Searching for a renewed iMac desktop often involves balancing performance, price, and reliability. The Apple 2021 iMac with M1 chip stands out as the best overall choice with its modern architecture and impressive speed. For those prioritizing higher resolution displays, the 2019 27-inch Retina 5K iMac offers exceptional visuals. Meanwhile, budget-conscious buyers might lean toward the 2017 21.5-inch iMac, which provides solid performance at a lower price point. The main tradeoffs involve choosing between newer hardware and affordability, as well as display quality and processing power. Keep reading to see how each option compares and which one fits your specific needs best.
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Key Takeaways
- The 2021 M1 iMac offers the best blend of modern performance and energy efficiency, making it ideal for most users.
- Higher-resolution models like the 2019 Retina 5K iMac excel in visual tasks but come at a higher price point, even when renewed.
- Older models such as the 2017 iMacs remain reliable choices for basic tasks but lack the latest hardware improvements.
- Display size and resolution significantly influence the visual experience, with 27-inch Retina models leading in clarity.
- Pricing varies widely based on age, specs, and condition, so understanding your priorities helps avoid overspending or underbuying.
| Apple 2017 iMac 21.5-inch with Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 1TB Storage – Silver (Renewed) |  | Best Budget-Friendly Entry Point | Processor: 7th Gen Intel Core i5 (2.3GHz) | Graphics: Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640 | RAM: 8GB DDR4 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple 27-inch Retina 5K iMac (Early 2019, Renewed) |  | Best for Creative Professionals and Visual Clarity | Display: 27-inch Retina 5K | Processor: 6-Core 8th-Gen Intel Core i5 | RAM: 8GB | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 2021 Apple iMac with M1 Chip, 24-inch, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Silver |  | Best for Modern Performance and Compact Design | Display: 24-inch 4.5K Retina | Processor: Apple M1 chip with 8-core CPU | GPU: 7-core GPU | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple 2017 iMac with 2.3GHz Intel Core i5, 21.5-inch, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD (Renewed) |  | Best for Basic Performance with SSD | Processor: 2.3GHz Intel Core i5 | Display: 21.5-inch | RAM: 8GB | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple iMac 2020 27-inch 5K Retina Display, 3.1 GHz i5, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Radeon Pro 5300 (Renewed) |  | Best for High-Resolution Display and Performance | Display: 27-inch 5K Retina | Processor: 3.1 GHz 6-core 10th-Gen Intel Core i5 | RAM: 8GB | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple iMac 21.5-inch 2.7GHz Core i5 All-in-One Desktop (Renewed) |  | Best for Space-Saving Daily Use | Operating System: macOS 10.12 Sierra | Display Size: 21.5 inches | Display Resolution: 1920×1080 pixels | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| renewed imac desktop | Processor | Storage | RAM | Display |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple 2017 iMac 21.5-inch with | 7th Gen Intel Core i5 (2.3GHz) | 1TB HDD | 8GB DDR4 | 21.5-inch LED-backlit, 1920×1080 |
| Apple 27-inch Retina 5K iMac | 6-Core 8th-Gen Intel Core i5 | 1TB | 8GB | 27-inch Retina 5K |
| 2021 Apple iMac with M1 Chip | Apple M1 chip with 8-core CPU | 256GB SSD | 8GB | 24-inch 4.5K Retina |
| Apple 2017 iMac with 2.3GHz In | 2.3GHz Intel Core i5 | 256GB SSD | 8GB | 21.5-inch |
| Apple iMac 2020 27-inch 5K Ret | 3.1 GHz 6-core 10th-Gen Intel Core i5 | 256GB SSD | 8GB | 27-inch 5K Retina |
| Apple iMac 21.5-inch 2.7GHz Co | 2.7GHz Core i5 | 256 GB SSD | — | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Apple 2017 iMac 21.5-inch with Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 1TB Storage – Silver (Renewed)
This 2017 21.5-inch iMac stands out as an accessible choice for those who need a reliable Apple desktop without breaking the bank. Its high-resolution display and 8GB RAM support smooth multitasking, but the 1TB HDD is a bottleneck compared to newer SSD options like the 2021 M1 iMac. Compared to the 2019 27-inch Retina 5K iMac, it’s less powerful and visually less impressive, yet its lower price makes it appealing for home or educational use on a budget. The older hardware limits future-proofing, but for basic tasks, it remains a solid pick.
