When searching for renewed iMac desktops, buyers often face a tradeoff between cost and performance. The best overall pick, the Apple 2021 iMac with M1 Chip, offers modern power and reliability at a reasonable price. For those seeking a budget-friendly option, the Apple 2017 iMac 21.5-inch provides decent performance but with older hardware. Meanwhile, the iMac with Retina 4K Display stands out for its crisp visuals. This guide will break down the key differences, helping you find the best renewed iMac for your needs. Keep reading for a detailed comparison and buying tips.
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Key Takeaways
- The M1 chip models deliver significantly better performance and energy efficiency compared to older Intel-based iMacs.
- Storage capacity varies widely; consider your needs for local storage versus cloud solutions.
- Display quality, especially Retina resolution, is a key factor for creative work and media consumption.
- Price differences are mainly driven by hardware age, specs, and condition; older models are cheaper but may lack modern features.
- All options are renewed, so check seller warranties and return policies to ensure confidence in your purchase.
| Apple 2017 iMac 21.5-inch with Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 1TB Storage – Silver (Renewed) |  | Best for Budget-Conscious Users Needing a Larger Display | Processor: 7th Generation Intel Core i5 (i5-7360U) | Display: 21.5-inch LED-backlit, 1920×1080 | RAM: 8GB DDR4 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple 2021 iMac with M1 Chip, 24-inch, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Blue (Renewed) |  | Best for Vibrant Displays and Compact Design | Display: 24-inch 4.5K Retina | Processor: Apple M1 with 8-core CPU | GPU: 7-core GPU | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple iMac with Retina 4K Display (21.5-inch, 8GB RAM, 1TB Storage) (Renewed) |  | Best for Retina Clarity and Cost Savings | Display: 21.5-inch Retina 4K | RAM: 8GB | Storage: 1TB | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple iMac 24-inch with M1 Chip (2021, Renewed) |  | Best for Performance and High-Quality Media Features | Display: 24-inch 4.5K Retina | Processor: Apple M1 with 8-core CPU | GPU: 7-core GPU | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple iMac 21.5-inch 2.7GHz Core i5 All-in-One Desktop (Renewed) |  | Best for Entry-Level Performance in a Compact Package | Display: 21.5-inch | Processor: 2.7GHz Core i5 | Memory: 8GB | 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 Entry-Level Renewed iMac for Basic Tasks | Processor: 2.3GHz Intel Core i5 | Display: 21.5-inch | RAM: 8GB | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| renewed imac desktop | Display | Storage | Processor | RAM |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple 2017 iMac 21.5-inch with | 21.5-inch LED-backlit, 1920×1080 | 1TB HDD | 7th Generation Intel Core i5 (i5-7360U) | 8GB DDR4 |
| Apple 2021 iMac with M1 Chip | 24-inch 4.5K Retina | 256GB SSD | Apple M1 with 8-core CPU | 8GB |
| Apple iMac with Retina 4K Disp | 21.5-inch Retina 4K | 1TB | — | 8GB |
| Apple iMac 24-inch with M1 Chi | 24-inch 4.5K Retina | 256GB SSD | Apple M1 with 8-core CPU | 8GB |
| Apple iMac 21.5-inch 2.7GHz Co | 21.5-inch | 256GB SSD | 2.7GHz Core i5 | — |
| Apple 2017 iMac with 2.3GHz In | 21.5-inch | 256GB SSD | 2.3GHz Intel Core i5 | 8GB |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Apple 2017 iMac 21.5-inch with Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 1TB Storage – Silver (Renewed)
This 2017 iMac stands out for its large 21.5-inch display and solid Intel Core i5 performance, making it suitable for home offices or educational tasks. Compared to the 2019 Retina model, it offers a larger screen but relies on a slower HDD for storage, which can impact responsiveness. The absence of dedicated graphics limits its ability to handle graphics-intensive work, but it provides ample RAM and storage at a lower cost. Limited warranty on a renewed product adds some risk, but overall, it’s a dependable choice for those prioritizing screen size and budget over speed. This option works well for light productivity and media consumption, especially if you prefer a traditional HDD over SSD.
