6 Best Renewed Imac Desktops of 2026 for Power and Performance

Renewed iMac desktops range from older Intel models with large displays to newer Apple silicon systems with longer software support ahead. My best overall pick is the 2024 iMac with M4, thanks to its 16GB of memory and newer processor; the 2021 M1 with 512GB SSD stands out for more built-in storage, while the 27-inch 5K Intel model suits buyers who prize screen space. The main tradeoffs are processing speed, memory, display size, storage type, and how old a macOS version you are willing to use. Older models can still suit narrower tasks, but their age and upgrade limits matter more than their original specifications. Read on for the full comparison and guidance on choosing a renewed iMac that fits your work.

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Key Takeaways

• The 2024 M4 model ranks first because its 16GB of memory and newer chip give it the strongest balance for demanding everyday work and a longer runway than the Intel options.
• The 2021 M1 with 512GB SSD is the storage pick: it doubles the capacity of the listed 256GB models while keeping the responsive Apple silicon platform.
• The 27-inch 5K iMac trades newer internals for workspace: its larger, high-resolution screen may suit visual work, but its Intel processor and Fusion Drive make it a less forward-looking choice.
• The two 24-inch M1 configurations serve different needs: the 256GB version fits lighter use, while the 512GB version reduces reliance on external storage.
• The 2017 and Sierra-era 21.5-inch options are the narrow-use picks: their older Intel hardware and software age make them harder to recommend as primary computers in 2026.

Our Top Renewed Imac Desktops Picks

Apple iMac 24-inch with M1 Chip, 8-Core CPU, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Silver (Renewed)		Best for Video Calls	Display: 24-inch 4.5K Retina with P3 wide color and 500 nits brightness	Processor: Apple M1, 8-core CPU	Graphics: 7-core GPU	VIEW ON AMAZON	See Our Full Breakdown
Apple 2024 iMac with M4 Chip, 24-inch Retina Display, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Silver (Renewed)		Best for Multitasking	Model: 2024 Apple iMac	Processor: Apple M4, 8 cores, 3.2 GHz	Display: 24-inch 4.5K Retina, 4480 × 2520, 500 nits	VIEW ON AMAZON	See Our Full Breakdown
Apple 2017 iMac 21.5-inch with Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 1TB HDD, Silver (Renewed)		Best for Wired Peripherals	Model year: 2017	Processor: 7th-generation Intel Core i5-7360U, dual-core, 2.3GHz	Graphics: Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640	VIEW ON AMAZON	See Our Full Breakdown
Apple iMac 21.5-inch All-in-One Desktop, 2.7GHz Core i5, 8GB Memory, 256GB SSD, macOS 10.12 Sierra (Renewed)		Best for a Basic SSD Setup	Display: 21.5 inches	Processor: 2.7GHz Intel Core i5	Memory: 8GB	VIEW ON AMAZON	See Our Full Breakdown
Apple 2021 iMac with M1 Chip, 24-inch, 8-core CPU, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD, Silver (Renewed)		Best M1 Storage Pick	Display: 24-inch 4.5K Retina with P3 wide color and 500 nits brightness	Processor: Apple M1, 8-core CPU	Graphics: 8-core GPU	VIEW ON AMAZON	See Our Full Breakdown
Apple iMac 27-Inch Retina 5K Desktop, 3.2 GHz Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 1TB Fusion Drive (Renewed)		Best for a Large 5K Workspace	Display: 27-inch Retina 5K	Processor: 3.2 GHz quad-core Intel Core i5	Memory: 8GB DDR3	VIEW ON AMAZON	See Our Full Breakdown

More Details on Our Top Picks

1. Apple iMac 24-inch with M1 Chip, 8-Core CPU, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Silver (Renewed)

   

   Best for Video Calls

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   The 24-inch 4.5K Retina display, 1080p camera, and six-speaker audio make this M1 iMac a strong fit for a home office that also handles everyday browsing and documents. Compared with the 2021 M1 iMac with 512GB SSD, this model has the same listed 8-core CPU but half the storage, so it suits cloud-based work better than large local libraries. Its 8GB of RAM can handle routine tasks, though buyers juggling demanding creative apps may prefer the newer M4 iMac’s 16GB. The generic keyboard and mouse get a basic setup started, but may not match the feel or features of Apple accessories. Its two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports also leave less room for wired peripherals without a hub.

