24" M3 iMac Review - The BEST Mac for Everyone?
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- čas přidán 24. 07. 2024
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Apple in October refreshed the iMac and MacBook Pro, introducing the first M3 chips with 3-nanometer processors. We've already checked out the MacBook Pro with M3 Pro and the MacBook Pro with M3 Max, so we thought we'd wrap up our M3 review series with the iMac.
If you have an M1 iMac, you're not going to notice any physical differences between the old model and the new model with the M3 chip, because Apple didn't make any updates to the design or the color offerings.
read more - www.macrumors.com/2023/11/27/...
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Note: not all models come with 4 USB C ports. Some come with only 2.
Dan, the ports on the iMac aren't TB4. They are Thunderbolt/USB4. The official TB4 capability/certification is only via the Pro/Max/Ultra chip models.
I don't get it. Every review of the iMac use words like "Family computer" or, "Light use". It seems none of the tech reviewers remember the birth of the M1 chip and the furore surrounding its capabilities; every tech channel had reviews of the M1 and they were blown away by the chipss ability to perform complex pro tasks far in excess of the competition.
This. I'm tired of it.
Almost as though tech reviewers don't understand computers
Couldn't agree more. I purchased the base model M3 iMac with 512 SSD and can photo and video edit. This does all I need just not at the speeds I'm sure a pro, max, or ultra can do. Those are faster but this can do it all.
Yess!! I was wondering if I am the only one that noticed this! When the M1 came out you could do heavy work loads and everyone was amazed and all reviewers were mentioning how you can throw anything at it. Now the M2 is all of a sudden equivalent to an intel i3 for reviewers where we supposed to do light stuff only lol.
Nailed it, not everyone needs the PRO level machine, CZcamsrs talk like they make 6 figures so everyone else should be buying the most expensive machine like them😂
Im watliting to buy one with a larger display if they ever come out.
I’m sorry but a 27” or larger model still makes sense. Many users preferred the larger iMac for the upgradable options and larger excelent quality screen, a extended UI (USB-C, USB-A 3.1, Ethernet, SD card reader, audio out,…) and yes, the possibility to add a vesa arm. It was a cleaner solution.
It’s the perfect Mac not just for family or light use…it’s the perfect computer for 90% of everyone! Not everyone needs the extra power because not everyone is a graphic designer or a 8k video editor. WHICH this machine is capable of anyway…
Very timely review. I bought the same machine as you reviewed. It is sensationally faster than my old 27" Intel iMac but I miss the extra screen area. I do a lot of Photoshop and Lightroom editing and I still have time to return this and get either a Mini or MStudio with M2 chip. Is the performance difference worth it for Photoshop and Lightroom user. Great review!
Thanks for sharing. I enjoyed your mini review. Blessings on your day!
Well done, one of the best iMac 24 reviews. I just got the new M3 iMac 10 days ago to replace 3x older Intel 27" iMacs. I am super impressed with the new model except for one thing. The size of the display. As you said the 27" I would have preferred but on PCs I am used to 32". If you want the bigger monitors I would suggest Mac Studio but not the monitor. There are much cheaper alternatives out there to pair with the Mac Studio.
I got a Silver Maxed out,love it.First Imac ever and love it.
Hey, great vid, but I believe you haven’t mentioned, may I ask what is the refresh rate of the monitor?
Do you think the base model M3 pro specs 11 core cpu is good enough for normal usage and video editing?
Does the M3 iMac comes with 10Gbps ethernet on the powerblock ?
This is the second iMac that I have owned, which I love the 27 inch screen. I’m probably gonna have to buy a third one as mine is at the five-year mark, operating slowly, and seems to crash when I am using the Apple photos app (the first one was doing the same thing when it crashed and took the hard drive). Does Apple have a timer on these things? I love my computer, but apples practices make me wonder if I should give up on my obsession of all Apple.