Pros:- Large 21.5-inch LED-backlit display with full HD resolution
- Decent performance for basic tasks with 7th Gen Intel Core i5
- Generous 8GB RAM and 1TB HDD storage
Cons:- HDD storage is slower than SSDs, affecting boot and load times
- Renewed product may have limited warranty and wear residuals
Best for: Budget-conscious students or home users needing a larger display for everyday tasks
Not ideal for: Creative professionals or gamers who require fast storage and dedicated graphics
- Processor:7th Generation Intel Core i5 (i5-7360U)
- Display:21.5-inch LED-backlit, 1920×1080
- RAM:8GB DDR4
- Storage:1TB HDD
- Graphics:Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640
- Connectivity:Bluetooth 4.2, 4 x USB 3.0, 2 x Thunderbolt, Gigabit Ethernet
Our verdict“A solid, budget-friendly desktop for users prioritizing a larger screen for everyday use, not intensive tasks.”
Apple 2021 iMac with M1 Chip, 24-inch, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Blue (Renewed)
This 2021 iMac with the M1 chip offers a stunning 24-inch 4.5K Retina display, making it ideal for media creators and those who value vibrant visuals. Unlike the older Intel-based 21.5-inch models, the M1 provides noticeably faster performance and better efficiency, especially in multitasking and media editing. Its sleek, colorful design appeals to users seeking a modern aesthetic, though the limited port options can hinder expandability. The 256GB SSD is fast but may be tight for heavy storage needs, especially compared with the 1TB options in other models. This renewed pick is perfect for users who prioritize design and display quality over extensive connectivity or storage capacity.
Pros:- Vibrant 24-inch 4.5K Retina display with P3 wide color coverage
- Powerful M1 chip delivers excellent performance for most tasks
- Sleek, colorful design with a thin profile
Cons:- Limited port selection can restrict expandability
- Only 256GB SSD storage may be insufficient for large media files
- Renewed warranty might be less comprehensive
Best for: Creative professionals, students, or home users focused on vibrant visuals and sleek design
Not ideal for: Power users needing multiple external drives or extensive ports for peripherals
- Display:24-inch 4.5K Retina
- Processor:Apple M1 with 8-core CPU
- GPU:7-core GPU
- RAM:8GB
- Storage:256GB SSD
- Connectivity:Two Thunderbolt / USB 4, USB 3
Our verdict“An excellent choice for users seeking a colorful, high-performance desktop with stunning display quality and compact form factor.”
Apple iMac with Retina 4K Display (21.5-inch, 8GB RAM, 1TB Storage) (Renewed)
This 2019 Retina 4K iMac offers a crisp, high-resolution display that excels for photo editing, media consumption, and general productivity. Compared to the 2021 M1 models, it provides a slightly larger storage capacity at 1TB but relies on older internal components, including a 2019-era processor. Its Retina 4K display ensures sharp visuals, though the keyboard and mouse are generic, which might affect the overall experience. If you prefer a high-resolution screen at a lower price point and are okay with slightly older hardware, this model offers a compelling balance of quality and affordability. However, it may lack the latest connectivity features present in newer models.
Pros:- High-resolution Retina 4K display for detailed visuals
- Ample 1TB storage for media files
- Cost-effective renewed option
Cons:- Includes generic keyboard and mouse, which may feel less premium
- Older processor limits future-proofing
- No modern ports like Thunderbolt 3 or USB-C
Best for: Photographers, videographers, or users prioritizing display quality on a budget
Not ideal for: Heavy multitaskers or those needing the latest ports and performance upgrades
- Display:21.5-inch Retina 4K
- RAM:8GB
- Storage:1TB
- Model Year:2019
Our verdict“Ideal for users wanting a high-quality Retina display at a lower price, without the latest hardware or features.”
Apple iMac 24-inch with M1 Chip (2021, Renewed)
The 2021 24-inch M1 iMac combines a vibrant 4.5K Retina display with exceptional performance, thanks to the M1 chip’s 8-core CPU and 7-core GPU. Compared to the 2017 or 2019 models, it offers a significant leap in speed and efficiency, ideal for creative tasks or demanding workflows. Its high-quality 1080p FaceTime HD camera and studio microphones support high-caliber video calls and media creation. The limited 256GB SSD storage is a drawback for those with large files, but the overall performance and display quality make it a standout for multimedia professionals. While the included keyboard and mouse are generic, the design and performance improvements justify the slightly higher price for most users.
