Hey Mike so I want to use my iMac for basically homework , writing papers , Microsoft word . Excel and PowerPoint. Which do you think is best for me 24” or the 202 27” inch iMac
I have had my new mid level iMAC for about a week and love it. I use it for creating handouts and videos for my paper arts business. Video editing is excellent and I love the amount of real estate on the brilliant screen, especially compared to my laptop. A truly great machine! Thanks for the informative review.
If, I did buy a new 24-inch iMac in my favorite color "Yellow/Gold" would take it to my local coffee to show it off within, just the first week (smile...smile).
I like your reviews. They tend to be positive and directed at the typical user without all the techno babble. Keep them coming. This was a good evenhanded review. I’m still waiting to see the bigger one though. However, I LOVE my M1 Mac Mini.
I think it’s usually best to go at least one up than base version as that is better value and more usable with more ports, better cooling, more cores etc…
That's true in almost any major purchase. The bottom is the econo version to make the price look cheap. The top has all the bells and whistles. The middle is usually the sweet spot of price and usability.
I reckon you’re spot on with all your comments - been living with the new iMac (replacing a 5K from 2014) for about ten days now and it’s a dream. It was and is just the thing I need, especially for a limited space office which really benefits from an all-in solution. Camera, audio, microphone all pretty good (although I have a Tula mic which I’m loving) and display every bit as good as the beautiful 5K (now retired for entertainment use in the next room!). If your use case has the sort of features demanded that the iMac offers, I reckon I’ve a machine for 5-6 years of trouble-free work - and that’s great value even if I upgraded a few features! Keep up the great reviews, Mark.
can you make a comparison screen quality between Imac m1 and your iMac m1 with a monitor? I'm a bit curious about what makes the iMac m1 screen so different from another monitor.
It’s the combination of 4.5k resolution and the p3 color which is important for photo and video editing. Very few monitors have both for a reasonable price. The closest comparison is the LG ultra fine display apple sells but it’s $600 by itself. Idk about refresh rate for gaming and all that but I doubt many people game on Macs. That being said if you have a monitor you’re happy with or one you’re looking to get, then save the money and get the Mac mini. It’s a decision between the convenience of the all-in-one iMac and the value and flexibility of a Mac mini. Bear in mind though that I would not get the cheapest iMac and instead opt for the $1499 starting price model, meaning a $800 gap which could be the difference maker
I recently got the same exact iMac you're describing in this video and its quite amazing! Very snappy, the display is beyond words and being someone who loves a great audio experience, the speakers are wonderful as well!
Thoughts on going down in monitor size? I was going to get a Mac Mini just to get a giant monitor like yours - and ended up ordering the iMac because 1) i rarely worked out of the house pre-pandemic and 2) all the peripheral costs (monitor, speakers, extra ports, etc) added up and who really wants a zillon extra cables?
I felt the same way about the back and hiding it in normal use. I wound up flipping my desk around and I still cannot stop looking at the back of it when I walk by it.
Great video, Mr Ellis...I bought an orange one with 16 GB RAM and 1 TB storage...everything you said in this video I found to be absolutely true...this is the best desktop I have ever owned and hope to keep it for several years... I think these new iMacs will be a huge success with consumers and the bright, bold colors are a welcome alternative to the boring space grays and blacks...
Thank you. 22 years ago I bought myself a Powerbook G4. I remember the fabulous smell of the engineering as I opened the box to my titanium laptop. Does this iMac smell as good?
I’ve only recently subscribed to your channel. It is so refreshing to have such down to earth reviews. I feel you are talking to me. Real world comments about how an everyday computer user like me needs to know. Thank you. Carry on the excellent work.
Hi Mark thank you for helping me to make my mind up to purchase one, could I please ask you what make is your card reader as I need one myself, hope you are able to help me.
I’m now in paralysis by analysis because I have the peripherals I want which makes me lean Mac mini, but my monitors aren’t as good as the iMac’s. My MacBook Pro from 2014 had been working well up until recently, so I’m waiting for the next announcements before deciding between upgrading or just being happy with the cheaper MacBook Air. The iPad Pro with M1 and miniLED has the most potential, but iPadOS is holding the system back but everyone is saying apple is gonna revamp it now that it has M1. Well see. Hoping WWDC will ease my indecision worries.
Yea, I hear you. But with Apple if, possible it is always better to wait because sometimes their discontinued models (i.e. Intel mac mini and iMac Pro) turn out to be a better way to go.
@@kalvin. Hear what you are saying and if, buying a new desktop in June 2021, I would just pick-up a used discontinued space gray 27-inch Intel iMac Pro model. Why, because now at a much lower price it has four (4) USB "A" ports, four (4) Thunderbolt ports, SD card reader, 5K display, is able to support my older software, and works well with older and more stable versions of Apple's operating system. Learned from another You Tuber that, Apple has listed the space gray accessories as "only while supplies last". So while, I have never liked Apple's current keyboards, I did go ahead and order both the space gray Track Pad and Mouse (smile...smile).
I’ve had my Mac Mini M1 with 16gb and 1tb SSD and a lovely 27 inch Samsung 4K monitor for 5 months and love it to bits. It replaced my 7 year old i7 21.5 iMac. Trouble is now I’m craving an iMac again. Problem is what to do with my highly specced Mac Mini Mi. Sigh.
