The new Apple iMac M4 introduces some intriguing tweaks, though its overall design remains similar to its predecessor. This review roundup synthesizes various journalists’ analyses to see what the new iMac M4 has to offer.
Enhanced Performance with the M4 Processor
One of the most anticipated aspects of this model is undoubtedly the integration of the M4 processor, which significantly outperforms its predecessors in terms of power. Jason Snell from Six Colors notes that the M4 delivers a 25% performance boost over the M3 in multicore tasks, with an impressive Geekbench 6 score of 14,724 points. This means increased speed for intensive tasks, whether it’s video editing or image processing.
Brenda Stolyar from Wired further emphasizes that the iMac M4 outperforms its all-in-one rivals in both CPU and GPU terms, although the performance gains over the M3 might seem moderate for some everyday users. Alex Wawro from Tom’s Guide adds that the iMac M4’s capabilities make it well-suited to handle demanding applications like the Apple Intelligence suite, with a speed unattainable by older models. According to him, this is the fastest iMac ever designed, but he laments that the performance gains are not significant enough to warrant an immediate upgrade from an M3.
Nano-texture Display: A Luxurious Touch
The nano-texture display option, introduced with this model, has received mixed reviews. Jason Snell notes that the finish effectively diffuses reflections, which is particularly helpful in bright environments like offices near windows. He describes the technology as almost magical, where reflections seem to stop at the screen’s edge.
Matt Elliott from CNET confirms its effectiveness and describes how he tested the display in different rooms of his house with various light sources. However, he reminds that this addition only justifies itself for users who regularly work in brightly lit spaces. For typical home use, he considers this option as overkill. Brenda Stolyar adds that, although this treatment slightly reduces contrast, the benefit of a glare-free screen makes it a wise choice for professional users, especially in modern offices.
An Improved Camera
The 12-megapixel camera equipped with the Center Stage feature is a significant addition that has garnered many positive reviews. David Phelan from Forbes praises the camera’s significantly better image quality, offering dynamic face tracking to keep the user centered in the frame. This is particularly appreciated for video calls and online meetings, where image stability makes all the difference.
Roman Loyola from Macworld is enthusiastic about this improvement, noting that the previous 1080p camera had often been criticized for its poor quality, especially in low light. This new camera, combined with the Desk View feature that displays the user’s desk, proves useful for visual presentations or online tutorials. Jason Snell also notes that this function is an advantage for teachers and professionals, but remains somewhat limited by the need to place objects on a cleared area of the desk.
Accessories and Connectivity: USB-C is Here
Apple has finally updated its accessories for the iMac M4, replacing Lightning ports with USB-C ports on the Magic Keyboard, Magic Mouse, and Magic Trackpad. This uniformity is praised by Wired, who appreciates that the cables are now universal and compatible with the rest of the Apple ecosystem. However, the Magic Mouse continues to receive criticism: Brenda Stolyar still laments its charging port located under the mouse, forcing users to flip it over to recharge. This design choice, deemed impractical by several experts, remains unchanged from previous models.
Brian Heater from TechCrunch shares this frustration, pointing out that although the update of the ports is a step in the right direction, some design choices do not meet modern ergonomic standards. He notes that the colorful accessories, while visually appealing, are only available with the purchase of a complete iMac, forcing interested customers to look for resale options to buy them individually.
Unchanged Design and Some Disappointments
The design of the iMac M4 is largely identical to that of the previous model, with the same color options, albeit slightly different tones, and a silhouette just as slim. However, some aspects of this design disappoint, such as the lack of height adjustment options for the screen. Alex Wawro from Tom’s Guide laments that this adjustment, present in many competitors, is missing from the iMac, forcing users to seek alternative solutions to improve their visual comfort.
In terms of connectivity, the four-port model is equipped with Thunderbolt 4 ports, bringing a certain uniformity that Jason Snell from Six Colors describes as welcome. He regrets, however, the lack of Thunderbolt 5 compatibility, already present on the MacBook Pro and Mac Mini M4, which could make the iMac less scalable in the long run for intensive users.
A Solid iMac, but Not Revolutionary
In conclusion, the iMac M4 retains the strengths of its predecessors while adding subtle technical improvements that make it more powerful and enjoyable to use. The new M4 chip and the Center Stage camera are assets that bolster its position as an excellent all-in-one for home or small business use. However, for owners of M1 or M3 models, the upgrade is not essential, especially in the absence of truly innovative features like a touchscreen (one can dream) or better ergonomics.
The critics’ verdict is clear: the iMac M4 is an excellent product overall, but its high price and lack of radical changes may limit its appeal. For those seeking an all-in-one device with a refined aesthetic and sufficient power for daily tasks, it remains a top choice. But those hoping for a radical transformation may need to wait for the next iteration of this iconic model.