When searching for renewed iMac desktops, buyers often face the dilemma of balancing performance, price, and longevity. The Apple iMac 24-inch with M1 Chip (2021, Renewed) stands out as the best overall choice, offering modern performance at a compelling price. For those prioritizing high-resolution displays, the 27-inch Retina 5K iMac (Early 2019) is a strong contender, while the latest Apple 2024 iMac Air with M4 Chip provides cutting-edge power in a sleek design. The main tradeoffs involve deciding between older models with larger screens or newer models with faster chips, all while considering the reliability of renewed products. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of these options and what makes each suitable for different types of buyers.
Complete the kit
Key Takeaways
- The latest M1 and M4 chip models deliver significant performance improvements over older Intel-based iMacs.
- Display size and resolution are major factors, with larger, high-res screens appealing to creative professionals.
- Renewed models offer a better price-to-performance ratio but may have varying warranty coverage and wear levels.
- Choosing between older, larger displays and newer, more powerful chips depends on your primary use case—whether productivity or media editing.
- Battery life isn’t a concern for desktop iMacs, but build condition and longevity should be carefully considered when buying renewed.
| Apple iMac 24-inch with M1 Chip (2021, Renewed) |  | Best Overall Renewed iMac for Versatile Performance | Display: 24-inch 4.5K Retina, P3 wide color, 500 nits | Processor: Apple M1, 8-core CPU and GPU, 3.2 GHz | Memory: 16 GB DDR4 RAM | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple 27-inch Retina 5K iMac (Early 2019) – 3.0GHz Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 1TB Storage (Renewed) |  | Best Large-Screen Renewed iMac for Professional Work | Display: 27-inch Retina 5K | Processor: 3.0GHz 8th-Generation 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 (Renewed) |  | Best Compact Renewed iMac for Everyday Use | Display: 24-inch 4.5K Retina | Processor: Apple M1, 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 Budget-Friendly Renewed iMac for Basic Use | Display: 21.5-inch LED | Processor: 2.3GHz Intel Core i5 | RAM: 8GB | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple 2024 iMac Air with M4 Chip, 24-inch Retina Display, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Silver (Renewed) |  | Best Premium Renewed iMac for Power and Style | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown | |||
| Apple iMac 21.5-inch 2.7GHz Core i5 All-in-One Desktop (Renewed) |  | Best for Budget-Conscious Users Seeking a Classic iMac Experience | 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 | Weight | Display |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple iMac 24-inch with M1 Chi | Apple M1, 8-core CPU and GPU, 3.2 GHz | 512 GB SSD | 15.6 pounds | 24-inch 4.5K Retina, P3 wide color, 500 nits |
| Apple 27-inch Retina 5K iMac | 3.0GHz 8th-Generation Intel Core i5 | 1TB | 20 pounds | 27-inch Retina 5K |
| 2021 Apple iMac with M1 Chip | Apple M1, 8-core CPU | 256GB SSD | 11.5 mm | 24-inch 4.5K Retina |
| Apple 2017 iMac with 2.3GHz In | 2.3GHz Intel Core i5 | 256GB SSD | 21 pounds | 21.5-inch LED |
| Apple 2024 iMac Air with M4 Ch | — | — | — | — |
| Apple iMac 21.5-inch 2.7GHz Co | 2.7GHz Core i5 | 256 GB SSD | 12.5 pounds | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Apple iMac 24-inch with M1 Chip (2021, Renewed)
This 2021 iMac with the M1 chip stands out for its balance of performance, design, and display quality. The 24-inch 4.5K Retina display with wide color makes it ideal for creative tasks or media consumption, outperforming older Intel models like the 2019 27-inch in display quality and power efficiency. The M1 chip delivers fast, smooth performance, though it lacks dedicated GPU options, which can limit high-end graphics tasks. Its sleek, vibrant design and high-quality audio/video features make it a favorite for general use, but the 512GB storage can be restrictive for those with large files, and the price premium for a renewed model may be off-putting. Still, its overall versatility makes it a top pick for most users seeking a renewed all-in-one.