I’m planning to buy it for Christmas. My main computer right now is the IPad Air 5th generation with Magic Keyboard, it’s all I need for most things. But I want to start doing video editing and the storage on my iPad is just not going to cut it. I thought about external drives but with universal control I can use them both with one keyboard and mouse. Great review! 😊
yeah this would be a great option for some video editing. Especially compared to your iPad.
@@macrumors Videos take up space
Great mini review. Yeah I wish Apple did some change to the physical part such as "the chin" . At least make it smaller on the bottom or blend it in with the screen better. And the only other two gripes I have are the colors. A dark color like black stainless or something would be awesome. And lastly, the screen size. 27" would've been great.
Unless you do serious video editing, as in at a pro level, I think the machine is fine, particularly if you get it with 16GB of RAM.
I would be a very new user at 53 changing careers into surface design (beginner)and am looking to buy an IMac that works well primarily for Adobe Creative suite. I see on Apple that you can choose an M3pro chip. Is it necessary? Can a M3 with more ram be fine? Again not a techy nor know the language...would very mich appreciate your feedback. Thanks so much in advance.
I got the top purple model w/ 4 ports. While I prefer the darker color, the pastel is not objectional. Red and green are 🤮 Blue and orange are OK. Yellow is next best after purple. Coming from a 2015 Intel 27” I am blown away by the processing speed etc even with only 8gb memory. I don’t game or process audio/video, 8 is fine for me and saved enough to buy a few peripherals. The Touch ID keyboard is super, though I mostly use the aWatch unlocking feature. The reduction in screen size really doesn’t bother me. I do most of my daily work on my 12.9” iPad Pro. Basically I just sit a few inches closer to the new iMac than the old one. Saves lots of space in my computer area. I like the current compactness. I don’t think I’d go back to a 27” if they offered it, and certainly not a 32”. Again, I mostly use my iPad for daily activities.
I went with only 1TB internal, bought a Samsung 2TB SSD and store my audiobooks there (on sale was only $99 v Apple $400). My Seagate 3TB Thunderbolt2 Time Machine HDD still runs like a dream with the TB adapter. I have an OWC usb3 dual bare drive hub to access all of my old HDD storage, photos/music etc. After much searching, I found an attachable SD card reader/ ports from Anker, though I put it on the lower right side instead of the bottom edge. Hub #535 cost $50, has card readers, 2 usb A and 1 usb C (uses a TB3 port). It is superb because all 3 usb ports are 3.1 and run at 10 gbps (most are only 5).
Overall I am extremely happy with my purchase. Four months ago I almost got the M1, glad I procrastinated. Finally, I went through my collection of white Apple stickers and found one the right size to stick in the middle of the chin. With the white bezels it completes the “Apple look” perfectly.
I’m ok with lightning for the accessories. Since I don’t replace my tech every year, the majority of my devices have lightning: both of my iPads, pencil, AirPods, phone, keyboard, mouse and trackpad. I have usb-c for just my m1 air and external hard-drive. I’ll be using lightning for quite a while.
Are the new IMacs good enough for a CZcams creator?
Since 2013 I have had a 27 inch iMac in front of me. At this moment I use my 2017 27 inch iMac. I think the hard drive is about to take a hike. I do not want to give up my 27 inch for a 24 inch. I just use my computer for small task but I need my big screen. Is there a way I can just upgrade to a SSD of at least 5 TB keep the memory and live happy ever after?
I like how you compared to upgrading from an intel iMac . Since that’s me , I got a really good 5k iMac (intel) - so I want to see how this iMac m3 does vs my current 5k 27” intel iMac
I agree. Colors on back are beautiful but they ruin it with the muted front.
id rather the entire front be white or silver or something
Thank you, for this very nice early review of Apple's new 24-inch M-3 iMac desktop computer. If buying today, I would pass on the iMac and instead buy a Pro M-2 "mac mini" model and Apple's 32-inch 6K XDR display. Then, I would add Apple's external DVD super-drive and a 4K web camera and use my already owned "space gray" keyboard, track pad, and mouse (smile...smile).
