Apple's Latest iMacs Are a Worthy Desktop Buy: 10 Reasons Why | eWeek

Apple’s Latest iMacs Are a Worthy Desktop Buy: 10 Reasons Why

Apple’s Latest iMacs Are a Worthy Desktop Buy: 10 Reasons Why
Written By
Don Reisinger
Don Reisinger
Sep 25, 2013
3 minute read
eWeek content and product recommendations are editorially independent. We may make money when you click on links to our partners. Learn More


Apple’s Latest iMacs Are a Worthy Desktop Buy: 10 Reasons Why

0-Apple's Latest iMacs Are a Worthy Desktop Buy: 10 Reasons Why

By Don Reisinger


The Design Is Still Top-Notch

1-The Design Is Still Top-Notch

Apple smartly kept the new iMac’s design exactly the same as the old model. That means that the device will still come with an extremely slender frame measuring just 5 millimeters at its thinnest point. The device also comes with a screen size up to 27 inches, providing outstanding visuals. Overall, it’s a great design.


Who Doesn’t Want a Better Processor?

2-Who Doesn't Want a Better Processor?

Apple has bundled a new and improved processor in the iMac. The new model starts with a 2.7GHz quad-core Intel Core i5 processor but can be beefed up to 3.4GHz. Those who want even more power can get their hands on a 3.5GHz quad-core Intel Core i7 processor. In other words, this thing delivers on power.


Advertisement

Apple Has Added New Graphics

3-Apple Has Added New Graphics

In addition to improving its processing speeds, Apple has boosted the iMac’s graphics. The 21.5-inch model comes with the Iris Pro for integrated graphics, but either model can be bumped up to a dedicated Nvidia GeForce GPU. The 27-inch model, in fact, can be purchased with the extremely powerful GeForce GTX780M. Not bad.


The Latest and Greatest WiFi Is Included

4-The Latest and Greatest WiFi Is Included

Apple has bundled the latest WiFi spec, 802.11ac, in the new iMac. According to the company, the device can deliver up to three times the performance of an N-generation device when connected to an ac-compatible base station. It’s nice to see Apple ushering in a new WiFi generation.


Better Flash Storage

5-Better Flash Storage

The iMac’s flash storage has also been improved, according to Apple. The device now has PCIe-based flash storage that will make both the company’s Fusion Drive hybrids and flash drives up to 50 percent faster in terms of data writing and reading than previous models.


OS X Is Still a Fine Option

6-OS X Is Still a Fine Option

Apple’s iMac will ship with OS X Mountain Lion. Although it’s been available for about a year, the operating system is a solid option for most users and is quite stable. Better yet, it’s secure. At this point, OS X is a fine option and makes the iMac all the more appealing.


It’s the Only Affordable Apple Desktop

7-It's the Only Affordable Apple Desktop

Apple plans to launch the new Mac Pro this year, joining the iMac as the only two desktops the company sells. However, the new Mac Pro, like its predecessor, promises to come with a hefty price tag. At a starting price of $1,299, the iMac is by no means cheap, but it’s at least affordable to more customers. That should count for something.


Advertisement

It’s Just Fine for the Enterprise

8-It's Just Fine for the Enterprise

The corporate world has always wondered if the iMac is really right for the office. With the latest upgrades featuring better performance and better storage efficiency, it seems quite clear that it is. Granted, some applications won’t work with the iMac, but that’s a small price to pay for an industry that’s increasingly going toward bring-your-own-device (BYOD) implementation.


You Have the Option to Upgrade

9-You Have the Option to Upgrade

One of the nice things about buying the iMac now is that it provides owners with the option to decide whether they should stick with Mountain Lion or go with Mavericks when that operating system launches this year. Waiting until Apple delivers Maverics before buying an iMac means choosing an operating system that might come with some bugs at last to start. There’s something to be said for having options.


Space Savings Is Huge

10-Space Savings Is Huge

The iMac’s small desktop footprint cannot be undervalued. Apple’s iMac is just 8 inches deep when the stand is included and because it’s totally wireless, the device can be mounted to a wall for even more desk savings. If it’s space-savings owners are after, the iMac delivers.

eWeek Logo

eWeek has the latest technology news and analysis, buying guides, and product reviews for IT professionals and technology buyers. The site's focus is on innovative solutions and covering in-depth technical content. eWeek stays on the cutting edge of technology news and IT trends through interviews and expert analysis. Gain insight from top innovators and thought leaders in the fields of IT, business, enterprise software, startups, and more.

Property of TechnologyAdvice. © 2026 TechnologyAdvice. All Rights Reserved

Advertiser Disclosure: Some of the products that appear on this site are from companies from which TechnologyAdvice receives compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site including, for example, the order in which they appear. TechnologyAdvice does not include all companies or all types of products available in the marketplace.