Pros:- High-resolution 21.5-inch display delivers clear visuals
- Powerful Intel Core i5 processor supports multitasking
- Ample 8GB RAM for most productivity needs
- Renewed product with proven performance
Cons:- HDD storage is slower than SSD options
- Older hardware with limited modern features
- No included peripherals
Best for: Budget-conscious students or home users seeking a dependable Apple desktop for everyday tasks
Not ideal for: Creative professionals or power users who need faster storage and more recent hardware features
- Processor:7th Gen Intel Core i5 (2.3GHz)
- Graphics:Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640
- RAM:8GB DDR4
- Storage:1TB HDD
- Display:21.5-inch LED-backlit, 1920×1080
- Connectivity:USB 3.0, Thunderbolt, Ethernet, Wi-Fi
Our verdict“A dependable, budget-friendly choice for users prioritizing affordability over cutting-edge performance.”
Apple 27-inch Retina 5K iMac (Early 2019, Renewed)
This 2019 27-inch Retina 5K iMac offers stunning visuals and a sleek design, making it ideal for creative work and detailed visuals. Its 6-core 8th-generation Intel processor provides solid performance for demanding tasks, but the 8GB RAM might be limiting for heavy multitasking or large projects, especially compared with the more recent M1-based models. While the Radeon Pro graphics support professional-grade visuals, the limited RAM and the potential uncertainties of a renewed product with a shorter warranty make it less suited for intensive workloads. Still, this model is a clear step up from older 21.5-inch models for those needing high-resolution displays.
Pros:- High-resolution Retina 5K display for precise color work
- Powerful 6-core processor for demanding applications
- Sleek, thin profile with multiple ports for flexibility
- Supports professional-grade graphics
Cons:- Limited to 8GB RAM, which may hinder multitasking
- Renewed status could imply shorter warranty or less certainty
- No included peripherals mentioned
Best for: Designers, video editors, or professionals needing a large, sharp display with decent processing power
Not ideal for: Users needing extensive RAM or future-proofing for heavy multitasking or newer software
- Display:27-inch Retina 5K
- Processor:6-Core 8th-Gen Intel Core i5
- RAM:8GB
- Storage:1TB
- Graphics:Radeon Pro 570x/575x/580x
- Ports:Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C)
Our verdict“Ideal for creative professionals seeking a high-quality display and solid performance in a stylish package.”
2021 Apple iMac with M1 Chip, 24-inch, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Silver
This 2021 M1 iMac redefines compact power with its 24-inch 4.5K Retina display and the latest Apple chip architecture. Its performance surpasses older Intel models like the 2017 21.5-inch, especially with the efficiency and speed of the M1 processor, which handles multitasking and multimedia tasks seamlessly. The vibrant design and high-quality audio make it a versatile machine for both work and entertainment, but the 256GB SSD may require external storage for larger files. The included accessories are basic, and its higher price reflects the advanced technology. It’s a strong choice for those wanting a modern, space-saving Apple desktop.
