Love the design of my iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, Late 2014) and have no issue that the NEW 2020 iMac 5K 27-inch has the same design. Might be that I am OK with the large chin with the Apple logo that I use to move the monitors angle, or that I look at what is on the screen, am not watching the large bezels. Since I have my home office outside window behind my iMac's large bezels. The large bezels help keep the outside world from distracting me from what is on the screen. While looking at it from the front the device looks to be paper thin. The issue on the Magic Mouse 2. First thing anyone that is going to use this mouse should look at purchasing is the ElevationLab Magic Grips. Next when it comes to recharging my Magic Mouse 2, I let it run down until it warned me to see how long that would take with everyday use. Did this the very first time, and it took a very long time. Since then since I do sleep I charge the Magic Mouse 2 at least once a month. I just plug it in at night. Would it be nice to be able to use it at the same time I am charging it? Yes however not a dealbreaker. The new 1080p FaceTime/webcam along with processing of the video image with the A2 Apple silicon makes it a winner in the NEW NORMAL of COVID-19. Wish they had gone for the 12-megapixel with Face ID that is in the iPhone 11 so we could have Face ID to unlock our iMacs along with the Apple watch. 10GB Ethernet port I feel is a must buy for $100. Thing is use to sell the original 3Com 10Mbps Ethernet card in the early 80's for $ 995.00 ( in today's dollars that would be $ 2,801.14 ). This leaves your options open when connecting to external storage devices. I am just going to stick with my Late 2014 version. One of the things that might have made me update is if Apple would have put USB4, and Thunderbolt 4 ports on this version. Reason is I HATE, HATE, HATE the Thunderbolt 2 ports that are on my Late 2014 that I now own. I just can not find storage accessories at a fair price for Thunderbolt 2. I know that with USB4 being an open standard the storage solutions are going to come out at a reasonable prices over time. In fact do not think my next purchase of ANY Apple device will be until they move to the standards based USB4 port. Now I am on the iPhone Upgrade Program and have upgraded every year. This more than likely will be the year I skip it. Do not think I will be missing out on much. Will have to wait and see. Thing is after another year I will own my Product Red iPhone 11 Pro.
Huh ... I also had the 2014 5K. Traded it in to Apple for the 2020, and Phobio (who handles Apple's remote trade-ins) sent me a shipping contain which didn't fit and damaged the display. Price went down from $540 to $130. If you trade it in, go in person to an Apple Store. Do not do it using remote shipping.
@@alliejr I kinda like it myself. It's a classic functional design ... and Apple _aggressively_ keeps around functional designs and resists making annual eye candy (I think purposely) so you really can't tell whether that iMac or MacBook is this year's or last year's design. None of that "I gotta get the new one because everyone can tell this is last year's model" that everyone else seems to do. I had a 2014 5K and a 2017, and the 2014 non-retina I used at work all looked the same. My MacBook Pros - everything after the Pismo - had that "block of aluminum" design until I stopped buying them after they discontinued the 17" model - and didn't buy another until the 16" came out last year.
I had the new 2020 mid-range iMac in my virtual shopping cart, but hesitated before checking out..and then I watched this video. I replaced the $2300 machine with this $1800 machine, and ordered a 16GB memory update for $70.. This gives me about 100% improvement over my 21.5" 2011 iMac, I figure, not to mention a 27" screen that is easy on my eyes. It should suffice for web browsing, email, TurboTax, and an occasional Pages document for another 9 years or so. By then I'll be in my late 80's, and probably won't be too concerned about the fact that my iMac will look "outdated". By the way, the "old" chin at the bottom of the screen is the most-convenient area for Post-it notes ever ! Marvelous design! Your video has saved me $500. Thanks very much!!
Its always a pleasure to read a comment from someone your age pointing out that screen quality and size does affect your well being. I hope this did not sound disrespectful, if so I apologise. I just want to make sure younger PC users that are in their 20-30s understand that many consequent years of looking directly on low quality flickering lights, what computer screens are essentially are, does degrade your eyesight. Slowly but steadily. I'm in my 30s and I did experienced this while working on local TV in production room, where there are more than 10 different screens around you that you have to watch(to monitor production): different size, refresh rates, production time and technology. Cathode-ray tube types are still used, because you can see focus/unfocus of the cameras better on them and you make sure that someone who is still using one of those to watch your broadcast can see things you expect them to see. Modern expensive professional SDI LSD screens(each close to $10k) right near that and low end cheap monitors for regular PCs that are used to select audio files live in production. Constantly switching your point of view between them and seeing CRT display (basically old 15' JVC TV) in your side view for a whole day puts huge load on eyesight. If you see a display somewhere in the local shop and it looks "fine", "bright enough" etc doesn't mean its good or safe to use for extended periods of time, especially for work. You did right Choise choosing higher end PC display, what essentially iMac is, and it's a relief to me to hear that you actually "feel" that. Thats what I recommend everyone to think about. Chose a better screen if you plan to look at it a lot, for whatever reason, and a good input devices, such as keyboard and mouse. I would not recommend any brands, so It wouldn't sound like and Ad, however what we all can agree on, I hope, that nothing good comes cheap. Good quality mouse and keyboard can last you around a decade. Try to think of it like choosing shoes, those are your "connection device" to the earth. Display, mouse and keyboard are your connection devices to the digital world. Best wishes, and best luck to you!
Agree with Brent and others about the design......the old iMac the most iconic design Apple came up with, and the thick bezels contribute to it. I'm buying a 2020 iMac (Amazon) in 2022 - at a discount - tried to persuade myself to buy the new iMac, but they're too small, the design is too vanilla and the colours........aren't for me.
Picked up my base model today and I’m so far very impressed. It’s all I need and I hope to get many years trouble free service from it. Thanks for the review.
I've never had an iMac, only Macbooks and i'm super excited to buy this! I love the display because I have always wanted one and now am almost able to purchase one. I'm hoping within the next few weeks I will buy. Awesome review!
Cheers and Congratulations! This made me smile, first time IMac owner here and I can say this is a good investment. I would definitely recommend the 10Bit Ethernet upgrade. I felt that most reviews did not stress that enough for heavy duty editing. I am making an unboxing video as we speak to make sure more people know to consider this when customizing their IMac.
