When choosing an iMac for video editing, you need a machine that balances powerful performance, a stunning display, and reliable build quality. The Apple iMac 27-inch Retina 5K (2020) remains a solid all-around choice for its mature hardware and proven performance. For those seeking the latest technology, the Apple 2024 iMac with M4 Chip offers improved speed, efficiency, and a beautiful Retina display, but at a higher price point. The main tradeoffs in this category involve balancing raw power versus budget, and choosing between screen size and portability. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown to find the best fit for your video editing needs.
Get workout gear delivered free — and shop member deals
- Fast, free delivery on millions of items
- Access to Prime Big Deal Days deals on October 6–7
- Prime Video, Amazon Music and more included
Complete the kit
Key Takeaways
- The 2024 M4-based iMacs deliver significant performance gains over older Intel models, making them better suited for demanding editing workflows.
- Display size and resolution are critical — larger 27-inch models with 5K screens provide more workspace but come at a premium price.
- Memory and storage options vary widely; upgrading RAM and SSD can drastically improve editing efficiency and future-proof your setup.
- Refurbished and renewed models offer substantial savings without sacrificing core performance, but check warranty and condition.
- Choosing between the latest chips and proven hardware depends on your budget and need for cutting-edge performance.
| Apple iMac 27-inch Retina 5K Display (2020) |  | Best Overall for High-Resolution Performance | Display: 27-inch Retina 5K (5120×2880) | Processor: 3.3GHz 6-core 10th-generation Intel Core i5 | RAM: 8GB | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple iMac 21.5-inch 2.7GHz Core i5 All-in-One Desktop (Renewed) |  | Best Budget Refurbished for Entry-Level Video Editing | Display: 21.5-inch | Processor: 2.7GHz Core i5 | Memory: 8GB | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Desktop Computer with M4 Chip, 24-inch Retina Display, 16GB Memory, 256GB SSD, Silver |  | Best for Power and Portability with M4 Performance | Display: 24-inch Retina 4.5K | Processor: M4 chip with 8-core CPU and GPU | Memory: 16GB Unified Memory | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple iMac 27-Inch Retina 5K Desktop (Renewed) |  | Best for Large Display and Storage on a Budget | Display: 27-inch Retina 5K | Processor: 3.2GHz Intel Core i5 Quad-Core | RAM: 8GB | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Desktop Computer with M4 Chip, 24-inch Retina Display, 24GB Memory, 512GB SSD – Silver |  | Best for Power Users Needing Maximum RAM and Storage | Display: 24-inch Retina | Processor: M4 chip with 10-core CPU and GPU | Memory: 24GB Unified Memory | 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 Portable Power for Video Editing | Processor: Apple M4 chip | Display: 24-inch Retina, 4.5K resolution | RAM: 16GB | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| imac for video editing | Display | Processor | Storage | RAM |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple iMac 27-inch Retina 5K D | 27-inch Retina 5K (5120×2880) | 3.3GHz 6-core 10th-generation Intel Core i5 | 512GB SSD | 8GB |
| Apple iMac 21.5-inch 2.7GHz Co | 21.5-inch | 2.7GHz Core i5 | 256GB SSD | — |
| Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Des | 24-inch Retina 4.5K | M4 chip with 8-core CPU and GPU | 256GB SSD | — |
| Apple iMac 27-Inch Retina 5K D | 27-inch Retina 5K | 3.2GHz Intel Core i5 Quad-Core | 1TB Fusion Drive | 8GB |
| Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Des | 24-inch Retina | M4 chip with 10-core CPU and GPU | 512GB SSD | — |
| Apple 2024 iMac Air with M4 Ch | 24-inch Retina, 4.5K resolution | Apple M4 chip | 256GB SSD | 16GB |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Apple iMac 27-inch Retina 5K Display (2020)
This 2020 iMac stands out for its stunning 27-inch Retina 5K display, which delivers incredibly detailed visuals essential for precise video editing. Its 6-core 10th-gen Intel processor offers solid performance, especially when compared to the older 27-inch Retina models like the one with the 1TB Fusion Drive, which struggles with modern editing workflows. However, with only 8GB RAM, multitasking can become sluggish under heavy workloads, representing a tradeoff for its premium display and processing power. The dual Thunderbolt 3 ports provide versatile connectivity, but upgrade options are limited, which could hinder future-proofing. Overall, this model caters well to professionals needing high-res visuals and robust processing, though it costs a premium and has limited expandability.
