AIThis post was created with the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI).

Renewed iMac desktops span very different generations, from older Intel systems to the 2021 M1 models. I’d choose the 2020 27-inch 5K iMac as the best overall for its large, high-resolution display and dedicated Radeon graphics, while the 2021 24-inch M1 iMac is the standout for everyday speed and a newer platform. The 2021 blue M1 model offers similar core hardware in a different finish, and the 2017 SSD configuration can suit buyers with lighter workloads. The main tradeoffs are display size versus newer chip design, SSD responsiveness versus older hard-drive capacity, and the uncertainty that comes with a renewed computer’s condition and support history. Read on for how these six options differ and which one fits your work, space, and expectations.

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6
compared
3
brands
4
ports
1TB HDD
max storage
Which renewed imac desktop should you buy?
★ Top Pick
Apple iMac 24-inch
Best Overall for Everyday M1 Performance
M1 8-core CPU offers a newer platform than the Intel processors in the 2017 and 2020 models.
See on Amazon →
Home-office users and photo editors who want a large, high-resolution built-in display for multitasking and light-to-moderate creative work.
Apple iMac 2020 27-inch 5K Ret
27-inch 5K Retina display provides ample workspace and fine detail.
View on Amazon →
Budget-conscious home users who keep many documents or media files locally and mainly handle browsing, email, and basic office tasks.
Apple 2017 iMac 21.5" Silver
1TB hard drive offers much more listed capacity than the 256GB SSDs in the other models here.
View on Amazon →
Students and home users who want a compact renewed iMac with SSD responsiveness for web tasks, documents, and video calls.
Apple iMac
256GB PCIe SSD offers quicker access than the hard drive in the other 2017 iMac listed here.
View on Amazon →
Buyers furnishing a home office or shared family space who want an M1 iMac in blue for everyday work, calls, and media.
2021 iMac with Apple M1 Chip
Blue finish offers a distinctive alternative to the silver M1 iMac.
View on Amazon →
Storage — compared
Apple iMac 2020 27-inch 5K Ret256GB SSD
Apple 2017 iMac 21.5" Silver1TB HDD
Apple iMac256GB PCIe SSD
Apple iMac 24-inch256GB SSD
2021 iMac with Apple M1 Chip256GB SSD
iMac 21.5-inch 2.7GHz Core i5256 GB SSD
Pros & cons at a glance
Apple iMac 2020 27-inch 5K Ret
✓ 27-inch 5K Retina display provides ample workspace and fine detail.
✗ 8GB RAM can limit heavy multitasking and larger creative projects.
Apple 2017 iMac 21.5" Silver
✓ 1TB hard drive offers much more listed capacity than the 256GB SSDs in the other models here.
✗ Hard drive is slower for startup and app loading than the SSDs in the other listed iMacs.
Apple iMac
✓ 256GB PCIe SSD offers quicker access than the hard drive in the other 2017 iMac listed here.
✗ 8GB RAM limits room for demanding multitasking and larger creative projects.
Apple iMac 24-inch
✓ M1 8-core CPU offers a newer platform than the Intel processors in the 2017 and 2020 models.
✗ 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD can restrict demanding work and local file storage.
2021 iMac with Apple M1 Chip
✓ Blue finish offers a distinctive alternative to the silver M1 iMac.
✗ 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD are limited for large projects and media libraries.
iMac 21.5-inch 2.7GHz Core i5
✓ Compact 21.5-inch all-in-one design keeps the desk setup simple.
✗ macOS 10.12 Sierra is an old operating system and may not support newer apps or security needs.

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Key Takeaways

  • The 2020 27-inch 5K model is the display-focused pick: it has the largest panel here and dedicated graphics, but its Intel platform is older than the M1 options.

  • The 2021 M1 iMacs are the strongest general-use choices for buyers who value a newer processor platform and a compact 24-inch design over the 27-inch 5K screen.

  • The two 2021 M1 listings share the same stated chip, memory, and storage; their key listed difference is Silver versus Blue, so confirm the exact configuration and included accessories before choosing.

