It’s Thin … Really, Really Thin

It’s shocking just how thin the iMac is. According to Apple, at its edge, the device is just 5mm thin. But what does “edge” mean? Based on the images, it appears Apple is measuring the device’s bezel around the display. Behind that, it’s a bit thicker. Still, the iMac is easily the thinnest desktop you’ll find on the market.

Apple is big on delivering larger displays in its desktop line. So, when picking up the iMac, users will have to choose between the 21.5-inch model or the 27-inch version. In either case, users will find enough screen real estate to get work done.

Apple’s iMacs are running OS X Mountain Lion. That operating system, which launched earlier this year, is a nicely secure platform that includes access to digital applications through the Mac App Store. Considering how much outcry there is over Windows 8, it appears Apple’s operating system might be just what the doctor ordered.

According to Apple, its new iMacs come with new screen technology that reduces screen glare by a whopping 75 percent. That’s important. In previous versions of Apple’s iMac, the glare was downright awful, limiting where it could be placed in a room. Now, that won’t be a problem.

Intel’s Core i5 processor is running in Apple’s new iMac line. Granted, that’s not as powerful as Intel’s i7 processors, but is standard for an all-in-one desktop. As long as users aren’t trying to encode too much video, the Intel Core i5 should be able to handle just about anything that’s needed.

Apple’s OS X has quietly become a gaming platform. That’s precisely why Apple has decided to bundle Nvidia GeForce graphics into the computer. According to the company, the addition of Nvidia’s graphics cards allows for up to 60 percent more processing power for use with 3D games, HD home videos and more. That can’t be overlooked when considering buying an all-in-one desktop.

Apple often gets a bad rap for selling computers that are extremely expensive. And in some cases, that’s certainly true. But when it comes to the iMac, that couldn’t be further from the truth. The 21.5-inch model starts at $1,299. The 27-inch version, which comes with some more powerful components, goes for $1,799 to start. It’s a great deal for the price.

The iMac comes with a storage option that Apple calls the Fusion Drive. That basically allows for high-capacity hard-drive storage, while taking on the performance features of traditional flash storage. Apple says that it should allow for faster application launches and file access. If that’s true, it’ll be a nice addition to the computers.

One of the best things about all-in-one desktops is that they save customers space. That’s certainly the case with the iMac. The computer is completely self-contained behind the display and sits on a simple stand. Add that to a wireless keyboard and mouse, and you have one small, space-saving package.

Apple’s Thunderbolt technology is available in the iMac. What that means is users can hook up (and daisy-chain) storage drives, cameras, and even additional monitors with that port. Thunderbolt is still in its infancy, but could be a major selling point in the coming years.