Pros:- Vivid 24-inch 4.5K Retina display with wide color gamut
- Fast M1 chip delivers seamless multitasking and media editing
- Excellent front-facing camera and audio system for media calls
Cons:- Limited 256GB SSD storage may require external drives for large files
- Renewed product may have limited warranty coverage
- Generic keyboard and mouse may lack premium feel
Best for: Creative professionals, remote workers, or media enthusiasts seeking high performance and vivid visuals
Not ideal for: Power users with extensive storage needs or those requiring multiple external peripherals
- Display:24-inch 4.5K Retina
- Processor:Apple M1 with 8-core CPU
- GPU:7-core GPU
- RAM:8GB
- Storage:256GB SSD
- Camera:1080p FaceTime HD
Our verdict“A top-tier choice for users who prioritize display quality, performance, and media features in a sleek design.”
Apple iMac 21.5-inch 2.7GHz Core i5 All-in-One Desktop (Renewed)
This 21.5-inch iMac with a 2.7GHz Core i5 processor offers reliable performance for everyday tasks, making it suitable for small offices or home use. It’s a step up from basic models, with a decent processor and 256GB SSD, but falls behind newer or higher-spec options in speed and graphics capabilities. Unlike the 2021 M1 models, it lacks the latest Apple silicon efficiency and modern port options. Its 90-day warranty on a renewed product provides some peace of mind, though it’s less comprehensive than newer models’ warranties. This model suits users who want a straightforward, affordable Apple desktop for routine work, not heavy multitasking or multimedia editing.
Pros:- Reliable performance with 2.7GHz Core i5
- Includes 90-day warranty on renewed condition
- Decent SSD storage at 256GB
Cons:- Older processor limits multitasking and future software updates
- Limited port options compared to newer models
- Older macOS version may require upgrade for security
Best for: Small business owners or home users needing a simple, reliable Mac for basic productivity
Not ideal for: Creative professionals or power users needing advanced hardware or extensive ports
- Display:21.5-inch
- Processor:2.7GHz Core i5
- Memory:8GB
- Storage:256GB SSD
- Operating System:macOS 10.12 Sierra
Our verdict“A practical choice for users seeking a dependable, entry-level Mac for everyday tasks at an affordable price.”
Apple 2017 iMac with 2.3GHz Intel Core i5, 21.5-inch, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD (Renewed)
This 2017 Apple iMac stands out for its affordability and solid performance for everyday use. Compared to the 2021 M1-based models, it offers a more traditional Intel setup, making it compatible with a wider range of legacy software and peripherals. Its 21.5-inch display provides a sharp image, but it falls short of the Retina clarity found in newer models like the iMac with Retina 4K Display. The refurbished condition ensures minimal cosmetic flaws and a battery capacity over 80%, which is rare for desktops and adds flexibility for portable setups or backup power. However, the included accessories might not be original, and the packaging could be generic, which may impact the unboxing experience. This pick makes the most sense for those seeking a budget-friendly, reliable machine for basic tasks such as browsing, office work, or media consumption, without the need for the latest features.
Pros:- Affordable renewed price with minimal cosmetic flaws
- Good battery capacity over 80%, adding portable flexibility
- Compatible with a broad range of legacy peripherals and software
- Fast SSD storage improves startup and load times
Cons:- Older 2017 design lacks Retina display and modern aesthetics
- Accessories may not be original, affecting warranty or compatibility
- Potential for generic packaging, reducing perceived value
Best for: Home users or students who need a dependable, affordable desktop for browsing, email, and light productivity.
Not ideal for: Creative professionals or gamers who require high-resolution displays and advanced graphics capabilities.
- Processor:2.3GHz Intel Core i5
- Display:21.5-inch
- RAM:8GB
- Storage:256GB SSD
- Condition:Renewed
- Battery Capacity:Over 80%
Our verdict“This model is best suited for budget-conscious buyers who need a dependable, straightforward desktop for everyday tasks.”
How We Picked
The selection process focused on balancing performance, build quality, and value for renewed iMacs. We evaluated each model based on processor power, RAM size, storage options, display quality, and user reviews on reliability. Condition and warranty terms were also critical, as these impact long-term satisfaction. The ranking prioritizes models that offer the best combination of modern features and affordability, with a clear distinction between entry-level and premium options. We aimed to include a variety of use cases, from everyday tasks to creative work, to help different buyers find their ideal match.Factors to Consider When Choosing Renewed Imac Desktops
Choosing a renewed iMac involves several considerations that go beyond just the specs. Understanding your primary use—whether for simple browsing, media editing, or professional work—will help you prioritize features. Be aware of potential tradeoffs, such as older hardware for lower prices or newer models with better performance but higher costs. Additionally, inspecting the seller’s warranty and return policy is crucial for peace of mind. This guide covers key factors to keep in mind when selecting a renewed iMac, helping you avoid common pitfalls and make an informed decision.Performance and Processor Technology
The processor is the heart of your iMac; newer chips like the M1 significantly outperform older Intel models in speed, energy efficiency, and thermal management. While older Intel-based iMacs may be more affordable, they might struggle with demanding tasks or future software updates. Consider your typical workload—if you do creative work or multitask often, investing in a more recent, faster processor makes sense. Keep in mind that some older models can still handle everyday tasks smoothly, but they may lack the longevity of newer hardware.