I have the m1 version. I agree the 24 size is not as good as 27 inch, however, the lightness of the imac is an awesome feature.
I got one recently and it’s really impressive. I upgraded from an intel iMac and it has been very zippy.
I'm continually surprised at what my M1 ipad pro can do. If the mid/high end 24" has fans with the M3. I have no doubt it'll take more than anything I can throw at it. From gaming to simple video and photo editing. But the M1-M3's are beasts!
I just got the new iMac m3. I am really dissapointed that I can't use my old 2011 iMac as a second display. Do you have any work-arounds for this issue?
I too am interested in this.
they should've done a brights collection and a separate pastel collection
I got the Yellow with 16GB RAM and 512GB Storage.It’s the best colour in my opinion.I upgraded from a 27” Intel iMac from 2017. A big difference in speed.Absolutely love it. I soon got used to the smaller screen.Much more compact on my desk too.
Yes, I agree the "yellow" color is also my favorite. Prefer the full size keyboard (with number pad) paired with its color matching track pad (smile...smile).
i was hoping Apple had a yellow one for me but silver was a good second option
@@macrumors Yes, Silver would have been my second choice.
@@macrumors As a free "test" unit the color does not really make a difference. But, just like when buying your own new automobile that is the time to always, make sure you get just the right color and options you want to have. My second favorite iMac color is purple (smile...smile).
Might be the best if it wasn't using a tiny monitor. Where are the 27" versions??
My first real computer was a 2007 iMac.
Really gets stuff done. Mine kept overheating eventually and sits in a closet graveyard.
I hear you! Similar to me (2006 iMac) - but mine gave up the ghost years and years ago (so deathly slow I could go and make a cup of tea in between switching functions). I find it impossible to let go of mine (it sits under my desk) and I do get to stroke it occasionally!
Apple took M-chip iMac back to its roots (when it ran PowerPC G3). One size only with similar set of colors. One processor type, no options for higher performance or separate iMac Pro. It fits firmly in the consumer-desktop quadrant of the chart Steve Jobs drew up to explain the simplified Mac lineup (after he returned), before it became more complex again. I think Apple plans to keep it simple for iMac, because this M3 iMac is more than enough performance most users, even most “pro” users. I have an M1-nothing MacBook; I can’t imagine needing more at this time. I’m glad I got it with 1TB/16GB because it’ll probably last me until M4, maybe even M5.
Good review
Right at the beginning you highlighted the exact reasons I have not bought one yet.
1. I am using an 27" iMac at home right now and I don't want to go to a smaller screen size.
2. I hate the pastel colors on the front. I love the bold colors on the back.
Apple....bring back the 27" models and make the colors bold ! How do you not know that most people hate pastel colors ?
On the iMac M3 256GB storage... is it configured to run data slower than the 512GB storage? I'm not sure but I think it is, can anyone confirm. Either case I'm getting the 16GB memory and 10-Core GPU.
Yes it is since the 256GB storage model uses only 1 NAND flash vs 2 on the 512GB model but if you're upgrading to 16GB RAM, you should be fine.
@@shameermulji thanks for the feedback! I have an 500 GB external drive (that's where I keep Time Machine) and 256GB is plenty for my needs.
Yeah, I’m on board with the 24” size. With its contrast and acuity… it offers an excellent view. I have spent a fair amount of time comparing it to the “studio” display - not a scientific evaluation, merely anecdotal - and the 24” just looks better to my eyes. My loaded 2017 5k is on its way out the door.
Which one have better and sharper resolution MacBook Air 15 or iMac m3 ? I see have the same ppi around 227 both
I was concerned about going from my current 27” to a 24” until I realized the monitor I was working on was 1920x1080 and 81 ppi instead of 4480x2520 and 218 ppi, and 16,777,216 colors instead of 1 billion.