  • The 2017 iMac with a 256GB SSD should feel more responsive for everyday file access than the listed 1TB HDD model, but neither is a newer-generation alternative to M1.

  • The oldest 21.5-inch option lists macOS 10.12 Sierra; buyers should check software compatibility and update eligibility rather than assume an older renewed Mac will meet current app needs.

2
Apple 2017 iMac 21.5" Silver
Best for Built-In Storage on a Tight Setup
1
Apple iMac 2020 27-inch 5K Ret
Best for a Large 5K Workspace
3
Apple iMac
Best Value for a Compact SSD Setup

Our Top Renewed Imac Desktops Picks

Apple iMac 2020 27-inch 5K Retina Display, 3.1 GHz i5, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Radeon Pro 5300 (Renewed)Apple iMac 2020 27-inch 5K Retina Display, 3.1 GHz i5, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Radeon Pro 5300 (Renewed)Best for a Large 5K WorkspaceDisplay: 27-inch 5K RetinaProcessor: 3.1 GHz 6-core 10th-generation Intel Core i5Memory: 8GB RAMVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Apple 2017 iMac 21.5″ Silver (Renewed) with Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 1TB HDDApple 2017 iMac 21.5" Silver (Renewed) with Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 1TB HDDBest for Built-In Storage on a Tight SetupModel year: 2017Display: 21.5-inch LED-backlit, 1920 × 1080 Full HDProcessor: Intel Core i5-7360U, dual-core, 2.3 GHzVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Apple iMac (2017) 21.5″ 2.3GHz Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD – RenewedApple iMac (2017) 21.5" 2.3GHz Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD – RenewedBest Value for a Compact SSD SetupModel year: 2017Display: 21.5-inch LED, 16:9Processor: 2.3GHz Intel Core i5VIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Apple iMac 24-inch (2021) with M1 chip, 8‑core CPU, 8 GB RAM, 256 GB SSD, Silver (Renewed)Apple iMac 24-inch (2021) with M1 chip, 8‑core CPU, 8 GB RAM, 256 GB SSD, Silver (Renewed)Best Overall for Everyday M1 PerformanceDisplay: 24-inch 4.5K Retina, 500 nits, P3 wide colorProcessor: Apple M1, 8-core CPUGraphics: 7-core GPUVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
2021 iMac with Apple M1 Chip, 24‑inch, 8 GB RAM, 256 GB SSD – Blue (Renewed)2021 iMac with Apple M1 Chip, 24‑inch, 8 GB RAM, 256 GB SSD – Blue (Renewed)Best for a Colorful, Compact M1 SetupDisplay: 24-inch 4.5K Retina, P3 wide color, 500 nitsProcessor: Apple M1, 8-core CPUGraphics: 7-core GPUVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
iMac 21.5-inch 2.7GHz Core i5 (ME086LL/A) All-In-One Desktop, 8GB Memory, 256GB SSD, macOS 10.12 Sierra (Renewed)iMac 21.5-inch 2.7GHz Core i5 (ME086LL/A) All-In-One Desktop, 8GB Memory, 256GB SSD, macOS 10.12 Sierra (Renewed)Best Compact Legacy PickScreen size: 21.5 inchesProcessor: 2.7 GHz dual-core Intel Core i5Model: ME086LL/AVIEW ON AMAZONSee Our Full Breakdown
Specs at a glance
renewed imac desktopProcessorMemoryStorageDisplay
Apple iMac 2020 27-inch 5K Ret3.1 GHz 6-core 10th-generation Intel Core i58GB RAM256GB SSD27-inch 5K Retina
Apple 2017 iMac 21.5" SilverIntel Core i5-7360U, dual-core, 2.3 GHz8GB DDR4 2133 MHz1TB HDD21.5-inch LED-backlit, 1920 × 1080 Full HD
Apple iMac2.3GHz Intel Core i58GB DDR4 SDRAM256GB PCIe SSD21.5-inch LED, 16:9
Apple iMac 24-inchApple M1, 8-core CPU8GB RAM256GB SSD24-inch 4.5K Retina, 500 nits, P3 wide color
2021 iMac with Apple M1 ChipApple M1, 8-core CPU8GB RAM256GB SSD24-inch 4.5K Retina, P3 wide color, 500 nits
iMac 21.5-inch 2.7GHz Core i52.7 GHz dual-core Intel Core i58 GB256 GB SSD—

