iMac Quick Specs.
Glance the quick specs below or scroll further to get a better understanding of the full specification.
Release Date
2017
Processor
3.4GHz
Storage
1TB Fusion
RAM
8GB
Display
21.5-inch(4096 by 2304)
Camera
FaceTime HD
power
Power Cord
Mac OS (Max)
macOS Monterey
Let’s dive a little deeper and understand what all these Apple Specifications mean!
We will break down each of the specification for you below. There’s also further reading to understand the different elements better.
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Full Apple iMac Specification.
Release Date:
iMac (2017)
Understanding the release date of an iMac can be important when considering a purchase or gauging the performance of the current model. Apple typically releases new iMac models on an annual basis, but the specific release date can vary. Apple may announce a new iMac at a special event or quietly update the product line without fanfare.
To determine the release date of a specific iMac model, you can search for the model number or check the serial number of the device. From there, you can cross-reference the model number or serial number with Apple’s release dates for that specific product line. Additionally, Apple enthusiasts and industry insiders often speculate on the timing of new product releases based on rumors, leaks, and past release patterns. Keeping up to date with the latest news and rumors from the tech community can also help you predict when a new iMac may be released.
Processor / Chip:
3.4GHz quad‑core Intel Core i5.
The processor is the brain of a computer, and it’s responsible for carrying out all the tasks you ask of it. For iMacs, Apple uses processors made by Intel and their own chip. The processor determines how fast the iMac can run applications and how quickly it can respond to your commands. The faster the processor, the smoother and more responsive the iMac will feel. When looking at processor specs, you’ll see terms like GHz (gigahertz) and core count. GHz is the clock speed of the processor, and a higher number means it can carry out more calculations per second. Core count refers to the number of processors on the chip, and a higher number means the iMac can handle more tasks at once. However, keep in mind that a higher core count doesn’t always translate to better performance unless the software is optimized to take advantage of it. Overall, the processor is a crucial component that determines the speed and performance of an iMac. Read more about iMac Processors.
Storage:
1TB Fusion Drive.
Apple Fusion Drive is a technology that combines a solid-state drive (SSD) and a traditional hard disk drive (HDD) into a single volume. The idea behind this technology is to offer users the best of both worlds: the speed and performance of an SSD and the storage capacity of an HDD. The operating system and frequently used applications are stored on the SSD, while larger files and less frequently used applications are stored on the HDD. This allows for faster access to frequently used files and applications, while still providing ample storage space for larger files such as photos and videos.
The operating system and frequently used applications would automatically be stored on the SSD portion of the Fusion Drive, allowing for fast boot times and quick access to your most commonly used files. The remaining data and files would be stored on the HDD portion of the Fusion Drive, providing ample storage space for photos, videos, and other large files. The Fusion Drive technology automatically manages the data placement, so users don’t have to worry about which files go where. The end result is a system that is both fast and spacious, giving the best of both worlds.
RAM (Memory):
8GB
of 2400MHz
DDR4 memory.
Random Access Memory (RAM) is a type of computer memory used in the iMac to temporarily store data that the computer is currently using. RAM allows the computer to access data quickly, which results in faster processing times. When you open a program or a file, the data is loaded into the RAM so that the computer can access it quickly. The more RAM the iMac has, the more programs and files it can handle at the same time without slowing down. This makes RAM an essential component of the iMac’s performance. iMacs come with varying amounts of RAM depending on the model and configuration. Upgrading the RAM in an iMac can also be done in some cases, but it is important to check the compatibility and limitations of the iMac model before attempting any upgrades. Read more about RAM in an iMac.
Display:
21.5-inch (diagonal) Retina 4K display.
4096-by-2304 resolution with support for one billion colors.
The display of an iMac refers to the screen that you see images and videos on. The resolution of the display refers to the number of pixels that make up the image on the screen. Pixels are tiny dots that combine together to create a picture. The more pixels a display has, the more detailed and clear the image will be. Higher resolution displays have more pixels and therefore display sharper images with more detail. In addition to resolution, an iMac’s display may also have other features like color accuracy, brightness, and contrast ratio. These factors contribute to the overall quality of the image that you see on the screen. Some iMacs may also have a feature called Retina display, which has an incredibly high resolution that makes individual pixels indistinguishable to the human eye, resulting in a very sharp and detailed image.
Camera:
FaceTime HD camera.
The camera in an iMac is an essential component for tasks such as video calls, taking photos, and recording videos. The quality of the camera can make a significant impact on the clarity and detail of the images and videos you produce. When selecting an iMac, it is crucial to consider the camera’s resolution, which measures the number of pixels captured in an image or video. The higher the resolution of the camera, the sharper and more detailed the resulting images and videos will be. Apart from the resolution, other camera features, such as autofocus or zoom, can also make a difference in the quality of photos and videos. Certain iMac models come equipped with advanced camera features such as facial recognition or background blur, which can add a professional and polished look to video calls and recordings. If you plan on using the iMac for tasks like video conferencing, vlogging, or other video-related activities, it is worth considering an iMac model with a high-quality camera and advanced features to enhance your experience.
Power:
120W
Powered by mains power cord.
An iMac computer requires a power cord to connect it to a power source. The power cord is responsible for supplying the computer with the necessary electrical power to operate.
The wattage of the power cord determines the amount of electrical power that the iMac can draw from the power source. Higher wattage power cords can supply more power to the computer, allowing it to run more demanding applications and tasks.
