6 Best 24-Inch Imac Configurations of 2026 for Every Budget

For most buyers comparing 24-inch iMac configurations, I’d start with the 2024 M4 model with 16GB of memory: it pairs a newer chip with enough memory for smoother multitasking. The 2024 M4 version with 24GB memory and 512GB storage is the stronger fit for heavier workloads and larger local files, while the renewed 2023 M3 with 512GB storage offers a more storage-focused alternative. The main choices are newer performance versus storage capacity, and renewed condition versus a new system. I also weigh whether 8GB of memory will suit the work you expect to do over the iMac’s lifespan. Continue reading for the full comparison and guidance on matching a configuration to your needs.

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Key Takeaways

• The 2024 M4 with 16GB memory is the most balanced pick here: it combines a newer chip generation with more memory than either 8GB M3 configuration.
• The M4 model with 24GB memory and 512GB storage is the premium choice for heavier multitasking and larger local projects; its extra capacity matters more than its blue finish.
• The renewed 2023 M3 with 512GB storage trades newer silicon for more room than the 256GB M3 model, which can reduce reliance on external drives.
• Both 2023 M3 options have 8GB memory, so the 512GB configuration adds storage, not headroom for memory-heavy workflows.
• The renewed 2021 M1 is the oldest and most constrained configuration in this group; its 512GB SSD may appeal to light-use buyers, but its age is a meaningful tradeoff.

Our Top 24 Inch Imac Configurations Picks

2021 Apple iMac 24-inch with M1 Chip (8GB RAM, 512GB SSD) – Pink (Renewed)		Best Colorful Starter Configuration	Display: 24-inch 4.5K Retina, P3 wide color, 500 nits	Processor: Apple M1, 8-core CPU	Graphics: 8-core GPU	VIEW ON AMAZON	See Our Full Breakdown
Apple 2023 iMac with M3 Chip (24-inch, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD) – Silver (Renewed)		Best for Everyday M3 Performance	Display: 24-inch 4.5K Retina, 500 nits	Chip: Apple M3	Memory: 8GB	VIEW ON AMAZON	See Our Full Breakdown
Apple 2024 iMac with M4 chip, 24-inch display, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Silver (Renewed)		Best Renewed 16GB Configuration	Model year: 2024	Processor: Apple M4, 8-core, 3.2 GHz	Display: 24-inch 4.5K Retina, 4480 × 2520, 218 ppi	VIEW ON AMAZON	See Our Full Breakdown
Apple 2023 iMac 24-inch with M3 Chip (8-core CPU, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD) – Silver (Renewed)		Best M3 Storage Balance	Model year: 2023	Chip: Apple M3 with 8-core CPU	Display: 24-inch 4.5K Retina, 500 nits, 1 billion colors	VIEW ON AMAZON	See Our Full Breakdown
Apple 2024 iMac 24-inch All-in-One Desktop with M4 Chip, 8-Core CPU and GPU, 16GB Memory, 256GB SSD, Silver		Best New M4 All-Rounder	Processor: Apple M4, 8-core CPU and 8-core GPU	Memory: 16GB unified memory	Storage: 256GB SSD	VIEW ON AMAZON	See Our Full Breakdown
Apple 2024 iMac 24-inch All-in-One Desktop with M4, 10-Core CPU and GPU, 24GB Memory, 512GB SSD, Blue		Best for Demanding Multitasking	Model year: 2024	Processor: Apple M4, 10-core CPU	Graphics: 10-core GPU	VIEW ON AMAZON	See Our Full Breakdown

More Details on Our Top Picks

1. 2021 Apple iMac 24-inch with M1 Chip (8GB RAM, 512GB SSD) – Pink (Renewed)

   

   Best Colorful Starter Configuration

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   The pink 2021 iMac makes the most sense for buyers who want a distinctive desk setup and enough built-in storage for a sizeable collection of documents and apps. Its M1 chip and 8-core GPU suit everyday work, video calls, and moderate creative tasks, while the 4.5K screen gives photos and text crisp detail. Compared with the newer M3 iMac with 256GB, this configuration offers twice the SSD capacity, but its older chip and 8GB of memory leave less room for demanding multitasking. The renewed condition is another tradeoff, so it is a better fit for buyers comfortable with a refurbished device than for those who want a new machine. I’d choose it for its color and storage, not for the longest performance runway.

