be able to upgrade RAM and also add extras. I went for 27in 2nd range, because I don't game at all.
I would of liked a more stream line monitor but I weighed up the pros and cons with my needs and this machine won.
I love it, it makes business more enjoyable. I will keep an eye on the silicon macs and will consider upgrading but only after a few years and then I may sell. Either way I get a great reliable machine that I could easily sell whilst they tweak the new models. There will be old iMacs for sale for a while I think. The monitor alone would get a fair bit.
I love it I don't regret it.
I also just upgraded to the iMac 27", but spec'd it up a bit more than you did with the i9 and top-end GPU, since I do a mix of photos and video for my travelogues. I also upgraded my external storage from Thunderbolt 2 to Thunderbolt 3 using RAID0 to achieve about 450 Mbps throughput speed. My previous computer was a Mac Pro 2013, so the new iMac is a huge improvement in speed, and I managed to sell my Mac Pro for a good sum on eBay since they are still in demand to some users. That sale helped pay for the iMac upgrades. Like you, I also need to run Windows apps sometimes, so now was the time for me to upgrade so I could continue to run Windows 10 under the Parallels VM. Thanks for your photography-focused review!
Hi Joe. Many thanks for viewing and for the comment. Sounds like you have a beast of a set up. Enjoy 👍
Hi Mark. Considering my last top of the line iMac was purchased in 2007 and served me well until just a few years ago, I realized that I needed some desktop power to compliment my respectable maxed out 2018 MacBook Air. Went with the core i7 model also but decided on the 16GB graphics card rather then the anti reflective coating. The laptop had trouble with the large video files I was making before the Jewish holidays that just passed. I’m going to be recording and broadcasting concerts and stuff from my home office so having the big iMac to handle those was certainly needed. Great review.
Best,
Marc
Many thanks Marc. Hope the new toy world out for you 👍
I have been waiting to see what the new ARM Mac Book Pros will be like and most importantly, software compatability.
I am using a 2015, i5 8gb, 512gb sd and it is killing me!
Thanks for the video!
You're welcome Rick. Many thanks for the view and comment.
I changed both my Macbook and my iMac this summer to 2020 models, and I did it for three very good reasons:-
1. The hardware specs for the 2020 model are excellent, my Macbook Pro is a 16" i9 8core with 64Gb Ram top-spec 5600M GPU and 2TB of storage, my iMac is 27" i9 10 core with (self-installed 128Gb of Ram), 5700XT 16Gb GPU and 2 TB storage, both incredible specs.
2. I still use Boot camp, so I have the best of both worlds
3. I use my computers for making a living, so I cannot risk compatibility issues when AS appears, as it could take as long as 2 years before the change is fully considered successful.
My productivity has increased by 50-60% using the new machines, which means I will be able to right-off the total £8k cost in 14-18 months, so in two years time, I can start again with new machines using AS if they are better, and to be honest I will probably be able to sell the machine I have for at least 30% of their current value, so all in all this is a business decision and it makes complete financial sense !
what a refreshing review style. thank you
Glad you enjoyed it!
Great review and analysis! My 2012 iMac thunderports stop working 2 weeks ago so I’ll be ordering a 2020 iMac 27” 8 core 2TB and then upgrade it with 64GB OWC RAM this coming week! I usually use computers 8-10 years so the current iMac will be the smart move in my case. Stability with my recording software is of the upmost importance and I’ve had great stability with no fan noise with my 2012 intel so I’ll be sticking with Intel for one last 8-10 year run! Cheers! 🤘
Many thanks Chris for viewing and for your comment. So far, I'm more than happy with my 2020 iMac.
Enjoy your new toy when it arrives👍
Great insight, Mark... I just ordered one for myself and expecting it to arrive within the next few days. Same options as yours with the exception that I added the large numeric keyboard and the track pad 2. In the end it came down to my need for a desktop now and the uncertainty of how the next system will perform out of the gate. I believe that by the 21 inch version not getting an update this year that will be the first one to get the redesign. Also, I want to keep my option of being able to use Microsoft software suite. Enjoy your new system!!!
Many thanks Adrian for viewing and for your comment. I'm sure you'll be more than happy with your new toy 👍
Adrian Sicardo what spec did you get Adrian ?
@@LouisLuzuka I went with the top tier 8-core 10th generation i7 processor and upgraded the SSD. I also added the 10 Gigabit Ethernet, larger keyboard with the numeric section, and the magic trackpad 2.
Adrian Sicardo do you wanna get 10 core or nano glass? How much ssd did u get I’m trying to figure out my configuration
@@LouisLuzuka, not really... I actually believe that for my use, I got probably more that what I needed. I got the 1TB as I can always add an external SSD for a lot cheaper. Also, after reading how the nano testure can be damaged or the durability being put in question, I decided to not get. There are also a few YB videos where they discuss that the font and graphics look a little washed out, or not as bright when compared to the normal glossy screen.