Pros:- Vivid 4.5K Retina display with P3 color gamut
- Exceptional performance with M1 chip for multitasking
- Sleek, vibrant design with efficient operation
- Multiple ports including Thunderbolt and USB
Cons:- Limited to 256GB SSD, requiring external storage for larger data
- Includes basic keyboard and mouse, which may not satisfy all users
- Premium price for renewed hardware
Best for: Creative professionals, students, or home users seeking cutting-edge performance in a small footprint
Not ideal for: Power users needing extensive storage or upgrade options, or those requiring a keyboard/mouse bundle included
- Display:24-inch 4.5K Retina
- Processor:Apple M1 chip with 8-core CPU
- GPU:7-core GPU
- RAM:8GB
- Storage:256GB SSD
- Connectivity:Thunderbolt 3, USB 3
Our verdict“Best for those wanting a compact, powerful, and modern Mac experience with excellent display quality.”
Apple 2017 iMac with 2.3GHz Intel Core i5, 21.5-inch, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD (Renewed)
This 2017 21.5-inch iMac with a 2.3GHz Intel Core i5 and 256GB SSD offers a good balance between performance and storage speed. Its SSD provides faster boot and load times compared to traditional HDDs, making it a better choice than older HDD-based models like the 2017 21.5-inch with HDD. However, the older CPU and limited RAM could restrict multitasking for heavier workloads. While the product is renewed with minimal cosmetic issues, the accessories may not be original, and battery capacity is slightly below new standards. This model makes sense for users needing a reliable Apple desktop for everyday tasks without high-end demands.
Pros:- Reliable SSD storage improves performance
- Minimal cosmetic imperfections in renewed condition
- High-quality Apple build
Cons:- Older CPU may limit performance in demanding apps
- Accessories may not be original
- Potential cosmetic imperfections at close range
Best for: Home users or students wanting a faster, reliable Mac with SSD storage at a lower cost
Not ideal for: Power users or creative professionals requiring more RAM or graphics power
- Processor:2.3GHz Intel Core i5
- Display:21.5-inch
- RAM:8GB
- Storage:256GB SSD
- Condition:Renewed
- Connectivity:USB 3.0, Thunderbolt, Wi-Fi
Our verdict“A solid choice for budget-conscious users who want SSD speed and reliable Apple quality.”
Apple iMac 2020 27-inch 5K Retina Display, 3.1 GHz i5, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Radeon Pro 5300 (Renewed)
This 2020 27-inch iMac offers a substantial upgrade over smaller models, featuring a 5K Retina display and a 3.1 GHz 10th-gen Intel Core i5 with 8GB RAM. Its Radeon Pro 5300 graphics support demanding visual tasks, making it well-suited for creative workflows. Compared to the 2019 27-inch model, this version’s newer processor and GPU boost performance, yet its 8GB RAM may become a bottleneck for heavy multitasking. The 256GB SSD ensures quick access to files, but storage might be restrictive for some users. As a renewed product, it provides a high-performance experience at a more accessible price point, especially for users who want a large, detailed display.
Pros:- Impressive 5K Retina display for detailed visuals
- Powerful 6-core 10th-generation CPU for demanding tasks
- Reliable SSD storage with fast access
- Radeon Pro 5300 graphics supports creative workflows
Cons:- Limited to 8GB RAM, which can limit multitasking
- Price might be high compared to less powerful options
- Limited internal storage for large files
Best for: Content creators or professionals requiring a large, high-res display and decent processing power
Not ideal for: Heavy multitaskers or users with extensive storage needs who might need additional external drives
- Display:27-inch 5K Retina
- Processor:3.1 GHz 6-core 10th-Gen Intel Core i5
- RAM:8GB
- Storage:256GB SSD
- Graphics:Radeon Pro 5300
- Ports:Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C)
Our verdict“Ideal for professionals needing a large, high-quality display with capable processing and graphics performance.”