   Pros:

   • M1 8-core CPU and GPU handle everyday work and moderate creative tasks
   • 512GB SSD provides more local space than the 256GB configurations listed here
   • 4.5K Retina display supports P3 wide color and reaches 500 nits
   • 1080p camera and three-mic array are well suited to video calls

   Cons:

   • 8GB RAM can constrain heavy multitasking
   • Renewed condition may not suit buyers seeking a new device
   • M1 generation is older than the M3 and M4 options in this roundup

   Best for: Home users who want a colorful all-in-one for browsing, schoolwork, video calls, and a larger local file library

   Not ideal for: Creative professionals running memory-heavy apps or buyers who want a new device and the latest chip generation

   • Display:24-inch 4.5K Retina, P3 wide color, 500 nits
   • Processor:Apple M1, 8-core CPU
   • Graphics:8-core GPU
   • Memory:8GB
   • Storage:512GB SSD
   • Camera:1080p FaceTime HD
   • Color and condition:Pink, renewed
   • Keyboard:QWERTY English
   Our verdict

   “Choose this renewed pink iMac if color and 512GB of storage matter more to you than newer-chip performance or extra memory.”

   → See it on Amazon →

2. Apple 2023 iMac with M3 Chip (24-inch, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD) – Silver (Renewed)

   

   Best for Everyday M3 Performance

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   This silver M3 iMac is a straightforward fit for buyers who want a newer chip for daily work, casual gaming, and creative projects, while keeping a familiar 24-inch all-in-one setup. Its M3 processor is a generation ahead of the pink M1 configuration, and the six-speaker Spatial Audio system adds a more capable built-in entertainment setup. The tradeoff is the 256GB SSD: the pink M1 model doubles that capacity, which matters if you keep a large photo or video library on the computer. Both have 8GB of RAM, so this M3 configuration does not solve the memory limits for sustained heavy multitasking. It includes a Magic Keyboard and Magic Mouse, though its renewed status and two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports may give some buyers pause.

   Pros:

   • M3 chip is a newer generation than the M1 configuration
   • 4.5K Retina display reaches 500 nits
   • Six-speaker Spatial Audio system and three-mic array are built in
   • Includes color-matched Magic Keyboard and Magic Mouse

   Cons:

   • 256GB SSD can fill quickly with large projects and media
   • 8GB RAM may restrict heavy multitasking
   • Renewed condition and two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports may not suit every buyer

   Best for: Households and students who want M3 responsiveness, included keyboard and mouse, and built-in speakers for calls and media

   Not ideal for: People with large local media libraries or demanding workflows that benefit from more than 8GB of memory

   • Display:24-inch 4.5K Retina, 500 nits
   • Chip:Apple M3
   • Memory:8GB
   • Storage:256GB SSD
   • Camera:1080p FaceTime HD
   • Audio:Six-speaker Spatial Audio system and three-mic array
   • Ports:2x Thunderbolt/USB 4 and headphone jack
   • Wireless:Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3
   • Condition and accessories:Renewed; Magic Keyboard and Magic Mouse included
   Our verdict

   “Pick this renewed M3 iMac for newer-chip everyday performance and included accessories if 256GB of storage is enough for your files.”