   Pros:

   • 4.5K display with P3 wide color and 500 nits brightness
   • 1080p FaceTime HD camera and three-mic array suit video calls
   • Six-speaker audio provides built-in sound for calls and media
   • M1 8-core CPU handles common home and office tasks

   Cons:

   • 256GB SSD leaves limited room for large local files
   • 8GB RAM is a constraint for demanding multitasking
   • Two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports may require a hub for peripherals

   Best for: Remote workers who prioritize a sharp built-in video-call setup and keep most files in cloud storage

   Not ideal for: Creative professionals with large project files or several wired accessories, given the 256GB SSD and limited ports

   • Display:24-inch 4.5K Retina with P3 wide color and 500 nits brightness
   • Processor:Apple M1, 8-core CPU
   • Graphics:7-core GPU
   • Memory:8GB RAM
   • Storage:256GB SSD
   • Camera:1080p FaceTime HD
   • Ports:Two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports and up to two USB 3 ports
   • Wireless:Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0
   • Condition:Renewed
   Our verdict

   “Choose this renewed M1 iMac for a polished video-call setup and everyday work if 256GB of storage is enough.”

   → See it on Amazon →

2. Apple 2024 iMac with M4 Chip, 24-inch Retina Display, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Silver (Renewed)

   

   Best for Multitasking

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   The M4 chip and 16GB of unified memory give this renewed 2024 iMac the strongest multitasking profile among the 24-inch models here. That extra memory is useful for keeping more apps and browser tabs open than on either M1 iMac with 8GB RAM, while its 4.5K Retina display keeps text and images crisp for desk work. The tradeoff is storage: its 256GB SSD matches the smaller M1 configuration and can fill quickly with photo libraries or video projects. Buyers who need more local space may find the 512GB M1 iMac a better fit, even though it has an older chip and less memory. This model makes most sense for office and household users who value newer processing and memory capacity over built-in storage.

   Pros:

   • M4 chip paired with 16GB unified memory supports heavier multitasking
   • 24-inch 4.5K Retina display reaches 500 nits
   • All-in-one design includes a microphone, speakers, and webcam
   • EPEAT Gold and Energy Star certifications

   Cons:

   • 256GB SSD can constrain large projects and media libraries
   • Renewed condition means it is not a new retail unit

   Best for: Office users and households who run several apps at once and store most large files externally or online

   Not ideal for: Photographers, video editors, or families keeping a large media library on the computer, because the SSD is 256GB

   • Model:2024 Apple iMac
   • Processor:Apple M4, 8 cores, 3.2 GHz
   • Display:24-inch 4.5K Retina, 4480 × 2520, 500 nits
   • Memory:16GB unified memory
   • Storage:256GB SSD
   • Operating system:macOS
   • Dimensions:21.53 × 5.78 × 18.14 inches
   • Weight:22.1 pounds
   • Condition:Renewed
   Our verdict

   “Pick the renewed M4 iMac when multitasking capacity matters more than having a larger built-in drive.”

   → See it on Amazon →

3. Apple 2017 iMac 21.5-inch with Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 1TB HDD, Silver (Renewed)

   

   Best for Wired Peripherals

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   For a desk built around wired accessories, this 2017 iMac offers four USB 3.0 ports, two Thunderbolt ports, and Gigabit Ethernet—more connection variety than the newer 24-inch M1 and M4 iMacs listed here. Its 1TB hard drive also provides more stated capacity than their 256GB SSD configurations, but loading and saving files will be slower than on solid-state storage. The 21.5-inch Full HD display is smaller and less detailed than the 4.5K screens on both M1 models. A dual-core Intel processor and 8GB of memory point to basic tasks such as email, schoolwork, and simple office use, rather than demanding current creative workloads. Its appeal is connectivity and capacity, with age and slower components as clear compromises.