Is there an ‘ audio’ jack for a separate set of speakers, or is wireless the only option? I have an older pair of Bose that I would hate to part with 😁
Hi Mark, thanks for the information, I ordered my iMac 24" a while back after my iMac 21.5" died, it's coming on 5th September 2022 and I am so looking forward to it. One question, you briefly mentioned the speakers but I imagine they are pretty puny for any serious music listening and I see you have external 2:1 stereo speakers hooked up - what make are they and are they any good? Thanks.
OK so after watching your video about the 24" M1 iMac being sufficient size for those of us who are coming from the 27" iMac, and now this overall review of the 24" M1, I bit the proverbial bullet this evening and ordered one w/ 16 gig RAM and 1 TB storage. I am going to relegate my 27" to strictly photo editing and use the 24" M1 for all my other day-to-day administrative/office computing tasks. I think it is going to work beautifully and I have no doubt that between this new iMac and my 2020 M1 13" Macbook Pro, I will be in great shape! Thanks for the encouragement. I am now committed and hopefully will avoid spending $3.5 - $4K for the new larger M1 iMac, whenever it comes out (in 2022)! :-)
Thanks for the review Mark. I’ve just bought the M1 Mac Mini with a LG Electronics UHD 27UN83A monitor, £400 in the UK. The picture quality is stunning. Admittedly it’s not a retina screen but I prefer the Matt look for many reasons. And if my maths is correct it’s a lot less than the 27inch iM1 Mac equivalent (I’m reusing my keyboard and mouse from my old iMac). I’ve previously been an iMac owner so will be interesting to see how this stacks up. So far it is a stunning combo for my photography needs. I do like the colours of the iMac though ;)
Mark, what do you do with the equipment once your done with it? Are you going to continue to use your Mac mini, or is your iMac going to be your primary machine going forward? I’m debating on which machine to get, I look forward to the 3 month review !
Great review! I’m coming from a really old 27” iMac and painfully deciding between the 24” M1 iMac with 16gb of ram and a 512 ssd or the base MacBook Pro M1 Pro. The difference in price is $150 CAD more for the MacBook Pro. Any thoughts?
Hi Obviously money isn’t a problem for you mate, But why would you consider getting the larger and the much more expensive 27/32inch iMac as well aren’t you satisfied with the new 24inch???????
Because I set this channel up to review stuff, dude. Enables me to provide buying advice for my audience. And trust me, running a business like this isn’t as profitable as you might think 😉
hey there I've ordered the new imac green in color and was wondering what to use as a hub for multiple connections. I don't know if i'd go for a powered docking station or a usb-c hub powered by the computer itself. All i need really is usb 3.0 supplying enough power to charge my iphone when needed. What would you recommend i buy. THX
Just recently subscribed as these are great no-nonsense reviews. Seriously tempted by new iMac as my 2018 iMac 21.5” is so slow partly because it doesn’t have SSD I think. I notice you recommend “clean my Mac” which I’ve always been warned against. In your opinion, Would this speed up my slow responding intel imac?
Thanks so much, Kevin. CleanMyMacX is great - it will help your iMac, absolutely, but there are so many things that can contribute to a slow machine, it's difficult to _guarantee_ that it will!
Unless you're a business that needs to run software on Intel chips or has needs for higher spec machines that aren't yet available, don't get the Intel Macs, they will devalue very quickly once the next M-series chip with more RAM is out.
What IU like about all this is Apple's creativity AND that a Mac-Mini's your main computer as mine is with 2 32' screens and 3 SSD externals to keep up with my Videos and Photos!
I got the mid priced version in silver with 16gb ram. Love it. I don't agree with any of the criticisms about it. The 4 ports are perfect for me. The 2 usb's go to audio interface and keyboard controller. The 2 thunderbolts go to G-drive thunderbolt SSD and a hub with old school usb-a ports and sd card reader.
Hello Mark! I’ve been looking for advice for getting a lightbar to (ehem) mount above the iMac M1. I’m not sure if it’s a good idea at all with the risk of blocking the FaceTime camera inside the top bezel of the iMac. What is your thought on this? Cheers.
Mark, I'm pretty new to the Mac family and have been using a M1 Macbook Air for a month now and I quite love it. Now for the new officespace I'm wondering if I should get a IMac or see if I can use the macbook as my main device when using hubs and a separate screen. Any thoughts maybe?
Thanks for commenting! It depends entirely on whether or not you want to spend the money, I guess. Having more than one Mac is a lovely thing and offers a great deal of convenience if one is a desktop machine while the other is portable. If you’ve got the cash for the iMac, I couldn’t recommend it highly enough.
If only for the glare on that screen. Will wait for the larger model to see if that fault is rectified (along with the white bezel fault) or investigate separate screen and a mini/macbook.
I have a nine year old MacBook Air that just crashed. The Universe is speaking to me. I’m about to pull the trigger on the midrange model in Blue. After 13 inches, 24 inch is going to seem gigantic to me. I use it for business apps and web surfing, so it sounds like the perfect solution.
Just subscribed to your channel Mark, love your down to earth honest content, ive ordered my M1 iMac 16Gb Ram 512Gb ssd, i thought about the base model, but thought if i didn't go for the higher spec, i would definitely regret it, should get it mid July, can't wait.
Hey Mark, The $1,499 Version of the M1 iMac says it has 2 USB-C/Thunderbolt ports and 2 USB 3 Ports, is USB 3 the same as Usb 3.0? The ports look like USB-C ports. Can you give any clarification or anyone in the comments have any information on this?
