Apple iMac M3: A Comprehensive Review by The Verge

Apple’s Mac lineup is full of exciting news, yet the revamped 24-inch iMac is to be the most subtle. The updated model from spring 2021 differs only in the upgrade from an M1 chip to the new M3, enhanced Wi-Fi and Bluetooth radios, and a higher maximum RAM option. Everything else remains unchanged, from design, features, to price.

The fact that Apple is updating it at all is a gracious recognition that it hasn’t forgotten about the iMac. The $1,299 and up M3 24-inch iMac remains a great computer for lighter workloads, sporting a stunning design, fast performance, a sharp display, and good speakers.

Nonetheless, it’s evident that Apple isn’t looking to turn the iMac into something more. The company has confirmed that it will not be manufacturing a 27-inch iMac with Apple Silicon, focusing on laptops and leaving the iMac as a niche device for home use or trendy businesses.

The 24-inch iMac is still visually breathtaking with a 12mm thick aluminum frame. The 4.5K display remains good, but it’s also one of the device’s downsides, being smaller than larger monitors and offering limited port selection. The 24-inch iMac is adorned with a six-speaker system, a 1080p webcam, and the new M3 processor, making the numbers go up in benchmarks and enhancing the overall performance.

However, the iMac’s highest configuration is costly and un-upgradable. The base model is underequipped, and the 24-inch size may not fulfill the needs of those used to a larger screen, having to opt for options like a 27-inch Studio Display or other Mac models.

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