Hey! I know the feeling, I’m dying to get this model as my first iMac as well. Still considering it as the new iMac gen is just around the corner. Not that new design will bother me much, but who knows about performance. Let me know whether you get this one and your thoughts, please. 🙂
I want a Mac like “Mac mini pro”. Mac Pro is too powerful but Mac mini’s GPU isn’t powerful enough. iMac is great, however, I don’t get to keep the stunning display. I would genuinely appreciate if Apple makes an option to purchase 5K iMac display NOT the XDR “PRO” display.
@@michael4196 I agree. & I wonder if that's in development right now? Because Apple recently stopped selling the LG 5k monitors from the online store. Really hope they're getting ready to sell their own Apple display soon.
I love seeing the pro display right next to the iMac. It really shows how you can fit a much larger display without increasing the footprint of the device too much simply by shrinking the bezels.
Just bought the base model 4k iMac i3 and for what im doing its brilliant.the image and text is amazing, please don't be put off this by these top end u tubers as they don't live in the real world. for general computing this is a steal and as for the bezels you don't even notice them once you start browsing and 256 is more than enough storage for my use.
System architect for work, so having the option to still run windows was the key for me to buy the 2020 iMac Plus, after 15 years of intel , pretty sure this is one of the best build macs for years to come :)
ok, I just finished watching this video. This was easily as far as I am concerned, your best video review yet. Blows away the competition too. Informative, interesting to watch, saying things as they are without sugar coating. Well done.
Everyone has been saying to wait for the new redesigned imac for at least the last two years. I'm glad I didn't listen to that advice a year ago when I got my first imac, last year it was almost taken as a certainty the 2019 model would get the redesign so I held out a couple of months to see what it was going be like and to everyones surprise, no change. So I ended up getting a second hand 2017 model and it turned out to be the right decision, I saved over £1000 than getting a new 2019 model. My concern was, was it going to be able to edit 4K footage okay because that was one of main reasons for getting an imac and the only significant change from 2017 to 2019 models was CPU processing ability but Final Cut Pro handles it way better than I imagined it would, playback on hi-res does not lag at all, it's perfect. Holding out for the redesign I would say is probably good advice for most existing imac users looking to upgrade, but if you were like me and desperately keen on getting your first imac, don't hold out for a redesign that may or may not appear in years time. Even if it does get an update there's no guarantee it will be worth the wait, just look at the underwhelming change to the iphone 12.
Just bought mine as I am a graphic design student. Although I have a MacBook Pro, quarantine seems to be mandating a workstation on a budget. Thank you for the review!
I’m a motion and graphic designer professional using a mid 2014 top spec Macbook Pro. Don’t say this is a workstation on a budget, it offers more than you really need at the moment.
I’m in the exact situation with wanting a nice desk setup instead of my small MacBook Pro 13. I’m waiting to see if the price may drop around the holidays. What do you think? 😅
I bought my 2020 iMac in Jun before Apple announced the move to the new Apple chip architecture. The same thing happened when I bought my iBook when Apple went from PPC to Intel. Sheesh! So I'll let you guys know the next time I buy a Mac so you all will be aware that a major architecture change is about to happen. Actually I'm not too worried about this. The system performs beautifully and I'm very happy with it's performance.
I had been holding out for Apple Silicon, but realize my space grey 32” iMac dream machine is still many years off. I now feel this $2299 model, plus SSD and 10GB Ethernet is the sweet spot for my needs in Logic Pro X and FCP. Then again, I’m the guy who refuses to acknowledge 2016 and newer MBPs, while Big Sur runs beautifully on mid-2015 A1398 11,5 upgraded m15.4-inch MBP, back when they had plenty of ports, and a lighted Apple (before mirrored sticker) I saw another video pointing out there is some expansion slot on 4 TB and 8 TB SSD options, but not smaller storage models that are fixed. It probably makes sense to divert money from RAM upgrade (cheaper aftermarket later) to SSD storage. Good catch on the two TB3 ports sharing the same bus. You did a very thorough review. 👍🏻
More youtubers need to review base models. Honestly, most people watching your videos are interested in base model power. Then you can expand on why they should upgrade if they need It.
I've been using my mid-2011 iMac since I bought it new when that model was first released. Except for a spinning hard drive failure about three years ago it's performed flawlessly. But I can't update the OS beyond High Sierra, and this year Turbo Tax informed me that their software next year won't run on my machine. Clearly it's time for an upgrade. I'm just pondering which of the various configurations I need/want. I've loved Apple products since the IIe and the original Macintosh. Thanks for your reviews! They're very helpful.
msmirandagirl Me too! I’ve not had a hard drive failure but mail quits “unexpectedly” before a can read any, and I’m not waiting until I have a major problem. I just ordered this iMac w/3.3Hz this morning!
4 years later and I can say for a fact, the two thunderbolt ports were enough for me. I was worried initially, but I don't plug in that much and even when I do, not two items that need the speed that thunderbolt gives
People don’t understand that the charge port is on the bottom of the mouse so if you spill something on the desk, it won’t get into the port. It lasts weeks/months before needing to charge depending on use. Just charge it some random evening or couple hours you’re not using it. Go to eat and come back and it will have weeks of charge.
@Boris Bengin Yes, it's a big inconvenience. It always dies at the worst time, right when I'm in the middle of work. True, I should remember to charge, but not everyone works that way. It's just frustrating to have an inoperable mouse when you need to charge. None of the other "magic" peripherals are that way. You can use the keyboard and trackpad while charging. When you're in the middle of work, even a few minutes can seem like a eternity. Perhaps I'm in the minority, though.
It's so nice that my iMac 5K 2020 Big Sur shares "Screen Sharing" with my MacBook Pro 17" 2009 El Capitan by WiFi or Ethernet connection. I can work both MacOS with the old and new apps on iMac 5k BIG desktops even though some apps only work for old computers. It works very well when I setup the connection correctly for both Macs.
My old 2014 iMac just can’t handle Adobe Creative Cloud software very well. Just ordered the 10 core with the 5700 GFX card. Could wait any longer try to get through an edit session with jerky playback and lunch break long renders. This new iMac should take care of all these problems.