I’m still happy with my 2011 iMac 21” and 2015 MacBook Pro 13”. And impressed that Apple still deliver upgrades to such ‘old’ hardware. Being retired I can afford to wait a minute or so for a panorama or render, and have never needed to export more than 20 images at one time, so processor speed is not important. The reliability and quality of the hardware matters most to me : neither machine has given any issue. That said, I would be interested in a nano screen, so if the new Silicone iMacs offer that, I will be tempted.
Hi, Many thanks for viewing and for commenting. I agree, the biggest fastest machine isn't always needed. I'm fairly confident that the Nano will see its way on to other devices in the future. So far I'm more than happy with it.
I got an Intel iMac 27" this year with mid configuration. Upgraded to 40GB of RAM. I couldn't be happier.
I'm still using my 2011 iMac and I'm so happy that I will wait until Apple Silicon comes... For my laptop I have a problem I wanted to buy the 16 Macpro but I'm not sure now... it's too expensive for a dying model ...
I have the 2011 iMac and it still runs great, but apple stopped doing software updates. They always find a way to get on my nerves. I just purchased the 2020 iMac, and it’s exciting and depressing at the same time because of the expense.
Very sensible analysis.
Personally I’m waiting for Apple silicon before I make my decision. I’m in desperate need of an upgrade but I have to see what Apple release to make sure I don’t miss out on something incredible for the sake of waiting a few months. I may end up buying the 27inch intel because I can’t wait a whole year before they release a pro machine as rumours are pointing to low end machines to start with.
Congratulations on your 1K subs! I hope to get there someday soon 🤩 If I had the cash, I'd be very tempted to get the 2020 27" iMac. I'm currently running a 2015 13" base Macbook Pro and it struggles with editing in FCPX when I use text plugins (which is basically always) and transitions (which is also basically always). I can't wait to see what Apple has in the pipeline regarding Apple Silicon iMacs. As long as they run FCPX like a red hot knife cutting through butter, and (a nice to have) run Windows on a VM, that's basically all I really want.
Many thanks for your congrats, view and comment. I'm sure FCPX will be great on the new silicon.
When it takes 43% less time to finish, the performance gain is actually 70%. But still not as much of an improvement as one might expect from a 7 year difference (plus desktop vs. mobile).
The main reason is probably that CPU performance gains have indeed decreased in the last decade or so (even more true for Intel than AMD). Add to that, a lot of CPU improvements are related to tasks for which newer CPU have specialized units, like hardware en- and decoding, and in recent years, Adobe has been notoriously bad in taking advantage of such hardware optimizations.
Other than that, I agree that the 8 code i7 is the smarter choice. Due to its higher base clock speed, it can actually (slightly) outperform the i9 in some situation. And even in most heavily multi threaded tasks, the i9's advantage is quite marginal. A small premium might have been justified, but given how much Apple charges for it, I would definitely not recommend it.
I knew that someone would pick me up on the maths.. well done 😉
Very interesting thank you liked and subscribed
Many thanks
As much as I really want a 2020 iMac I just cannot justify that price with Apple silicon machines looming. However given that it's likely at least a year, probably more like two before the iteration of Arm iMac comes out that I know I would want, I picked up a mid spec (i5) Mac mini as my workaday machine while the heavy lifting continues to be done by my older i7 8700K PC.
I got the new 2020 imac yesterday too. My justification is that I run my businesses on this mac, and as much as I am looking forward to the apple silicon macs, I am not switching my business to it straight away. This mac will be perfectly fine and supported for the next 2 to 3 years. I will get an apple silicon laptop when one comes out and use that to test everything that I need for my business.
Hi Steve, many thanks for viewing and for the comment. I think this is a view that many who rely on their machines for business have taken; stick with the known for the time being and let the current unknowns mature.
I had a 2012 iMac and I went for a new 2020. So I made the plunge, so far after a week I'm really happy. The 5K screen is really a big improvement over the 2012 screen, it is making re-edit some of my images. I made the same choice of specs you picked, although I went with 128GB ram upgrade (not from Apple). Did you see the vids that the ram configuration (mixing ram module sizes) slows down your performance; may be worth checking out. Sorry I reviewed you vid again and noticed you went with 2 X 16GB, please disregard my previous sentence.
Hi Daniel. Many thanks for viewing and for your comment. Looks like you'll have a beast with the 128GB ram.
Noting that you had updated the comment re the 2 x 16GB ram, the comment you make about mixing ram is still very valid, and one that I've been checking out. Whilst I haven't mixed in the old ram with the new ram, there are those who indicate that this is actually possible without any detrimental effects, provided you install the mixed sets in the correct order. However, I haven't had the bottle to try it out myself, given that Apple don't seem to support this approach.