   → See it on Amazon →

3. Apple 2024 iMac with M4 chip, 24-inch display, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Silver (Renewed)

   

   Best Renewed 16GB Configuration

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   Among the renewed choices, this M4 configuration stands out for pairing a newer chip with 16GB of unified memory. That extra memory gives it more breathing room for keeping several apps open than the M3 models with 8GB, making it a stronger fit for busy workdays and moderate creative tasks. The 4.5K Retina display matches the other 24-inch options in this roundup for resolution and 500-nit brightness, so its advantage is under the hood rather than a larger screen. Storage remains limited at 256GB; the pink M1 and M3 512GB models provide more room for local files. This listing is renewed and includes fewer detailed connectivity and accessory claims than the new M4 option, so buyers should weigh memory against storage and condition.

   Pros:

   • M4 chip is newer than the M3 and M1 processors in the other renewed options
   • 16GB unified memory offers more headroom than the 8GB configurations
   • 4.5K Retina display has 4480 × 2520 resolution and 500-nit brightness
   • Built-in microphone, speakers, and webcam support an all-in-one setup

   Cons:

   • 256GB SSD offers less capacity than the 512GB M1 and M3 options
   • Renewed condition may not suit buyers seeking a new computer
   • Listing details provide limited information about ports and included accessories

   Best for: Multitaskers who want M4 performance and 16GB memory in a renewed 24-inch iMac for office work and moderate creative apps

   Not ideal for: Buyers who need 512GB of internal storage, a new device, or clearly specified ports and included accessories

   • Model year:2024
   • Processor:Apple M4, 8-core, 3.2 GHz
   • Display:24-inch 4.5K Retina, 4480 × 2520, 218 ppi
   • Brightness:500 nits
   • Memory:16GB unified memory
   • Storage:256GB SSD
   • Color and condition:Silver, renewed
   • Built-in features:Microphone, speakers, and webcam
   Our verdict

   “Choose this renewed M4 model if 16GB of memory matters more than 512GB of storage or a new-device purchase.”

   → See it on Amazon →

4. Apple 2023 iMac 24-inch with M3 Chip (8-core CPU, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD) – Silver (Renewed)

   

   Best M3 Storage Balance

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   This M3 iMac takes the middle ground between the 256GB M3 configuration and the pink M1 model: it keeps the newer M3 chip while expanding storage to 512GB SSD. That combination suits buyers who want room for more apps and local files without stepping up to the M4 models. The six-speaker Spatial Audio system, three-mic array, and 1080p camera also make it a capable shared computer for calls and media. Its main compromise is 8GB of RAM; the renewed M4 option doubles that memory and is better positioned for heavier multitasking. This listing also says accessories may be non-original and packaging may be generic, so buyers who care about the exact box or accessory set should check those expectations before choosing it.

   Pros:

   • M3 chip offers a newer generation than the M1 configuration
   • 512GB SSD gives more local capacity than either 256GB option
   • 4.5K Retina display supports 1 billion colors and 500 nits brightness
   • Six-speaker Spatial Audio, three-mic array, and 1080p camera suit calls and media

   Cons:

   • 8GB RAM has less multitasking headroom than the renewed M4 with 16GB
   • Renewed unit may arrive with non-original accessories
   • Packaging may be generic

   Best for: Users who want an M3 iMac with 512GB for everyday productivity, video calls, and moderate creative work

   Not ideal for: Heavy multitaskers who need 16GB memory or buyers who require original accessories and retail packaging

   • Model year:2023
   • Chip:Apple M3 with 8-core CPU
   • Display:24-inch 4.5K Retina, 500 nits, 1 billion colors
   • Memory:8GB
   • Storage:512GB SSD
   • Camera:1080p FaceTime HD
   • Audio:Six-speaker Spatial Audio system and three-mic array
   • Condition:Renewed; accessories may be non-original and packaging may be generic
   Our verdict

   “Choose this renewed M3 configuration if you want 512GB of storage and can work within 8GB of memory.”