For me I ended up getting a 3 monitor 3 computer 3 os setup. A 4k screen (signing bonus from remote work job) , a 1440p 144hz screen(gift from a friend) and a 1080p 60hz screen that i got from family. A Linux (kde plasma kubuntu) workstation with an old 6000 intel quad core, 32gb ram lots of space and a medium sized case that will have all my work tools on it for web development and cyber security. A windows 10 gaming rig with a 3700x, 32gb ram, and a 3070 that I got for a steal of a deal right before prices skyrocketed (also it paid for itself already thanks to mining profits). And of course a refurbished m1 mac mini (8gb and 256gb since I havea thunderbolt external ssd for my storage needs) that will serve as my media production and consumption machine. Together using the magic of synergy, I can run all of them together off 1 set of keyboard and mouse. And thanks to an old workstation I have my own home server to share larger data between them and local backup my most important files 24/7, in addition to using it for a home minecraft server and plex media server. So yeah I ened up getting to finally make my dream set up, and the best part is that between my mining profits and reselling hardware when I upgrade keeping a great deal of the cost I spent thanks to the great deals I got, I will probably wind up making money. And I haven't even started mining on my m1 mac mini yet and reaping those profits;
Hi mark, love your vids! Just a quick question, the power lead for the new iMac comes in two parts, the braided section and then the rubber coated section, could I ask what the length is of both sections, just trying to figure out if it’s going to be ok going where I want it to go in my house before I order 😂 👍
Just a little tip for some and this is actually how I'm going to go about when I buy this iMac: 1. Go with the base model (meaning only two thunderbolt ports) 2. Upgrade to 16GB 3. Change the keyboard to the one with the TouchID Extras: 4. For storage, buy a separate SSD 5. Buy a USB-C Hub My total is still less compared to getting the one with the four ports
@Mark Lim I get it, but since I will be doing more than just light browsing and light work with it and will be putting some load on it I for sure don’t want to miss out on the better and quieter cooling system the better models have. I really want quiet. I also want to be able to move it between rooms and don’t want to have an SSD plugged in.
Great review as always Mark :) What is your personal opinion on a 24-inch monitor for video editing? I'm planning an upgrade to apple silicon but wondering if the 24inch iMac is enough for video editing, or maybe a 32-inch lower-quality screen? I'm leaning towards iMac, but would love to hear your opinion?
Thank you! It's a bit too small for video editing, in my opinion, although that may be because I've got so used to a 34" ultra wide for that task! The power of the M1 does make this a compelling video editing machine, though! I'd suggest getting yourself in front of one at an Apple store if you can.
I would say it depends on what you mean with “enough for video editing”. I often catch myself editing video on my medium size iPad instead of my large one just because it is so convenient.
@@MarkEllisReviews @Norman Baatz Thanks guys. I appreciate the advice. I'm going to try and get to an Apple store if I can, maybe even wait for WWDC just incase ;) Looking forward to seeing more reviews Mark, one of my favourite Tech UA-camrs right now!
I prefer using older Apple tech. So, another option would be buying the M1 mac mini, and pairing it with an Apple 27-inch Cinema Thunderbolt Display. Have been using the none thunderbolt version of this display with my mac mini for years.
Still don’t get the chin complaints the whole computer is in the chin so that the rest can be as thin as it is. Also the bezel complaints are ridiculous.. I appreciate you’re approach in your videos. Thank you for being realistic and chill
Hi Mark, thanks for the - as always - thorough review. Sorry to be that guy but what’s your take on the lack of old school (sorry not the technical term I know) USB ports. Especially for music production - that’s still a big deal isn’t it? Guess it’s hubs all the way?
I was actually really happy with my 27 inch AOC (u2790pqu) 4k ips monitor from 300 euros, together with a mac mini. But sometimes the screen glitches and repeats bits of the screen. Not sure if this is a problem with the monitor or mac mini. So I might get the m1 imac because the screen is made for the mac 🙈 p.s. If anyone know whats wrong with the monitor would love to hear it!
Because iMac is designed not for a personal use as many people mistakenly think. It is for classes, public rooms, offices. You will see all advantages of the design after.
I was critical of the new iMacs until I got to see them live. They truly are beautiful and amazing industrial design. Except for the expense they are the perfect desktop computer for non-professionals. They are beautiful to look at and smooth to use. That does not mean they are perfect, what is? It is not startingly faster to use and that's me coming from a 10 year old 27" iMac. It was hard to tell in the noisy Apple Store but I don't think the speakers are as good as Apple has hyped them up to be. The speakers on my old iMac 27" seem to me to be fuller, with more bass and volume, probably because they are bigger. Also that tiny and too flat keyboard is not for me. I'd have to shell out for the extended keyboard, probably a better mouse (really the plug still disables the mouse when charging?), and the extortionately expensive extra RAM and SSD. I like the external power supply (less heat), the chin (lifts the screen and bounces the sound off your desk) and minimalist layout, but I can't accept the low RAM and SSD, and want a larger display, so I will just have to wait until Apple, after a decade of really bad choices, decides to finally sell a Mac I want to pay for.