Enjoy your new machine 😉
I’ve just ordered an iMac. I have a 2017 MacBook Pro, but when I would view a photo in Lightroom’s full screen mode when connected to a 4K monitor, I would wait a second or two for the pic to appear. This doesn’t happen when using the MBP by itself or when connected to a lower res monitor like the 2010 Apple Display. Then scrolling through the full screen pics takes too long so I’m hoping the upgrade computer resolves these issues. With Lightroom, it’s not clear to me whether performance issues are CPU, GPU or memory related. I’ll also look at Basecamp to use Windows from an external SSD.
From looking at various on line groups, the issues around external hi res monitors seems to crop up fairly regularly. My Lightroom performance has certainly improved over my older machine, but then it was a late 2013 MacBook Pro!
Many thanks for viewing and for the comment.
Thanks for this review. I'm actually thinking of getting a similar spec machine as a replacement for my M1 mac mini, partly to benefit from the screen, and partly to have access to sensible quantities of RAM. One question I have is: What is the fan noise like? The M1 mini is completely silent, which is good. I know it has a fan, but I have never heard it. I think the 2020 iMac (similar spec to yours) is a tool that will do the job well for me until the M1 pro / max versions come out, but I worry that the fan noise might be intrusive. I like a quiet work environment. Appreciate your insight.
Hi Steve. Thanks for viewing and for your comment. The fan for the most part, probably in excess of 90% of my use, is very quiet; you hardly know its there. However, when the machine is under heavy load, such as doing some Lightroom edits when you have a lot of local adjustments active on the image (especially spot removal) it does start to remind you that there is a fan present and can get pretty loud, though it is not as loud, nor as freuent as my old 15" 2013 MacBook Pro, when that was undertaking the same activity. But once you close that particular image the fan soon returns to normal. Whilst it can get loud I've not found it intrusive; as I say, the noise is usually short lived, but I suppose it will depend on the activity you undertake. I hope that helps?
@@MarkLindstrom That helps enormously. Thank you for taking the time to respond so thoroughly. I'm just in the process of buying one!
I think it's a good idea to leverage the latest version of the Intel model while they're ironing the kinks out of the latest. This is after two previous versions of similar technology rollovers from Apple since 1984.
Hmm. Am in that dilemma now. I have a MacBook and at first it was great as I used it much in the way you would an iPad Pro these days. However, I now edit content on it and it struggles with space and with only one port on the side it is increasingly annoying. However, I have waited a year to see what Apple would do and I only use Apple apps so far so Apple silicon would work well for me, but can I wait yet another year for the iMac to be launched?? I was planning on going for it this month until I saw another Apple launch event in November...so for now I am stuck on the fence!!
Bootcamp is important, just pulled the trigger on the 8core/RX 5700XT with 1TB storage
Hi Mark, I’ve just “stumbled upon” your channel....and delighted I did! - 1) Because I’m thinking about replacing my 2013 27” iMac and 2) I really like your style of presentation and clarity of content - Thanks. You said you upgraded your RAM with third party “sticks” that’s one big reason to buy now, as I doubt that feature will be on the new machine. Which supplier did you use for the RAM and presumably you are happy with their product. Did you leave the 8GB in place, or is that unwise to do? - Thanks again from a new Subscriber - Peter.
Hi Peter. Many thanks for viewing and for your comments. I think that your assumption is probably correct and that RAM will not be user upgradable on future iMacs, it will therefore be crucial to speck out the correct model at time of ordering. Which nicely brings me to the question you pose, as it was Crucial memory sticks that I ended up with 😉.
I actually got them from a site called Mr Memory here in the UK. I've used them a few times now and each time I've been happy with the service they offer (I have no affiliation with the company). They make it very easy to identify the correct memory for your machine. The majority of sizes do not have a brand identified, which can be off-putting, though each time I've ordered I've either got Crucial or Kingston memory.
I didn't leave the original 8GB in; I've seen conflicting advice on this, some say you can mix the original pair of RAM sticks with a different sized pair of RAM, provide you position them in the correct, alternate, slots. Others, including Apple, however advise against this. So I erred on the side of caution. I hope that helps?
