M1 iMac Review: Is Apple's Colorful Desktop Worth Buying?

Unboxing the Future: First Impressions Matter

The moment you lift Apple's new 24-inch iMac from its packaging, its radical thinness strikes you. At just 11.5mm thick, this isn't just a spec sheet number—it's a tangible design achievement that reshapes expectations for desktop computing. But does that slim profile translate to real user benefits? After testing the purple 8-core GPU/CPU model with 16GB RAM and 512GB storage, I discovered the magnetic power connector and Touch ID keyboard create a genuinely plug-and-play setup. Logging in feels futuristic when your fingerprint instantly authenticates you. However, that striking thinness comes with compromises. The prominent "chin" housing components persists, and the fixed-height stand remains a frustration for ergonomic flexibility. Apple prioritizes form here, but is that what desktop users truly need?

The Camera and Audio Reality Check

Testing the upgraded 1080p FaceTime camera revealed a significant leap from previous iMacs. Footage shows natural skin tones and handles indoor lighting well, though it still can't match dedicated external cameras. More impressive are the speakers. Apple's "force-cancelling woofers" deliver shockingly rich bass and clarity. During testing, dialogue in videos remained crisp while music playback filled my medium-sized office without distortion. For casual users, these may eliminate the need for external speakers—a genuine space-saver.

Performance Deep Dive: M1 Power Meets Desktop Reality

Benchmark Truths and Real-World Workflows

Equipped with the same M1 chip as MacBook Pro 13 and Mac Mini, this iAC's performance defies its size. In controlled tests against an identically specced MacBook Pro (8-core CPU/GPU, 16GB RAM), both machines:

• Scored within margin of error on Geekbench 5 (Single-Core: ~1700, Multi-Core: ~7400)
• Completed a 10-minute 4K Premiere Pro export in exactly 17 minutes 14 seconds
• Delivered identical 3DMark Wild Life scores (~7200)

The 4.5K display imposes no performance penalty versus lower-resolution M1 devices. Where it shines: Apple-optimized apps like Final Cut Pro handle multiple 4K streams effortlessly. However, Adobe Premiere Pro still requires proxies for smooth 10-bit 4K editing—a limitation shared even with high-end Windows workstations.

The RAM Upgrade Imperative

Choosing 16GB unified memory is non-negotiable. Testing base 8GB models shows memory pressure warnings during heavy multitasking. Since RAM is soldered to the M1 chip, future-proofing demands the extra investment. For creatives planning to use this iMac for 5+ years, that $200 upgrade could save premature obsolescence.

Gaming and App Ecosystem Realities

Gaming remains the M1's weakest link. Shadow of the Tomb Raider managed just 25fps at 1080p Medium, while Metro Exodus hit 39fps. Apple Arcade titles run flawlessly, but traditional gamers will feel constrained. The app transition shows promise though. Universal apps like Affinity Designer and Photoshop run natively, while Rosetta 2 emulation often outpaces native Intel performance. During a week of testing, no critical apps failed—but pro users should verify niche software compatibility first.

Beyond the Hype: Who Should (and Shouldn't) Buy

The Ecosystem Advantage and Hidden Costs

If you own an iPhone or iPad, continuity features like Handoff and AirDrop create seamless workflows. However, peripheral choices reveal Apple's inconsistencies. The color-matched Magic Mouse 2 still charges upside-down via Lightning, not USB-C. While a USB-C to Lightning cable is included, it feels outdated. The $2,000+ review configuration (with accessories) contrasts sharply with the $1,250 base model—which lacks USB 3 ports, Ethernet, and the Touch ID keyboard. Value seekers should factor these add-ons.

Design Tradeoffs and the 27-Inch Question

That iconic chin isn't just aesthetic; it's a thermal compromise. Making the iMac slightly thicker could have allowed component placement behind the screen, Surface Studio-style, potentially enabling a larger display. The white bezels work surprisingly well with the colorful chassis, but the missing height adjustment remains frustrating. For professionals needing screen real estate or upgradability, the Intel-based 27-inch iMac remains relevant—for now. Rumors suggest an Apple Silicon successor may arrive soon.

The iPad Pro Wildcard

Artists and mobile-centric users should consider the M1 iPad Pro. Its touchscreen and Apple Pencil integration offer unique advantages, though iPadOS still limits pro app capabilities. The iMac dominates for traditional desktop workflows, but the gap narrows as Apple's platforms converge.

Your Action Plan: Key Considerations

Before purchasing, ask yourself:

1. Test your critical apps: Verify M1 compatibility at Does It Arm?
2. Audit peripheral needs: Budget for USB-C hubs/docks if using legacy devices
3. Future-proof your RAM: Never choose 8GB—16GB is essential for longevity
4. Evaluate display size: Is 24" sufficient, or can you wait for a potential 27" model?
5. Consider alternatives: Mac Mini + third-party monitor offers similar power at lower cost

Recommended Tools:

• CalDigit TS3+ Dock (Expands connectivity with 15 ports)
• LG UltraFine 5K Display (Best external monitor pairing for Macs)
• Universal Control (Seamlessly use iPad as secondary display with macOS Monterey)

Final Verdict: Substance Over Style

The M1 chip transforms this iMac from a colorful curiosity into a serious productivity tool. Its performance rivals Apple's pro laptops, the speakers and webcam are class-leading, and the design—while divisive—feels fresh. However, the fixed RAM, limited upgradability, and peripheral quirks demand careful consideration. If you prioritize raw power in a compact form and value Apple's ecosystem, this iMac delivers. If expandability or larger screens are essential, waiting or exploring alternatives makes sense.

Which factor matters most to you: the M1's performance, the colorful design, or the all-in-one convenience? Share your dealbreaker in the comments!