@@MarkEllisReviews middle iMac 🖥 I think just going to see what happens at the next big apple event to see if a bigger monitor is an option but think 24 inch monitor is all I need mate but the problem for me is I spend ages making a decision when buying products I always want the best for less and a computer that is fully loaded I also want a new larger tv but their is nothing wrong with the one I have so you can see how bad I am at buying equipment it’s not that money is no object its I like the best for less , to be honest your reviews have been a big help. To finish knowing my luck I will pluck for the middle Mac and after buying it it will drop in price 😂😂
After all the faffing around I finally purchased a M1 Mac Mini (16gb RAM, 512gb ssd). Logitech MX Master 3 mouse, Logitech MX Keys kbd and 27” 2k 100% sRGB monitor (BenQ 2700Q)
The M1 given it can be in iPad or desktop and be a monster in either case, what I'd like to see is M1 with 2:1 "surface-like"/ipad with full MacOS but in ultra portable (+touch-stylus) form factor (with LTE) at affordable consumer prices and incredibly light/portable form/footprint. I'd expect some ridiculous hardware power in bigger machines coming in the future at suitable Apple prices and of course an attempt at beefing up graphics in such machines.
In 2005, I took my white 20-inch G5 iMac to my local coffee shop. Why, I only had dial-up internet at home and had paid for the optional upgrade for an internal Airport Card and wanted to make sure it was working properly. With OS X 10.3 Panther, it worked like a charm. Also, others at the coffee shop commented on the fact the desktop (monitor and CPU) were so thin with a width of only about 2 inches. Today, I still use this daily as my back-up desktop system.
If you are in an open office (bless your poor soul), then the back of the computer makes a difference. Since most people put the back to the wall of their office of cube, it might was well look like cardboard for as much as you look at it. I've had my iMac for 4 years and I don't think I've spend a combined hour looking at the back or sides. I've always thought the thinness of the iMac was a ridiculous goal. I'd rather have a 50 lb beast that did exactly what I wanted instead of a featherweight computer that made sacrifices to achieve it.
Hi Mark. Thanks for debunking all the doom and gloom surrounding the issue of “only a 7 core GPU”. Some of us mere mortals need real world advice about everyday usage, not whether NASA engineers would prefer an extra core ……..!
Sorry this was so late coming - delivery issues, as always! Anyway, let me know what you think about the 24" iMac if you've got one!
Another great video Mark 👌 mine is coming tomorrow!
Hey Mike so I want to use my iMac for basically homework , writing papers , Microsoft word . Excel and PowerPoint. Which do you think is best for me 24” or the 202 27” inch iMac
I have had my new mid level iMAC for about a week and love it. I use it for creating handouts and videos for my paper arts business. Video editing is excellent and I love the amount of real estate on the brilliant screen, especially compared to my laptop. A truly great machine! Thanks for the informative review.
I got my iMac in red pink 3 weeks ago,I’m in love with mine
I purchased an iMac 🖥️ in purple to complement my grey office decor, and the vibrant hue really stands out.
Taking your iMac to a coffee shop is a different type of flex
It was one of those things that you just can't stop looking at.
@@MarkEllisReviews Even if you really, really try. I bet.
If, I did buy a new 24-inch iMac in my favorite color "Yellow/Gold" would take it to my local coffee to show it off within, just the first week (smile...smile).
@@transitengineer You know what? That's not a bad shout, to be honest.
That's what an airbook is for.
Originally, I thought silver was the way to go, but these blue ones look so clean.
I like your reviews. They tend to be positive and directed at the typical user without all the techno babble. Keep them coming. This was a good evenhanded review. I’m still waiting to see the bigger one though. However, I LOVE my M1 Mac Mini.
Thanks, Daniel - glad I struck the right balance with this one!
I think it’s usually best to go at least one up than base version as that is better value and more usable with more ports, better cooling, more cores etc…
That's true in almost any major purchase. The bottom is the econo version to make the price look cheap. The top has all the bells and whistles. The middle is usually the sweet spot of price and usability.
Can you use your old iMac as a secondary monitor?
I reckon you’re spot on with all your comments - been living with the new iMac (replacing a 5K from 2014) for about ten days now and it’s a dream. It was and is just the thing I need, especially for a limited space office which really benefits from an all-in solution. Camera, audio, microphone all pretty good (although I have a Tula mic which I’m loving) and display every bit as good as the beautiful 5K (now retired for entertainment use in the next room!).
If your use case has the sort of features demanded that the iMac offers, I reckon I’ve a machine for 5-6 years of trouble-free work - and that’s great value even if I upgraded a few features!
Keep up the great reviews, Mark.
Thank you for your lovely feedback :)
u're the first one, who I'd like to watch & listen!. so many UA-camrs, talking trash.... finally someone reasonable..THX
Ah, thanks!
can you make a comparison screen quality between Imac m1 and your iMac m1 with a monitor? I'm a bit curious about what makes the iMac m1 screen so different from another monitor.
It’s the combination of 4.5k resolution and the p3 color which is important for photo and video editing. Very few monitors have both for a reasonable price. The closest comparison is the LG ultra fine display apple sells but it’s $600 by itself. Idk about refresh rate for gaming and all that but I doubt many people game on Macs. That being said if you have a monitor you’re happy with or one you’re looking to get, then save the money and get the Mac mini. It’s a decision between the convenience of the all-in-one iMac and the value and flexibility of a Mac mini. Bear in mind though that I would not get the cheapest iMac and instead opt for the $1499 starting price model, meaning a $800 gap which could be the difference maker
This video might help (the difference really is night and day, though): ua-cam.com/video/P12ASXX4Rsk/v-deo.html
so would you spend money to upgrade the ram or the storage? great video
Thanks! RAM. Storage can be added at any time, externally.