You're right!... you know... I thought to myself, "let me check on the SD Card slot just in case Apple updated it..." but then I thought, "wait...this is Apple, there's no way they'd do that just because..." Well what do you know, I _should_ have checked. Hah! Good on Apple for adding it. It's a small feature, but nice to have for those that can actually take advantage of it. One more reason to consider this soon to be unicorn. I'll include this detail in the written review going live tomorrow. Thanks Craig!
@@9to5Mac Don't remember if you mentioned it, but the display is HDR too. It's an easy one to miss because for some reason they don't include it in the Specs.
Well, turns out it's not HDR but EDR (Extended Dynamic Range - I think). To be truly HDR it'd have to reach around 1000 NITs or so ... so I handles HDR streams but without the brightness needed to reach the standard.
I have M1 Pro and still use the Intel iMac 2020 with 5700xt and i7. The iMac is a beast! It's perfect especially when I do mobile with MBP m1 Pro and MBA M1.
Jeff, I gave you a thumbs up and thank you for a splendid review of the base model. Starting at 14:08 you said "So if you buy this Mac, you're gonna have to be okay with having something that looks super outdated in possibly the next year. It's akin to buying the last model of a vehicle and then having to watch everyone else have the newest version of that vehicle the very next year." I have to disagree with that statement as I thought "What!? Why not just buy BOTH!?" Now I know some may say "I can't afford both" and I understand, but for those that would like to have both, they have a year to save up. It's not like the Silicon based Macs are going anywhere. And for me, that is exactly what I intend to do; buy both! I won't be going with the base model, as there's some features I'd like to add. Overall, great review and I look forward to your other videos!
I could care less about what's coming out that's new because I'm not interested in the new design of the iMac. I prefer the most recent iMac and design anyway, as well as functionality overall. I think sometimes those that review these iMacs or Apple products in general are way too "techy" about specs than the average user. We're not super focused on as much. Keep that in mind. Yet I can still appreciate your perspective. I just don't agree with a lot of what you complained about. Either way, thank you.
Great info. I would like to inquire about which mac I should consider for Music production and Video editing? What are the most important elements to consider? Thank for any advice
I love my new 2020 iMac I have the mid range version with the AMD Radeon Pro 5500 XT 8 GB and upgraded the RAM with 64gb beautiful machine! No plans to update it for years... hearing the next models might not allow you to upgrade the RAM will be a kick in the teeth for users thinking about getting an iMac. Meaning having to spend an extra 2-3 grand just to upgrade the ram, better to get the iMac 2020 I reckon rather than waiting.
Totally agree! I got the very first MacBook Pro with touchbar, and had so sooo many issues with the touchbar. Learned my lesson to never buy first gen anything. Went ahead and bought the new 2020 iMac which I know will perform immaculately and last for the next few years at least. I’ll wait a good 2-3 years after Apple has released Apple silicon before repurchasing a new computer.
Thanks for the review. I thought about trading in my 2017 top spec 5k iMac for the 2020 but I think I rather wait for the new m1x design. My 2017 still edits video smoothly with no issues. I also shoot video with a Canon EOS R and on a 5d4
being a 6-core processor with SSD the base model is totally worth it, especially as you can upgrade the ram yourself for a lot lot less. totally worth it
Man that was succinct. I been researching for 3 months for my desktop server build, I will buy the base model just for display ....amd 3950x great to go!!!!
The Magic keyboard & mouse are pre-paired with the Mac they ship with but if a hard-wired keyboard is needed, just connect the Magic keyboard with the Lightning cable. Immediately the Bluetooth is disconnected & the keyboard starts charging (provided the power switch is on). While in such a state the Mac recognises it as a wired keyboard.
As a kid likes drawing on paper for no other purpose i like to play with apps like blender and unreal engine to create some fun stuff. Until now I always got the answer “you need a pc for these things”. By buying this new iMac I would prove they are wrong. My only question is, which configuration will fit my needs. I would like to have these app open at the same time together with photoshop without facing the beachball of death.
Everybody wants to wait for Apple Silicone but in the mean time this iMac or the 10th Intel generations will do the work a few more years. Also keep in mind the Silicone computers won't be cheaper than the Intel ones.
@@patrickluisier3198 I think so. It will be Apple's product placed in it's devices. That's the reason why iPhones with iOS runs so smoothly a long period of time. But regarding the price, I'm pretty sure it will be more expensive than Intel's
I’m an elementary teacher looking into buying the new 2020 iMac. I was wondering if i can buy the base model or if i should upgrade anything? I only use my computer for zoom meetings, surfing the web, lesson planning, TH-cam, just basic stuff. Sometime edit, but nothing fancy. Is the base model okay?
Jessica, I'm not an expert by any means but I think this model would be more than enough computer for what you want to use it for. The reason people would want to upgrade would be for gaming, video editing, etc. I'm looking to buy for photo processing which sometimes needs more to use the processing software and large photos but this model is even good for what I'm going to use it for. Stay safe!
Bulldust. 2 Thunderbolt 3 ports are plenty. My 2017 iMac has the same number/configuration on ports & I only use one of the two Thunderbolt 3 ports, it really needs more than 4 USB 3 (A) ports, I've had to add a 6-port hub for all my needs.
8:06 - 'As you upgrade that SSD flash drive you'll get even faster speeds.' Of course, by now we all know that the stock drive, whichever size it may be, cannot be upgraded. Possibly not even upgraded even if you can solder. And that stinks.
I love these videos. However, the more I watch these the more I'm confused about purchasing one. I don't "need" an iMac, but I've always wanted one. My 2013 MB Pro, 2.4 i5, 8GB memory is still going strong. The only time it underperforms is during some heavy coding, but even then, I'm not doing it as much for work these days because I mainly have been using my work supplied Windows laptop. With that said, part of me wants to pull the trigger on this updated 2020 model and part of me wants to wait to see how the silicon chips perform and what new features Apple gives us. I do wonder if Apple will have some issues during its initial integration, having most of us wanting to wait a year or so before pulling the trigger on the new silicon iMacs. If not issues, maybe it won't be specked the way we hoped. Nonetheless, I'm at a crossroads, upgrade or wait. If I purchase now I could justify this by saying my daughter who has started her own TH-cam channel could use it too for video editing versus using my Pro which does take a while for her to finish rendering videos. What would anyone in my shoes do? Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you, Judd.