Mac OS (Last Supported):
macOS Monterey.
macOS is the operating system developed by Apple for use on their desktop computers, including the iMac. MacOS is designed to be user-friendly, intuitive, and powerful, providing a seamless and enjoyable experience for users. It includes a variety of built-in apps and tools, including a web browser, email client, messaging app, and more. These apps are designed to work seamlessly together and make it easy to stay organized and productive on the iMac. Apple releases different versions of macOS periodically, with each release bringing new features, improvements, and bug fixes. These updates are typically free and can be downloaded through the App Store on the iMac. Each version of macOS is given a unique name, which helps distinguish one release from another. The different versions of macOS may also have different system requirements, so it’s important to check if the iMac is compatible before upgrading to a new version. Further reading on Mac OS in an iMac.
Available Ports:
3.5 mm headphone jack.
SDXC card slot.
Four USB 3 ports (compatible with USB 2)
Two Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) ports with support for:
DisplayPort
Thunderbolt (up to 40 Gbps)
USB 3.1 Gen 2 (up to 10 Gbps)
Thunderbolt 2, HDMI, DVI, and VGA supported using adapters.
10/100/1000BASE-T Gigabit Ethernet (RJ-45 connector)
Kensington lock slot.
The iMac has various ports and connections that allow you to connect different devices and accessories to the computer. The type and number of ports available may vary depending on the iMac model and year of release. The most common ports found on the iMac include USB ports, Thunderbolt ports, headphone jack, and Ethernet port. USB ports are used to connect external hard drives, keyboards, mice, and other peripherals. Thunderbolt ports are faster than USB ports and allow you to connect high-speed devices like external hard drives, monitors, and docking stations. The headphone jack allows you to plug in headphones or external speakers to listen to audio or watch videos. The Ethernet port provides a wired internet connection if you don’t want to use Wi-Fi. Some iMac models may also have an SD card slot, which allows you to transfer photos and videos directly from your camera to the computer.
Audio Support:
Stereo speakers.
Microphone.
3.5 mm headphone jack.
Support for Apple iPhone headset with microphone.
The iMac has built-in speakers that allow you to hear sounds and audio from the computer without the need for external speakers. You can control the volume of the speakers using the volume buttons on the keyboard or by clicking the volume icon in the menu bar at the top of the screen. If you prefer to listen to audio privately, you can plug headphones into the headphone jack on the back of the iMac. This will automatically mute the built-in speakers, and you can control the volume using the headphone volume control. The iMac also has a built-in microphone that allows you to record audio or make voice calls. You can adjust the input volume of the microphone by opening the Sound preferences in the System Preferences and adjusting the input volume slider.
Video & Graphics Support:
Radeon Pro 560 with 4GB of VRAM.
Simultaneously supports full native resolution on the built-in display at millions of colors.
One 5120‑by‑2880 (5K) external display at 60Hz with support for 1 billion colors, or
Two 3840-by-2160 (4K UHD) external displays at 60Hz with support for 1 billion colors, or
Two 4096‑by‑2304 (4K) external displays at 60Hz with support for millions of colors
Thunderbolt 3 digital video output.
Native DisplayPort output over USB‑C.
Thunderbolt 2, HDMI, DVI, and VGA output supported using adapters.
The display is one of the most important features of an iMac. It’s where you see everything on the computer, from apps and files to web pages and videos. The quality of the display can make a big difference in how enjoyable it is to use the iMac, especially if you spend a lot of time looking at the screen. iMacs come with a built-in display that is known for its excellent quality. This means that you can enjoy crisp and clear images and text, making it easier to read, edit and create content.
A GPU, or Graphics Processing Unit, is a specialized processor that is designed to handle the complex calculations required for rendering high-quality images and videos. The GPU works alongside the computer’s CPU (Central Processing Unit) to ensure that graphics-intensive tasks are processed quickly and efficiently. It takes the load off the CPU and allows the computer to display high-quality images and videos smoothly, without any lag or stutter. In other words, the GPU is responsible for rendering graphics and videos in real-time, providing a seamless and enjoyable experience for users.
Wireless Connectivity:
802.11ac Wi-Fi wireless networking; IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n compatible.
Bluetooth 4.2 wireless technology.
Wireless connectivity on an iMac refers to the ability of the computer to connect to the internet, other devices, and networks without using cables. iMacs come with built-in Wi-Fi, which allows you to connect to the internet wirelessly. This makes it easy to browse the web, stream videos, and download files without the need for a physical connection. Additionally, the iMac also supports Bluetooth, which allows you to connect to other devices wirelessly, such as speakers, headphones, and phone. This feature makes it easy to transfer files, play audio and videos, and use an iMac in conjunction with other devices. More information about Wireless options in an iMac.
Size and Weight:
Height: 17.7 inches (45.0 cm)
Width: 20.8 inches (52.8 cm)
Stand depth: 6.9 inches (17.5 cm)
Weight: 12.5 pounds (5.66 kg)
iMacs come in different sizes, which affects the amount of screen space you have to work with. The larger the screen, the more space you have to display work or enjoy media. However, a larger screen also means a larger and heavier computer, which may not be as portable or easy to move around.
That being said, iMacs are generally designed to be sleek and slim, making them easy to fit into any workspace. Additionally, models come with a stand that can be adjusted for height, tilt, and rotation, allowing you to find the most comfortable position for work or entertainment. Overall, the size and weight of an iMac can play an important role in the decision-making process, depending on needs and preferences.
Available in the following Finish:
Silver.
The finish or color of an iMac refers to the outer appearance of the computer. iMacs come in different colors and finishes, including silver, space gray, green, blue, pink, and yellow, depending on the model. This allows you to choose a color that best fits a personal style or aesthetic. The finish of the iMac can also affect its durability, with some finishes being more scratch-resistant than others.
Additionally, some iMacs come with a matte finish, which can reduce glare and make it easier to work in brightly lit environments. Ultimately, the finish or color of an iMac is a personal preference, but it’s important to consider how it may affect the appearance and functionality of the computer.
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