Apple iMac 21.5-inch 2.7GHz Core i5 All-in-One Desktop (Renewed)
This 21.5-inch iMac offers a compact all-in-one design that fits well on a small desk or in a tight space, making it ideal for users who prioritize simplicity and space efficiency. Compared to the 2017 iMac with similar specs, this model features a slightly newer processor but runs macOS 10.12 Sierra, which could limit compatibility with the latest applications. Its 2.7GHz Core i5 and 8GB RAM support smooth performance for everyday tasks, but the absence of dedicated graphics may hinder gaming or intensive creative work. The 256GB SSD ensures fast boot and load times, though storage could fill quickly if you handle large files. The renewed status guarantees reliable operation, backed by a 90-day warranty, but the older OS is a tradeoff for a lower price point. Overall, this pick makes the most sense for users who need a space-efficient, reliable desktop primarily for web browsing, office work, or media consumption.
Pros:- Compact all-in-one design saves space and reduces clutter
- Fast 256GB SSD for quick startup and application loading
- Renewed product tested to work like new with warranty
Cons:- Runs macOS 10.12 Sierra, which limits compatibility with newer apps and updates
- No dedicated graphics card, restricting graphic-intensive tasks
- Limited upgrade options due to all-in-one form factor
Best for: Small office workers or students who need a tidy, reliable desktop for basic productivity
Not ideal for: Creative professionals or gamers requiring advanced graphics or the latest software compatibility
- Operating System:macOS 10.12 Sierra
- Display Size:21.5 inches
- Display Resolution:1920×1080 pixels
- Processor:2.7GHz Core i5
- Memory:8 GB DDR3 SDRAM
- Storage:256 GB SSD
- Weight:12.5 pounds
- Dimensions:27 x 11 x 24 inches
- Connectivity:Bluetooth 4.0, Ethernet, Thunderbolt, USB 3.0, Wi-Fi
Our verdict“This renewed 21.5-inch iMac suits users seeking a space-efficient, dependable desktop for everyday tasks, accepting some software limitations.”
How We Picked
The selection process focused on evaluating each renewed iMac for performance, build quality, and value. We prioritized models with recent hardware that still meet common user needs for productivity, creative work, and entertainment. Condition and warranty options were also considered to ensure reliability after renewal. Our ranking balances newer, faster processors and better displays against affordability, helping buyers find a model that fits their budget without sacrificing essential features. This approach ensures that each pick offers a practical advantage tailored to different user profiles.| renewed imac desktop | Graphics | Connectivity |
|---|---|---|
| Apple 2017 iMac 21.5-inch with | Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640 | USB 3.0, Thunderbolt, Ethernet, Wi-Fi |
| Apple 27-inch Retina 5K iMac | Radeon Pro 570x/575x/580x | — |
| 2021 Apple iMac with M1 Chip | — | Thunderbolt 3, USB 3 |
| Apple 2017 iMac with 2.3GHz In | — | USB 3.0, Thunderbolt, Wi-Fi |
| Apple iMac 2020 27-inch 5K Ret | Radeon Pro 5300 | — |
| Apple iMac 21.5-inch 2.7GHz Co | — | Bluetooth 4.0, Ethernet, Thunderbolt, USB 3.0, Wi-Fi |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Renewed Imac Desktops
Choosing the right renewed iMac depends on several key factors beyond just specs. Buyers should consider the intended use—whether for casual browsing, creative work, or professional tasks—and match features accordingly. Understanding how much to invest in hardware upgrades and display quality can prevent overspending or missing out on necessary performance. The renewal condition and warranty options also add important layers of security, especially for longer-term use. Being aware of common pitfalls, such as buying based solely on age or appearance, helps make smarter decisions.Performance and Processor Power
Prioritize models with a processor that matches your tasks. The M1 chip in the 2021 iMac offers significant speed improvements and energy efficiency, making it suitable for demanding creative and productivity applications. Older Intel-based models, like the 2017 versions, may struggle with newer software but are still capable for everyday tasks. Avoid overestimating your needs; for light use, even mid-tier processors can suffice, but for intensive workflows, investing in newer hardware pays off in longevity and speed.
