Best Apple iMac 2019
The best Apple iMac 2019 is incredibly diverse. We don’t know what’s in the cards for future Macs, at least beyond the new Mac Pro, but we’re sure there’s still plenty of life in Apple’s computers. That means that if you don’t have to budget to purchase the latest Macs, as the older models will more than suffice, saving you some cash.
In addition, the best Apple iMac 2019 cover everything from thin and light notebooks like the 12-inch MacBook to professional workhorses like the iMac Pro. So, it can be tricky choosing the perfect Apple iMac for you.
That’s why we decided to gather all the best Apple iMac 2019 we’ve used – iMacs, MacBooks and more – to help you with that important decision. The only Macs that you won’t find here are the ones that we’ve either not been able to review, or just weren’t good enough. Let’s dive in to all the best Apple iMac 2019 you can buy right now.
Apple iMac 2019 – buying guide
Apple iMac products are expensive and long time investment. it is important to look all possible criteria to choose best Apple iMac models.
- Display: Display is the most important feature to get right. These days, there’s no reason to accept a screen smaller than 24 inches. 24-inch models have a 1920×1080 display—these screens can still look good, but you can see individual pixels at this resolution, which can make text and images look less crisp. For 27-inch all-in-ones, QHD (2560×1440) is the lowest resolution we recommend, but 4K (3840×2160) or higher is better.
- Specs:
- Storage: Most preferred by customers is an AIO with at least a hybrid or Fusion Drive—preferably a 128 GB or larger SSD for the operating system plus at least a 1 TB hard drive for media files and large games.
- CPU: It should have a seventh- or eighth-generation Intel Core i5 or i7 processor or an AMD Ryzen 5 or AMD Ryzen 7 so it’ll be powerful enough for most work for at least five years.
- Memory: 8 GB of memory is adequate for now, but we recommend 16 GB to make sure the computer will feel fast enough for several years, especially if the model you get isn’t easily upgradeable.
- GPU: We don’t recommend all-in-ones for serious gaming or graphics work, but if an AIO comes with a dedicated GPU, either from AMD or Nvidia, it’s usually enough to handle light gaming, like Overwatch, Fortnite, or Rocket League. Integrated Intel graphics are fine for budget models.
- Price: Most people shouldn’t spend more than $2,000 on an all-in-one computer with the specs to last four or five years. For $1,700 to $2,000, you can expect to get a 27-inch 4K or 5K display, the most current CPU, a decent GPU, and a mix of solid-state and hard drive storage. For around $1,500-$1,800, you can get the same specs with a 27-inch QHD display. For less than $1,500, you’ll usually get a smaller display, a lower resolution, or both. These cheaper models often have no SSD, feature a less-powerful CPU, and often lack the dedicated GPU found in higher priced models. Below $1,200, the build quality drops significantly, and the specs are similar to what you get with a $500 to $600 laptop.
- Design: All-in-ones should blend into your home. No computer will suit everyone’s tastes, but a good design keeps garish flourishes to a minimum and favors sleek minimalism.
- Ports: Good AIOs need a variety of ports, including USB-C, Thunderbolt 3, USB 3.0, headphone and mic jacks, and a memory card reader. They shouldn’t skimp on the number of ports, and it’s nice (but rare) when the ports you use often are accessible, not all jammed in the back where they’re hard to reach.
- Webcam: The webcam and microphones should be serviceable for the occasional video call and located above the display—not the bottom—so it’s easy to get in frame.
- Accessories: Most AIOs come with a wireless keyboard and mouse, but they’re not always great. Some feel better than others, some require batteries while others recharge via USB, and battery life varies. You can replace them, but that defeats (part of) the purpose of getting an all-in-one system.
- Speakers: Many people use their all-in-ones for movies, music, and TV shows, so a good set of speakers is important. Built-in speakers have gotten better over the years, and while they won’t replace desktop speakers, they should be acceptable for basic media consumption.
- Warranty: Since AIOs are often not user-serviceable and the all-in-one nature means when one component breaks the computer may become unusable, a good warranty is a must. An AIO should have at least a one-year warranty.