   → See it on Amazon →

5. Apple 2024 iMac 24-inch All-in-One Desktop with M4 Chip, 8-Core CPU and GPU, 16GB Memory, 256GB SSD, Silver

   

   Best New M4 All-Rounder

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   This new M4 iMac is the clearest step up for buyers who want current-generation performance and 16GB of memory without choosing a renewed unit. Compared with the renewed M4 model, its listing specifies a 12MP Center Stage camera, Thunderbolt 4 connectivity, and support for up to two external 6K displays, giving buyers more detail about the setup it can support. The tradeoff is still 256GB of internal storage, well below the 512GB M3 and M1 configurations. Its 4.5K screen, six-speaker Spatial Audio, and studio-quality microphones make it suited to desk work, calls, and media, but the all-in-one design leaves less flexibility for component upgrades. I’d favor it when memory and newer features matter more than local storage capacity.

   Pros:

   • M4 chip combines an 8-core CPU and 8-core GPU
   • 16GB unified memory offers more headroom than the 8GB M3 configurations
   • 12MP Center Stage camera and Spatial Audio speakers support calls and media
   • Thunderbolt 4 and support for up to two external 6K displays expand desk setup options

   Cons:

   • 256GB SSD may be tight for large applications and local media
   • All-in-one design limits flexibility for upgrading internal components

   Best for: Buyers seeking a new M4 iMac with 16GB memory for multitasking, video calls, and a two-display desk setup

   Not ideal for: People who keep large media libraries or project files locally and want more than 256GB built in

   • Processor:Apple M4, 8-core CPU and 8-core GPU
   • Memory:16GB unified memory
   • Storage:256GB SSD
   • Display:24-inch 4.5K Retina, 500 nits, up to 1 billion colors
   • Camera:12MP Center Stage
   • Audio:Three microphones and six speakers with Spatial Audio
   • Ports and wireless:Up to four Thunderbolt 4 ports; Wi-Fi 6E; Bluetooth 5.3
   • External displays:Supports up to two external 6K displays
   • Model:MWUC3LL/A
   Our verdict

   “Choose this new M4 iMac for 16GB memory, the Center Stage camera, and external display support if 256GB of storage fits your workflow.”

   → See it on Amazon →

6. Apple 2024 iMac 24-inch All-in-One Desktop with M4, 10-Core CPU and GPU, 24GB Memory, 512GB SSD, Blue

   

   Best for Demanding Multitasking

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   This M4 iMac configuration pairs a 10-core CPU and GPU with 24GB of unified memory and a 512GB SSD, giving it more room for demanding apps and busy multitasking than the 16GB, 256GB M4 model in this roundup. Its 24-inch 4.5K Retina display keeps fine text and detailed creative work crisp, while the built-in camera and six-speaker system make it a capable video-call and media setup without extra desk gear. Compared with the renewed M3 models, this configuration offers newer M4 hardware and more memory than their listed 8GB setups. The tradeoff is the same all-in-one constraint: memory and core components are not designed for later upgrades, and 512GB may still feel tight for large local media libraries. Choose it for a strong ready-to-use desktop, not a modular workstation.

   Pros:

   • 24GB unified memory offers more headroom for multitasking than the roundup’s 16GB M4 and 8GB M3 configurations.
   • 10-core M4 CPU and GPU suit more demanding everyday and creative workloads.
   • 24-inch 4.5K Retina display supports up to 1 billion colors at up to 500 nits.
   • Built-in 12MP Center Stage camera and six speakers with Spatial Audio reduce the need for separate call and audio gear.

   Cons:

   • All-in-one design limits future component upgrades.
   • 512GB SSD can constrain users who keep large project files or media libraries locally.
   • Its added memory and processing capacity may go unused for basic desktop tasks.

   Best for: People who keep several demanding apps open, create or edit media, and want a complete desktop with a sharp built-in display.

   Not ideal for: Buyers who need upgradeable components, extensive local storage, or a lower-spec machine for basic browsing and office work.