The main reason I watch these is to hear what I'm missing out on as I am addicted to apple (I have an iPhone Xs and a iPad 6th generation). My Windows PC is ok it's just I am a very impatient person so love speed.
I plan to jump on this one... it will take a generation or two to work out the kinks on their new Apple silicone iMac, so might as well enjoy this beast until they've readied the next one.
I'm very torn between this and the new Apple Silicon iMac. I now have a hybrid setup with a 2015 MBP and 3600x/2060super gaming pc both linked to 27 inch monitor. The idea was to have both ecosystems for work and play tied into one seamless experience. Well it isn't very seamless. I got tired of the gaming pc because of its lack of refinement and way too much noise (even after fan curve setup). This iMac would make so much sense but I don't know whether I should wait for the new apple silicon one and loose bootcamp support. I personally love this dated design and would probably just wait for a gen 2 or 3 apple silicon iMac. I'm always a bit cautious about first gen products. (new apple silicon Macs and new 5g iPhones). Do you guys think that if I buy the 2020 iMac I will get some proper future support? At least 3-4 years? What should I do :O
Yes please - definitely want to see a review of 10 Core machine. I am interested in a 128 RAM machine for audio work in Logic Pro : Orchestral Templates of Orchestral samples. Thanks.
bro i looking for this video for weeks, thanks alot. LIKE. i dont have alot of money so y need only video editing simple 4k no much efect and recording voices on logic , and use ableton for make beats
Was thinking of purchasing this, but you say I should wait until 2021 to see if there are any changes, just love the huge screen, the look, Never had apple and only use it for regular things, no gaming, or profession use?
Hey thank you for doing this video. Could you (or anyone else) explain how an external SSD could be faster and put up better performance numbers than the internal one? Appreciate it
Would love to see a video on the upgraded 10 core i9. But just wondering do I really need something like that? I'm upgrading from MacBook 12" early 2015 after my Dell with Windows 7 was no longer supported. Actually bought an iPhone 11 just recently also so I could have Apple all around. I have a Nikon D750 and want to start processing RAW photos. I'm still undecided as to whether to get an iMac or laptop. Thanks for the video, very informative!
Love the design of my iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, Late 2014) and have no issue that the NEW 2020 iMac 5K 27-inch has the same design. Might be that I am OK with the large chin with the Apple logo that I use to move the monitors angle, or that I look at what is on the screen, am not watching the large bezels. Since I have my home office outside window behind my iMac's large bezels. The large bezels help keep the outside world from distracting me from what is on the screen. While looking at it from the front the device looks to be paper thin.
The issue on the Magic Mouse 2. First thing anyone that is going to use this mouse should look at purchasing is the ElevationLab Magic Grips. Next when it comes to recharging my Magic Mouse 2, I let it run down until it warned me to see how long that would take with everyday use. Did this the very first time, and it took a very long time. Since then since I do sleep I charge the Magic Mouse 2 at least once a month. I just plug it in at night. Would it be nice to be able to use it at the same time I am charging it? Yes however not a dealbreaker.
The new 1080p FaceTime/webcam along with processing of the video image with the A2 Apple silicon makes it a winner in the NEW NORMAL of COVID-19. Wish they had gone for the 12-megapixel with Face ID that is in the iPhone 11 so we could have Face ID to unlock our iMacs along with the Apple watch.
10GB Ethernet port I feel is a must buy for $100. Thing is use to sell the original 3Com 10Mbps Ethernet card in the early 80's for $ 995.00 ( in today's dollars that would be $ 2,801.14 ). This leaves your options open when connecting to external storage devices.
I am just going to stick with my Late 2014 version. One of the things that might have made me update is if Apple would have put USB4, and Thunderbolt 4 ports on this version. Reason is I HATE, HATE, HATE the Thunderbolt 2 ports that are on my Late 2014 that I now own. I just can not find storage accessories at a fair price for Thunderbolt 2. I know that with USB4 being an open standard the storage solutions are going to come out at a reasonable prices over time.
In fact do not think my next purchase of ANY Apple device will be until they move to the standards based USB4 port. Now I am on the iPhone Upgrade Program and have upgraded every year. This more than likely will be the year I skip it. Do not think I will be missing out on much. Will have to wait and see. Thing is after another year I will own my Product Red iPhone 11 Pro.
Love in depth commentary like this, Brent, you make some excellent points, especially re: Magic Mouse. Thanks for sharing your feedback.
I feel the same way about the iMacs design. It's a beautiful computer and if spec'd correctly will deliver years of service to their users. (:
Huh ... I also had the 2014 5K.
Traded it in to Apple for the 2020, and Phobio (who handles Apple's remote trade-ins) sent me a shipping contain which didn't fit and damaged the display.
Price went down from $540 to $130.
If you trade it in, go in person to an Apple Store. Do not do it using remote shipping.
I think this design STILL looks fresh and modern. What Windows PC looks this good?
@@alliejr I kinda like it myself.
It's a classic functional design ... and Apple _aggressively_ keeps around functional designs and resists making annual eye candy (I think purposely) so you really can't tell whether that iMac or MacBook is this year's or last year's design.
None of that "I gotta get the new one because everyone can tell this is last year's model" that everyone else seems to do.
I had a 2014 5K and a 2017, and the 2014 non-retina I used at work all looked the same.
My MacBook Pros - everything after the Pismo - had that "block of aluminum" design until I stopped buying them after they discontinued the 17" model - and didn't buy another until the 16" came out last year.
I had the new 2020 mid-range iMac in my virtual shopping cart, but hesitated before checking out..and then I watched this video. I replaced the $2300 machine with this $1800 machine, and ordered a 16GB memory update for $70.. This gives me about 100% improvement over my 21.5" 2011 iMac, I figure, not to mention a 27" screen that is easy on my eyes.