Pros:- Vivid 4.5K Retina display with wide color gamut
- Powerful M1 chip with 8-core CPU and GPU
- Sleek, thin design with vibrant color options
- High-quality audio and video features
Cons:- Premium price for renewed model
- Limited to 512GB storage in base configuration
- No dedicated GPU options
Best for: Creative professionals and general users who want a powerful, visually stunning desktop with a sleek form factor
Not ideal for: Power users needing dedicated GPU options or extensive local storage for large projects
- Display:24-inch 4.5K Retina, P3 wide color, 500 nits
- Processor:Apple M1, 8-core CPU and GPU, 3.2 GHz
- Memory:16 GB DDR4 RAM
- Storage:512 GB SSD
- Camera:1080p FaceTime HD
- Speakers:Six-speaker sound system
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, Thunderbolt, USB 3
- Dimensions:27.24 x 6.89 x 23.77 inches
- Weight:15.6 pounds
Our verdict“This model is best suited for users seeking a high-performance, visually impressive all-in-one with excellent media capabilities.”
Apple 27-inch Retina 5K iMac (Early 2019) – 3.0GHz Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 1TB Storage (Renewed)
This 2019 27-inch Retina 5K iMac offers a stunning display with exceptional resolution, making it ideal for detailed editing or design work. Its 8th-generation 3.0GHz Intel Core i5 processor provides solid performance, especially when compared to the newer M1-powered models, which excel in efficiency but sometimes lack upgrade flexibility. The multiple Thunderbolt 3 ports enhance connectivity, but the model’s bulkier and less modern design makes it less suitable for tight spaces or portability needs. The 1TB storage is more generous than many renewed options, and the high-resolution screen supports precise color work. However, since it’s a renewed product, warranty limitations could be a concern, and the 8GB RAM may need an upgrade for intensive multitasking. Still, for those prioritizing screen real estate and legacy compatibility, this remains a reliable choice.
Pros:- High-resolution 5K Retina display
- Powerful 8th-generation Intel Core i5
- Multiple Thunderbolt 3 ports for expansion
- Generous 1TB storage capacity
Cons:- Bulkier design compared to newer models
- Limited warranty on renewed product
- 8GB RAM may require upgrading for demanding tasks
Best for: Professionals needing a large, high-resolution display with ample storage for creative or productivity tasks
Not ideal for: Users seeking a lightweight or highly portable desktop or those who want the latest processor technology
- Display:27-inch Retina 5K
- Processor:3.0GHz 8th-Generation Intel Core i5
- RAM:8GB
- Storage:1TB
- Graphics:Radeon Pro 570x, 575x, or 580x
- Ports:Two Thunderbolt 3
- Connectivity:802.11AC Wi-Fi
- Design:6-mm-thin
- Weight:20 pounds
Our verdict“This iMac is best for users who prioritize a large, detailed display and legacy connectivity over the latest processor innovations.”
2021 Apple iMac with M1 Chip (24-inch, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD) – Silver (Renewed)
This 2021 M1-powered 24-inch iMac combines performance with a compact form, making it ideal for those who want a sleek desktop that doesn’t take up much space. Its 4.5K Retina display rivals the newer M1 models, and the 8-core M1 chip delivers swift handling of everyday tasks. Compared to the 2024 M4 version, this model offers slightly less raw power but maintains excellent visual quality and system stability. The 256GB SSD limits storage for media-heavy users, but its included six-speaker system and high-quality camera make it a strong all-around choice. The main tradeoff is its limited storage and potentially shorter longevity since the M1 chip will be less future-proof than the newer M4. Nonetheless, it’s a smart pick for those wanting power in a small footprint.
Pros:- Compact, space-saving design
- Vivid 4.5K Retina display
- Powerful M1 chip for quick performance
- High-quality audio and camera
Cons:- Limited to 256GB SSD storage
- Potentially less future-proof than newer chips
- Includes basic peripherals that might need upgrading
Best for: Home office users and students who need a space-efficient yet capable desktop
Not ideal for: Creative professionals with large media libraries or users demanding maximum future-proofing
- Display:24-inch 4.5K Retina
- Processor:Apple M1, 8-core CPU
- GPU:7-core GPU
- RAM:8GB
- Storage:256GB SSD
- Camera:1080p FaceTime HD
- Speakers:Six-speaker system
- Ports:Two Thunderbolt / USB 4, up to two USB 3
- Weight:11.5 mm
Our verdict“This iMac makes the most sense for users who want a powerful, space-efficient machine for everyday tasks and media consumption.”