More Details on Our Top Picks

  1. Apple iMac 2020 27-inch 5K Retina Display, 3.1 GHz i5, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Radeon Pro 5300 (Renewed)

    Apple iMac 2020 27-inch 5K Retina Display, 3.1 GHz i5, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Radeon Pro 5300 (Renewed)

    Best for a Large 5K Workspace

    View on Amazon

    I’d put this renewed 2020 iMac first for buyers who want a spacious, detailed desktop display. Its 27-inch 5K Retina screen offers more room for editing, documents, and side-by-side windows than the 21.5-inch displays on the 2017 iMac models. The 6-core 10th-generation Core i5 and Radeon Pro 5300 also give it more headroom for creative work than those older machines, while the 256GB SSD keeps everyday tasks responsive.

    The tradeoff is a modest 8GB of RAM and limited 256GB storage, which can constrain large projects and multitasking. Compared with the M1 iMacs here, this model offers a larger screen, but it uses an older Intel platform and has fewer listed ports than the blue M1 model’s USB options. I’d choose it for screen space, not for portability or future-proofing.

    Pros:
    • 27-inch 5K Retina display provides ample workspace and fine detail.
    • Six-core 10th-generation Intel Core i5 is a stronger fit for demanding everyday work than the older 2017 dual-core options.
    • 256GB SSD supports quicker startup and file access than the 2017 model with a 1TB hard drive.
    • Radeon Pro 5300 graphics are suited to light creative tasks.
    Cons:
    • 8GB RAM can limit heavy multitasking and larger creative projects.
    • 256GB storage may fill quickly with photo, video, or application libraries.
    • Compared with the 2021 M1 iMacs, it has an older Intel processor and a less compact design.

    Best for: Home-office users and photo editors who want a large, high-resolution built-in display for multitasking and light-to-moderate creative work.

    Not ideal for: Buyers who need substantial memory for demanding projects, roomy local storage, or the newer M1 platform.

    • Display:27-inch 5K Retina
    • Processor:3.1 GHz 6-core 10th-generation Intel Core i5
    • Memory:8GB RAM
    • Storage:256GB SSD
    • Graphics:AMD Radeon Pro 5300
    • Ports:Two Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C)
    Our verdict
    “Choose this renewed iMac if a roomy 5K screen matters more than M1 performance, ample memory, or compact design.”
  2. Apple 2017 iMac 21.5″ Silver (Renewed) with Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 1TB HDD

    Apple 2017 iMac 21.5" Silver (Renewed) with Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 1TB HDD

    Best for Built-In Storage on a Tight Setup

    View on Amazon

    This renewed 2017 iMac is the lineup’s storage-first choice: its 1TB hard drive holds a sizable document, music, or photo library without relying on external storage. That capacity is far beyond the 256GB SSDs in the 2020 27-inch iMac and the M1 models, but the drive is slower, so startup and app loading may feel less immediate. Its 21.5-inch Full HD display also takes up less desk space than the 27-inch 5K option, though it gives up resolution and workspace.

    The dual-core 7th-generation Core i5 and 8GB RAM suit browsing, email, and basic office tasks better than sustained demanding workloads. I’d rank it below the SSD-equipped 2017 iMac for responsiveness, while its larger drive may appeal to buyers who store lots of files locally. The older processor and HDD are the main compromises.

    Pros:
    • 1TB hard drive offers much more listed capacity than the 256GB SSDs in the other models here.
    • 21.5-inch Full HD display fits a smaller desk than the 27-inch 5K iMac.
    • Four USB 3.0 ports and Gigabit Ethernet support common wired peripherals and networking.
    • Integrated Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640 can handle basic display and everyday tasks.
    Cons:
    • Hard drive is slower for startup and app loading than the SSDs in the other listed iMacs.
    • Dual-core 7th-generation processor is less suited to intensive work than the 2020 Intel and 2021 M1 options.
    • 8GB RAM can constrain multitasking.