Writing this on a blue Magic Keyboard with Num Pad that came with a blue M3 iMac with 16 GB and 1 TB :)
If Apple does move to USB-C on the mouse I hope they move the charging port while they're at it.
i wish they had have improved the pink colour for the m3 as i will be upgrading from m1 and would prefer more changes instead of buying one that looks exactly the same. i don't love the shade of pink its a bit dusky and i prefer 'baby pink' and the white bezels are too yellow they need brightening. the red back doesn't suit the pastel pink, i wish they had have put a medium toned pink to contrast.
Not worth upgrading if you have the M1.
Refurbished M1 with higher specs would be a great buy right now.
Great review and easy to listen. Thank you very much.
I currently use an iMac 21” i7 SuperDrive. Really trying to decide on the iMac M3 or a Studio M2. I understand monitors are relative cheap. But the studio will be more overall vs the iMac. I use FCPX and Motion nearly everyday. Just trying to get a true option what I should do here and where I’m coming from (i7).
Thanks.
well thats going to be a pretty big price difference. Studio is a lot more expensive and like you said, need your own monitor. If you dont think you need all of that horespower from the studio and you're just doing standard edits and animations via FCP/Motion, i think youd be fine with an M3 iMac (higher spec'd) I am not sure how complex your workflow is though.
The spec on the Studio comes to $2199. iMac $2099. Plus a monitor $300/$500 (guessing here)
I imagine I can use my mouse and keyboard from my current iMac to save some $.
I feel the only difference in $ is the monitor.
Like your video said, I use a SD drive daily it’s disappointing that is not available in the new iMac.
So I keep talking myself into the future proof studio. More horses than I truly need, but I think the longevity of the studio might worth the extra cost of a monitor.
“If you’ve still got an intel iMac then what are you playing at - upgrade!”
Suspect like quite a fair few people I have the 27 5K intel iMac. It is dog slow but Apple hasn’t and doesn’t intend to provide an Apple silicon iMac in a decent size.
And this is why I’m still struggling away with my intel iMac 27. The screen is just too nice a size to give up for 24 inches (and a lesser resolution screen too).
Looks like Apple want me to just spend a load more cash and get a Mac Mini and the Studio display. They may well succeed unfortunately.
^This. I have a 2020, 27 inch matte-5k. I'm not leaving this thing even with the performance difference. This is still the media machine for me.
I would love for a 120hz version
Switching from my 27“ iMac to a 24“ Inch feels Like a downgrade to me - Even if the CPU is faster. And when do they finale redesign the Magic Mouse? It always drives me nuts when I hav3 to stop working to recharge it upside down.
Coming from a 2015 21” intel base trying to decide between a M1 iMac for $600 or a new M3 iMac
Where is the 27inch iMac ???
Might have helped if you had said what the the cost of that setup (it's specs & accessories) that you got sent were. You didn't seem to mention value - or indeed which wuld be the best value spec to go for.
fwiw, I have a late 2018 mini that replaced a late 2008 iMac. It’s ok. But I have to say, the Magic Trackpad makes me the happiest. I no longer have pain in my right arm using mice. And let’s face it, mice are so...anyway, the Magic Trackpad allows me to feel like I am composing.
Yes the track pad feels nice. Tried one out recently. Thinking of getting the IMac M3 myself. Have an old 2004 Imac.
Wish we had a 32" version
Since those iMacs come in different colors as an intentional homage to the iMac G3, I guess we can now call these the "iMac M3!"
Nice & Thanks :)
I hate how the monitor has to sit so high. Even now the 24 inch monitor STILL sits. I have to "loop up " all the time. Hurts my neck and gives me headache.
This is the only Mac computer that includes a notch-less screen.
This makes it the best Mac in Apple's current line-up.