@@MarkEllisReviews thanks a lot that very helpful
I recently got the same exact iMac you're describing in this video and its quite amazing! Very snappy, the display is beyond words and being someone who loves a great audio experience, the speakers are wonderful as well!
Thoughts on going down in monitor size? I was going to get a Mac Mini just to get a giant monitor like yours - and ended up ordering the iMac because 1) i rarely worked out of the house pre-pandemic and 2) all the peripheral costs (monitor, speakers, extra ports, etc) added up and who really wants a zillon extra cables?
I would prefer the black bezels. Or, a choice in bezel color.
I felt the same way about the back and hiding it in normal use. I wound up flipping my desk around and I still cannot stop looking at the back of it when I walk by it.
I wish I could do that :(
I’m going to sit tight and wait for the 27” version … or whatever the next larger size ends up being. Great video, Mark.
Great video, Mr Ellis...I bought an orange one with 16 GB RAM and 1 TB storage...everything you said in this video I found to be absolutely true...this is the best desktop I have ever owned and hope to keep it for several years... I think these new iMacs will be a huge success with consumers and the bright, bold colors are a welcome alternative to the boring space grays and blacks...
For office work, is 256gn imac is enough?
The chin is for post-it notes.
dang right!
Passwords maybe?
How's the screen real estate? Can you run it in 1440p equivalent? Is the text big enough to read?
Thank you. 22 years ago I bought myself a Powerbook G4. I remember the fabulous smell of the engineering as I opened the box to my titanium laptop. Does this iMac smell as good?
I'm sorry to report... that it doesn't have any kind of defining odour.
@@MarkEllisReviews oh well, I guess I'll cope! Thanks for letting me know.
what is that white monitor stand (looks acrylic or metal) that I saw on the video? Can you post an URL to it? Thanks!
Cheeky affiliate link: amzn.to/3gphtPP
Would you recommend the iMac over the Mac mini for composition and music production?
I’ve only recently subscribed to your channel. It is so refreshing to have such down to earth reviews. I feel you are talking to me. Real world comments about how an everyday computer user like me needs to know. Thank you. Carry on the excellent work.
That's lovely feedback - thank you, Stephen.
Btw- People who have an Apple Watch can Unlock their iMacs by default. Don’t need the Touch ID. My two cents..
Indeed they can!
Hi Mark thank you for helping me to make my mind up to purchase one, could I please ask you what make is your card reader as I need one myself, hope you are able to help me.
hardly any ports requiring dongles and adaptors was a bad call
I’m now in paralysis by analysis because I have the peripherals I want which makes me lean Mac mini, but my monitors aren’t as good as the iMac’s.
My MacBook Pro from 2014 had been working well up until recently, so I’m waiting for the next announcements before deciding between upgrading or just being happy with the cheaper MacBook Air.
The iPad Pro with M1 and miniLED has the most potential, but iPadOS is holding the system back but everyone is saying apple is gonna revamp it now that it has M1. Well see.
Hoping WWDC will ease my indecision worries.
Yea, I hear you. But with Apple if, possible it is always better to wait because sometimes their discontinued models (i.e. Intel mac mini and iMac Pro) turn out to be a better way to go.
Commenting to say that WWDC did not ease my worries other than confirming iPad’s will not replace MacBooks anytime soon
@@kalvin. Hear what you are saying and if, buying a new desktop in June 2021, I would just pick-up a used discontinued space gray 27-inch Intel iMac Pro model. Why, because now at a much lower price it has four (4) USB "A" ports, four (4) Thunderbolt ports, SD card reader, 5K display, is able to support my older software, and works well with older and more stable versions of Apple's operating system. Learned from another You Tuber that, Apple has listed the space gray accessories as "only while supplies last". So while, I have never liked Apple's current keyboards, I did go ahead and order both the space gray Track Pad and Mouse (smile...smile).
I’ve had my Mac Mini M1 with 16gb and 1tb SSD and a lovely 27 inch Samsung 4K monitor for 5 months and love it to bits. It replaced my 7 year old i7 21.5 iMac.
Trouble is now I’m craving an iMac again. Problem is what to do with my highly specced Mac Mini Mi. Sigh.
Is there an ‘ audio’ jack for a separate set of speakers, or is wireless the only option?
I have an older pair of Bose that I would hate to part with 😁
What speakers do you have on your desk?
Kanto! Take a look in my video descriptions, I think there's some links in there :)
I'm currently on the MacBook Pro early 2015 (13"), would this be an upgrade in terms of screen size? Lol
Hi Mark, thanks for the information, I ordered my iMac 24" a while back after my iMac 21.5" died, it's coming on 5th September 2022 and I am so looking forward to it. One question, you briefly mentioned the speakers but I imagine they are pretty puny for any serious music listening and I see you have external 2:1 stereo speakers hooked up - what make are they and are they any good? Thanks.
OK so after watching your video about the 24" M1 iMac being sufficient size for those of us who are coming from the 27" iMac, and now this overall review of the 24" M1, I bit the proverbial bullet this evening and ordered one w/ 16 gig RAM and 1 TB storage. I am going to relegate my 27" to strictly photo editing and use the 24" M1 for all my other day-to-day administrative/office computing tasks. I think it is going to work beautifully and I have no doubt that between this new iMac and my 2020 M1 13" Macbook Pro, I will be in great shape! Thanks for the encouragement. I am now committed and hopefully will avoid spending $3.5 - $4K for the new larger M1 iMac, whenever it comes out (in 2022)! :-)
Nice - enjoy it, John!