Apple 2017 iMac with 2.3GHz Intel Core i5, 21.5-inch, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD (Renewed)
This 2017 iMac offers a reliable, affordable entry point into Apple desktops, with a 21.5-inch display and decent performance thanks to its 2.3GHz Intel Core i5. Compared to the newer M1 or M4 models, it’s less powerful and less energy-efficient, but it’s well-suited for basic tasks like web browsing, office work, and media streaming. Its smaller screen size makes it ideal for tight spaces or secondary setups, though it lacks modern ports and may require upgrades for heavier workloads. The renewed status ensures a lower price point, but potential buyers should be aware of its age, limited warranty, and possible cosmetic imperfections. This pick is best for those on a tight budget who want a dependable Apple desktop for everyday use without high demands.
Pros:- Affordable price point
- Reliable refurbished Apple quality
- Adequate for everyday tasks
- Compact 21.5-inch size
Cons:- Older hardware and slower performance
- Limited ports and upgrade options
- Potential cosmetic imperfections
Best for: Budget-conscious users needing a simple, reliable desktop for light tasks
Not ideal for: Power users or creative professionals requiring high processing power or large displays
- Display:21.5-inch LED
- Processor:2.3GHz Intel Core i5
- RAM:8GB
- Storage:256GB SSD
- Graphics:Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640
- Item Dimensions:6.9 x 20.8 x 17.7 inches
- Weight:21 pounds
- Operating System:macOS Sierra
Our verdict“This iMac is best for users seeking an affordable, dependable machine for basic computing needs.”
Apple 2024 iMac Air with M4 Chip, 24-inch Retina Display, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Silver (Renewed)
This 2024 iMac Air with the M4 chip offers cutting-edge performance wrapped in a sleek, colorful design. Its 8-core M4 processor provides a significant boost over previous M1 and M1-based models, making it ideal for intensive multitasking, creative work, or gaming. The 24-inch Retina display with support for 1 billion colors ensures stunning visuals for professional color accuracy or entertainment. Compared to the 2021 M1 models, it delivers better processing power and future-proofing, although the 256GB SSD may be limiting for large media libraries. The renewed product benefits from the latest energy and environmental standards, but potential buyers should consider warranty limitations. Overall, this pick caters to users who want a blend of style, power, and longevity in a renewed package.
Pros:- Powerful M4 chip with 8 cores for demanding tasks
- Vibrant 24-inch Retina display supporting 1 billion colors
- Sleek, colorful design fits modern spaces
- Includes essential features like webcam, microphone, and speakers
Cons:- Limited storage at 256GB SSD
- Renewed product may have limited warranty or support
- Higher cost compared to older models
Best for: Power users and professionals seeking a stylish, high-performance desktop with future-proof features
Not ideal for: Users needing extensive local storage or those on a tight budget due to higher price point
Our verdict“This iMac Air is ideal for those who prioritize power, style, and future-proofing in a renewed desktop investment.”
Apple iMac 21.5-inch 2.7GHz Core i5 All-in-One Desktop (Renewed)
This renewed 21.5-inch iMac offers a familiar all-in-one design with a crisp 1920×1080 display, making it a solid choice for those who prioritize a traditional iMac look. Compared to the Apple iMac 24-inch with M1 Chip, it relies on an older macOS (10.12 Sierra), which limits compatibility with newer software and updates, but it compensates with a more affordable price point. The 2.7GHz Core i5 processor provides decent performance for everyday tasks, though it falls behind newer architectures in speed and efficiency. The 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD offer snappy performance for typical use, but upgrade options are restricted due to its all-in-one form factor. This model is best suited for users who need a reliable, budget-friendly Mac for browsing, media, and light productivity, but should be avoided by those needing modern software support or higher performance.
Pros:- Affordable price for a renewed Apple product
- Decent performance with a 2.7GHz Core i5 processor
- Solid state drive ensures quick startup and load times
- Classic 21.5-inch display with good resolution
Cons:- Runs macOS 10.12 Sierra, limiting software compatibility
- Limited upgrade options due to all-in-one design
- No dedicated graphics card included
Best for: Budget-conscious students or home users who want a dependable Mac for everyday tasks without the latest features
Not ideal for: Power users or professionals needing the latest macOS capabilities and upgrade flexibility
- 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:Ethernet, Thunderbolt, USB 3.0, Wi-Fi
Our verdict“This iMac suits users seeking an affordable, functional Mac for basic tasks, but isn’t ideal for those wanting cutting-edge software or performance upgrades.”
