Search results
Nov 9, 2024 · Plus, the fact that the M4 chip shares common lineage with the A-series chips in Apple's iPhones means you can download and run apps from the Apple App Store right on the iMac M4. So if speedy ...
- Overview
- Is It Bad to Buy an Old Mac?
- Check the Used Mac's RAM
- Check the Used Mac's Hard Drive
- Check the Used Mac's Processor
- Check the Used Mac's Graphics
- Check the Used Mac's MacOS Compatibility
- Check the Used Mac For Apple Service Programs
- Buying a Used iMac or MacBook? Examine The Display
- Buying a Used MacBook? Check The Battery
Trending Videos
Want to buy an old, used Mac? It can be a wise way to save money, but it's not without risks. Here's what you need to know.
Buying an old, used Mac is a good option for those who like Apple's products but can't afford or don't want to pay new hardware prices.
Apple products are often reliable. The company also has excellent customer support. An old, used Mac likely won't have a warranty remaining, but you can visit an Apple store for help and pay for repairs if necessary.
A used Mac's RAM is an important specification. RAM is a critical component of any computer.
You'll want at least 4GB of RAM. It's enough for everyday tasks like web browsing, document editing, basic games, and streaming video. If you have more demanding things in mind, like photo editing or complex games, look for a used Mac with 8GB or 16GB of RAM. If you can, aim for having at least 8GB,
A used Mac's hard drive stores all the files found on the Mac and its operating system.
Look for a used Mac with at least a 128GB hard drive if you rely heavily on cloud storage. If not, you'll want at least 250GB.
Also, check the type of hard drive installed. It will be a hard disk drive or a solid-state drive. Solid-state drives are quicker and recommended.
Some older Macs have a user-serviceable hard drive you can replace or upgrade. Check the Mac's specifications to confirm this.
Many factors impact processor performance in a used Mac, but, in general, you should pay the most attention to a processor's core count.
A dual-core processor is fine for basic, day-to-day tasks. A quad-core processor can handle most tasks, though the most demanding may still run poorly. A six-core or eight-core processor is best for users with demanding needs.
As is true of the processor, the graphics options you'll find on old, used Macs are difficult to summarize. Still, we can put them in two groups.
Used Macs with integrated graphics (often from Intel) are acceptable for basic use but will struggle in 3D games and content.
Used Mac with dedicated graphics (often from AMD or Nvidia) will handle some 3D games and content.
Be warned, however, even dedicated graphics in Macs more than five years old may not be able to handle modern apps.
Apple releases a new version of macOS (formerly known as Mac OS X) every year.
Over time, Apple drops support for older Macs. Those lacking support can't upgrade to the new OS.
Here's the official list of supported Macs for the latest version of macOS, macOS Monterey.
Older, unsupported Macs continue to function but won't receive the latest feature updates.
Macs have a reputation for reliability, but they're not perfect.
Apple Service Programs often address widespread defects. It's wise to avoid Macs that are not part of a Service Program.
An old, used iMac or MacBook will have a built-in display. The display is expensive to repair, so it's important to check it's working.
The Eizo Monitor Test, available online, is an easy way to check. Open it and select the Defective Pixels and Uniformity tests. They will help you spot significant issues like stuck pixels or a failed backlight.
All batteries degrade with age, but you want to avoid a battery on its last legs.
Please read our guide on checking your MacBook's Battery health for more information.
Also, visually inspect the MacBook's bottom and rear for any signs of a bulge or lump. It's a sign the battery is expanding and needs replacing.
An expanding battery can damage a MacBook and, in the worst case, burst free of its casing. That's a problem you'll want to avoid.
- Matthew S. Smith
When choosing an iMac, understanding the evolution of Apple’s M-series chips can help you select the right model for your needs. The latest M4 chip offers faster speeds, AI-driven features with Apple Intelligence, and improved energy efficiency, making it ideal for demanding tasks like video editing and 3D rendering.
Nov 8, 2023 · Both configurations can only connect to a single external display, though. You’ll have to pay an extra $30 for the gigabit Ethernet jack, which is built into the power brick. This comes standard ...
- Luke Larsen
What Customers Are Saying. Apple iMac 24" - Apple M1 Chip - 7 Core GPU - 256 GB SSD - 8 GB Unified Memory - Silver - English. ★★★★★ ★★★★★. (27) Rain Design i360 24-27" Turntable Stand. ★★★★★ ★★★★★. (3) Apple Mac mini - M2 - 8GB - 256GB SSD - Silver. ★★★★★ ★★★★★.
The new Apple iMac is here, packing serious power with the M4 chip and innovative Apple Intelligence. Building on Apple’s previous silicon successes, the M4 chip brings improved speed and efficiency, perfect for demanding tasks like photo editing, gaming, and video production. This iMac doesn’t just look good—it’s built to perform.
People also ask
Why should you buy an iMac?
How do I Choose an iMac?
Should you buy a used Mac?
Should you buy a used Mac mini?
Should you buy a 2020 iMac Pro?
Which iMac is best?
Mar 29, 2021 · Then the answer is yes-ish. Currently, the lines are blurred between the iMac and the iMac Pro when it comes to power and performance. Sure, you can get more from the iMac Pro if you pay for the upgrades, but the iMac Pro is only getting incremental upgrades, and the 2020 iMac has caught up.