How have we got to a point where people complain about the cable that's used to charge something a few times a YEAR??! Get a grip people. Why care what's at the end of a cable (THAT COMES IN THE BOX) that is needed so seldom?
Want a 32inch M3 with decent RAM and Storage. Thunderbolt 5 and WiFi 7...At a fair price....maybe just not going to happen...
M3 pro, 32g ram, 27 inches, space gray, perhaps someday.
Sorry but it should come with at least a m3 pro chip for a desktop computer and more I/o as well
The M3 iMac is for high end casual use. I know California nurses who love them but use them for basic purposes (general web browsing and Netflix binge watching). Maybe once in a while put together a video for Tick Tok, a girl's trip, wedding, or family reunion.
For professional in creative work (video editors, photo editors, UX/UI design, or front-end developers), a person is better off with the M2/M3 Mac Mini Pro with a LG QHD 27-inch monitor. The monitor should have 144hz refresh rate. The UX/UI designer may need a 5k LG monitor for a better view, but it will cost a lot more ($900).
My 2012 iMac (using right now to type this), runs high-demand photo editing applications , and music production perfectly. I installed macOS Sonoma 14.2 on it recently and its handling large projects well with no issues.
Why doesn’t Apple make the studio display a computer? It’s got a cpu in it? Jut swap it out for an M3 SOC add a hard drive keyboard and mouse and you’re welcome. People are happy.
Very good review.
When I used to have money and was considering buying a new computer, I was a step away from ordering an M1 iMac. I ended up not ordering one as the upgrade price for RAM and storage was just too ridiculous and the colors were annoying me. In particular, I wanted the orange one and while the back looks amazing, the front like like *insert funny and disgusting comment not suitable for youtube".
So I never got one.
While doing the same with the M3 iMac doesn't directly affect me (no money and all), I still find it annoying lol.
Your loss. 🖥️
I'm of the odd opinion that all-in-ones are not pro machines. Just get a separate monitor. You don't need a $1700 one.
it is very frustraing for me when I found out that my M3 iMac does not support windows while the older models did. wtf?
It's certainly the best for Apple. Replacing a 27" iMac 5K will now cost you at least double and I won't be driven down market with this education market all in one machine. They want an extra Can$570 just to bump the inadequate RAM and SSD one level in Canada. Then they sell you toy input devices (I've had both of them). And people are wetting their pants over colors? Reminds me of Penn & Teller's magician tricks. Diversion. Look over there - pretty colours! Did you notice there's no RAM user upgrades? Fooled ya!
24” not enough for you? Damnnn…😮
The memory and storage in the 24 iMac is certainly lacking
11:05 or use Google Chromes same feature and if any breach happens you have a chance to get reimbursed, or even never get breached ever... all these copy cat pass managers are rubbish and always gets hacked in a year or 2
27" Imac retina was all I would ever need . Now have taken it away . Disappointed .
PLEAS APPLE: Give us an iMac with the M3 Pro & Max chips - this holdback is the only reason I am still using my 27" 2017 Intel iMac...I have been so patient....
dan, have you tried keeping a longer beard?
8K footage LOL, I can’t even see pixel in 4K, who needs 8K? For average people 1080p is more than enough
I feel like I have never been more bored with a computer than this one. Maybe give it a touch screen, a 1 TB hard drive, some normal USB ports, a handle and a changeable battery so I can carry it around the house. 😂
Who uses computers on “household” purposes 😂
24" is limiting size and doesn't interest me, I've been wanting a 32" iMac for a very long time.
Apple 'gave' you a top of the range iMac... fully spec'd out. ...and you still don't think it's that capable?
It's two thousand dollars worth of tech. Most people will not max-out their iMac like your review model.
I said i do think its more than enough for 95% of people. Those who need more, youd be surprised but this spec'd out model does have limitations compared to a MBP or Mac Studio
I miss Steve Jobs - - no way would he have let this computer languish in its design and no way he would not provide a 27 inch version. I am tired of Tim Cook.