Many thanks for subscribing👍
@@MarkLindstrom - Thanks Mark, that’s very helpful, I’m in the UK so I’ll use the same supplier, if I buy the current iMac. Just one final question, when Apple release the new version, do they immediately stop taking orders for the version it’s replacing? - if the 2 “run alongside” for a short period, I’m thinking I’ll wait first to see what the new model offers....just don’t want to miss out on an Apple supplied current version, if I can avoid it......nice joke on Crucial too :- )
@@petertaranscorsese2900 Normally Apple will swap straight over to the new model when a new one is released; note released and not announced. You can usually still get the 'off the peg' models from the usual third party retailers for a while, but if you want to customise your Mac, then once the new model goes on sale, then that's it the older models are removed from the site, apart from the reconditioned offers. There's an Apple event expected later this month but there's no current rumours of an iMac replacement yet. However, the iMac Pro has already been listed as available only while stocks last, and Apple have indicated that it is to be discontinued once stocks are gone. Apple have suggested users opt instead for the 2020 iMac. Which would suggest that there is still some time before a replacement for the current iMac is announced; but you can never tell!!
@@MarkLindstrom - interesting.... very helpful, thanks Mark :- )
Why no Mac version of Access?
Thanks for the video. Have you noticed any reduction in display text like blur using nano text glass?
Hi Sanjay, many thanks for viewing and for the comment. Personally I haven’t seen any issues with blurred text on the nano screen, in fact it’s better than my previous monitor, an ASU’s Pro Art screen. Unfortunately though I’m unable to compare it against a standard iMac screen. I know that there have been some reviews where they have been able to do the direct comparison and their findings is a that there is very slight difference. But from seeing those reviews, for me and my needs, the difference was negligible.
I made my purchase of a 21.5” i5, 6 core, 16G ram iMac back in January, before the WWDC event. So I wasn’t even aware of the change until after I had made my purchase. But I was definitely ready for a new machine. Since it may be a while before they actually release the desktop iMacs with the ARM chips, I’m confident that I made the right decision for now. However, if they release a new MacBook Air or Pro with Apple Silicone, then I may opt for that soon too, one to stay and one to go.....
The main thing is that the machine does what you need it to do. All the rumours seem to point to the smaller devices being the first to be updated to Apple Silicon, so you might not have long to wait. Many thanks Patrick for the view and commenting.
I was running a Mid-2012 MBPRet. Apple supported the model with Catalina, but only barely. We moved up to a 27" iMac. Didn't even give it a second thought on the Apple silicon Macs. I'm happy with the purchase, and like you...will probably drool over the new models. Then again, I...no we all, drool over new Mac models as they are released any how, right?
I’m going to go with the current model (10 core i9 and 1TB; not getting the Dick Turpin Apple memory and no need for the nano screen. The iMac will come in handy for data analysis so the switching back and forth between Mac and Windows (and also using UNIX) is ideal.
Easy for me! I need to use bootcamp for some things! Just ordered it today!
I'm still not sure, buy a 27 inch 2020, or wait for the Arm mac. I want a second computer for in the bedroom ( I do have a game-pc downstairs), i'll going to use it for browsing, music listening and such stuff. My main concern is that this iMac will not be future proof ( I guess it won't get new os updates in the future because of silicon), other than that, this imac is excellent for the things I want to do.
Well I have 3 computers here.
PC : Running Windows and gaming on that one.
Laptop 1 : A year old Lenovo Ideapad with 8th gen i7, 16 gb of RAM and 1 tb SSD. It's my main workhorse. Running on Linux with Windows installed in a virtual machine.
Laptop 2 : 2017 MacBook Air. i5 cpu, 8 gb of RAM and 256 gb SSD. My former workhorse. And still does the job nicely. Although it's noticeably slower compared to the Lenovo.
Not going to upgrade anytime soon. I'll wait and see what Apple will be up to. :)
Have you notice whether or not the text isn't as crisp? Watched a video showing the difference between nano and non-nano, the text on the nano wasn't clear but on the non-nano it was crisp. I'm curious is you notice anything like this, especially with fine detail on photographs? Thanks for the video, much appreciated.
Hi Jeff. Many thanks for viewing and for the comment. I am aware that some other reviews have been able to do a direct comparison between the glossy and nano screens and have discerned that the nano screen is a little less sharp with text. All I can say is that in comparison with my older Asus Pro Art screen, the Nano screen is a lot sharper and I'm more than happy with it.
I bought a 13" M1 MBP to replace my Intell i5 2020 version ... but have just bought a 27 inch 2020 iMac 3.3ghz i5. I upgraded the Ram to 64GB myself and the Geekbench scores are not greatly down from the M1 - for example 6900 multi core on the iMac and 7500 on the M1 MBP. Do I notice a difference using Lightroom Classic ... well so far, absolutely not ! I was tempted by the i7 iMac but more wanted the 5K screen than the computer - though oddly I am finding it's performance rather good !! We also have a 2010 iMac 27 inch here being used as the wife is a professional photographer.
Windows also runs on ARM too (for OEMs).
Hence, technically, there's still a possibility in the future that there will be Boot Camp for Apple Silicon (hopefully) or at least hypervisor/virtualization.