Should I go with the YU2s or should I get two home pod minis as speakers for the IMac?
I want to get the iMac but I already have a 2017 MacBook Pro and I’m so used to having laptops
Superb positive review. Best I’ve seen so far.
Thanks so much, Matthew!
Thanks for the review Mark. I’ve just bought the M1 Mac Mini with a LG Electronics UHD 27UN83A monitor, £400 in the UK. The picture quality is stunning. Admittedly it’s not a retina screen but I prefer the Matt look for many reasons. And if my maths is correct it’s a lot less than the
27inch iM1 Mac equivalent (I’m reusing my keyboard and mouse from my old iMac). I’ve previously been an iMac owner so will be interesting to see how this stacks up. So far it is a stunning combo for my photography needs. I do like the colours of the iMac though ;)
Mark, thank you for this review. It was very practical and you’ve helped me to decide between the base model and the upgrade.
Happy to help, Perry :)
Mark, Which speakers are you using? They look great!
Kanto YU2 I believe - or maybe a higher end model, but definitely kanto
YU2s and matching sub!
Mark, what do you do with the equipment once your done with it? Are you going to continue to use your Mac mini, or is your iMac going to be your primary machine going forward? I’m debating on which machine to get, I look forward to the 3 month review !
iMac for 'normal' computery stuff, Mac mini as a production machine.
Also, do not forget about the used discontinued in space gray 27-inch Intel iMac Pro models (now at much lower prices).
Great review!
I’m coming from a really old 27” iMac and painfully deciding between the 24” M1 iMac with 16gb of ram and a 512 ssd or the base MacBook Pro M1 Pro. The difference in price is $150 CAD more for the MacBook Pro.
Any thoughts?
Hi
Obviously money isn’t a problem for you mate, But why would you consider getting the larger and the much more expensive 27/32inch iMac as well aren’t you satisfied with the new 24inch???????
Because I set this channel up to review stuff, dude. Enables me to provide buying advice for my audience. And trust me, running a business like this isn’t as profitable as you might think 😉
hey there I've ordered the new imac green in color and was wondering what to use as a hub for multiple connections. I don't know if i'd go for a powered docking station or a usb-c hub powered by the computer itself. All i need really is usb 3.0 supplying enough power to charge my iphone when needed. What would you recommend i buy. THX
Just recently subscribed as these are great no-nonsense reviews. Seriously tempted by new iMac as my 2018 iMac 21.5” is so slow partly because it doesn’t have SSD I think. I notice you recommend “clean my Mac” which I’ve always been warned against. In your opinion, Would this speed up my slow responding intel imac?
Thanks so much, Kevin. CleanMyMacX is great - it will help your iMac, absolutely, but there are so many things that can contribute to a slow machine, it's difficult to _guarantee_ that it will!
Just recommended your M1 Mac reviews to a client who’s going to buy a new Mac and was planning to buy the 16” Intel MBP. 😱
Unless you're a business that needs to run software on Intel chips or has needs for higher spec machines that aren't yet available, don't get the Intel Macs, they will devalue very quickly once the next M-series chip with more RAM is out.
Apple’s packaging is *FLAWLESS!* 😃
What IU like about all this is Apple's creativity AND that a Mac-Mini's your main computer as mine is with 2 32' screens and 3 SSD externals to keep up with my Videos and Photos!
I got the mid priced version in silver with 16gb ram. Love it. I don't agree with any of the criticisms about it. The 4 ports are perfect for me. The 2 usb's go to audio interface and keyboard controller. The 2 thunderbolts go to G-drive thunderbolt SSD and a hub with old school usb-a ports and sd card reader.
Hello Mark! I’ve been looking for advice for getting a lightbar to (ehem) mount above the iMac M1. I’m not sure if it’s a good idea at all with the risk of blocking the FaceTime camera inside the top bezel of the iMac. What is your thought on this? Cheers.
Thanks for the recommendation for CleanMyMac X, Mark. I just grabbed it for my M1 Macbook Air via your link. What a great choice!
Excellent - thanks for using my link, Peter. It is a superb tool.
Where is the link? I want to sign up.
@@raptr786 Here you go: macpaw.audw.net/c/2764887/941...
Mark, I'm pretty new to the Mac family and have been using a M1 Macbook Air for a month now and I quite love it. Now for the new officespace I'm wondering if I should get a IMac or see if I can use the macbook as my main device when using hubs and a separate screen. Any thoughts maybe?
Thanks for commenting! It depends entirely on whether or not you want to spend the money, I guess. Having more than one Mac is a lovely thing and offers a great deal of convenience if one is a desktop machine while the other is portable. If you’ve got the cash for the iMac, I couldn’t recommend it highly enough.
@@MarkEllisReviews Thanks Mark! Convenience is all I needed to hear ;-)
I would pay extra for a 27-inch M1 iMac in Red!
If only for the glare on that screen. Will wait for the larger model to see if that fault is rectified (along with the white bezel fault) or investigate separate screen and a mini/macbook.
I have a nine year old MacBook Air that just crashed. The Universe is speaking to me. I’m about to pull the trigger on the midrange model in Blue. After 13 inches, 24 inch is going to seem gigantic to me. I use it for business apps and web surfing, so it sounds like the perfect solution.
Great review, Mark. Very clear and helpful. Thank you 😊
Thank you. Glad I could help 😊
Just subscribed to your channel Mark, love your down to earth honest content, ive ordered my M1 iMac 16Gb Ram 512Gb ssd, i thought about the base model, but thought if i didn't go for the higher spec, i would definitely regret it, should get it mid July, can't wait.