100% right.
yea grow the beard!
I got to say I didn't learn anything from this video. Nothing it's completely lacking in details about anything.
I don't get it What was the point of this
A $2299 family computer. I don't think so. Even with 16 GB ram and 512 GB storage still $1899. Mac is killing their awesome CPUs with outrageous ram and storage prices. Sorry Apple I'll stick with my 2020 iMac as long as I can.
Josh everything not about you. The premise behind a review should be about the majority of computer users not just the small niche of content of creators who all think they are computer scientists! And try to advantage of the ignorance their viewers thinking very apple device should be for pro users only.
I think this iMac is too expensive for a family computer or most of its target audience and not powerful enough to replace the 27 inch iMac. Most users would be better off with a Mac Mini and an external screen. It would be better too, because you could use the screen after you replace the Mac Mini, unlike with the modern iMac.
Not to mention the era of the family computer is dead imo; the computer era of 1998 and 2023 are very different with more personal computers.
i thought it was dead too but we have been letting our son use the computer more than just giving him an ipad and it seems to work out. Hes only using it to watch videos and what not but at least its out in the open with us and he likes the better/bigger display when watching drawing tutorials
@@macrumors That's great if it works for you and your son, but my main problem is that it is _way_ too expensive for a family computer; $1900 could get most Apple users a Mac Mini and a decent 4K display.
@@cameronbosch1213 3rd party 4K displays are not retina quality. That makes a big difference.
@shameermulji Isn't that a macOS problem then? Isn't that something Apple should fix?
Seriously though, then why not use a 1440p screen with no scaling?
Apple disappointed again…we need a 28+ screen…they need to look at their target market, we are using multiple monitors or windows large screens. App no longer a leader in technology
Stop shilling you know everyone wants a 27 inch screen at least
It’s a great machine you sound miserable with the details you don’t like
I've just read the comments. So many comments complaining there is not a 27" version. I liked each one of them.
Attention Apple: Who had the bright idea to only offer a 24" version ? Blind Freddie could have told you that once you have a 27" monitor, a user is not going to want to downsize. Just like our TV screens....we upsize, not downsize. Sheesh. Surprise the global Apple community this year an announce you are bringing back a 27" or even 32" version of the iMac. Make them bold colors on the front, not just the back and they will sell like hotcakes.
Apple is rotten to the core Apple is rotten from the core.... and RAM deep into Consumer's pockets! I have purchased my last Apple product, fool me once; shame on you, fool me twice, shame on me!
The best Mac for everyone is Mac mini + monitor. Those devices are overpriced and overrated. 999$ for a laptop with 8 gigs? Please..
I'm SUPER tired of youtubers dissing the capabilities of the m series iMacs. We're not all editing videos and to be honest, most videos are mediocre at best I so I'm not sure it's the performance is to blame...
I actually use an m3 iMac as my daily work machine as a graphic designer. CAD, Illustrator, Photoshop, a butt-ton of 3rd party plugins - no problem. If you live your life solely based on benchmarks you will never get a single thing done.
24 inch screen size is a joke. All you need to know.
Apple gave this guy an iMac to review… Jesus…… this thing can barley edit film. 24GB ram? Awful
Wut
your comment makes no sense
iMac sound is underpowered shit. That's why he has additional audio equip beside his. The kb and mouse are unergonomic shit too. The stand is shit. I would expect the height to be adjustable. The whole setup is just begging for physiotherapy issues. I could not give two shits USB-C kbs and mice . It's absolutely unnecessary. keyboard do not require the latest high speed interfaces. Bluetooth is better anyway.
might upgrade to this
All Mac’s are worthless due to no usable ports.
Who the fuck uses thunderbolt and usb C?
All my drives are usb 2.0 and 3.0.
Having to spend extra on adapters is stupid. I’ll just build a hackitosh.