Display Quality and Size
The display is a major factor, especially for creative professionals or media enthusiasts. Retina displays offer sharper images and better color accuracy, which can be worth the extra cost if visual quality matters to you. Size also impacts workspace; 21.5-inch models are more compact and suitable for smaller desks, while 24-inch models provide a larger viewing area. Remember that older models might not have the latest display technology, so if display quality is a priority, focus on Retina-equipped options.
Storage Capacity and Expandability
Local storage affects how much data you can keep on your machine without relying on external drives or cloud services. Many renewed iMacs come with 256GB or 1TB SSDs—consider your data needs carefully. If you handle large media files or applications, opting for models with higher storage is advisable. Also, note that most iMacs have limited expandability, so choose a configuration that matches your long-term storage needs from the start.
Price, Condition, and Warranty
Price varies based on age, specs, and condition, making it essential to compare total costs, including seller warranties. A renewed iMac with a warranty offers peace of mind against hardware issues, especially for models several years old. Be wary of heavily discounted units that lack warranties or have visible cosmetic damage—these could cost more in repairs later. Always review seller ratings and return policies to ensure a trustworthy purchase.
Intended Use and Future-Proofing
Align your choice with your intended tasks. For casual browsing and office work, older models may suffice. Creatives or professionals needing high performance should lean towards newer, M1-powered options for better longevity. Think about future software updates and compatibility—more recent hardware will remain supported longer. Balancing current needs with future-proofing will help you avoid upgrading too soon, saving money in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are renewed iMacs reliable for everyday use?
Renewed iMacs can be quite reliable if purchased from reputable sellers that provide warranties and thorough refurbishing. They typically undergo testing and repairs to meet quality standards, making them suitable for daily tasks like browsing, email, and document editing. However, because they are older models, they may not support the latest macOS updates for very long. Confirm the condition and warranty details before buying to ensure dependable performance.
Is the M1 iMac worth the extra cost over older Intel models?
In most cases, the M1 iMac offers better performance, energy efficiency, and future software support, making it a worthwhile investment. It handles multitasking and creative workloads more smoothly than older Intel-based models. The price premium reflects these advantages, but if your tasks are basic, a renewed Intel model could suffice. Consider your long-term needs and whether you plan to upgrade soon—if not, the M1 provides more longevity.
Can I upgrade the storage or RAM on a renewed iMac?
Most iMacs, especially the newer M1 models, have non-upgradable RAM and storage, so it’s essential to choose a configuration that meets your future needs at purchase. Older models might allow some upgrades, but they are limited and often complicated. Since these are renewed units, verify whether the seller has upgraded or configured the machine to your specifications, and consider buying with extra storage or RAM if you anticipate growth in your data or application demands.
What warranty should I expect with a renewed iMac?
Reputable sellers usually offer warranties ranging from 90 days to a year on renewed iMacs, covering hardware defects and major issues. A longer warranty provides greater peace of mind, especially for older models. Always read the warranty terms carefully—look for coverage of parts, labor, and return policies. This protection can save you from unexpected costs if the device develops problems shortly after purchase.
Is it better to buy a new iMac or a renewed one?
Choosing between new and renewed depends on your budget and needs. Renewed iMacs generally cost less and can still offer excellent performance, especially if bought from trusted sources with warranties. However, they may lack the latest features and longer support windows of new models. If you prioritize cutting-edge technology and the latest updates, a new iMac might be worth the higher price. For most users seeking value, a thoroughly refurbished model can be a smart choice.
Conclusion
For buyers seeking the best overall performance and longevity, the Apple 2021 iMac with M1 Chip stands out as the top choice. Those on a tighter budget will find the Apple 2017 iMac 21.5-inch still capable of handling everyday tasks. Creative professionals or media enthusiasts should consider the iMac with Retina 4K Display for superior visual quality. Beginners or casual users will benefit from models with simpler configurations, while power users aiming for future-proofing should prioritize the latest M1 models. Your ideal pick depends on balancing your current needs with future expectations.Halloween Picks
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