    Best for: Budget-conscious home users who keep many documents or media files locally and mainly handle browsing, email, and basic office tasks.

    Not ideal for: Buyers who want quick startup and app loading, intensive creative performance, or a high-resolution display.

    • Model year:2017
    • Display:21.5-inch LED-backlit, 1920 × 1080 Full HD
    • Processor:Intel Core i5-7360U, dual-core, 2.3 GHz
    • Memory:8GB DDR4 2133 MHz
    • Storage:1TB HDD
    • Graphics:Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640
    • Wireless:802.11n Wi-Fi
    • Ports:Four USB 3.0, two Thunderbolt
    Our verdict
    “Pick this model for its 1TB local storage and basic desktop duties, but choose an SSD-equipped iMac if responsiveness matters more.”
  3. Apple iMac (2017) 21.5″ 2.3GHz Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD – Renewed

    Apple iMac (2017) 21.5" 2.3GHz Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD – Renewed

    Best Value for a Compact SSD Setup

    View on Amazon

    This renewed 2017 iMac makes a stronger case for everyday responsiveness than the other 2017 option in this group. Its 256GB PCIe SSD should make startup and app access feel quicker than the 1TB HDD in the 2017 21.5-inch iMac, though that model provides far more room for stored files. The 21.5-inch LED display and 8GB RAM keep the setup straightforward for browsing, schoolwork, and basic office use.

    It is a more modest choice than the 2020 27-inch iMac, which pairs a newer six-core processor with a much higher-resolution screen. This model’s 2.3GHz Core i5 and integrated graphics are better matched to light workloads than demanding editing or sustained multitasking. The listing also specifies macOS Sierra and compatible rather than original accessories, so buyers should check the software and included peripherals against their needs before choosing it.

    Pros:
    • 256GB PCIe SSD offers quicker access than the hard drive in the other 2017 iMac listed here.
    • 21.5-inch display suits desks where the 27-inch 5K model would be oversized.
    • Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640 supports basic visual work and everyday use.
    • Includes a keyboard, though the listing describes accessories as compatible rather than original.
    Cons:
    • 8GB RAM limits room for demanding multitasking and larger creative projects.
    • 256GB storage is much smaller than the 1TB HDD in the other 2017 model.
    • Listing specifies macOS Sierra, and accessories are compatible replacements rather than original items.

    Best for: Students and home users who want a compact renewed iMac with SSD responsiveness for web tasks, documents, and video calls.

    Not ideal for: Creative professionals, heavy multitaskers, or buyers who need substantial storage and a current software setup out of the box.

    • Model year:2017
    • Display:21.5-inch LED, 16:9
    • Processor:2.3GHz Intel Core i5
    • Memory:8GB DDR4 SDRAM
    • Storage:256GB PCIe SSD
    • Graphics:Integrated Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640
    • Operating system:macOS Sierra
    • Included input device:Keyboard
    Our verdict
    “Choose this 2017 iMac if you value SSD speed and a smaller footprint over newer hardware, larger storage, or a high-resolution screen.”
  4. Apple iMac 24-inch (2021) with M1 chip, 8‑core CPU, 8 GB RAM, 256 GB SSD, Silver (Renewed)

    Apple iMac 24-inch (2021) with M1 chip, 8‑core CPU, 8 GB RAM, 256 GB SSD, Silver (Renewed)

    Best Overall for Everyday M1 Performance

    View on Amazon

    For most buyers seeking a renewed iMac for everyday work, this silver 2021 model is the most balanced pick. The M1 8-core CPU brings a newer platform than the Intel processors in the 2017 and 2020 models, while the 24-inch 4.5K P3 display gives documents, photos, and video a sharp, colorful presentation. Its 1080p camera, three-mic array, and six-speaker audio also make it better equipped for video calls and media than the older Intel machines.