   Pros:

   • Four USB 3.0 ports and two Thunderbolt ports support multiple wired devices
   • Gigabit Ethernet offers a direct wired network connection
   • 1TB hard drive provides more capacity than the 256GB SSD models
   • 21.5-inch Full HD display suits routine documents and browsing

   Cons:

   • Dual-core processor is less suited to demanding multitasking
   • Hard drive is slower than the SSDs in the other listed models
   • Full HD display is less sharp than the 4.5K displays on newer iMacs

   Best for: Students or small offices with wired USB equipment and Ethernet who mainly need a computer for basic tasks

   Not ideal for: Buyers who want a crisp 4.5K screen, fast SSD storage, or headroom for demanding creative software

   • Model year:2017
   • Processor:7th-generation Intel Core i5-7360U, dual-core, 2.3GHz
   • Graphics:Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640
   • Memory:8GB DDR4, 2133MHz
   • Storage:1TB HDD
   • Display:21.5-inch LED-backlit, 1920 × 1080
   • Ports:4 × USB 3.0, 2 × Thunderbolt, RJ-45, headphone/microphone combo
   • Wireless:802.11n Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.2
   • Condition:Renewed
   Our verdict

   “Choose this older iMac for basic work with wired peripherals and ample drive capacity, accepting slower storage and a less detailed screen.”

   → See it on Amazon →

4. Apple iMac 21.5-inch All-in-One Desktop, 2.7GHz Core i5, 8GB Memory, 256GB SSD, macOS 10.12 Sierra (Renewed)

   

   Best for a Basic SSD Setup

   View on Amazon

   This 21.5-inch renewed iMac pairs an Intel Core i5 with a 256GB SSD, making it a straightforward option for buyers who want solid-state storage in a compact all-in-one. The SSD should feel more responsive for everyday file access than the 1TB hard drive in the 2017 iMac, though that older model offers much more capacity and more listed ports. Compared with the 24-inch M1 iMacs, this model has a smaller display and an older processor platform; its supplied macOS 10.12 Sierra also dates it. A minimum 90-day supplier-backed warranty provides a defined support period, but packaging and accessories may be generic. This is best treated as a modest computer for light tasks, not a close substitute for the newer M1 or M4 systems.

   Pros:

   • 256GB SSD offers solid-state storage for everyday file access
   • 21.5-inch all-in-one form factor fits a modest desk
   • Minimum 90-day supplier-backed warranty is specified
   • Supplier inspection, testing, and cleaning are described

   Cons:

   • macOS 10.12 Sierra is an old operating system
   • 256GB storage may be limiting for local media and projects
   • Older Intel platform and 8GB memory offer less headroom than the M1 and M4 models

   Best for: A buyer seeking a compact renewed iMac with an SSD for light web, email, and document use

   Not ideal for: Users who need a current macOS experience, a high-resolution display, or more capacity for large files

   • Display:21.5 inches
   • Processor:2.7GHz Intel Core i5
   • Memory:8GB
   • Storage:256GB SSD
   • Operating system:macOS 10.12 Sierra
   • Model:ME086LL/A
   • Condition:Renewed
   • Warranty:Minimum 90-day supplier-backed warranty
   Our verdict

   “Consider this renewed iMac for light tasks if you specifically want an SSD and accept its older software and hardware.”