Time will tell.. 🤷🏻♂️
You're correct in that Windows does run on ARM, for OEMs; though Microsoft are reported as not being very responsive to licensing versions to run on Mac ARM machines....yet. As you say, only time will tell.
Many thanks for viewing and for your comment.
There is keyboard lag issue with 2020 iMac.
Hi Mark, excellent video thank you. I'm facing an identical choice to you in that my 2012 Macbook Pro is definitely running out of steam. My thoughts like yours are replace the Macbook with an iMac / iPad Pro combo. I'm prepared to wait for the Apple silicon iMac but wanted to ask you, (apologies if you've already answered this,) how do you find an iPad for every day use?
Hi John, Many thanks for the view and comment. To be honest my needs for portability have declined no end this year.. for some unexplained reason 😉
However in deciding whether to go for the iMac or another MacBook, I took a look at how often I actually took my old MacBook out of the house, and it was now on a very limited number of occasions, holidays and sometimes when I wanted to shoot tethered on location.
Making the assumption that my portable requirements will not necessarily require me to produce a finalised version of my images, I've been experimenting with a few solutions, which do work, but are not as elegant as just using a traditional laptop. The current workflow for imaging on iPads is still a little clunky in comparison.
However, I also took the view that the iPad platform will mature even more over the years. With the arrival of Apple Silicon the suggestions are that not only will the Apple Silicon devices be able to run IOS apps, but IOS devices should be able to run new Apple Silicon MacOS apps, which will be very interesting if true.
@@MarkLindstrom Hi Mark, thank you for taking the time to respond
I've never used a mac. I'm going to try finding a store where I can try one out and see how it differs from Windows. I'm getting fed up with Windows temporary files that corrupt my editiing software, or at least hinder it.
I still have a 2012 iMac and it works great never had real problem with it compared to PC
nice!!! that anti-reflective screen is really nice!!
I suspect current Macs will be supported for 5 years. I have a 2020 iMac on order. One thing that pushed me over is the thought these are the last Macs with user upgradable RAM and I want to LOAD MINE UP with RAM. My current iMac still does what I need but it is 6 years old. It is a late 2013 model that has every upgrade option when I ordered it. The mechanical part of the Fusion drive failed a couple of years ago and it was replaced with a 2TB Samsung SSD. I ordered a 2TB storage in the new one and 8GB of RAM intending to upgrade it. I am getting the 8 core i7 model. It will pretty much double all the specs of my current machine.
I have some windows programs I run too. I suspect a virtual machine will run fine on the next general macs. Bootcamp will be gone. No doubt about that. I went with the i7 processor. Max Tech ran tests and said the i9 is only about 15% faster.
Hi Dennis.Many thanks for viewing and commenting. From what I've seen and read so far, there are still question marks over whether Windows will run through virtual machines. Though no doubt the brain boxes will find a way eventually.
Totally agree with your conclusion. Love MacOS but need to run WIndows as well.
Cheers Dave. Many thanks for viewing and for the comment.
@@MarkLindstrom I’ll probably get the last of the intel MacBooks when I upgrade next year. So many reviews on UA-cam just focus on raw performance when it’s irrelevant if you can’t run your business critical apps. The ability to run windows if key to me.
Great celebrations ... I also brought iMac 2020 27 inches in first week month of October ... speed is really amazing screen colours are ok, and Apple need work more on ergonomic of mouse and keyboard ...
Many thanks Vijay.
Nice video! I have a 2015 iMac and faced with a similar decision. I have decided to wait for the silicon iMac next year. That said, I think your decision to buy the new 2020 Intel iMac is a good decision. I actually bought one for my Daughter last month and she loves it. These iMacs are great machines and I can’t wait to see what Apple delivers next year.
Many thanks Jimmy. I'm sure the new Apple Silicon will be worth the wait, and no doubt I'll be drooling after them when released!
Great recap Mark. What ram / memory did you get? I hear these 2020 iMacs are pretty finicky
Many thanks for viewing and for your comment. I got 2x 16gb Crucial DDR4 PC4-21300 2666MHz 260-pin SODIMM modules. So far I don't seem to have had any issues.
@@MarkLindstrom thanks Mark!
Definitely looking to get an intel Mac and work on my spec just want to future proof for raw video but you got me intrigued with the nano glass
HI Louis, Many thanks for watching and for your questions; I'll answer all of them in this single response if that's OK?.
The Nano glass, for me, is a great option and I'm more than happy that I selected it. As I mentioned in the video, my room can be bright; but if you have a more controlled environment you might not get any benefit from it. And as Adrian has mentioned, others have commented that the Nano Screen is perhaps not as pin sharp as the standard screen, but to be honest, it's plenty sharp for me. I expect it's only when you can see both the standard and Nano screens side by side, that you'll discern a difference. As for the durability concerns, it doesn't really bother me; I don't have any young children with sticky fingers that might necessitate heavy cleaning. And as the screen is not touch sensitive, it shouldn't get too grubby in the first place.