    Compared with the blue M1 iMac, the listed core performance and display specifications are alike, so color and included accessories matter more than a performance gap. The 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD limit room for growth, and two Thunderbolt/USB-4 ports make a hub useful if several accessories stay connected. I’d pick it over the 2020 27-inch model for a newer M1 experience, not for maximum screen size.

    Pros:
    • M1 8-core CPU offers a newer platform than the Intel processors in the 2017 and 2020 models.
    • 24-inch 4.5K display combines sharp detail with P3 wide color and 500-nit brightness.
    • 1080p camera, three-mic array, and six-speaker system suit calls and media use.
    • Compact 11.5mm-thin design takes less visual and desk space than the 27-inch iMac.
    Cons:
    • 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD can restrict demanding work and local file storage.
    • Two Thunderbolt/USB-4 ports provide limited built-in connectivity.
    • Smaller display gives less working area than the 27-inch 5K 2020 iMac.

    Best for: Home-office buyers and families who want a modern all-in-one for video calls, everyday productivity, streaming, and light creative work.

    Not ideal for: People who need a 27-inch workspace, extensive built-in connectivity, or more memory and storage for large workloads.

    • Display:24-inch 4.5K Retina, 500 nits, P3 wide color
    • Processor:Apple M1, 8-core CPU
    • Graphics:7-core GPU
    • Memory:8GB RAM
    • Storage:256GB SSD
    • Camera:1080p FaceTime HD with M1 ISP
    • Audio:Six-speaker system, three-mic array
    • Ports:Two Thunderbolt/USB-4; up to two USB-3
    • Connectivity:Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0
    Our verdict
    “Choose this silver M1 iMac for a modern, polished everyday desktop with a sharp display and strong built-in call features.”
  5. 2021 iMac with Apple M1 Chip, 24‑inch, 8 GB RAM, 256 GB SSD – Blue (Renewed)

    2021 iMac with Apple M1 Chip, 24‑inch, 8 GB RAM, 256 GB SSD – Blue (Renewed)

    Best for a Colorful, Compact M1 Setup

    View on Amazon

    The blue 2021 iMac suits buyers who want M1 performance in a more expressive all-in-one design. Its key hardware closely matches the silver 24-inch M1 iMac: an 8-core CPU, 7-core GPU, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, and a bright 4.5K P3 display. That means the choice between them is less about processing capability and more about the blue finish and the exact included setup. As with the silver model, the camera and six-speaker system make it a capable centerpiece for calls, streaming, and everyday work.

    Against the older 2017 iMacs, the M1 platform is the more modern fit for routine computing, but this configuration still has fixed, limited memory and storage. The two Thunderbolt/USB-4 ports and up to two USB-3 ports may call for a hub when several devices are attached. I’d choose it over the silver version for its color, not for a stated performance advantage.

    Pros:
    • Blue finish offers a distinctive alternative to the silver M1 iMac.
    • M1 8-core CPU and 7-core GPU suit everyday computing and light creative tasks.
    • 24-inch 4.5K P3 display delivers sharp detail and wide color.
    • 1080p camera and six-speaker audio support video calls and media playback.
    Cons:
    • 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD are limited for large projects and media libraries.
    • Memory and storage are not user-upgradeable in this renewed configuration.
    • Port selection may require a hub for users with several wired accessories.

    Best for: Buyers furnishing a home office or shared family space who want an M1 iMac in blue for everyday work, calls, and media.

    Not ideal for: Users who need upgradeable memory, substantial internal storage, or a wide selection of built-in ports.

