Average price$686.20Price range$179.99 – $2,064.00
48 products analyzed by our AI
•Prices updated on 09/27/2026
Ranking established by our AI from spec sheets, retailer prices and verified reviews (methodology). Comparr may earn a commission through merchant links, with no impact on the ranking.
AI ranking · commissioned links, no effect on the ranking (methodology).
The best iMacs in 2026 are the 24-inch iMac with Apple M4 (best choice, ~$1,499.00), the 24-inch iMac with Retina 4.5K Display Apple M1 Chip (best value, ~$729.00), and the Apple iMac All-in-One Intel Core i5 2.3GHz (budget, ~$259.00). Choosing an iMac depends heavily on your performance needs and budget, with newer M-series chips offering superior speed and efficiency compared to older Intel models. Consider screen size and storage, as these significantly impact usability and price.
According to our AI analysis, the best iMac computers in 2026 are the 24-inch iMac with Apple M4 / 10-core (the top pick, $1,499.00), the 24-inch iMac with Retina 4.5K Display Apple M1 Chip with… (the best value for money, $729.00) and the Apple iMac All-in-One Computer (the best budget option, $229.99).
This 24-inch iMac offers the most robust performance with an M4 10-Core CPU, 10-Core GPU, 16GB RAM, and a substantial 2TB SSD, providing excellent value for high-end users despite its price.
The Apple 24" iMac with the M3 chip is a great middle-ground option, offering modern performance for most users at a reasonable price, though specific RAM and storage details are missing.
This 2021 iMac with the M1 chip provides an excellent balance of performance and affordability, featuring 8GB RAM and a 512GB SSD for everyday tasks and productivity at a very attractive price point.
When buying an iMac in 2026, prioritize the processor: Apple Silicon (M1, M3, M4) offers significantly better performance and efficiency than older Intel models. Consider display resolution (Retina 4K/5K for crisp visuals), RAM (8GB for basic use, 16GB+ for demanding tasks), and SSD storage for speed. Budget-friendly options like the Intel Core i5 iMac are suitable for everyday browsing and email. Value picks, such as the M1 iMacs, provide a great balance of performance and display quality. For professional users or those seeking top-tier performance, the latest M4 iMacs are the best choice. Always compare specifications and pricing across models to find the ideal fit for your needs.
Frequently asked questions — IMac computers
What's the main difference between an M-series iMac and an Intel iMac?
M-series iMacs, like the 24-inch iMac with Apple M4 ($1,499.00), use Apple's custom-designed chips, offering superior performance, power efficiency, and tighter integration with macOS. Intel iMacs, such as the Apple iMac All-in-One Intel Core i5 ($259.00), are older models with less powerful processors and are no longer actively developed by Apple.
Which iMac is best for basic daily use and web browsing?
For basic daily tasks like web browsing, email, and light document work, older Intel models like the Apple iMac All-in-One Intel Core i5 ($259.00) or even a refurbished 2021 M1 iMac ($297.00) are perfectly adequate and offer great value for money.
Is a 24-inch iMac big enough, or should I consider a 27-inch model?
The 24-inch iMacs, such as the 24-inch iMac with Apple M4 ($1,499.00), offer a compact yet spacious display for most users. If you require more screen real estate for professional work like video editing or graphic design, a larger 27-inch model with a 5K Retina display, like the Apple 27" iMac 5K Display Intel Core i5 ($588.00), might be preferable, though these are typically older Intel-based systems.
What RAM and storage should I look for in an iMac?
For general use, 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD (like the 2021 Apple iMac with Apple M1 Chip for $449.99) are a good starting point. For more demanding tasks, aim for 16GB RAM or more, and at least 512GB SSD or 1TB SSD, as seen in the Apple iMac 24-inch M4 with 10-Core CPU ($2,064.00) for better multitasking and faster data access.
Are refurbished iMacs a good option?
Yes, refurbished iMacs can be an excellent way to get a more powerful machine for less. For example, the Refurbished 21.5-inch iMac 1.6GHz Dual-core Intel core i5 ($529.95) or the 2021 Apple iMac Certified Used ($297.00) offer significant savings. Ensure they come with a warranty and are from a reputable seller.