Display Size and Resolution
The display impacts how immersive and detailed your visual experience will be. Larger screens, especially the 27-inch Retina 5K models, excel in photo editing, video work, and multitasking. However, they also come with a higher price tag. For general use, the 21.5-inch models offer excellent value, but they may feel cramped for creative professionals. Buyers should consider their workspace and whether a higher resolution justifies the extra cost for their specific tasks.
Memory and Storage Options
While 8GB of RAM is common in these models, consider upgrading if you multitask heavily or run demanding applications. Storage capacity varies, with 256GB SSDs being standard, but larger options provide more flexibility for files and applications. Renewed units sometimes allow for upgrades, but confirm this before purchasing. Balancing storage and RAM based on your workflow can enhance long-term satisfaction.
Renewal Condition and Warranty
The condition of a renewed iMac influences reliability and lifespan. Look for sellers offering warranties or return policies, which add peace of mind. Some refurbished units are reconditioned to high standards, but older models may have more signs of use or wear. Understanding the renewal process and warranty terms helps avoid surprises and ensures the device remains dependable over time.
Price and Overall Value
Pricing varies based on age, specs, and condition. It’s tempting to opt for the cheapest option, but this may sacrifice performance or longevity. Conversely, paying more for a newer or higher-spec model can offer better value in the long run. Compare features against the price, and consider how long you plan to keep the device before upgrading again. Focus on the overall package—performance, condition, warranty—rather than just initial cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a renewed iMac as reliable as a new one?
Renewed iMacs undergo thorough refurbishment processes, often including hardware testing, repairs, and cleaning, making them quite reliable for everyday use. Many sellers also provide warranties, which add a layer of security. While they may not have the latest features, a well-maintained renewed iMac can perform nearly as well as a new one, especially for standard tasks. The key is choosing reputable sellers who offer clear refurbishment standards and warranties.
Can I upgrade the storage or RAM on a renewed iMac?
Upgrade options depend on the specific model. Some older iMacs allow user-accessible RAM upgrades, while others do not, especially the newer M1 models. Storage upgrades are generally more complicated, often requiring professional service or being limited by the design. Always verify whether upgrades are possible and cost-effective before purchasing. For future-proofing, selecting a model with higher initial specs might be more beneficial than attempting upgrades later.
How do I know if a renewed iMac is worth the price?
Evaluate the device’s condition, warranty, and how it compares to current market prices for similar new or refurbished models. Check if the model has recent hardware that aligns with your needs, especially regarding processor and display quality. Consider the total cost of ownership, including potential upgrades or repairs. A good renewed iMac offers a balance of performance, reliability, and price, making it worthwhile if it meets your specific requirements.
What should I avoid when buying a renewed iMac?
Avoid models with unclear refurbishment histories or limited warranties, as they may have hidden issues. Be cautious of prices that seem too low, which could indicate poor condition or outdated hardware. Don’t overlook the importance of seller reviews and return policies. Also, avoid overpaying for features you won’t use, like large storage or high-end graphics, if your tasks don’t demand them.
Are renewed iMacs suitable for professional creative work?
Yes, when chosen carefully, renewed iMacs with recent hardware like the M1 chip or 27-inch Retina displays can handle professional creative workloads effectively. They offer high-resolution screens and powerful processors, which are essential for tasks like photo editing, video production, and design. However, ensure the specific model has adequate RAM and storage, and buy from reputable sources to guarantee condition and reliability. For highly demanding professional tasks, investing in the latest hardware might still be preferable, but many renewed options are capable performers.
Conclusion
The best choice depends on your priorities. If you want a well-rounded, reliable option with modern performance, the 2021 M1 iMac is the top pick. Budget-conscious buyers who still value decent performance should consider older models like the 2017 iMacs, which often come at lower prices. Creative professionals seeking high-resolution displays and powerful hardware may prefer the 2019 Retina 5K iMac. For newcomers or casual users, a mid-range model offers excellent value. Ultimately, matching the device to your specific needs and budget ensures a satisfying purchase in this category.
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