    • Display:24-inch 4.5K Retina, P3 wide color, 500 nits
    • Processor:Apple M1, 8-core CPU
    • Graphics:7-core GPU
    • Memory:8GB RAM
    • Storage:256GB SSD
    • Camera:1080p FaceTime HD with M1 ISP
    • Audio:Six-speaker sound system
    • Ports:Two Thunderbolt/USB-4, up to two USB-3
    • Color:Blue
    Our verdict
    “Pick the blue M1 iMac if you want the compact 2021 feature set in a distinctive color and can work within its fixed memory and storage.”
  6. iMac 21.5-inch 2.7GHz Core i5 (ME086LL/A) All-In-One Desktop, 8GB Memory, 256GB SSD, macOS 10.12 Sierra (Renewed)

    iMac 21.5-inch 2.7GHz Core i5 (ME086LL/A) All-In-One Desktop, 8GB Memory, 256GB SSD, macOS 10.12 Sierra (Renewed)

    Best Compact Legacy Pick

    View on Amazon

    I’d shortlist this renewed iMac for buyers who want a compact all-in-one for basic home or office tasks and value SSD responsiveness over a large built-in drive. Its 256GB SSD should make startup and everyday file access feel snappier than the 1TB hard drive in the 2017 iMac 21.5-inch, though that newer model offers more room for stored files. The 2.7GHz dual-core Core i5 and 8GB of memory suit lighter workloads, but they leave less headroom than the 2020 27-inch 5K iMac for demanding apps and multitasking. The tradeoff is age: this model runs macOS Sierra, so software compatibility and security support may be concerns. Its supplier-backed minimum 90-day warranty adds a defined short-term safeguard, but doesn’t make the older platform a long-term performance choice.

    Pros:
    • Compact 21.5-inch all-in-one design keeps the desk setup simple.
    • 256GB SSD offers quicker startup and file access than a traditional hard drive.
    • 8GB memory and dual-core Core i5 can handle basic everyday computing.
    • Renewed unit is described as inspected, tested, and cleaned, with a minimum 90-day supplier-backed warranty.
    Cons:
    • macOS 10.12 Sierra is an old operating system and may not support newer apps or security needs.
    • 8GB memory offers limited room for demanding multitasking and is not easily user-upgradeable.
    • The dual-core processor is less suited to intensive work than the newer 2020 27-inch iMac.

    Best for: Buyers who need a space-saving Mac for web browsing, writing, email, and other light tasks, and who can work with older software or confirm an upgrade path.

    Not ideal for: People who need current macOS features, broad compatibility with newer applications, substantial multitasking capacity, or a large local media library.

    • Screen size:21.5 inches
    • Processor:2.7 GHz dual-core Intel Core i5
    • Model:ME086LL/A
    • Memory:8 GB
    • Storage:256 GB SSD
    • Operating system:macOS 10.12 Sierra
    • Renewed condition:Inspected, tested, and cleaned by Amazon-qualified suppliers
    • Warranty:Minimum 90-day supplier-backed warranty
    Our verdict
    “Choose this renewed iMac for light tasks in a compact setup, but skip it if you need current software support or stronger performance headroom.”
renewed imac desktops
What makes a great renewed imac desktop
1
Match the Chip Generation to Your Apps
Start with the software you need, not just the processor name.
2
Choose Screen Size for the Work You Actually Do
A larger screen can reduce window juggling and give photo, video, and spreadsheet work more room, while a smaller all-in-one can f
3
Treat SSD and HDD Listings Differently
Storage type affects responsiveness as well as capacity.
4
Check macOS and App Compatibility Before Buying
A renewed Mac’s listed operating system can be a stronger warning sign than its age label.
How to choose your renewed imac desktop
1
How we picked
I compared these renewed iMac desktops on the factors that change day-to-day usefulness: processor generation, screen si
2
Match the Chip Generation to Your Apps
Start with the software you need, not just the processor name.
3
Choose Screen Size for the Work You Actually Do
A larger screen can reduce window juggling and give photo, video, and spreadsheet work more room, while a smaller all-in
4
Treat SSD and HDD Listings Differently
Storage type affects responsiveness as well as capacity.
5
Check macOS and App Compatibility Before Buying
A renewed Mac’s listed operating system can be a stronger warning sign than its age label.
Vetted renewed imac desktops ·
The best renewed imac desktops, compared
★ Winner Apple iMac 24-inch
Best Overall for Everyday M1 Performance
6compared
1TB HDDtop storage
4ports

How We Picked

I compared these renewed iMac desktops on the factors that change day-to-day usefulness: processor generation, screen size and resolution, storage type, stated graphics hardware, and how clearly each listing identifies its configuration. I gave more weight to a newer platform and practical responsiveness for general home and office use, while also crediting the 2020 model for its 5K display and dedicated Radeon graphics. Storage capacity alone did not determine placement: an HDD can hold more files, but an SSD is generally a better fit for a responsive system drive.