   • Model year:2024
   • Processor:Apple M4, 10-core CPU
   • Graphics:10-core GPU
   • Display:24-inch 4.5K Retina, 500 nits, up to 1 billion colors
   • Memory:24GB unified memory
   • Storage:512GB SSD
   • Camera and audio:12MP Center Stage camera; three microphones; six speakers with Spatial Audio
   • Connectivity:Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, up to four Thunderbolt 4 ports
   • Color:Blue
   Our verdict

   “Pick this M4 configuration if you want more multitasking headroom than the other listed iMacs and can work within its fixed all-in-one design.”

   → See it on Amazon →

How We Picked

I compared these six configurations on the factors that change the buying decision: chip generation, memory capacity, SSD space, and whether the listing is renewed or new. I gave more weight to memory and chip generation for buyers planning to keep the desktop for years or run several demanding apps, while treating storage as a separate need that can sometimes be met with an external drive.

The order favors balanced configurations first, then options suited to narrower priorities. That puts the 2024 M4 with 16GB memory ahead for broad everyday use, and the 24GB/512GB M4 next for users who need more capacity. The two M3 systems follow according to their storage difference, then the 2021 M1, whose older generation makes it less compelling for long-term use. The new 8-core M4 remains a sensible entry point, but its 256GB SSD makes it less versatile than the larger M4 configuration.

Factors to Consider When Choosing 24 Inch Imac Configurations

Choosing among 24-inch iMac configurations is mostly a question of what you cannot easily change later and what you can add around the computer. I’d decide on memory first, then estimate local storage needs and weigh the age and condition of the specific listing.

Choose Memory for Your Longest-Lived Workload

Memory affects how comfortably a computer handles multiple apps, large files, and browser tabs at once. Since the configurations here list either 8GB, 16GB, or 24GB, decide based on the busiest workday you expect rather than your current lightest tasks. For email, web use, and basic documents, 8GB may be enough, but it leaves less room for demanding apps and future workload growth. Buyers who edit media, keep many apps open, or use large creative projects should favor 16GB or 24GB. A common mistake is choosing extra SSD space over memory when the real problem is multitasking responsiveness. In this lineup, the M3 512GB model has the same 8GB memory as the 256GB version, so the larger drive does not solve that limitation.

Estimate Local Storage Before Choosing an SSD

A 256GB SSD can work when most files live in cloud storage and the computer holds a modest app collection. Photos, video libraries, large creative projects, and downloaded media can consume that space quickly, so count the files you plan to keep on the iMac itself. The 512GB models give more breathing room and can reduce how often you manage files or attach external storage. External drives can expand capacity, but they add another item to connect and keep track of. Do not assume that a larger SSD also means a faster or more capable configuration; storage capacity and memory solve different problems. If you rarely store large files locally, putting more weight on chip generation or memory may serve you better than choosing a larger internal drive.

Treat Chip Generation as a Longevity Decision

The M1, M3, and M4 labels indicate different generations, and the newer configurations are the safer fit for buyers expecting a longer service life or considering more demanding applications. A newer chip does not automatically compensate for low memory or limited storage, so compare the full configuration rather than the processor name alone. The 2024 M4 models pair the newer generation with at least 16GB in this selection, which makes their advantage more meaningful. The M3 options may still fit routine home and office use, especially if storage capacity is the priority. The 2021 M1 is the oldest choice and makes most sense for a light workload when its specific configuration and condition are acceptable. For long-term use, I’d prioritize the M4 models before choosing an older chip solely for a larger SSD.

Check What Renewed Condition Means for You

Several listings are marked Renewed, while the two 2024 M4 configurations are listed without that label. Renewal can make an older generation worth considering, but the listing’s condition terms, included accessories, return window, and warranty details affect the practical value. Read those details for the exact seller and item rather than assuming all renewed products follow identical standards. A refurbished or renewed desktop may suit buyers comfortable with previously owned hardware, while buyers who prefer a new unit may favor the M4 options listed as new. The age of the M1 and M3 systems also matters because condition alone does not make their hardware newer. Compare the complete listing and support terms before treating two configurations as equivalent.