There are few features to be considered as optional:
- Upgradability: Most AIOs don’t allow for easy at-home upgrades, but some make it easier than others. It’s a bonus if you can find one where you can swap out memory or storage drives.
- Ergonomics: The computer shouldn’t sacrifice usability for aesthetics. An AIO should at least have a display that tilts through a wide range of positions. And if you can find one with adjustable height, it’s even better, but height adjustments are rare.
- Pass-through HDMI: If an AIO comes with an HDMI-In port, you can use it as an external monitor for other devices with video output, like game consoles or laptops. This means the computer may remain useful as a monitor even when the rest of it gets too slow.
- Bloatware: Nearly every PC from a major company has a lot of company-specific software installed. Some PCs are better than others in this regard, but because bloatware is easy to remove, we didn’t ding otherwise good all-in-ones because of it.
Apart from best Apple iMac 2019, there are four contenders, the Dell Inspiron 27 7000, HP Envy 27-b245se, Asus ZenAIO, and 27-inch Apple iMac.
How much is the new iMac computer
How much is the new iMac computer? It depends on display size, memory limit, storage capacity and other related hardware requirements. Normally price may ranges from $ 1,300 to $ 7,000.
1. Apple computer 27 inch iMac – popular Apple iMac 2019
The iMac has long been one of the most affordable ways to get into the macOS ecosystem, and we’re glad that hasn’t changed. Though what has changed, we also appreciate. The new Apple computer 27 inch iMac is packed with 8th- and 9th-generation desktop-class processors this time around, letting this elegant all-in-one PC reach that fabled 8-core performance. If you’re looking for an all-in-one Mac, the new 27-inch iMac is one of the best Macs for you, at least if you’re not looking to spend five stacks on the iMac Pro.
Who should buy iMac 2019
It’s a desktop Mac, so the iMac is obviously best for someone who doesn’t mind being tied to their desk. Or perhaps you already own a laptop and need a decent work machine. The great thing about buying an Apple computer is that because everything is tied to your iCloud account all your Safari bookmarks, iCloud documents and applications will be available to you on all of your Macs.
The type of person for whom the 21in iMac is ideal will be different to the type who would require a 27in iMac.
The 21in iMacs are great options for most general use. If you’re a gamer we would steer you away from the cheaper models as the graphics card may not support many popular modern games.
For professionals who need a powerful Mac, the choice will probably be between the 27in iMac models, the 15in Retina MacBook Pro and the Mac Pro, and the Mar 2019 update puts the iMac right back in the mix. It’s an excellent option.
Overall, the iMac is ideal for graphic design, or those who work with video and images, it’s also great for gaming. The iMac Pro is even faster but it’s also a lot more expensive.
iMac tech specifications
There are two different sizes of iMac available: the 21.5in iMac and the 27in iMac. The full iMac range was last updated in Mar 2019 with new processors going up to Intel’s 8th and 9th generations.
The old entry-level iMac (which doesn’t have a Retina display) is still available. This costs £1,049/$1,099, and features a (7th-gen) 2.3GHz dual-core i5 processor, 8GB RAM, Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640 and a 1TB hard drive.
But then we move up to the new models. For another £200/$200 you can a faster 8th-gen 3.6GHz quad-core i5, 8GB RAM, Radeon Pro 555X graphics with 2GB video memory, a 1TB hard drive and even the 4K Retina display. Well worth £1,249/$1,299, in our opinion.
For a further £200/$200 you can go up to six cores. The top-of-the-range 21in iMac offers an 8th-gen 3.0GHz 6-core i5 processor, 8GB RAM, Radeon Pro 560X graphics with 4GB video memory, a 1TB Fusion Drive (which is faster than the hard drives in the previous two models mentioned) and the 4K display. That’s £1,449/$1,499.
The 27in iMacs also offer i5 processors (unlike the 15in MacBook Pros which introduce i7 processors at the high end). However, the processors in the 27in iMacs are all 6-core, so you can expect plenty of power.
