[REVIEW] My Honest Thoughts On The 2024 Apple iMac As A Windows User

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Unlike its competitors, the US-based tech giant doesn't just sell products — it sells experiences. The 2024 iMac takes this philosophy and runs with it.

Fitted with the latest M4 chip, the latest iteration of the iMac may look similar to its 2021 predecessor at first glance. However, peer under the hood and you'd notice a powerful machine that's durable, aesthetically gorgeous and designed to last for a long time.

But is it worth the upgrade? Is it worth switching from a Windows device to the iMac? What are its drawbacks? I explore these questions and more in this review.

Design-wise, the refreshed colour palette is a nostalgic nod to the past while still feeling modern.

The new orange option that I review, for example, is a crayon-like hue that's livelier than its predecessor. It's designed to complement any space you put the iMac in.

Accessories now fully embrace USB-C, marking the end of the Lightning era. Even the small touches — such as colour-matched power cables and magnetic connectors — show Apple’s attention to detail.   

Whether you're editing videos on Final Cut Pro or CapCut, or juggling multiple apps, the M4 ensures smooth, lag-free operation.

If you opt for the 10-core model, you’ll also enjoy support for up to two 6K displays or a single 8K monitor, making it a powerhouse for multitaskers and creatives.

Speaking of monitors, the 24-inch 4.5K Retina display remains a standout feature. Vibrant colours, razor-sharp details, and ample screen real estate make it ideal for everything from streaming films to managing complex workflows.

Apple has introduced a Nano-texture display option for an additional RM850 more, which significantly reduces reflections without compromising colour accuracy. It’s a boon for users in brightly lit environments, though the glossy display is still punchier for those who prefer it.

Working on the iMac also felt different. Thanks to its all-in-one design, I felt more focused and productive. The premium feel and design also inspired me to look forward to work on the iMac.

Simply put, without the numerous cables jutting out, it was a breath of fresh air. Windows users looking for an all-in-one computer for basic to moderate tasks would do well to consider migrating to the Apple iMac M4.

Borrowed from the iPad, this feature keeps you in the frame during video calls and automatically adjusts when others join or leave.

Additional perks like desk view — which provides a top-down view of your workspace — further enhance its utility for professionals and remote workers.

While the iMac M4 excels in many areas, there are some notable drawbacks.

The Nano-texture display option, while useful, adds an extra cost that might deter budget-conscious buyers. Similarly, accessories like the Magic Trackpad remain a paid add-on, and standalone colour-matched peripherals are unavailable for purchase separately. These decisions can make customising your setup an expensive endeavour.

Also, while the Magic Mouse is stylish and feels premium, it isn't exactly the best when it comes to clicking and moving around. I had to play around with its settings a little to get a somewhat okay experience from the mouse.

Connectivity is another sticking point. While the inclusion of four Thunderbolt 4 ports is impressive, the base model only offers two. This disparity feels out of place, especially considering the iMac's premium price tag —it starts at RM5,799.

Finally, the Centre Stage camera's features, such as desk view, require some setup to function effectively. While useful, it’s not entirely plug-and-play, which could frustrate users seeking immediate results.

Compared to competitors out there, Apple Intelligence still feels incomplete despite the tech giant marketing it as a game-changer.

Siri, for example, despite receiving a makeover, still doesn't perform as well as Gemini Live. I found myself repeating "Hey Siri" many times as the AI assistant is unable to hold natural conversations. There were also instances where Siri mistook several words I said (I said them clearly). For example, when I mentioned "Seremban", it mistook it for "Surrey".

While it's integrated with ChatGPT, giving it an additional boost, Siri still requires a lot of improvements as it feels clunky. I found myself having to type instead of using speech. That said, the tech giant has mentioned that Apple Intelligence is a work in progress.

I hope that once the March update rolls out, we could experience some game-changing features that sets Apple apart from the rest. I envision Siri complementing my everyday tasks through speech. It is already able to set calendar appointments, but I want it to be able to do more complex tasks eventually.

That said, I'm pretty sure this is the ultimate goal that Apple is envisioning with its devices.

Its vibrant display, powerful chip, and seamless integration with macOS make it a compelling all-in-one solution.

However, if you already own the M3 model or require more customisation and expandability, you might want to hold off. The lack of a larger screen option and the premium pricing of accessories make it less versatile compared to other desktops on the market.

For those new to the Apple ecosystem or seeking an upgrade from much older iMacs, the M4 offers a beautifully balanced package. Just be prepared to pay for the extras that make it truly yours.

If you don't mind sacrificing the all-in-one design and need a more powerful device for heavy tasks such as 3D animation, you're better off with the iMac mini, which delivers more for less.