Apple’s iMac 27-inch has colossal power and a gorgeous display that make it one of the best desktops around

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Apple’s new iMac 27-inch is a beast. Starting at $1,799, with the option to price it up to a bank account-draining $8,799, it’s designed for both everyday users in need of a big-screen desktop that will last and professionals seeking a powerlifter of a computer without having to step up to either the outrageous iMac Pro or Mac Pro.

I’ve been using a decked-out version of Apple’s (AAPL) iMac 27-inch as my work computer for the better part of a month, and it’s proven capable of handling everything I’ve thrown at it. From games to photo editing, it’s never so much as broken a sweat.

It doesn’t hurt that it packs a gorgeous 5K display and an enhanced webcam that’s perfect for our new dystopian work-from-home world.

It’s one heck of a desktop that’s worth the investment, as long as you can afford the price of entry.

Pros:

  • Beautiful 27-inch Retina display

  • High-powered performance

  • Classic design

Cons:

  • High starting price

  • Mouse and keyboard may not suit everyone

Big-screen improvements

The iMac 27-inch uses the same design as the current iMac 21.5-inch, featuring an incredibly thin body and stand that almost makes the display look like it’s floating over your desk. It’s an understated look that instantly makes your desk look classier.

All of the cables plug into the back of the system and are routed through a gap in the stand to hide them. That’s also why Apple includes its Magic Mouse and Magic Keyboard in the box. I’m used to typing on my MacBook all day, so I wasn’t bothered by the fact that this keyboard wasn’t elevated.

There’s also still the issue of the USB C charging port for the mouse being located on its underside, making it impossible to use while it’s charging.

But you’re not buying this machine for the keyboard or mouse, which are still wonderful despite those quibbles. You’re getting it for its massive 27-inch display and boatloads of power.

The iMac 27-inch features the same design as the iMac 21.5-inch, but offers a 5K panel and far more performance. (Image: Apple)
The iMac 27-inch features the same design as the iMac 21.5-inch, but offers a 5K panel and far more performance. (Image: Apple)

That display, with its 5K resolution, is perfect for users who want to retouch photos with exacting detail. And because it uses Apple’s nano-texture glass, a $500 add-on, it offers the benefits of a matte display — reducing glare in well-lit environments without dulling or washing out the actual on-screen image.

If you’re getting this all-in-one for any kind of media work, the nano-texture glass can be a huge benefit and has reduced the glare from the overhead lights in my kitchen.

In addition to its display, the 27-inch iMac now gets an improved 1080p FaceTime camera that captures crisp and colorful images. What’s more, Apple says the iMac’s included T2 chip works alongside the system’s three-speaker array to provide enhanced audio quality while video chatting. The new camera is a welcome upgrade, especially with so many people working from home.