Why the New M4 iMac is a Solid Choice for Most Users
Cupertino, USAThu Nov 07 2024
Advertisement
The M4 iMac is a reliable computer that's now more attractive to a wider audience. Apple has upgraded the basic model to include 16GB of RAM for just $1, 299. This means most people can simply set up the iMac and start working without any hassle. The new USB-C ports replace the last remaining Lightning ports in Apple's lineup, making it more modern. The color options are visually appealing, blending the nostalgia of the original iMacs with a contemporary look. The nano-texture display, which costs an extra $200, is beautiful but feels like a bit of a splurge for a matte screen.
The M4 iMac isn't a speed demon, but it's fast enough for everyday tasks like browsing the web, sending emails, and doing office work. The top-tier model with a 10-core processor performs similarly to recent Intel and AMD desktops, using less power and featuring a better integrated GPU.
Compared to the previous M3 version, the M4's single-core CPU performance is up to 21% faster, and multi-core performance is up to 30% faster, thanks to additional E-cores. The GPU also sees improvements, sometimes up to 33% faster. While professional app users may see more benefits, the average user will find the M4 more than capable.
The design remains largely the same as the M1 and M3 models, with the charging port still on the bottom and the Ethernet port on the power brick for models that include it. The webcam has been slightly improved, supporting a wider field of view for Desk View mode in macOS.