iMac prices range from about $1,500 to $4,000 depending on screen size and processing power

An iMac's price depends on three main choices: screen size, processor speed, and storage capacity. The smallest current model—a 24-inch iMac with a base M4 chip—starts around $1,500. A 27-inch iMac with a faster M4 Pro or M4 Max processor costs between $2,500 and $4,000. If you add extra storage or memory beyond the base configuration, the price climbs further.

Prices also shift based on where you buy. Apple's official store, Best Buy, Amazon, and other retailers sometimes offer different discounts or bundle deals, especially during holiday sales or back-to-school periods. Refurbished models—computers that were returned and restored to working condition—typically cost 10 to 15 percent less than new ones.

Key Takeaways

  • A new 24-inch iMac with base specs costs around $1,500; a 27-inch model with higher performance starts near $2,500.
  • Adding extra storage, memory, or a faster processor can push the total to $3,500 or more.
  • Refurbished iMacs cost 10 to 15 percent less than new models and come with the same warranty.
  • Prices vary by retailer and season, so comparing Best Buy, Amazon, and Apple's store before buying can save money.
  • Trade-in programs at Apple and Best Buy can reduce your out-of-pocket cost if you have an older computer to exchange.

Understanding iMac screen sizes and what they cost

Apple currently sells two iMac sizes: 24-inch and 27-inch. The 24-inch model is the entry point and starts at roughly $1,500 with a base M4 chip, 8 gigabytes of memory, and 256 gigabytes of storage. This size works well for everyday tasks like email, web browsing, photo editing, and video calls.

The 27-inch iMac begins around $2,500 and comes with more powerful processors (M4 Pro or M4 Max options). The larger screen is better for video editing, 3D design, coding, or anyone who spends long hours at the computer. The jump in price reflects both the bigger display and the faster processing power that comes standard on the larger model.

How processor and memory choices affect the final price

The M4, M4 Pro, and M4 Max are Apple's processor options, and each tier costs more. A base M4 chip is sufficient for web browsing, document work, and light photo editing. The M4 Pro adds speed for video editing, music production, and running multiple programs at once. The M4 Max is built for professional work like 3D rendering or complex video projects and costs significantly more.

Memory (RAM) and storage also change the price. The base 24-inch iMac comes with 8 gigabytes of memory and 256 gigabytes of storage. Upgrading to 16 gigabytes of memory adds roughly $200. Doubling storage to 512 gigabytes adds about $200 as well. These upgrades compound quickly—a fully configured 27-inch iMac with maximum memory and storage can exceed $4,000.

Where to buy and what discounts are available

You can purchase an iMac directly from Apple, Best Buy, Amazon, B&H Photo, or other electronics retailers. Apple's official store sometimes offers education discounts if you are a student or teacher—typically 5 to 10 percent off. Best Buy occasionally runs sales during major shopping events like Black Friday or back-to-school season, though discounts on iMacs are usually modest (5 to 10 percent).

Both Apple and Best Buy run trade-in programs. If you have an older Mac, iPad, or other device, you can trade it in toward an iMac purchase. The trade-in value depends on the device's age and condition but can reduce your cost by $100 to $500. Refurbished iMacs sold directly by Apple come with the same one-year warranty as new models and are worth considering if you want to save money without sacrificing reliability.

Refurbished and used iMacs as a lower-cost option

A refurbished iMac is a computer that was returned to Apple or a retailer, inspected, repaired if needed, and restored to working condition. Apple's refurbished store sells these models at 10 to 15 percent below the new price. A refurbished 24-inch iMac might cost $1,275 instead of $1,500. These machines carry Apple's standard one-year warranty, so you have the same protection as buying new.

Used iMacs from third-party sellers (on eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or local classifieds) can be cheaper but carry more risk. You lose the manufacturer warranty and cannot verify the machine's history or condition as easily. If you go this route, test the computer in person before paying, ask about the original purchase date, and check for physical damage or screen issues.

Financing options if you want to spread payments

Apple offers financing through its own program and through third-party lenders like Affirm. You can split the cost into monthly payments with no interest if you pay within a set period (often 12 months), or you can choose a longer payment plan that includes interest. Best Buy also offers financing through its credit card or third-party lenders.

Monthly payments on a $1,500 iMac might be $125 per month over 12 months with no interest, or lower monthly amounts if you extend the term and accept interest charges. Read the terms carefully—some plans charge interest from the start, while others are interest-free only if you pay in full by the important date.

What affects iMac prices over time

iMac prices drop when Apple releases a new generation of processors. When the M4 chips launched, older M3 models became cheaper or were discontinued. If you are not in a hurry, waiting a few months after a major processor release can mean lower prices on the previous generation—though the performance difference may be small for everyday use.

Seasonal sales also matter. Back-to-school season (July through August) and the holiday shopping period (November through December) sometimes bring discounts or bundle deals. Prices are typically highest in the weeks right after a new model launches and lowest toward the end of a product cycle, just before the next generation arrives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an iMac for less than $1,500?

Not a new one from Apple or major retailers. Older used iMacs from previous generations may be available for less on the secondhand market, but they will have older processors and no warranty. A refurbished current-generation iMac is the best way to save money while still getting a recent machine with a warranty.

Is the 24-inch iMac powerful enough for video editing?

The base 24-inch iMac with an M4 chip can handle light video editing and 4K footage at lower frame rates. For professional or heavy video work, the 27-inch iMac with an M4 Pro or M4 Max is a better choice. The larger screen also makes editing easier for long work sessions.

Do prices differ between the Apple Store and Best Buy?

Prices are usually the same for the same configuration, but Best Buy sometimes runs sales or offers gift cards with purchase. Best Buy's trade-in values may also differ from Apple's. It is worth checking both before buying to see if either has a current promotion.

What is included in the box when I buy an iMac?

A new iMac comes with the computer, a power cable, a keyboard, and a mouse. Some configurations include a Magic Trackpad instead of a mouse. You do not need to buy anything else to start using it, though you may want a desk, monitor arm, or external storage depending on your setup.

Will the price drop if I wait a few months?

Possibly, but only if Apple releases a new processor generation. If you need a computer now, waiting is not worth it. If you can wait until late 2025 or 2026 for the next major processor update, prices on current models may fall slightly, but the timing is unpredictable.