As for how I picked my specs, there was no real science to it. As my focus on Video editing continues to grow, dependent on how the channel goes, I believed the 8 gig video option and the 8 core 10th Gen would provide me with sufficient power and performance to see me through the next few years. I also thought that the 16 gig video and 10 cores, would not be worth the extra money, for me!
As I mentioned in the video, I didn't go with 2Tb storage because I use network storage, hence the upgrade to 10 gigabit ethernet. The 1 Tb is plenty for my current needs. If I need any additional local storage, prior to upgrading my network, I will just add an external SSD.
I hope that helps?
Mark Lindstrom yes that helps plenty! You basically picked what works for you!
Nano glass is intriguing me
The 8 cores is enough for me, but as the years go by I’m editing raw video so it seems like the 10 core 16Gb graphics is for me.
I’m not familiar with network storage but, again I use a Drobo on thunderbolt 3 so I’m not in need on NAS so I might skip gigabit
And 1TB is perfect but I’m aiming for 2TB out of convenience, just love the speed of the internal ssd and it would be nice to not worry about transferring files
Glad you’re enjoying your computer !
Ya I’m still not sure on nano glass it looks beautiful tho ❤️🥺😍
very grateful on this
Nice open and refreshing review, where and what Ram did you opt for (manufacture) as I am about to opt for the new 27" Imac.
Hi John. Many thanks for viewing and for the comment.
I got my memory from a UK company, MrMemory.co.uk; they make it very easy to ensure that you get the correct RAM, as you just identify the computer make/model you are buying for and they then list the options. You can either elect for their standard memory, or for Kingston Memory. I just went with the standard option and they sent me Crucial memory; which I'm more than happy with. Very speedy service; no complaints.
I got 2 x 16GB DDR4 PC4-21300 2666MHz 260-pin SODIMM
I hope that helps
I've been buying Macs since 1994. I've tried a couple PCs also, but most of my computers have been Macs. I also have a MacBook Pro, an iPad, and iPhone. I recently bought a new 2020 iMac 27" and it works just fine. However, I'm at the end of my love affair Apple products and I don't think I'm going to buy any more of them. Being too expensive is the one thing I've tolerated because I perceived some value and benefit for the extra expense, but they currently seem to no longer be evolving a la Steve Jobs, but rather, are making themselves and their products less user friendly. One example is the endless changing of cable connectors making many accessories unusable or requiring expensive adapters. I just paid 45 bucks for a little Thunderbolt 3 cable....that is very annoying. The other thing has to do with their resistance to assist third party repair shops and the Right-to-Repair movement in general. I tried to get some help from Apple to retrieve data from my old iMac that wouldn't boot up. They tried to help me run through a couple of basic procedures that I already attempted and after that didn't work, they just told me I was out of luck. I went on UA-cam and spent about $50 for some tools and connectors and was successful in retrieving my data, restoring my HD, and getting the old iMac back in working condition. Apple told me it couldn't be done, but it was actually fairly easy. So, I think my Apple days will end when what I still have dies or becomes obsolete. I just don't see them moving in the right direction as a company.
I recently went from a 27inch 2011 Imac to a 5K 2020 27Imac and I find the 5K really hurts my eyes does anyone else have this problem?
Did you not want to upgrade to 2TB ssd ?
or 4. get a NAS Drive which runs virtualisation - I have a QNAP TVS-871T (8 bay) and can connect to a windows session (hosted by the NAS) via my iMac Pro ! The NAS also thunderbolt connectivity - which my iMac is also using.
Definitely an option Nigel. Eventually I'll be upgrading my storage and when I do come to move to Apple Silicon, if my needs are still for mixed OS, I'll consider it. Many thanks for the view and commenting.
Just got mine this week , I added another 16 GB ram so I have 32GB Ram now!
What about the sharpness with the nano screen?
Hi Eli. For me I have no issues with the sharpness of the Nano screen. I know that those who have been able to test the Nano and standard screens side by side, have identified that the standard screen is slightly sharper.
Without the ability to do a direct comparison all I can say is that the Nano screen is a lot sharper than my existing ASUS Pro Art screen, and I'm more than happy with it.
Many thanks for viewing and for the comment.
I was thinking of getting a 16 inch too, how did you pick your specs and how was your liking to nano glass.
I have a 16". It is currently the fastest computer in the house
@@WhittyPics are you loving it, what specs did you go with?
Interesting, my 2011 27” iMac 🖥 still works, runs a bit hot and slow, but never failed yet. Love the big screens, my 2019 MacBook Pro is much faster, downside is screen size.
Liked and subscribed 🙂
Many thanks Michael.