The entry-level 27in iMac features an 8th-gen 3.0GHz 6-core i5, 8GB RAM, Radeon Pro 570X graphics with 4GB video memory and a 1TB fusion drive. And like all the bigger models it comes with a 5K display with a resolution of 5120 x 2880. This entry-level 27in iMac is £1,749/$1,799.
For £200/$200 more there is the mid-range, with an 8th-gen 3.1GHz 6-core i5, 8GB RAM, the slightly better Radeon 575X graphics and the 1TB Fusion Drive. Total price: £1,949/$1,999.
The top-of-the-range iMac, which costs £2,249/$2,299, goes all the way up to Intel’s 9th generation of processors. It offers a 9th-gen 3.7GHz 6-core i5, 8GB RAM as standard, Radeon Pro 580X graphics with 8GB video memory, and a 2TB Fusion Drive.
Like many Macs, the iMac offers an SDXC slot, USB slots, 802.11ac Wi-Fi, and Ethernet. Now that all the models have been updated they all feature Thunderbolt 3/USB-C ports. There are also four USB 3 ports – which will work with the older USB A standard if you have old peripherals.
The iMac lacks an optical drive; Apple traded in the built-in SuperDrive when it slimmed down the monitor to a super-thin 5mm. We don’t find we have much use for an optical drive these days, but if you really think you need one there is always the option of purchasing Apple’s USB SuperDrive for £65.
All the iMac models feature the following ports and standards
- 2 Thunderbolt 3 ports (USB-C)
- 4 USB 3 ports (USB-A)
- SDXC card slot
- Gigabit Ethernet
- Headphone port (with support for Apple iPhone headset with microphone)
- 802.11ac Wi-Fi
- Bluetooth 4.0
2. High-end choice Apple iMac Pro – AMD Radeon R9 M395 benchmark
Whether you’re a professional or a creative, you’ll require something that will be able to tackle any workload you could possibly throw at it. For you, the iMac Pro isn’t just one of the best Macs for you; it’s the only Mac to consider. Not only does it have a vivid 27-inch 5K display (AMD Radeon R9 M395 benchmark ) with a P3 wide color gamut, but it’s also packing the most powerful hardware Apple could get its hands on. It’s extremely expensive, so it’s really only meant for folks who have deep pockets and are looking for unbridled power to get through professional workloads. If you’re one such consumer, then the iMac Pro is the best Mac for you.
Is iMac Pro best for you?
The iMac Pro is for creatives and other people who need a super-powerful Mac: video and photo editors, 3D modellers, VR devs, music producers.
For the past few years those users have been migrating to the iMac instead of the Mac Pro, so (until the redesigned Mac Pro is ready) Apple felt it should just go with it, and give the iMac a pro-targeted revamp.
If your requirements are even higher than could be satisfied by this beast, you’ll need to wait for the new Mac Pro – and if you don’t fancy waiting that long, you’ll need to get a high-end PC.
iMac Pro tech specifications
- 3.2GHz 8-core Intel Xeon W processor, Turbo Boost up to 4.2GHz
- 32GB 2666MHz DDR4 ECC memory
- 1TB SSD
- Radeon Pro Vega 56 with 8GB of HBM2 memory
- Built-in 27in ‘Retina’ 5K display, 5120 x 2880 resolution, 500 nits brightness, Wide colour (P3)
- 1080p FaceTime HD camera
- Stereo speakers, four microphones
- Ports: 4x USB 3, 4 x Thunderbolt 3/USB-C, SDXC, ethernet, 3.5mm headphone jack
- 802.11ac Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2
- 65cm x 51.6cm x 20.3cm (depth includes stand); 9.7kg
You can customise this extensively, however. Processors up to 18 cores are available, and you can get up to 256GB of RAM and up to 4TB of flash storage. You can upgrade the Vega 56 graphics card to a Vega 64X, too. If you go all-in with every upgrade and extra it’s possible to spend more than £15,000/$15,000.