Pros:- Stunning 27-inch Retina 5K display with exceptional detail
- Six-core 10th-gen Intel CPU handles demanding editing tasks
- Fast SSD storage ensures quick access and file transfers
- Multiple Thunderbolt 3 ports for flexible peripherals
Cons:- Limited RAM capacity for heavy multitasking
- Upgrade options for RAM and storage are not user-accessible
Best for: Video editors who prioritize ultra-high-resolution displays and powerful processors for demanding workflows.
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious editors or those needing extensive RAM upgrades, as the base model offers limited upgradeability.
- Display:27-inch Retina 5K (5120×2880)
- Processor:3.3GHz 6-core 10th-generation Intel Core i5
- RAM:8GB
- Storage:512GB SSD
- Graphics:AMD Radeon Pro 5300
- Ports:Two Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C)
Our verdict“This iMac is ideal for professionals who need a high-res display and strong CPU performance but are okay with limited upgrade potential.”
Apple iMac 21.5-inch 2.7GHz Core i5 All-in-One Desktop (Renewed)
This refurbished 21.5-inch iMac offers a more accessible entry point for those starting with video editing, especially compared to the larger 27-inch models. Its 2.7GHz Core i5 processor and 8GB RAM provide decent performance for light editing tasks, but fall short when handling complex projects or higher resolutions. The 256GB SSD speeds up workflows, yet the smaller screen size limits workspace and detail visibility. Being a refurbished product, it’s a good value for budget-conscious buyers but comes with the risk of older internal components and the need for eventual upgrades. It’s best suited for beginners or hobbyists rather than professional workflows requiring serious multitasking or large storage capacity.
Pros:- Refurbished to look and function like new, with a 90-day warranty
- Solid SSD speeds up editing and file management
- Affordable entry into Mac-based editing
Cons:- Older macOS version (10.12 Sierra) may limit compatibility with new software
- Small 21.5-inch display constrains workspace
Best for: Beginners or students starting out with video editing on a budget.
Not ideal for: Experienced editors or professionals working on high-resolution or large project files, due to performance and screen size limitations.
- Display:21.5-inch
- Processor:2.7GHz Core i5
- Memory:8GB
- Storage:256GB SSD
- Operating System:macOS 10.12 Sierra
Our verdict“This model provides a budget-friendly way to start editing on a Mac, but isn’t suited for demanding professional tasks.”
Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Desktop Computer with M4 Chip, 24-inch Retina Display, 16GB Memory, 256GB SSD, Silver
The 2024 M4-based iMac combines impressive performance with a vibrant 24-inch Retina display, making it a standout choice for versatile video editing. Its M4 chip with an 8-core CPU and GPU far surpasses older Intel processors, especially when compared to the 2020 model, which can struggle with rendering and multitasking. The 16GB unified memory supports smoother workflows, though the storage remains limited at 256GB, similar to the previous M1 models. Its sleek, colorful design fits into any workspace, and connectivity options like Thunderbolt 4 and Wi-Fi 6E ensure future-proofing. This pick is best for creative professionals who value mobility and speed but are okay with limited internal storage and a higher price point.
Pros:- Powerful M4 chip with 8-core CPU and GPU accelerates editing tasks
- Vivid 24-inch Retina display supports a billion colors
- Sleek, colorful design that complements any workspace
- Advanced connectivity including Thunderbolt 4 and Wi-Fi 6E
Cons:- Limited storage capacity at 256GB SSD
- All-in-one design restricts internal upgrades
Best for: Creative professionals needing a portable yet powerful machine for editing and multitasking.
Not ideal for: Editors handling large media libraries or extensive raw footage, due to limited internal storage and upgrade options.
- Display:24-inch Retina 4.5K
- Processor:M4 chip with 8-core CPU and GPU
- Memory:16GB Unified Memory
- Storage:256GB SSD
- Connectivity:Thunderbolt 4, Wi-Fi 6E
- Color:Silver
Our verdict“Best for professionals seeking a portable, fast Mac with stunning visuals, provided storage needs are manageable.”
Apple iMac 27-Inch Retina 5K Desktop (Renewed)
This renewed 27-inch Retina 5K iMac offers a large, detailed display paired with ample storage and a decent processor, making it suitable for users who need high resolution without the latest hardware. Its 3.2GHz quad-core Intel Core i5 and 8GB RAM provide respectable performance, comparable to the 2020 model but with a slightly larger screen for detailed editing. The 1TB Fusion Drive offers more storage than SSD-only options, though it’s slower in performance, which can affect editing workflows. It’s an attractive choice for those who prioritize screen size and storage capacity over raw speed or newer tech. However, its DDR3 RAM and older GPU limit its aptitude for intensive multitasking or modern workflows.