It should suffice for web browsing, email, TurboTax, and an occasional Pages document for another 9 years or so. By then I'll be in my late 80's, and probably won't be too concerned about the fact that my iMac will look "outdated".
By the way, the "old" chin at the bottom of the screen is the most-convenient area for Post-it notes ever ! Marvelous design!
Your video has saved me $500. Thanks very much!!
Same here! My iMac is sitting in my virtual shopping cart lol!
onlyfor 70 bucks
Its always a pleasure to read a comment from someone your age pointing out that screen quality and size does affect your well being. I hope this did not sound disrespectful, if so I apologise.
I just want to make sure younger PC users that are in their 20-30s understand that many consequent years of looking directly on low quality flickering lights, what computer screens are essentially are, does degrade your eyesight. Slowly but steadily.
I'm in my 30s and I did experienced this while working on local TV in production room, where there are more than 10 different screens around you that you have to watch(to monitor production): different size, refresh rates, production time and technology. Cathode-ray tube types are still used, because you can see focus/unfocus of the cameras better on them and you make sure that someone who is still using one of those to watch your broadcast can see things you expect them to see. Modern expensive professional SDI LSD screens(each close to $10k) right near that and low end cheap monitors for regular PCs that are used to select audio files live in production. Constantly switching your point of view between them and seeing CRT display (basically old 15' JVC TV) in your side view for a whole day puts huge load on eyesight.
If you see a display somewhere in the local shop and it looks "fine", "bright enough" etc doesn't mean its good or safe to use for extended periods of time, especially for work.
You did right Choise choosing higher end PC display, what essentially iMac is, and it's a relief to me to hear that you actually "feel" that. Thats what I recommend everyone to think about. Chose a better screen if you plan to look at it a lot, for whatever reason, and a good input devices, such as keyboard and mouse. I would not recommend any brands, so It wouldn't sound like and Ad, however what we all can agree on, I hope, that nothing good comes cheap. Good quality mouse and keyboard can last you around a decade. Try to think of it like choosing shoes, those are your "connection device" to the earth. Display, mouse and keyboard are your connection devices to the digital world.
Best wishes, and best luck to you!
@@wonabe What an incredible comment from both the original comment and also your reply. God bless you all
@@brokenhero6828 best wishes to you as well =) was s pleasure to read.
Agree with Brent and others about the design......the old iMac the most iconic design Apple came up with, and the thick bezels contribute to it. I'm buying a 2020 iMac (Amazon) in 2022 - at a discount - tried to persuade myself to buy the new iMac, but they're too small, the design is too vanilla and the colours........aren't for me.
I went with the middle base model of 27" iMac and upgraded the RAM myself with 32GB.
I'm very happy with my purchase and I love this design anyway.
Picked up my base model today and I’m so far very impressed. It’s all I need and I hope to get many years trouble free service from it. Thanks for the review.
I've never had an iMac, only Macbooks and i'm super excited to buy this! I love the display because I have always wanted one and now am almost able to purchase one. I'm hoping within the next few weeks I will buy. Awesome review!
Thanks and Enjoy!
Cheers and Congratulations! This made me smile, first time IMac owner here and I can say this is a good investment. I would definitely recommend the 10Bit Ethernet upgrade. I felt that most reviews did not stress that enough for heavy duty editing. I am making an unboxing video as we speak to make sure more people know to consider this when customizing their IMac.
Hey! I know the feeling, I’m dying to get this model as my first iMac as well. Still considering it as the new iMac gen is just around the corner. Not that new design will bother me much, but who knows about performance. Let me know whether you get this one and your thoughts, please. 🙂
@@wcsilveira I did get it a couple of weeks ago! I'm in love! Glad i didn't wait! It's as amazing as I imagined! Great performance, display, and size!
I want a Mac like “Mac mini pro”. Mac Pro is too powerful but Mac mini’s GPU isn’t powerful enough. iMac is great, however, I don’t get to keep the stunning display. I would genuinely appreciate if Apple makes an option to purchase 5K iMac display NOT the XDR “PRO” display.
@@michael4196 I agree. & I wonder if that's in development right now? Because Apple recently stopped selling the LG 5k monitors from the online store. Really hope they're getting ready to sell their own Apple display soon.
@@BUdJohnson242 I agree that more Apple branded displays would be nice. They used to sell them and that's something I do miss.
Use external GPU with mac mini.
I need a computer in the immediate month or so, this is exactly what I needed in a review. Great video
I love seeing the pro display right next to the iMac. It really shows how you can fit a much larger display without increasing the footprint of the device too much simply by shrinking the bezels.
Just bought the base model 4k iMac i3 and for what im doing its brilliant.the image and text is amazing, please don't be put off this by these top end u tubers as they don't live in the real world. for general computing this is a steal and as for the bezels you don't even notice them once you start browsing and 256 is more than enough storage for my use.
System architect for work, so having the option to still run windows was the key for me to buy the 2020 iMac
Plus, after 15 years of intel , pretty sure this is one of the best build macs for years to come :)
Watching Jeff's Review is enough to make me buy this iMac
ok, I just finished watching this video. This was easily as far as I am concerned, your best video review yet. Blows away the competition too. Informative, interesting to watch, saying things as they are without sugar coating. Well done.
Everyone has been saying to wait for the new redesigned imac for at least the last two years. I'm glad I didn't listen to that advice a year ago when I got my first imac, last year it was almost taken as a certainty the 2019 model would get the redesign so I held out a couple of months to see what it was going be like and to everyones surprise, no change. So I ended up getting a second hand 2017 model and it turned out to be the right decision, I saved over £1000 than getting a new 2019 model. My concern was, was it going to be able to edit 4K footage okay because that was one of main reasons for getting an imac and the only significant change from 2017 to 2019 models was CPU processing ability but Final Cut Pro handles it way better than I imagined it would, playback on hi-res does not lag at all, it's perfect. Holding out for the redesign I would say is probably good advice for most existing imac users looking to upgrade, but if you were like me and desperately keen on getting your first imac, don't hold out for a redesign that may or may not appear in years time. Even if it does get an update there's no guarantee it will be worth the wait, just look at the underwhelming change to the iphone 12.