3. Mac mini – alternate to best Apple iMac 2019
Apple MacMini (3.2GHz 6-Core i7, 16GB, 512GB SSD, Intel UHD 630 GPU
The Mac mini is Apple’s compact desktop computer first introduced in 2005. It’s also Apple’s cheapest Mac, starting at just £799 or $799 (although it did used to be cheaper than that – when the 2014 model launched it cost just £399/$499). The mini used to be Apple’s least powerful Mac, but the latest iteration (now in Space Grey) has a lot more oomph than previously, and can be upgraded to some fairly meaty specs.
Is Mac mini worth for you?
For anyone who uses their Mac for browsing the web and writing emails, and doing general office work the Mac mini could suffice. It’s powerful enough to do a good job with photo and home video editing. If you are looking for a Mac that will just sit on your desk, or in the study, the Mac mini is a cheap option.
The Mac mini is also a popular choice for a living room Mac. A lot of people plug it into their TV screen via an HDMI cable (the Mac mini retains its HDMI port). And, apparently one reason why Apple, after waiting four years, finally updated the Mac mini was its popularity with developers and server farms.
When the Mac mini stopped featuring a optical drive back in 2011 there was a bit of an outcry from those who though it was an ideal home entertainment centre, but DVDs are far less popular than they were back then thanks to the rise of streaming services.
The Mac mini is a popular choice for developers – probably because it’s cheap and they can just plug it into an existing monitor and keyboard. It’s likely to become more popular for that now, and may even begin to appeal to creatives with more demanding needs, thanks to higher spec build-to-order options – though the lack of a discrete GPU is still a serious limitation.
Mac mini tech specifications
There are two Mac minis available. The cheapest Mac mini has a 3.6GHz quad-core Intel Core i3 processor and Intel UHD Graphics 630, along with 8GB DDR4 RAM and 128GB SSD storage. The other model upgrades to a 3.0GHz 6-core Intel Core i5 (with Turbo Boost up to 4.1GHz) and 256GB SSD, though the graphics and RAM remain the same.
The top of the range Mac mini has various build-to-order options, including a 3.2GHz 6-core Intel i7 processor, 2TB SSD, 64GB RAM, and a 10 Gigabit ethernet port. Opting for the top-of-the-line options across the board jumps the price up to a very meaty £3,859/$4,099 though, so watch out.
The Mac mini weighs 1.3kg and the dimensions are 19.7cm by 19.7cm. It’s just 3.6cm tall, so it really is mini as the name suggests. The shape and weight haven’t changed from the previous model.
All the Mac mini models feature the following ports and standards
- 4 Thunderbolt 3 USB-C ports
- 2 USB-A 3 ports
- HDMI 2.0 port
- Gigabit Ethernet (upgradeable to 10Gb)
- Audio in/out
- 802.11ac Wi-Fi
- Bluetooth 5.0
When should I buy an iMac – which iMac should I buy 2019
Which iMac should I buy 2019? When should I buy an iMac? Apple iMacs have long been a popular choice for families. Beautiful, yet practical, iMacs have been designed to stand out and provide years of enjoyment. The model recommended here includes amazing internals at a fair price. If you’re new to iMac or haven’t replaced one in a few years, this is the one to get. Still, this update isn’t necessary for recent iMac buyers.
As Lori Gil explained when the 2019 iMacs were first announced, if you bought your iMac prior to late 2014, it’s probably starting to show its age. It’s a little chubbier, a little slower, or may have begun to slow down. Meanwhile, Apple now has a 4K 21.5-inch iMac and a 5K 27-inch iMac, both with Retina displays, latest-generation Intel Coffee Lake processors, updated AMD graphics.
If your iMac is the mid-2012 model or older, you might want to make the leap to the current version. It is no longer part of the macOS upgrade cycle. It’s just past it’s prime. The late 2012 iMac is actually still a pretty solid workhorse but does lack some of the processor and graphics enhancements under the hood that would make your daily use more efficient.
If your iMac is starting to feel sluggish, it’s probably because you’re regularly using some processing or graphics heavy programs that are pushing your workhorse to its limits.
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Editor’s pick – Best Apple iMac 2019
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