The daughters is on order, mid July. Can't wait but have too.
Be lucky stay safe.
Thanks - you too!
Hey Mark, The $1,499 Version of the M1 iMac says it has 2 USB-C/Thunderbolt ports and 2 USB 3 Ports, is USB 3 the same as Usb 3.0? The ports look like USB-C ports. Can you give any clarification or anyone in the comments have any information on this?
For me I ended up getting a 3 monitor 3 computer 3 os setup. A 4k screen (signing bonus from remote work job) , a 1440p 144hz screen(gift from a friend) and a 1080p 60hz screen that i got from family. A Linux (kde plasma kubuntu) workstation with an old 6000 intel quad core, 32gb ram lots of space and a medium sized case that will have all my work tools on it for web development and cyber security. A windows 10 gaming rig with a 3700x, 32gb ram, and a 3070 that I got for a steal of a deal right before prices skyrocketed (also it paid for itself already thanks to mining profits). And of course a refurbished m1 mac mini (8gb and 256gb since I havea thunderbolt external ssd for my storage needs) that will serve as my media production and consumption machine. Together using the magic of synergy, I can run all of them together off 1 set of keyboard and mouse. And thanks to an old workstation I have my own home server to share larger data between them and local backup my most important files 24/7, in addition to using it for a home minecraft server and plex media server. So yeah I ened up getting to finally make my dream set up, and the best part is that between my mining profits and reselling hardware when I upgrade keeping a great deal of the cost I spent thanks to the great deals I got, I will probably wind up making money. And I haven't even started mining on my m1 mac mini yet and reaping those profits;
Hi mark, love your vids!
Just a quick question, the power lead for the new iMac comes in two parts, the braided section and then the rubber coated section, could I ask what the length is of both sections, just trying to figure out if it’s going to be ok going where I want it to go in my house before I order 😂 👍
The wallet is creaking open. But will probably wait till Monterey in the Autumn. Brilliant video.
Thanks Stephen. And it’s hard not to rush and buy one, isn’t it?
Just a little tip for some and this is actually how I'm going to go about when I buy this iMac:
1. Go with the base model (meaning only two thunderbolt ports)
2. Upgrade to 16GB
3. Change the keyboard to the one with the TouchID
Extras:
4. For storage, buy a separate SSD
5. Buy a USB-C Hub
My total is still less compared to getting the one with the four ports
@Mark Lim I get it, but since I will be doing more than just light browsing and light work with it and will be putting some load on it I for sure don’t want to miss out on the better and quieter cooling system the better models have. I really want quiet. I also want to be able to move it between rooms and don’t want to have an SSD plugged in.
M1 mini or iMac?
Great review as always Mark :) What is your personal opinion on a 24-inch monitor for video editing? I'm planning an upgrade to apple silicon but wondering if the 24inch iMac is enough for video editing, or maybe a 32-inch lower-quality screen? I'm leaning towards iMac, but would love to hear your opinion?
Thank you! It's a bit too small for video editing, in my opinion, although that may be because I've got so used to a 34" ultra wide for that task! The power of the M1 does make this a compelling video editing machine, though! I'd suggest getting yourself in front of one at an Apple store if you can.
I would say it depends on what you mean with “enough for video editing”. I often catch myself editing video on my medium size iPad instead of my large one just because it is so convenient.
@@MarkEllisReviews @Norman Baatz Thanks guys. I appreciate the advice. I'm going to try and get to an Apple store if I can, maybe even wait for WWDC just incase ;) Looking forward to seeing more reviews Mark, one of my favourite Tech UA-camrs right now!
I prefer using older Apple tech. So, another option would be buying the M1 mac mini, and pairing it with an Apple 27-inch Cinema Thunderbolt Display. Have been using the none thunderbolt version of this display with my mac mini for years.
The screen size is perfect for editing no problem
An informed and passionate review. Thank you.
Thanks, Eric!
Still don’t get the chin complaints the whole computer is in the chin so that the rest can be as thin as it is. Also the bezel complaints are ridiculous.. I appreciate you’re approach in your videos. Thank you for being realistic and chill
Thank you 😃
Thanks for the review, very informative
Thanks!
Like your audio frequency chart. Waiting on Logic EQ tutorial on the new iMAC!🦋
I do too! And I'm sure I'll do something along those lines one day!
@@MarkEllisReviews Thanks🙂
Hi Mark, thanks for that concise review. Now that you've mentioned it, the 4.5K screen looks tempting versus the Mac mini. Decisions, decisions 😊
Glad you enjoyed it, Don. It's a very compelling choice!
Was Waiting for this, thx!
Hi Mark, thanks for the - as always - thorough review. Sorry to be that guy but what’s your take on the lack of old school (sorry not the technical term I know) USB ports. Especially for music production - that’s still a big deal isn’t it? Guess it’s hubs all the way?
What was the persons name who took that 27” to Starbucks? The flex is unreal!
No idea, I'm afraid - but what a legend!
I was actually really happy with my 27 inch AOC (u2790pqu) 4k ips monitor from 300 euros, together with a mac mini.
But sometimes the screen glitches and repeats bits of the screen. Not sure if this is a problem with the monitor or mac mini. So I might get the m1 imac because the screen is made for the mac 🙈
p.s. If anyone know whats wrong with the monitor would love to hear it!
do you find the chin color a bit of a distraction?