The ranking reflects those tradeoffs, not a claim that every renewed unit has the same condition or support history. The 2021 M1 models lead for broad everyday use, with the 2020 27-inch 5K model close behind for display-centered work and graphics needs. The 2017 SSD and HDD models follow as older, narrower-use options, and the 21.5-inch model listing macOS Sierra ranks last because its stated operating system calls for especially careful compatibility checks. Buyers should verify the precise model, condition, included items, return terms, and software-update options for the individual listing.

Feature comparison
renewed imac desktopPorts
Apple iMac 2020 27-inch 5K RetTwo Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C)
Apple 2017 iMac 21.5" SilverFour USB 3.0, two Thunderbolt
Apple iMac—
Apple iMac 24-inchTwo Thunderbolt/USB-4; up to two USB-3
2021 iMac with Apple M1 ChipTwo Thunderbolt/USB-4, up to two USB-3
iMac 21.5-inch 2.7GHz Core i5—
Everyday → specialist
Everyday & valuePremium & specialist
Which renewed imac desktop fits you?
The everyday user
All-round, reliable
The enthusiast
Premium & high-performance
The gift-giver
Looks & craftsmanship

Factors to Consider When Choosing Renewed Imac Desktops

Choosing a renewed iMac is less about finding a single winning specification and more about matching an older all-in-one computer to the work you expect it to handle. I’d check these factors before prioritizing finish, storage capacity, or a tempting configuration label.

Match the Chip Generation to Your Apps

Start with the software you need, not just the processor name. The 2021 M1 models belong to a different Apple chip generation from the Intel iMacs here, and some specialized apps, peripherals, or older workflows may behave differently across those platforms. Check that your essential apps support the chip and macOS version you expect to use. For work tied to Intel-only software, confirm compatibility before choosing M1; for ordinary browsing, documents, and video calls, the newer chip platform may be the more appealing starting point. Avoid assuming that every renewed model can run the same current software simply because it is an iMac.

Choose Screen Size for the Work You Actually Do

A larger screen can reduce window juggling and give photo, video, and spreadsheet work more room, while a smaller all-in-one can fit better on a crowded desk. The 27-inch 5K configuration is the clear screen-first choice in this group, but its size is not automatically an advantage if desk depth or viewing distance is limited. Think about whether you regularly keep several windows open or need fine detail on screen. If your work is mostly writing, browsing, and calls, a 24-inch display may be easier to place without giving up a built-in desktop setup. Measure your workspace before deciding, since renewed listings do not make a large display any easier to accommodate.

Treat SSD and HDD Listings Differently

Storage type affects responsiveness as well as capacity. An SSD is generally the better choice for the operating system, apps, and frequently opened files, while a 1TB hard drive offers more listed space but can feel less responsive for routine tasks. A common mistake is choosing the largest capacity without noticing that it is an HDD. Consider how much of your work lives in cloud storage or on external drives; that can make a smaller internal SSD practical. If you need both speed and room for large media libraries, plan for external storage rather than expecting an older internal drive to cover every need.

Check macOS and App Compatibility Before Buying

A renewed Mac’s listed operating system can be a stronger warning sign than its age label. The 21.5-inch listing that specifies macOS 10.12 Sierra needs particular scrutiny because current apps and security expectations may not align with such an old software version. Confirm the exact model identifier, which macOS versions it supports, and whether the seller describes an update or reset. Check your must-have applications and any workplace security requirements against that information. Do not treat a promise of a working computer as proof that it can run the software you need today.