Just bought mine as I am a graphic design student. Although I have a MacBook Pro, quarantine seems to be mandating a workstation on a budget. Thank you for the review!
Yeah. As nice as MacBooks are, nothing beats a dedicated desktop. Especially an all-in-one with a fantastic display.
I’m a motion and graphic designer professional using a mid 2014 top spec Macbook Pro. Don’t say this is a workstation on a budget, it offers more than you really need at the moment.
@@mendistudio cool
I’m in the exact situation with wanting a nice desk setup instead of my small MacBook Pro 13. I’m waiting to see if the price may drop around the holidays. What do you think? 😅
dezziefbby Amazon prime day is right around the corner. Might be time to get in on the deals 🔥🔥
I bought my 2020 iMac in Jun before Apple announced the move to the new Apple chip architecture. The same thing happened when I bought my iBook when Apple went from PPC to Intel. Sheesh! So I'll let you guys know the next time I buy a Mac so you all will be aware that a major architecture change is about to happen. Actually I'm not too worried about this. The system performs beautifully and I'm very happy with it's performance.
Lol
Watching on my mid 2011 IMac 21.5. Runs like a champ.
9:03 yes please I would like to see a review of the 10-core i9 2020 iMac.
Roger that.
@@9to5Mac would love to see details on the 5700XT 16GB
Me too as stated above.
5:06 Typing on turned off computer - Apple Magic!
Super comedy
So that's why they called it Magic keyboard 🤔 🤣
I had been holding out for Apple Silicon, but realize my space grey 32” iMac dream machine is still many years off. I now feel this $2299 model, plus SSD and 10GB Ethernet is the sweet spot for my needs in Logic Pro X and FCP.
Then again, I’m the guy who refuses to acknowledge 2016 and newer MBPs, while Big Sur runs beautifully on mid-2015 A1398 11,5 upgraded m15.4-inch MBP, back when they had plenty of ports, and a lighted Apple (before mirrored sticker)
I saw another video pointing out there is some expansion slot on 4 TB and 8 TB SSD options, but not smaller storage models that are fixed. It probably makes sense to divert money from RAM upgrade (cheaper aftermarket later) to SSD storage.
Good catch on the two TB3 ports sharing the same bus. You did a very thorough review. 👍🏻
More youtubers need to review base models. Honestly, most people watching your videos are interested in base model power. Then you can expand on why they should upgrade if they need It.
Just found one of these next to a trash can. It actually works! Has a line on the screen but I think I could live with that.
I've been using my mid-2011 iMac since I bought it new when that model was first released. Except for a spinning hard drive failure about three years ago it's performed flawlessly. But I can't update the OS beyond High Sierra, and this year Turbo Tax informed me that their software next year won't run on my machine. Clearly it's time for an upgrade. I'm just pondering which of the various configurations I need/want. I've loved Apple products since the IIe and the original Macintosh. Thanks for your reviews! They're very helpful.
msmirandagirl Me too! I’ve not had a hard drive failure but mail quits “unexpectedly” before a can read any, and I’m not waiting until I have a major problem. I just ordered this iMac w/3.3Hz this morning!
4 years later and I can say for a fact, the two thunderbolt ports were enough for me. I was worried initially, but I don't plug in that much and even when I do, not two items that need the speed that thunderbolt gives
People don’t understand that the charge port is on the bottom of the mouse so if you spill something on the desk, it won’t get into the port. It lasts weeks/months before needing to charge depending on use. Just charge it some random evening or couple hours you’re not using it. Go to eat and come back and it will have weeks of charge.
That’s probably the worst excuse I’ve ever heard for the mouse design. You deserve an award for that one, I’m not even kidding. LOL 😂
@Boris Bengin Yes, it's a big inconvenience. It always dies at the worst time, right when I'm in the middle of work. True, I should remember to charge, but not everyone works that way. It's just frustrating to have an inoperable mouse when you need to charge. None of the other "magic" peripherals are that way. You can use the keyboard and trackpad while charging. When you're in the middle of work, even a few minutes can seem like a eternity. Perhaps I'm in the minority, though.
Been waiting since 2014, let's go!
Absolutely love the design, sure I do prefer the new iMac, but damn, this thing looks 🔥compared to other all-in-ones!
It's so nice that my iMac 5K 2020 Big Sur shares "Screen Sharing" with my MacBook Pro 17" 2009 El Capitan by WiFi or Ethernet connection. I can work both MacOS with the old and new apps on iMac 5k BIG desktops even though some apps only work for old computers. It works very well when I setup the connection correctly for both Macs.
I am getting one. Cause this maybe the last one I can run Bootcamp on. 😃
What’s bootcamp?
My old 2014 iMac just can’t handle Adobe Creative Cloud software very well. Just ordered the 10 core with the 5700 GFX card. Could wait any longer try to get through an edit session with jerky playback and lunch break long renders. This new iMac should take care of all these problems.
Thank you. I have a 2012 and have the same issues with Creative Cloud being so slow. I probably will bite the bullet and get this and the 10 core.
You missed an additional port change: SD card slot is now UHS-II.
You're right!... you know... I thought to myself, "let me check on the SD Card slot just in case Apple updated it..." but then I thought, "wait...this is Apple, there's no way they'd do that just because..." Well what do you know, I _should_ have checked. Hah! Good on Apple for adding it. It's a small feature, but nice to have for those that can actually take advantage of it. One more reason to consider this soon to be unicorn. I'll include this detail in the written review going live tomorrow. Thanks Craig!
@@9to5Mac Don't remember if you mentioned it, but the display is HDR too.
It's an easy one to miss because for some reason they don't include it in the Specs.
Well, turns out it's not HDR but EDR (Extended Dynamic Range - I think).
To be truly HDR it'd have to reach around 1000 NITs or so ... so I handles HDR streams but without the brightness needed to reach the standard.
@@vernearase3044 Some monitors reach just 350 nits for HDR and this display supports HDR10 it just can't take full advantage of it
@@apocalypse_321 This thing reaches 500 nits of brightness, but the biggest downside is only a single Thunderbolt bus for the two ports.
My 2020 27” iMac is on its way to my house. “VERY EXCITE!”