   → See it on Amazon →

5. Apple 2021 iMac with M1 Chip, 24-inch, 8-core CPU, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD, Silver (Renewed)

   

   Best M1 Storage Pick

   View on Amazon

   Among the two 8GB M1 options, this renewed 2021 iMac is the practical choice for buyers who want the larger 512GB SSD. It keeps the same 24-inch 4.5K display, 8-core CPU, 1080p camera, and six-speaker system as the 256GB M1 iMac, while its listed 8-core GPU differs from that model’s 7-core GPU. The extra storage gives more room for local photos, apps, and documents, though 8GB of RAM still limits how comfortably it can handle heavy creative multitasking. Buyers who need more memory may prefer the M4 iMac with 16GB, but that configuration returns to 256GB of storage. Two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports also mean a hub may be useful at a busy desk.

   Pros:

   • 512GB SSD doubles the capacity of the other listed M1 iMac
   • 24-inch 4.5K Retina display with P3 wide color and 500 nits brightness
   • M1 8-core CPU and 8-core GPU
   • 1080p camera, three-mic array, and six-speaker audio

   Cons:

   • 8GB RAM can constrain demanding multitasking
   • Two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports may call for a hub
   • Renewed condition

   Best for: M1 buyers who keep a moderate photo, app, or document library on the computer and do not need heavy multitasking

   Not ideal for: People working with large video projects or many demanding apps who need both more memory and more storage

   • Display:24-inch 4.5K Retina with P3 wide color and 500 nits brightness
   • Processor:Apple M1, 8-core CPU
   • Graphics:8-core GPU
   • Memory:8GB RAM
   • Storage:512GB SSD
   • Camera:1080p FaceTime HD
   • Audio:Three-mic array and six-speaker sound system
   • Ports:Two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports and up to two USB 3 ports
   • Wireless:Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0
   Our verdict

   “Choose this M1 iMac if you want more local storage than the 256GB models and mostly run everyday applications.”

   → See it on Amazon →

6. Apple iMac 27-Inch Retina 5K Desktop, 3.2 GHz Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 1TB Fusion Drive (Renewed)

   

   Best for a Large 5K Workspace

   View on Amazon

   The 27-inch Retina 5K display gives this renewed iMac a distinct role: it offers more screen space and higher resolution than the 24-inch Apple iMac with M1 Chip, which may suit photo work, detailed documents, or keeping several windows visible. Its 1TB Fusion Drive also provides more built-in capacity than the 256GB SSD in that M1 model, though it won’t feel as responsive as an all-flash drive for frequent app launches and file transfers. The quad-core Intel Core i5 and 8GB of DDR3 memory fit everyday work, but leave less headroom for demanding creative software than the newer M1 and M4 options. As a renewed desktop, it ships in a generic box, and the included keyboard and mouse may also be generic.

   Pros:

   • 27-inch Retina 5K display offers a spacious, detailed workspace
   • 1TB Fusion Drive provides more storage capacity than the 256GB SSD in the M1 24-inch model
   • Quad-core Intel Core i5 supports routine multitasking
   • Keyboard and mouse are included

   Cons:

   • Fusion Drive is less responsive than the SSD storage in the M1 and M4 alternatives
   • 8GB of DDR3 memory may limit demanding multitasking and creative work
   • Generic packaging and potentially generic keyboard and mouse offer less predictable presentation and accessories

   Best for: Home office users and hobbyist photographers who want a large, high-resolution built-in display and ample local storage for everyday tasks.

   Not ideal for: Buyers who prioritize newer chip performance, fast SSD response, or heavier creative workloads; the M1 and M4 iMacs are better aligned with those needs.

   • Display:27-inch Retina 5K
   • Processor:3.2 GHz quad-core Intel Core i5
   • Memory:8GB DDR3
   • Storage:1TB Fusion Drive
   • Graphics:AMD Radeon R9 M390
   • Operating system:Mac OS X
   • Condition:Renewed
   • Included accessories:Keyboard and mouse; may be generic
   Our verdict

   “Choose this renewed iMac for its large 5K screen and 1TB storage if those matter more than newer-chip performance and SSD responsiveness.”