Nope.
Because iMac is designed not for a personal use as many people mistakenly think. It is for classes, public rooms, offices. You will see all advantages of the design after.
Still waiting for someone to try the TouchID ability of that new Keyboard with another Macbook.
Nice video, btw, thanks mate.
Thanks!
Someone HAS tried it, and it DOES work
@@pineappleroad Really, that's so cool, now I'm a little sad buying the Logitech MX Keys LOL
I was critical of the new iMacs until I got to see them live. They truly are beautiful and amazing industrial design. Except for the expense they are the perfect desktop computer for non-professionals.
They are beautiful to look at and smooth to use. That does not mean they are perfect, what is? It is not startingly faster to use and that's me coming from a 10 year old 27" iMac. It was hard to tell in the noisy Apple Store but I don't think the speakers are as good as Apple has hyped them up to be. The speakers on my old iMac 27" seem to me to be fuller, with more bass and volume, probably because they are bigger. Also that tiny and too flat keyboard is not for me.
I'd have to shell out for the extended keyboard, probably a better mouse (really the plug still disables the mouse when charging?), and the extortionately expensive extra RAM and SSD.
I like the external power supply (less heat), the chin (lifts the screen and bounces the sound off your desk) and minimalist layout, but I can't accept the low RAM and SSD, and want a larger display, so I will just have to wait until Apple, after a decade of really bad choices, decides to finally sell a Mac I want to pay for.
Great review as ever mate now decision time 😂😂😎
What are you leaning towards, Neil?
@@MarkEllisReviews middle iMac 🖥 I think just going to see what happens at the next big apple event to see if a bigger monitor is an option but think 24 inch monitor is all I need mate but the problem for me is I spend ages making a decision when buying products I always want the best for less and a computer that is fully loaded I also want a new larger tv but their is nothing wrong with the one I have so you can see how bad I am at buying equipment it’s not that money is no object its I like the best for less , to be honest your reviews have been a big help. To finish knowing my luck I will pluck for the middle Mac and after buying it it will drop in price 😂😂
@@neilbissett1240 The middle one will be a great purchase, Neil - if you've got the funds, I'd go for it. Trust me, it's such a lovely machine.
I wouldn't recommend the base model it only has one cooling fan fan and no heat pipe it'll tend to over heat if you do heavy tasks.
black bezels still have alot of light relfecting alot depending on whatya have just saying.... lol. it looks great tho.
After all the faffing around I finally purchased a M1 Mac Mini (16gb RAM, 512gb ssd). Logitech MX Master 3 mouse, Logitech MX Keys kbd and 27” 2k 100% sRGB monitor (BenQ 2700Q)
Nice setup!
The M1 given it can be in iPad or desktop and be a monster in either case, what I'd like to see is M1 with 2:1 "surface-like"/ipad with full MacOS but in ultra portable (+touch-stylus) form factor (with LTE) at affordable consumer prices and incredibly light/portable form/footprint.
I'd expect some ridiculous hardware power in bigger machines coming in the future at suitable Apple prices and of course an attempt at beefing up graphics in such machines.
Maybe the guy with the 27" iMac in the coffee shop is the owner :P
Haha - even that would be a bit odd, but I don't think it was the case...
In 2005, I took my white 20-inch G5 iMac to my local coffee shop. Why, I only had dial-up internet at home and had paid for the optional upgrade for an internal Airport Card and wanted to make sure it was working properly. With OS X 10.3 Panther, it worked like a charm. Also, others at the coffee shop commented on the fact the desktop (monitor and CPU) were so thin with a width of only about 2 inches. Today, I still use this daily as my back-up desktop system.
@@transitengineer Love that.
I love this review.
I love this comment.
@@MarkEllisReviews LOL
Ugh I'm torn between the blue one or yellow
Glad to see another pro-chin person. I don't want my iMac to look like a Dell.
If you are in an open office (bless your poor soul), then the back of the computer makes a difference. Since most people put the back to the wall of their office of cube, it might was well look like cardboard for as much as you look at it. I've had my iMac for 4 years and I don't think I've spend a combined hour looking at the back or sides.
I've always thought the thinness of the iMac was a ridiculous goal. I'd rather have a 50 lb beast that did exactly what I wanted instead of a featherweight computer that made sacrifices to achieve it.
I would prefer having a space grey model with black bezels.
Maybe we'll see that later this year...
Mount a mirror on the Wall behind your iMac 24”. and You can see the Back Panel’s Beautiful Colour &. Apple Logo 👍
How come you got yours before me?
They could literally make the computer in the stand and have a 2 mm glass screen, maybe for the next iMac....
In regards to the missing front Apple logo. Apple includes a colour matched Apple sticker in the box.
It’s too big.
@@NormanBaatz Well that's a shame. Missed opportunity
Sticking with my old 27" . Full screen . The new is : pay alot and get way less......
Waiting for an orange one, I’ll see the Apple logo once a week when I empty the bins 😩
Typical Apple, the colours hidden on the back look better than the front!
Put a mirror behind your imac.
Unboxing thinner coloured hardware is not a big deal.
An iMac without a chin would simply look like a monitor with a keyboard.
Exactly.
Hi Mark. Thanks for debunking all the doom and gloom surrounding the issue of “only a 7 core GPU”. Some of us mere mortals need real world advice about everyday usage, not whether NASA engineers would prefer an extra core ……..!
Glad I could help!