I have M1 Pro and still use the Intel iMac 2020 with 5700xt and i7. The iMac is a beast! It's perfect especially when I do mobile with MBP m1 Pro and MBA M1.
YES! Do the review on the i9 10th generation. I'm debating if I should go for the gusto and get the 10th gen.
my 2020 imac 512ssd does 2300/2100 write/read. I am so happy with it
The announcer sounds like a young Casey Kasem!
Jeff, I gave you a thumbs up and thank you for a splendid review of the base model. Starting at 14:08 you said "So if you buy this Mac, you're gonna have to be okay with having something that looks super outdated in possibly the next year. It's akin to buying the last model of a vehicle and then having to watch everyone else have the newest version of that vehicle the very next year." I have to disagree with that statement as I thought "What!? Why not just buy BOTH!?" Now I know some may say "I can't afford both" and I understand, but for those that would like to have both, they have a year to save up. It's not like the Silicon based Macs are going anywhere. And for me, that is exactly what I intend to do; buy both! I won't be going with the base model, as there's some features I'd like to add. Overall, great review and I look forward to your other videos!
I''m going to get this model... if I like the new one, I'll get that too and give this one to my Mom 🎉🎉🎊🎊
I could care less about what's coming out that's new because I'm not interested in the new design of the iMac. I prefer the most recent iMac and design anyway, as well as functionality overall. I think sometimes those that review these iMacs or Apple products in general are way too "techy" about specs than the average user. We're not super focused on as much. Keep that in mind. Yet I can still appreciate your perspective. I just don't agree with a lot of what you complained about. Either way, thank you.
I have M1 Macbooks, Macbook Pros, and Mini....but I STILL use the 27" 5k iMac more than ANY of them! The perfect machine...to me.
I recently brought iMac 21.5 base model & happy with my purchase😀
I am getting one for Bithday i am so excited 😆
Hey Jeff. Great video, as always. What makes you think the new iMac (Silicon) won’t let us upgrade RAM by ourselves?
I agree, this classic design will be missed once it’s replaced
Great info. I would like to inquire about which mac I should consider for Music production and Video editing? What are the most important elements to consider? Thank for any advice
Love the new iMac. Never has an iMac in the past. Would love to have one do the review of my first ever iMac
I love my new 2020 iMac I have the mid range version with the AMD Radeon Pro 5500 XT 8 GB and upgraded the RAM with 64gb beautiful machine! No plans to update it for years... hearing the next models might not allow you to upgrade the RAM will be a kick in the teeth for users thinking about getting an iMac. Meaning having to spend an extra 2-3 grand just to upgrade the ram, better to get the iMac 2020 I reckon rather than waiting.
I think Apple was sooo smart about the iMac design and I love that the actual computer is In the monitor
got mine for 800. I’m happy with a that!
If you need a new machine def get this. Don't wait. The new ones will be buggy AF for a while. New OS with all new hardware? No thanks.
@DATING HARLEY QUINN Exactly! They will be buggy for a while. I'd rather have stable than bleeding edge.
Totally agree! I got the very first MacBook Pro with touchbar, and had so sooo many issues with the touchbar. Learned my lesson to never buy first gen anything. Went ahead and bought the new 2020 iMac which I know will perform immaculately and last for the next few years at least. I’ll wait a good 2-3 years after Apple has released Apple silicon before repurchasing a new computer.
If the new redesigned imac has no upgradeable RAM door, I'll be buying this.
Excellent Point...
Thanks for the review. I thought about trading in my 2017 top spec 5k iMac for the 2020 but I think I rather wait for the new m1x design. My 2017 still edits video smoothly with no issues. I also shoot video with a Canon EOS R and on a 5d4
being a 6-core processor with SSD the base model is totally worth it, especially as you can upgrade the ram yourself for a lot lot less. totally worth it
I watched this video before I went Purchase my computer 👨🏾💻 it definitely helped 🚀
Man that was succinct. I been researching for 3 months for my desktop server build, I will buy the base model just for display ....amd 3950x great to go!!!!
The Magic keyboard & mouse are pre-paired with the Mac they ship with but if a hard-wired keyboard is needed, just connect the Magic keyboard with the Lightning cable. Immediately the Bluetooth is disconnected & the keyboard starts charging (provided the power switch is on). While in such a state the Mac recognises it as a wired keyboard.
Dude, thank you for this video loved it helped me a lot to understand the imac!
I like the way the Bluetooth keyboard becomes a hard-wired keyboard as soon as the Lightning cable is connected.
As a kid likes drawing on paper for no other purpose i like to play with apps like blender and unreal engine to create some fun stuff. Until now I always got the answer “you need a pc for these things”. By buying this new iMac I would prove they are wrong. My only question is, which configuration will fit my needs. I would like to have these app open at the same time together with photoshop without facing the beachball of death.
I would not be surprised if the new m1x replacement was priced higher than this last intel model… making buying this one a serious option to consider
I love the design of this iMac. Why change it? The only thing I would like would have been to offer it in space grey like the iMac Pro
This is a really great comparison exposé. Thank you very much!
This will do for now and I don't do all that much to get all that fancy stuff thanks for the review this helped me make my decision
the design is so good that is an iconic timeless design
Likely to be close 2 years before the next 27inch imac replacement
Bought for 1100 on amazon refurbished so I am happy to buy that beast for 1100 only :)
Everybody wants to wait for Apple Silicone but in the mean time this iMac or the 10th Intel generations will do the work a few more years. Also keep in mind the Silicone computers won't be cheaper than the Intel ones.
Why do you think they won't be cheaper?
Are we sure the Apple Silicone cheap will be as compatible as the Intel today ?
@@patrickluisier3198 I think so. It will be Apple's product placed in it's devices. That's the reason why iPhones with iOS runs so smoothly a long period of time. But regarding the price, I'm pretty sure it will be more expensive than Intel's
I’m an elementary teacher looking into buying the new 2020 iMac. I was wondering if i can buy the base model or if i should upgrade anything? I only use my computer for zoom meetings, surfing the web, lesson planning, TH-cam, just basic stuff. Sometime edit, but nothing fancy. Is the base model okay?