Pros:- High-resolution 27-inch Retina 5K display for detailed editing
- Large 1TB Fusion Drive offers extensive storage capacity
- Renewed product delivers reliable performance at a lower cost
Cons:- Older DDR3 RAM technology limits upgradeability
- Fusion Drive offers slower performance than SSDs
Best for: Editors needing a large 27-inch display with ample storage at a more affordable, refurbished price.
Not ideal for: Professional editors working on complex projects that demand newer hardware and faster storage solutions.
- Display:27-inch Retina 5K
- Processor:3.2GHz Intel Core i5 Quad-Core
- RAM:8GB
- Storage:1TB Fusion Drive
- Graphics:AMD Radeon R9 M390
- Operating System:macOS X
Our verdict“Ideal for those who prioritize a large, high-res display and substantial storage over the latest hardware advancements.”
Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Desktop Computer with M4 Chip, 24-inch Retina Display, 24GB Memory, 512GB SSD – Silver
This 2024 M4-powered iMac offers a significant leap in performance, with a 10-core CPU and GPU, plus 24GB of unified memory, making it ideal for handling large video files and multitasking. Its 24-inch Retina display is vivid and supports up to a billion colors, rivaling larger models in clarity. Compared to the 16GB M4 models, this configuration excels in demanding editing workflows that involve heavy multitasking, multiple applications, or raw footage. Its 512GB SSD provides faster access than the smaller storage options, though internal upgrade possibilities are limited. The sleek design and extensive connectivity make this a premium choice for power users, but its high price may deter casual editors or those with modest needs.
Pros:- Powerful 10-core CPU and GPU for demanding editing tasks
- Vivid 24-inch Retina display supporting a billion colors
- Large 24GB unified memory for seamless multitasking
- Fast 512GB SSD accelerates workflows
Cons:- High price may be prohibitive for some users
- All-in-one design limits future internal upgrades
Best for: High-end professional editors and power users requiring maximum RAM and storage for large projects.
Not ideal for: Casual hobbyists or budget-conscious users who don’t need extensive multitasking or large media libraries.
- Display:24-inch Retina
- Processor:M4 chip with 10-core CPU and GPU
- Memory:24GB Unified Memory
- Storage:512GB SSD
- Color:Silver
- Connectivity:Up to four Thunderbolt 4, Wi-Fi 6E
Our verdict“This iMac is best suited for demanding professionals who need maximum RAM and storage in a sleek, high-performance package.”
Apple 2024 iMac Air with M4 Chip, 24-inch Retina Display, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Silver (Renewed)
The Apple 2024 iMac Air stands out for its combination of portability and performance, making it an appealing choice for video editors who need a sleek, space-efficient machine. Powered by the M4 chip, it offers faster rendering and smoother multitasking compared to older models like the 2020 24-inch iMac, though it doesn’t quite match the raw power of the 27-inch Retina 5K desktop. The 24-inch Retina display delivers vibrant colors and high brightness, ideal for color grading, but its 256GB storage can fall short for large project files. Its lightweight, colorful design makes it perfect for small studios or on-the-go editing, but being a renewed product means potential warranty limitations and concerns over longevity. Compared to the newer 24-inch iMac with 24GB RAM and 512GB SSD, this model offers less memory and storage, impacting high-end workflow flexibility. Overall, this machine fits creatives seeking a portable, capable editing setup without sacrificing Apple’s design standards, but storage and warranty are tradeoffs to consider.Pros:- Powerful M4 chip enables fast rendering and smooth multitasking
- Vibrant 24-inch Retina display with high brightness for color accuracy
- Lightweight, colorful design fits easily into small spaces or mobile setups
- Enhanced privacy features with Apple Intelligence
Cons:- Renewed status may limit warranty coverage and raise durability concerns
- 256GB storage can quickly fill up with large video files
- Higher price compared to base models without upgraded specs
Best for: Video editors who prioritize portability and sleek design in a space-constrained environment
Not ideal for: Editors working with large 4K or higher-resolution projects that require extensive storage and maximum RAM
- Processor:Apple M4 chip
- Display:24-inch Retina, 4.5K resolution
- RAM:16GB
- Storage:256GB SSD
- Color:Silver
- Size:All-in-one desktop
- Brightness:500 nits
- Color Support:up to 1 billion colors
Our verdict“This iMac Air is ideal for video editors who need a portable yet powerful device, accepting some storage and warranty limitations.”