Fantastic review! Great reason why you chose to go with it. I’m holding off a little, but sadly my 27” 2013 loaded iMac just died! So i need to decide rather quickly.
Thanks so much!
Many thanks Nicolas. At least you now have the newly released Arm machines to help with your deliberations 😉
I absolutely love your title. This is exactly what I’ve asked myself a few times. I haven’t used it yet, and have had at least three months. It’s pretty to look at. I’m this way about electronics. I’ll have it for months before I use. Your video is helpful.
Many thanks.
64 bit was on the rise back with the PowerMac, I think Intel will be supported much longer.
I'm in a similar sort of predicament to you although I am coming over from WIndows to Mac for the first time. The 27" iMac i7 is the one I have been considering. I am more geared towards using stuff like Reason, Logic, and Abelton though, and less photo and video work.
I wonder is there a reason why this Bootcamp won't work on the new silicon iMac's and MBPs when they start to appear?
I loved Win XP. 7 is what I am currently on it is okay but not as good as XP was. I never made the upgrade to Win 10 as I absolutely hate that O/S. However! Microsoft decided to make this new Flight Simulator after a decade of nothing just as I am likely jumping ship to Apple and I think it is only realistically available on Windows 10 as it is not really something that can be used on an Xbox.
I also think Flight Simulator might work through Bootcamp but it may have some issues. Whether I get the Intel iMac or wait for Silicon I may still need to get a separate mid-priced Windows desktop with recommended specs just for Flight Sim as much as I don't want to buy a Win 10 system. If so I will probably go with an AMD Ryzen to save some money and get just as good performance if not better pound for pound as the Intel equivalent.
Hi, Many thanks for the view and comment. I think much of the problem is more to do with licensing; and Microsoft's unwillingness to licence to third party Arm devices.
I will wait and drink some tea. I am producing music and almost nothing is compatible right now and it will take some time till companies catch up.
Does your iMac go to hibernation by itself? My 2019 iMac does not go to sleep on Catalina at all.
Hi Bojen. I've not experienced any problems as yet with the iMac sleeping and waking.
@@MarkLindstrom Thanks. On my iMac the display goes off and wakes as well, however the problem is the computer does not hibernate when the display goes off, the CPU fan spins all the time, HD is spinning as well. I have 2019 iMac, this is since Catalina update.
This is happening if I let it go sleeping by itself or with Hot Corners option, however if I put it to sleep manually by going to Apple menu and then choosing Sleep then it hibernates.
Could you please test it by letting it sleep by itself or with Hot Corners? You will clearly hear the fan spinning, or you can easily notice the computer does not hibernate if the display turns on right after you press the mouse button. If it hangs for two seconds then it was in hibernation.
@@BojanBojovic Hi Bojan; mine definitely hibernates without issue, whichever method is used.
@@MarkLindstrom Oh, thanks.
I bought my 2017 MBP in 2019.. So you can imagine how I feel when they announce the switch to ARM... I was 😡.. But after I understood the reason and totally agree with them.
Apple made a great move that gives them control to their product road map and don’t have to deal with Intel’s state of chaos. In addition gives their users a seamless integration with iPhone and iPad apps.
As for me I’m exploring my switch to Linux. I mostly use my MBP to code and I could do the same on a Chromebook or Linux desktop.
I’m planning to share my MBP with my wife and just sold her MBA that just fell out of support.
Let’s see where this takes me, maybe back to where I started...
Thanks. Waitee forever for this graphics update. Apple, please make modular Max’s! I remember buying a MacBookPro right before USB-C. I can’t advantage of that port now. I must be careful since Apple is costly to make sure a computer lasts five years if it’s gonna be over 3500 as a graphics machine.
Liked the video a lot! I try to wait for the apple silicon iMac 🙈 up to that point I stick to my 2015 base line MacBook Pro 13
Many thanks Max.
I've been buying Macs since 1997 and honestly with this move to ARM I will stop using Macs, I'm tired of paying for expensive machines and losing support in a few years, unlike Windows the Adobe CS 6 package no longer runs on new machines and as I have perpetual licenses I will continue on Intel until I can no longer, I will buy used machines if necessary and stock because the type of work I do I do not want subscriptions that increase my cost, not to mention the absurd values that is to buy Macs in the country where I live, different from USA, in the rest of the world a Mac costs the same as a semi-new car, unfortunately I think my Mac fan days are over!
I want one of these..... But the design is putting me off. I think it is going to look positively ancient when the new Apple silicon iMacs are released. Just like the old MacBook Air designs look really dated compared to the newer MacBook designs. I think I will hold off and wait.
You’re probably not going to regret your intel purchase unless you set it right along side a new graphite unit.
@@ubear123 Perhaps not. But I think that every time I see the new updated iMac design I will look at my iMac with contempt.