   → See it on Amazon →

How We Picked

I ranked these renewed iMac desktops by the qualities that most affect daily use: processor generation, memory, storage capacity and type, display size, and software age. I gave newer Apple silicon and 16GB of memory more weight because they offer a stronger foundation for current apps and multitasking. I also considered what each configuration gives up: a smaller SSD, an older Intel platform, a mechanical or hybrid drive, or an aging macOS release.

The ranking favors the 2024 M4 iMac for its strongest overall specification mix, followed by the 2021 M1 models, with the 512GB configuration ahead for its extra storage. The 27-inch 5K model remains relevant for buyers who specifically want its larger display, while the older 21.5-inch Intel systems rank lower because their age narrows their sensible use cases. Since renewal condition and included coverage can differ by seller, buyers should check the specific listing details alongside these model-level comparisons.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Renewed Imac Desktops

Choosing among renewed iMacs means weighing the computer you need now against the age of the hardware and software you are buying into. I would compare the chip, memory, storage, screen, and seller terms as one package rather than letting a single headline specification decide.

Match the chip generation to your workload

Chip generation shapes how comfortably an iMac handles newer apps and heavier tasks. Apple silicon models such as the M1 and M4 are the safer starting point for general use in 2026 than the older Intel configurations in this roundup. The M4 is the stronger fit for frequent multitasking or more demanding creative work, while an M1 can still suit browsing, documents, video calls, and media. An Intel model may make sense when a specific older app or workflow requires it, but compatibility should be checked before purchase. Avoid choosing an older machine just because its original processor description sounds powerful. Think about the apps you expect to run over the next few years, not only what opens today.

Treat memory as a long-term constraint

Memory affects how many demanding apps and browser tabs can stay responsive at once. The 2024 M4 configuration here has 16GB, while the listed M1 and Intel models have 8GB. For light household tasks, 8GB may be adequate, but people who edit media, keep many apps open, or use large files should favor 16GB when available. Many iMac configurations do not offer a simple later memory upgrade, so confirm the exact configuration before buying. Do not assume a renewed listing can be upgraded after arrival. If your workload is likely to grow, memory deserves more attention than a small difference in storage capacity.

Choose storage by type and capacity

Storage affects both how much you can keep locally and how quickly the computer accesses files. A 256GB SSD can feel tight once apps, photos, and work files accumulate, even if external drives can expand capacity. The 512GB SSD in the 2021 M1 model offers more breathing room without changing the computer’s basic platform. The older 1TB HDD and 1TB Fusion Drive options provide more listed capacity, but they are not equivalent to a modern SSD for responsiveness. Buyers often compare capacity alone and miss this difference. If you store large media libraries, plan whether an external drive or cloud storage fits your routine before settling on a smaller internal SSD.

Decide whether screen size or platform age matters more

The 27-inch 5K Intel iMac offers substantially more screen area than the 24-inch models, which can help with timelines, spreadsheets, and side-by-side windows. The larger display does not make its older processor or Fusion Drive newer, so buyers need to weigh workspace against platform age. A 24-inch Apple silicon iMac is a more balanced choice for current everyday use and takes up less desk space. If color-sensitive work matters, check the display’s condition and the seller’s return terms rather than relying only on model specifications. Also measure your desk and viewing distance; the biggest screen is not automatically the easiest to use. Prioritize the 27-inch model when its display is central to your work, not simply because it is the largest option.

Check software age and app compatibility

A renewed desktop can arrive in good physical condition while still being old in software terms. The 21.5-inch model listing specifies macOS 10.12 Sierra, an especially dated starting point that should prompt careful compatibility checks. Confirm which macOS versions the exact model can run and whether the applications you rely on support that system. This matters for security updates, workplace tools, peripherals, and newer creative software. Older Intel iMacs may remain useful for a dedicated legacy task, but they are a less flexible choice as a primary computer. Verify the installed operating system and update path with the seller rather than assuming the listing title tells the whole story.