Verify the Renewed Unit, Not Just the Model Name

“Renewed” describes a sales condition, not a guarantee that every unit has identical wear, battery-free desktop components, accessories, or service history. Read the listing for condition details, what comes in the box, and the return and warranty terms. Ask whether the displayed configuration is the exact one being shipped, especially when two listings share a model family or processor description. Check that the keyboard, mouse, power cable, and any needed adapters are included or budgeted separately. A clear return route matters because you may only spot cosmetic or functional issues after the iMac is set up.

Pay More for the Benefit You Will Use

Spend extra only when the difference solves a real need: a 5K panel for detail-heavy work, an M1 platform for a newer general-use system, or an SSD for better everyday responsiveness. A decorative color difference between otherwise similar M1 configurations may matter less than condition, included accessories, or seller terms. Conversely, an older Intel model can still make sense when a specific workflow depends on it and its software support checks out. Write down your must-haves before comparing listings so that a larger drive or familiar design does not distract from compatibility. The best fit is the machine that meets your requirements with the fewest compromises, not the one with the longest spec list.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I choose a 2021 M1 iMac or the 2020 27-inch 5K iMac?

Choose the 2021 M1 model if you want a newer Apple chip platform for general everyday work and prefer a 24-inch all-in-one. Pick the 2020 27-inch model if its larger 5K display and dedicated Radeon graphics better match your visual work or desk setup. The tradeoff is not simply new versus old: screen space and graphics hardware may matter more than chip generation for some tasks. Check that your key apps and accessories work with the platform you choose. Also compare the exact renewed unit’s condition and included items, since those details can vary between listings.

Is a renewed 2017 iMac still a sensible choice for basic home use?

It can be a reasonable fit for light tasks such as web browsing and documents if its software support and condition meet your needs. The 2017 SSD listing is the more appealing of the two 2017 configurations here for system responsiveness, while the 1TB HDD version emphasizes capacity instead. Neither should be selected without checking current app compatibility and supported macOS versions. Consider how long you expect to keep the computer and whether your essential apps still support its platform. If you need a machine for newer creative software or a longer software runway, compare it carefully with the 2021 M1 choices.

Does the 1TB HDD make the 2017 iMac a better buy than the SSD model?

Not by capacity alone. The 1TB HDD listing provides more internal space than the 256GB SSD configuration, but a hard drive is generally slower for launching the system and apps. If you keep large files locally and can accept slower routine access, the HDD may suit that storage need. For a computer that feels more responsive during everyday use, the SSD configuration is the stronger match. You can also pair a smaller internal SSD with external storage, but factor in the extra device and desk clutter.

What should I verify when two renewed 2021 M1 iMac listings look alike?

Compare the exact model and configuration, not only the color or broad product title. These listings both state an M1 chip, 8GB of memory, and a 256GB SSD, so check for differences in condition, included keyboard and mouse, seller warranty, and return terms. Confirm that the unit is the 24-inch model and that the listing describes the same ports and accessories you expect. Ask how the renewed condition is defined and whether any cosmetic wear is disclosed. If those practical details are equal, choose by finish and availability rather than expecting a performance difference from the stated specifications.

Can I rely on the listed macOS version to decide whether a renewed iMac will run my apps?

Use the listed version as a starting point, not a complete compatibility check. The Sierra version shown for the oldest iMac is a reason to confirm the exact model’s update options and the requirements of your essential apps. Renewed listings may describe the installed system rather than the newest version the computer can support. Check the app maker’s current requirements and any employer or school security rules before buying. If the seller cannot clarify the model identifier or software state, favor a listing with more precise configuration details.

Conclusion

For most buyers, I’d start with the 2021 24-inch M1 iMac as the best overall choice for its newer chip platform and practical all-in-one format. The best premium pick for display-focused work is the 2020 27-inch 5K model, especially when screen area and Radeon graphics matter more than having the newest platform. The best value direction is a 2017 SSD configuration when your workload is modest and its software support checks out; the HDD model makes more sense only if internal capacity is the priority. For beginners seeking a straightforward home desktop, I’d favor a well-documented 2021 M1 listing and verify the included accessories and return terms. For specific legacy software needs, consider an Intel iMac only after confirming app compatibility; otherwise, choose between the M1 models by configuration, condition, and finish.

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