Match the Configuration to How You Use an All-in-One

An all-in-one combines the computer and display in one desktop, which keeps a workspace tidy but limits later upgrades compared with a modular desktop. Decide whether you need a fixed desk setup or expect to replace individual components over time. For shared home use, video calls, writing, and general office tasks, the simpler M4 16GB configuration is a strong middle ground. If your work depends on local project files and heavier multitasking, the 24GB/512GB version addresses both needs more directly. Buyers focused on basic tasks should avoid paying for capacity they will not use, while professionals should not underconfigure memory just to simplify the initial choice. Also check the ports and connectivity listed for the exact model if your workflow depends on particular peripherals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 8GB of memory enough for a 24-inch iMac?

It can be enough for browsing, writing, email, and routine home tasks, especially if you tend to keep only a few apps open. It gives less room for large projects, frequent multitasking, and future software demands than the 16GB and 24GB options in this roundup. The two M3 configurations both have 8GB, so choosing the 512GB version adds file space but does not improve memory headroom. If you expect to use creative software or keep many apps active, I’d choose an M4 with more memory. Think about your busiest typical session, not just whether the computer can handle a single basic task.

Should I choose 256GB or 512GB of storage?

Choose 256GB if you mostly use cloud services, stream media, and keep few large files locally. A 512GB SSD is more comfortable for photo libraries, downloaded media, and projects that need to stay on the computer. You can add an external drive, though it brings extra hardware and file management. In this set, both M3 options have 8GB memory, so the 512GB model is a storage upgrade rather than an all-around performance upgrade. If you rarely fill local storage, prioritize the chip and memory configuration instead.

Is the 2021 M1 iMac still a sensible choice?

It can suit light everyday use if the specific renewed listing has acceptable condition and support terms. Its 512GB SSD offers more local space than the 256GB configurations, but it remains the oldest chip generation among these six systems. Buyers seeking a longer runway or more demanding app performance should look first at the M4 options. Check the seller’s renewal details, included accessories, and return policy carefully before deciding. The M1 is most persuasive when your workload is modest and its configuration matches your storage needs.

Is the 24GB M4 worth choosing over the 16GB M4?

The 24GB model is a better fit if you regularly work with large files, run demanding apps, or keep many programs open together. It also includes a 512GB SSD, while the 16GB M4 configuration listed here has 256GB, so the upgrade covers both memory and storage. For basic office and household use, the 16GB model should be a more balanced fit without capacity you may not use. Consider whether your workload will actually benefit from both additions before choosing the higher-capacity setup. The 24GB option is strongest for buyers who can name specific memory or local storage demands.

Does a renewed iMac make sense compared with a new one?

A renewed iMac can make sense when its chip, memory, and storage meet your needs and the listing provides clear condition and support terms. Several systems in this comparison are renewed, including both M3 configurations and the M1, while the two 2024 M4 listings are presented without that label. The label alone does not tell you the unit’s exact condition, so check the seller’s description, warranty, return window, and included accessories. Also compare hardware age: a renewed M3 may have a useful 512GB SSD, but it does not become an M4 through renewal. Buyers who prefer a new unit can focus on the M4 listings and choose between their different capacities.

Conclusion

For most buyers, I recommend the 2024 M4 with 16GB memory as the best overall configuration because it balances newer-generation performance with enough memory for everyday multitasking. The best premium choice is the M4 with 24GB memory and 512GB storage for heavier work and larger local projects. For buyers seeking a storage-focused value option among the older systems, the renewed 2023 M3 with 512GB offers more SSD room, though its 8GB memory is a limitation. The M4 with 16GB is also my pick for beginners who want a current, straightforward setup. Choose the 2021 M1 only for light use when its renewed condition and 512GB capacity suit you; if your specific need is a larger internal drive alongside an M3 chip, pick the 512GB M3 over the 256GB version.