Inspect the renewed listing, not just the model name

“Renewed” does not describe one universal condition standard across every marketplace or seller. Check what the listing says about cosmetic wear, tested functions, included keyboard and mouse, warranty coverage, and the return window. Confirm the exact year, chip, memory, storage type, and operating system, since product titles can compress or omit details. Ask whether the display has visible marks and whether the power cable and other listed accessories are included. A clear return path matters more when buying an older computer, where battery-free desktop parts can still have aging storage or screen issues. Keep the listing and seller terms available until you have checked the machine after delivery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2024 M4 iMac worth choosing over a renewed M1 model?

I would choose the M4 if you expect to keep the computer for years, multitask heavily, or run demanding current apps; its 16GB of memory is a notable advantage over the 8GB M1 configurations here. The M1 remains a sensible fit for everyday tasks when its performance and 8GB memory meet your needs. The 512GB M1 adds useful storage capacity, while the M4 listing has 256GB. Compare the complete configuration and seller coverage, not just the chip name. If your workload is light, the M1’s extra storage may be more useful day to day than the M4’s processing headroom.

Should I buy a renewed iMac with a 1TB HDD or Fusion Drive?

Choose one of these older storage options only if you specifically need the capacity and accept slower access than an SSD can provide. A 1TB drive can hold a large local library, but storage type affects how quickly apps launch and files load. The 27-inch 5K model pairs its large display with a Fusion Drive, so its screen advantage comes with an older storage design. For a primary computer used throughout the day, I would generally favor an Apple silicon model with an SSD and add external storage if needed. Check the seller’s description carefully because “1TB” alone does not tell you how responsive the computer will feel.

Can an older Intel iMac still work as my main computer?

It can, if your tasks are modest or depend on software that works best with Intel, but its age limits flexibility. Before buying, check the model’s supported macOS versions and confirm that your essential apps, browser, and peripherals remain compatible. The 2017 21.5-inch model and the Sierra-listed 21.5-inch configuration deserve particular scrutiny because their software and hardware generations are far behind the M1 and M4 options. Older storage can also make ordinary tasks feel slower. I would reserve these models for specific legacy needs or light use rather than assume they will suit a growing workload.

Is 8GB of memory enough for a renewed iMac in 2026?

For email, browsing, video calls, and documents, 8GB can be enough if you keep your workload modest. It becomes more limiting when you juggle many browser tabs, edit large photos or videos, or run several demanding apps together. In this roundup, the M4’s 16GB configuration is the safer choice for those heavier patterns, while the M1 models’ 8GB configurations suit simpler routines. Since memory may not be upgradeable later, decide based on the work you expect to do throughout the computer’s useful life. If you are unsure, prioritize the higher-memory configuration over an older model with a larger drive.

What should I verify before ordering a renewed iMac?

Confirm the exact model year, processor, memory, storage capacity and type, and supported operating system. Read the seller’s condition notes, return window, warranty terms, and details about included accessories. Ask about display condition and whether the machine has been checked for working ports, speakers, camera, and wireless connectivity if the listing leaves those points unclear. For older Intel models, verify that your required apps still support the available macOS version. Keep the order details and inspect the iMac promptly so you can act within the seller’s stated return period.

Conclusion

My best overall recommendation is the 2024 M4 iMac for buyers who want the strongest current platform and 16GB of memory. For best value among newer-generation options, I would look to the 2021 M1 with 512GB SSD when local storage matters more than having the newest chip. The best premium fit for screen space is the 27-inch 5K Intel model, provided its older processor and Fusion Drive suit your needs. For beginners doing everyday home tasks, either 24-inch M1 can be a straightforward choice; select 512GB if you expect to keep many files locally. The older 21.5-inch Intel models are best reserved for specific legacy or light-use needs, with the Sierra-listed configuration requiring the closest software checks.