Jessica, I'm not an expert by any means but I think this model would be more than enough computer for what you want to use it for. The reason people would want to upgrade would be for gaming, video editing, etc. I'm looking to buy for photo processing which sometimes needs more to use the processing software and large photos but this model is even good for what I'm going to use it for. Stay safe!
What brand is your second monitor? Looks great with the iMac monitor! :)
If I were to buy this model, it would be my very first Apple computer. Should an Intel iMac be my first, or hold out for the ARM releases?
9:08 No, the base model DOES NOT allow a CPU upgrade, you are stuck with the 10th gen 6-core i5.
I have a iMac 21.5 inch its very very helpful but iMac 2020 is very bigger then mine.
Bulldust. 2 Thunderbolt 3 ports are plenty. My 2017 iMac has the same number/configuration on ports & I only use one of the two Thunderbolt 3 ports, it really needs more than 4 USB 3 (A) ports, I've had to add a 6-port hub for all my needs.
8:06 - 'As you upgrade that SSD flash drive you'll get even faster speeds.' Of course, by now we all know that the stock drive, whichever size it may be, cannot be upgraded. Possibly not even upgraded even if you can solder. And that stinks.
I love these videos. However, the more I watch these the more I'm confused about purchasing one. I don't "need" an iMac, but I've always wanted one. My 2013 MB Pro, 2.4 i5, 8GB memory is still going strong. The only time it underperforms is during some heavy coding, but even then, I'm not doing it as much for work these days because I mainly have been using my work supplied Windows laptop. With that said, part of me wants to pull the trigger on this updated 2020 model and part of me wants to wait to see how the silicon chips perform and what new features Apple gives us. I do wonder if Apple will have some issues during its initial integration, having most of us wanting to wait a year or so before pulling the trigger on the new silicon iMacs. If not issues, maybe it won't be specked the way we hoped. Nonetheless, I'm at a crossroads, upgrade or wait. If I purchase now I could justify this by saying my daughter who has started her own TH-cam channel could use it too for video editing versus using my Pro which does take a while for her to finish rendering videos. What would anyone in my shoes do? Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you, Judd.
Amen to that brother! The more I watch the more I get confused too.
The main reason I watch these is to hear what I'm missing out on as I am addicted to apple (I have an iPhone Xs and a iPad 6th generation). My Windows PC is ok it's just I am a very impatient person so love speed.
I plan to jump on this one... it will take a generation or two to work out the kinks on their new Apple silicone iMac, so might as well enjoy this beast until they've readied the next one.
Really would like a review of the nano display and why someone should get it, pros and cons.
my big cuestion is. the i7 is beter for the future advance or the i5 is ok for the next 5 or 10 years?
i want do simple 4k videos music on final cutt and logic voice record
I got one two days ago and find it great got it at a good price in July 2021
I'm very torn between this and the new Apple Silicon iMac. I now have a hybrid setup with a 2015 MBP and 3600x/2060super gaming pc both linked to 27 inch monitor. The idea was to have both ecosystems for work and play tied into one seamless experience. Well it isn't very seamless. I got tired of the gaming pc because of its lack of refinement and way too much noise (even after fan curve setup). This iMac would make so much sense but I don't know whether I should wait for the new apple silicon one and loose bootcamp support. I personally love this dated design and would probably just wait for a gen 2 or 3 apple silicon iMac. I'm always a bit cautious about first gen products. (new apple silicon Macs and new 5g iPhones). Do you guys think that if I buy the 2020 iMac I will get some proper future support? At least 3-4 years? What should I do :O
Would you guys and gals like a hands-on with the 10-core w/ Radeon Pro 5700 XT and nano-etched coating? Or is this one review enough?
We want that one too.
Let’s get it! Same with nano
I wanna! 0/
Nano texture that alone made this update exiting for me
Yes and please check out the fans while creating 4K video.
Yes please - definitely want to see a review of 10 Core machine. I am interested in a 128 RAM machine for audio work in Logic Pro : Orchestral Templates of Orchestral samples. Thanks.
bro i looking for this video for weeks, thanks alot. LIKE. i dont have alot of money so y need only video editing simple 4k no much efect and recording voices on logic , and use ableton for make beats
Yours is the best video I found! Thanks 🙏
I think it will be supported for a while with consideration to the Mac Pro as it's an intel cpu one.
This is one main reason why I haven't upgraded my iMac from 2011. Nothings really changed 🙄
Dood you imac is literally 10 years old 😂
Serafin Razo Exactly, and I’m proud of it. Time for a big birthday celebration 🥳
Thank you for such a great explanation. I am always thumbs when it comes to computers.
Great video and thanks for sharing!
One update NOT mentioned is the SDXC card reader is now able to handle the higher speeds of the UHS-I cards..
Excellent Jeff 👍🏼✌️
think people have to consider that the new silicon imacs might be 20% more simply because they will probably not let u upgrade ur own ram...
I'm on a 2020 base model iMac 27-in that replaced a stolen 2013-spec 21.5-in iMac, also the base model. No contest.
thank you for your video very helpful.
Can we all acknowledge we’re in the golden era of iMac industrial design🙏🏼
Was thinking of purchasing this, but you say I should wait until 2021 to see if there are any changes, just love the huge screen, the look, Never had apple and only use it for regular things, no gaming, or profession use?
If there's any computer that should have ports, it's this massive iMac. Not sure why it only has 2 Thunderbolt ports.
Hey thank you for doing this video. Could you (or anyone else) explain how an external SSD could be faster and put up better performance numbers than the internal one? Appreciate it
On the base model, apple uses a cheap SSD. If you buy larger SSD s from apple on your order they are larger and faster.
Imagine getting this imac right now and then a new model comes out after 1 second.
Would love to see a video on the upgraded 10 core i9. But just wondering do I really need something like that? I'm upgrading from MacBook 12" early 2015 after my Dell with Windows 7 was no longer supported. Actually bought an iPhone 11 just recently also so I could have Apple all around. I have a Nikon D750 and want to start processing RAW photos. I'm still undecided as to whether to get an iMac or laptop. Thanks for the video, very informative!
I can't believe in 2020 the keyboard isn't backlit yet ?????