You do lose fine detail with nano screen. You could of applied a plastic screen protector with anti glare. Geekbench i think just measures the cpu and not gpu. Your new GPU would be well above the old iMac gpu in performance.
Just bought a Intel iMAC :-D
Just received a late 2020 iMac 27" to replace my late 2013 27" iMac..
Are you having keyboard lagging issues?
@@thewishmastur None at all
@@RadPuppies ...your use case might be different than mine. I use it for remoting into the office PC. When I share my screen with my coworkers in a meeting it would start to lag as I am typing.
I also need windows. You didn’t show the view from the windows.
Hi Jose, many thanks for viewing and for your comment. Sorry, but I deliberately didn’t show the view so as to maintain privacy; I’ll leave it people’s imagination as to what the view might be. 😉
Love my 2020 iMac!
I bought one too, buddy!
Enjoy👍
I don’t see anything wrong with that. The 1st machine with silicon chip might have teething problems and some software may not be compatible at 1st Better to wait for one year or more and then trade in
Many thanks William for viewing and commenting. Your views were also part of my decision making process.
I’m a casual user so I bought the 2020 iMac
You're a natural Mark
Many thanks Gareth; very generous.
The Elephant in the room, no iMac from this model on will allow you to upgrade the memory, if anything people should be running to buy this iMac. It's a work horse, this explains why Apple wants to take their time upgrading a new iMac. Plus the black bezel is easier on my eyes than a white one. I have one program that absolutely requires Windows so I use Microsoft Remote Desktop, the Windows laptop is in another room hooked to power and I access it when I need it.
Impulse buy?
Far from it.
Apple Silicon will require developers to rewrite their applications. For some large companies it may be OK, other probably not. I feel once we have identical code bases I will probably keep the wiped over the MacBook.
Windows is clearly the main platform for Gaming, interchangeability will never be Apple strong point thus for gamers at least Windows/PC will remain dominant.
Since Apple stopped making software, I can't say I have a preference of windows vs Mac, Adobe photoshop etc is very similar, for office work Microsoft Office is still my No1...
Mac's are mighty computers which most rarely utilise, I'd be surprised if the iPad Pro would not support 70% of most users....
I find my 2015 15” MacBook pro is faster than the 2020 27” imac. Catalina is crap compare to High Sierra.
Absolute class
Many thanks Paul.
Something doesn’t look right with that geek bench score. 1366?!
Hi Frank. You don't indicate whether you think it should be lower or higher?
Having run the tests numerous times all I can say is that the single core result is fairly consistent @ 1360's.
Many thanks for viewing and for the comment.
Thanks for this video. I think I will wait for Apple silicon and then buy a very cheap used iMac 2020 i7. ;-) Or will I? Well... no. Apple silicon is way to tempting for me. Meanwhile, have fun with your new machine, seriously.
Many thanks George for the view and comment. Loving the new machine but the Apple Silicon will certainly be tempting 😉
@@MarkLindstrom Hello Mark, finally I followed your decision. But I simply bought the i7 base model with 5500 XT and without any extras like 10 Gbit ethernet or nano texture yesterday. :-) When Apple silicon is safe to buy and run it (2 yrs ahead?), I may go to an iMac Pro like machine, if there will be one of this kind.
Just bought a intel Mac
Don;t worry, buy a new Apple silicon one iMac next year and sell the Intel one.
Lol, Apple silicon wont be as good in a year.
I’m not buying one of these things till they change the chassis....
I could never a Ford a Mac computer
I clicked because of the hot pose in the thumbnail, and I’m glad I did
I don't know about the hot pose, but many thanks for the view and comment 👍
I did too and I love it!
Sorry mate - I'm half way through - it's all too much for this old man !
No worries Russell. At least you've made an attempt to view before commenting; it seems some just like to comment based on the title or thumbnail 😉
Because you like the boring old design?
i think the design will does not change.. lol
Did he say a thousand subscribers??? UA-cam says he has over 9 million subscribers.
9m, I wish! Definitely just over a 1,000. Many thanks for viewing and commenting.
I'm using apple hardware so I can escape from freaking Windows, I'm always installing 2 sided windows in my house so I can relax, I still have vista nightmares
We need more reviews where the reviews says takes a bit longer no big deal I will have a cuppa ... wonderful 👏👌..another thing, doesn’t 27inch look tiny these days ..
Cheers Edward. It certainly would look more tiny without thick bezels.. right time for a cuppa 👍
I would never return to windows, on my second iMac and macbook pro. when I am forced to use windows at work I get stressed out at the crappy interface, the constant antivirus updates required, the whole windows thing of pissing you off before you get started, my iMac is a world of calm and stress free computing....
Who ever thought that glossy screens were a good idea?