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Apple 24″ iMac with M3 Chip Review: A Stunning All-in-One Powerhouse
Apple’s 24″ iMac with the M3 chip has arrived, and it’s a force to be reckoned with. This all-in-one desktop boasts a stunning 4.5K Retina display, powerful performance, and an elegant design. But does it live up to the hype? I’ve been using the iMac for several weeks, putting it through its paces with a variety of tasks, and I’m ready to share my honest thoughts.
Key Features
The 24″ iMac is packed with features that make it an appealing choice for creatives, professionals, and everyday users alike. Here are some of the standout highlights:
- Apple M3 Chip: This powerful chip delivers blazing fast performance for everything from web browsing to video editing. The 8-core CPU and 10-core GPU handle demanding tasks with ease.
- 4.5K Retina Display: The 24″ iMac’s display is simply stunning. The high resolution delivers crisp, vibrant visuals that make everything from photos to videos look incredible.
- Sleek and Modern Design: The iMac boasts a minimalist design that seamlessly blends into any workspace. The thin bezels and colorful chassis make it a visually appealing addition to any desk.
- Magic Keyboard with Touch ID: The included keyboard features a built-in fingerprint sensor for quick and secure logins. It also includes a dedicated Touch ID button for easy access to your Apple Pay.
- Magic Mouse: The Magic Mouse, known for its smooth and responsive scrolling, complements the overall design and functionality of the iMac.
- macOS: Apple’s intuitive operating system offers a seamless experience with an array of built-in apps and a focus on simplicity.
Performance and Usage
The M3 chip in this iMac is a game-changer. I’ve used the iMac for a variety of tasks, including:
- Web browsing and multitasking: The iMac effortlessly handled multiple browser tabs, video calls, and other applications simultaneously. Websites loaded quickly and smoothly, even with multiple heavy tabs open.
- Photo and video editing: I edited high-resolution photos and 4K videos in Final Cut Pro and Adobe Photoshop, and the iMac handled it all with ease. The performance was smooth and responsive, with minimal lag or stuttering.
- Gaming: While not designed for hardcore gaming, the iMac can handle casual games with ease. I tested several games, including “Civilization VI” and “Fortnite,” and they ran smoothly at respectable frame rates.
- Productivity tasks: The iMac excelled at productivity tasks like writing, spreadsheets, and presentations. The responsiveness of the system and the large screen made it a joy to work on.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional performance powered by the M3 chip.
- Stunning 4.5K Retina display with vibrant colors and incredible detail.
- Elegant and minimalist design that complements any workspace.
- Included Magic Keyboard with Touch ID for secure and convenient logins.
- Seamless integration with the macOS operating system.
Cons:
- Limited storage options, with the base model offering only 256GB.
- Not ideal for high-end gaming due to its integrated GPU.
- The price point is higher than some competing desktop options.
Final Verdict
The Apple 24″ iMac with the M3 chip is a fantastic all-in-one desktop that delivers stunning visuals, powerful performance, and a sleek design. It’s a great choice for creatives, professionals, and anyone who wants a reliable and stylish desktop computer. However, the limited storage options and higher price point may be drawbacks for some. Overall, it’s a highly recommended machine that delivers on its promise of a powerful and user-friendly experience.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Operating System | macOS |
| Processor | Apple M3 |
| GPU | Apple (10-Core) |
| Total Installed Memory | 8 GB |
| Display | 23.5″ 4.5K Retina Display |
| Resolution | 4480 x 2520 |
| Touchscreen | No |
| Total Installed Capacity | 256 GB |
| Inputs/Outputs | 2 xUSB-C (Thunderbolt 3 / USB4) 2 xUSB-C 3.1/3.2 Gen 2 |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax) with MU-MIMO Support |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 |