How We Picked
Our evaluation focused on performance benchmarks relevant to video editing, such as CPU and GPU power, to ensure smooth handling of high-resolution footage. We prioritized display quality, especially color accuracy and resolution, since these directly impact editing precision. Build quality, upgradeability, and overall value also played key roles in our rankings. We compared both new and refurbished models to offer options across different budgets, and considered user reviews for real-world reliability insights. Ultimately, products were ranked based on their ability to deliver professional-level editing experience balanced with cost and longevity.Factors to Consider When Choosing Imac For Video Editing
Choosing the right iMac for video editing involves more than just picking the latest model. You should consider several critical factors to ensure your investment meets your workflow needs without overspending. Balancing performance with budget, display quality, and future-proofing are key to making a smart purchase. Below are the most important considerations to keep in mind before buying.Performance Power
Video editing demands high CPU and GPU performance, especially for 4K and higher resolutions. Look for models equipped with the latest Apple chips, like the M4 series, which outperform older Intel processors. However, more powerful hardware often comes at a higher cost, so weigh your project complexity against your budget. For professional workflows, investing in a model with ample RAM and a dedicated graphics option will prevent bottlenecks during rendering and exporting.
Display Quality and Size
The display is your primary workspace, so prioritize resolution, color accuracy, and size. The 27-inch Retina 5K displays offer more screen real estate and finer detail, which is advantageous for multitasking and detailed editing. However, a larger screen can be less portable and more expensive. If desk space or budget is limited, a 24-inch Retina display with good color fidelity can still serve well, especially if paired with external monitors when needed.
Memory and Storage
Video files are large, and editing software benefits from ample RAM and fast storage. Aim for at least 16GB of RAM for smooth editing, with 24GB or more preferable for complex projects. SSD storage speeds up load times and rendering, so consider models with 512GB or higher, or plan to add external drives. Upgrading RAM on some models can be difficult, so check upgradeability before purchase.
Future-Proofing and Upgradability
Buying the latest chipsets and higher specs can extend your machine’s relevance, especially as software demands grow. However, some iMac models are less upgradeable over time, making initial specs even more critical. Refurbished models with recent hardware can offer a sweet spot, providing performance at a more accessible price. Always verify warranty and refurbisher credibility when exploring these options.
Budget and Long-Term Value
High-end iMacs come with a significant price tag but can pay off through increased productivity and longevity. Cheaper or refurbished models fit tighter budgets but may require future upgrades or replacement sooner. Consider your workflow volume, project complexity, and how long you plan to keep the device when weighing initial costs against ongoing productivity gains.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the latest M4 iMac worth upgrading to from an older Intel model?
Upgrading to an M4 iMac makes sense if you need faster rendering times, better multitasking, and improved energy efficiency. The M4 chips offer a significant leap in processing power, especially for demanding video editing tasks. However, if your current machine handles your workflow without issues, the upgrade may be more about future-proofing than immediate necessity. Consider your budget and whether the performance gains justify the investment.
Should I prioritize display size or performance when choosing an iMac for video editing?
Display size and quality directly affect your editing workflow, but they often come with tradeoffs. Larger 27-inch models with 5K resolution provide more workspace and detail, which helps with precise editing. Yet, they tend to be more expensive and less portable. If portability or budget are concerns, a 24-inch model with a high-quality Retina display can still serve well, especially if you plan to connect external monitors for additional workspace.
Can I upgrade the RAM or storage later on an iMac for video editing?
Many iMac models, especially the newer ones, have limited or no upgrade paths for RAM and storage after purchase. Upgrading RAM on some models is difficult or impossible without professional help, which should influence your decision on initial configuration. Storage upgrades are usually limited to external drives, so selecting a model with sufficient SSD capacity at the outset is advisable. Planning for your current and future needs will help avoid performance bottlenecks down the line.
Is a refurbished iMac a good choice for professional video editing?
Refurbished iMacs can offer excellent value, especially if they feature recent hardware that meets your editing needs. Reputable refurbishers often thoroughly test and refurbish these machines, providing warranties for peace of mind. However, it’s essential to verify the condition, warranty, and return policy before purchasing. This option can be especially attractive if you want high performance without paying the full retail price.
How do I choose between 24-inch and 27-inch iMac models for video editing?
Choosing between these sizes depends on your workspace and workflow. The 27-inch models with 5K resolution provide more screen real estate, which can reduce the need for multiple monitors and improve editing precision. They are better suited for professional environments where accuracy is critical. Conversely, the 24-inch models are more compact, easier to move, and often less expensive, making them suitable for smaller setups or less intensive editing tasks.
Conclusion
For those seeking the best overall performance and future-proofing, the 2024 iMac with M4 Chip stands out, especially for professional editors willing to invest in top-tier hardware. Budget-conscious buyers or those starting out should consider the refurbished 27-inch Retina 5K for excellent value. Beginners or casual editors may find the 24-inch Retina display models more accessible and manageable. Ultimately, your choice depends on your specific workflow needs, budget, and desire for longevity — but prioritizing performance and display quality will always deliver the best editing experience.
Halloween Picks
halloween
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