How We Picked
These iMac options were evaluated based on performance, display quality, build reliability, and value for money. Priority was given to models with recent chips like M1 and M4, as they offer the best performance and future-proofing. We examined user reviews, warranty policies, and seller ratings to gauge reliability and condition, since refurbished products can vary in quality. The ranking reflects a balance of power, usability, and affordability, focusing on models that suit a range of user needs from casual use to creative work. Tradeoffs such as screen size versus processing power guided the final selection, ensuring each pick fills a distinct niche.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Renewed Imac Desktops
When selecting a renewed iMac desktop, several factors can influence your satisfaction and value. Understanding these considerations helps avoid common pitfalls and ensures you pick a model that truly fits your needs and budget. Here are key points to keep in mind:Performance and Chip Technology
Prioritize models with the latest chipsets like M1 or M4 for improved speed, efficiency, and future software support. Older Intel-based iMacs may still perform well but could become outdated sooner, especially for intensive tasks like video editing or 3D rendering. Consider your workload and choose a chip that offers enough power without overspending on unnecessary features.
Display Size and Resolution
Display size significantly impacts user experience, particularly for creative work. Larger screens, such as 27-inch Retina 5K models, provide more workspace and sharper images but often come at a higher cost and may be bulkier. Smaller 24-inch or 21.5-inch models are more compact and budget-friendly but may limit multitasking or detailed editing.
Condition and Warranty
Renewed products vary in their refurbishing process and warranty coverage. Always check if the seller offers a warranty of at least 90 days and review the condition report carefully. Well-maintained, certified refurbished units often include thorough testing and some form of guarantee, reducing the risk of unexpected issues.
Budget and Long-Term Value
Decide how much you’re willing to invest, balancing upfront cost with longevity. Sometimes spending a bit more on a newer or higher-spec model results in greater durability and better performance over time. Conversely, older models may serve well for basic tasks but could require upgrades sooner.
Connectivity and Ports
Check the available ports and connectivity options, especially if you plan to connect multiple peripherals or external displays. Newer models tend to have Thunderbolt 3 or 4 ports, while older ones might only offer USB-A or HDMI. Ensure the ports match your current or future setup to avoid additional adapters or upgrades.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are renewed iMacs reliable for professional use?
Yes, many renewed iMacs undergo rigorous testing and refurbishment processes, especially those sold by reputable sellers or Apple itself. When purchased with a warranty, they can support professional tasks such as photo editing, video production, or software development. However, it’s wise to verify the condition and warranty coverage, and be prepared for some wear compared to brand-new units.
How long do renewed iMacs typically last?
The lifespan of a renewed iMac depends on the model and usage, but with proper care, they can last 3 to 5 years or more. Models with newer chips like M1 or M4 tend to remain relevant longer due to continued software support and improved performance. Regular maintenance and avoiding heavy workloads on aging hardware help maximize their longevity.
Is it worth paying more for a newer model over an older one?
Investing in a newer model with the latest chip and features generally offers better future-proofing, faster performance, and longer software support. However, if your needs are basic or budget constraints are tight, an older, refurbished model can provide good value. Evaluate your specific use case to decide if the extra cost aligns with your long-term goals.
What should I check before buying a renewed iMac?
Always review the seller’s return policy, warranty, and condition reports. Confirm that the hardware has been tested thoroughly and that the model includes the specifications you need. Look for recent refurbishments, especially for the display, keyboard, and ports, and verify that the unit is free from major damages or excessive wear.
Can I upgrade components like RAM or storage on a renewed iMac?
Many newer iMacs, especially those with M1 or M4 chips, have soldered components that cannot be upgraded after purchase. Older Intel models sometimes allow for RAM or storage upgrades, but it’s less common. When buying renewed, check if upgrades are possible and factor that into your decision, especially if you anticipate future needs.
Conclusion
For general users seeking reliable performance without a premium price, the Apple iMac 24-inch with M1 Chip (2021, Renewed) offers excellent value and modern features. Creative professionals or those desiring larger, higher-resolution screens should consider the Apple 27-inch Retina 5K iMac (Early 2019). Tech enthusiasts aiming for the latest power should look at the Apple 2024 iMac Air with M4 Chip, despite potentially higher prices. Beginners or casual users will benefit from models with simpler setups, while power users will prefer newer chips and better displays. Each choice balances performance, budget, and future viability—pick the one that best aligns with your needs.
