Choosing an iMac for video editing in 2026 involves balancing power, display quality, and budget. The Apple iMac 27-inch with Retina 5K (2020) remains a strong all-around performer for demanding editors, thanks to its larger screen and robust specs. The 2024 M4-powered 24-inch iMac offers a compact design with impressive speed, making it ideal for those who want performance in a smaller package. Meanwhile, the Renewed iMac Air provides a budget-friendly option with decent performance for less intensive editing tasks. Readers face tradeoffs between raw power, display size, and cost—continue reading for a detailed breakdown of each option.
Get privacy and security gear delivered free — and shop member deals
- Fast, free delivery on millions of items
- Access to Prime Big Deal Days deals on October 6–7
- Prime Video, Amazon Music and more included
Key Takeaways
- The 2024 M4 iMac models deliver significant performance improvements over older Intel-based models, especially for multitasking and rendering.
- Display size and resolution remain critical; larger Retina screens provide better accuracy and workspace for editing, but come at a higher cost.
- Renewed and refurbished iMacs can save money but may lack the latest features or have minor wear, making them suitable for less demanding editing needs.
- Choosing between the 24-inch M4 models and the 27-inch Retina 5K depends on your workspace and portability preferences.
- Balancing RAM and storage is essential; 16GB RAM is a good baseline for editing, but some workflows benefit from increased memory and SSD capacity.
| Apple iMac 27-inch with Retina 5K Display (2020 Model) |  | Best Overall for Professional Video Editors | Display Size: 27 inches | Display Resolution: 5120 x 2880 | Processor: 3.3GHz 6-core 10th-generation Intel Core i5 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Desktop Computer with M4 Chip, 24-inch Retina Display, 16GB Memory, 512GB SSD, Silver |  | Best for High-Performance, Seamless Ecosystem Integration | Display: 24-inch Retina, 4.5K | Processor: Apple M4 chip, 10-core CPU and GPU | Memory: 16GB Unified Memory | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple 2024 iMac Air with M4 Chip, 24-inch, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Silver (Renewed) |  | Best Compact and Lightweight for On-the-Go Editing | Display: 24-inch Retina, 4.5K | Processor: Apple M4, 8-core | Memory: 16GB | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple 2017 iMac with 2.3GHz Intel Core i5, 21.5-inch, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD (Renewed) |  | Best Entry-Level Choice for Budget-Conscious Creators | Display Size: 21.5 inches | Display Resolution: 16:9 aspect ratio | Processor: 2.3GHz Intel Core i5 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Desktop Computer with M4 Chip, 24-inch Retina Display, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD – Silver |  | Best for Budget-Conscious Creatives Needing Power | Processor: M4 chip with 8-core CPU/GPU | Display: 24-inch Retina, 4.5K | Memory: 16GB | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple iMac 21.5-inch 2.7GHz Core i5 All-in-One Desktop (Renewed) |  | Best Budget-Friendly Option for Video Editing | Display: 21.5-inch | Processor: 2.7GHz Core i5 | Memory: 8GB | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| imac for video editing | Processor | Storage | Display | Memory |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple iMac 27-inch with Retina | 3.3GHz 6-core 10th-generation Intel Core i5 | 512 GB SSD | — | — |
| Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Des | Apple M4 chip, 10-core CPU and GPU | 512GB SSD | 24-inch Retina, 4.5K | 16GB Unified Memory |
| Apple 2024 iMac Air with M4 Ch | Apple M4, 8-core | 256GB SSD | 24-inch Retina, 4.5K | 16GB |
| Apple 2017 iMac with 2.3GHz In | 2.3GHz Intel Core i5 | 256GB SSD | — | — |
| Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Des | M4 chip with 8-core CPU/GPU | 256GB SSD | 24-inch Retina, 4.5K | 16GB |
| Apple iMac 21.5-inch 2.7GHz Co | 2.7GHz Core i5 | 256GB SSD | 21.5-inch | 8GB |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Apple iMac 27-inch with Retina 5K Display (2020 Model)
This 2020 iMac stands out for its stunning 5K Retina display, offering unparalleled color accuracy and detail, which is essential for precise color grading and high-resolution editing. Compared to the newer M4-powered models, it relies on an Intel processor, which may lag in efficiency but still provides solid performance for demanding tasks. Its AMD Radeon Pro 5300 graphics handle complex rendering tasks, though it lacks the dedicated GPU options of newer models. The design is less flexible for upgrades, but its robust connectivity options, including Thunderbolt 3, ensure compatibility with a wide range of peripherals. This makes it ideal for seasoned professionals who prioritize display fidelity and reliable performance over upgrade flexibility or the latest chip technology.
Pros:- Stunning 5K Retina display with vibrant, true-to-life colors
- Powerful 10th-generation Intel Core i5 processor for demanding editing workloads
- Fast SSD storage ensures quick file access and project loading
- Multiple Thunderbolt 3 ports for extensive connectivity
Cons:- Limited upgradeability due to all-in-one design
- High price point relative to newer models with integrated chips
Best for: Professional video editors who need a high-quality, color-accurate display and robust processing power.
Not ideal for: Casual creators or budget-conscious users, as its high price and limited upgrade options may not justify the investment.
- Display Size:27 inches
- Display Resolution:5120 x 2880
- Processor:3.3GHz 6-core 10th-generation Intel Core i5
- Graphics:AMD Radeon Pro 5300
- RAM:8 GB DDR4
- Storage:512 GB SSD
Our verdict“This iMac is best suited for professionals who need a top-tier display and reliable performance, despite its limited upgrade options.”
Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Desktop Computer with M4 Chip, 24-inch Retina Display, 16GB Memory, 512GB SSD, Silver
This 2024 iMac leverages the M4 chip, delivering significantly faster performance for video editing workflows compared to the 2020 model, especially in multitasking and rendering. Its 24-inch Retina display, supporting 1 billion colors at 4.5K resolution, offers excellent visual fidelity but doesn’t match the 5K resolution of the older 27-inch, which might matter for pixel-perfect editing. The 16GB unified memory enhances multitasking, yet the 512GB SSD may be limiting for large project files. Compared with the M4-powered Air, this model provides a more balanced setup for work and entertainment, making it ideal for creative professionals who want power combined with a sleek, space-efficient design. However, its premium price and fixed RAM mean it’s less flexible for future upgrades.
Pros:- Blazing-fast M4 chip for efficient editing and multitasking
- Vibrant 24-inch Retina display with accurate colors
- Sleek, colorful design fitting modern spaces
- Excellent integration with other Apple devices
Cons:- Limited storage capacity at 512GB SSD
- No upgrade options for RAM or storage post-purchase
- Higher cost compared to previous Intel-based models
Best for: Creative professionals seeking fast, seamless performance with excellent color accuracy and integrated Apple ecosystem benefits.
Not ideal for: Heavy storage users or those on a tight budget, as the 512GB SSD and premium price could be limiting.
- Display:24-inch Retina, 4.5K
- Processor:Apple M4 chip, 10-core CPU and GPU
- Memory:16GB Unified Memory
- Storage:512GB SSD
Our verdict“This iMac is ideal for users who prioritize performance and ecosystem integration over upgrade flexibility or storage expansion.”
Apple 2024 iMac Air with M4 Chip, 24-inch, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Silver (Renewed)
This renewed iMac Air delivers impressive performance with its M4 chip, making it suitable for editing tasks on the move or in tight spaces. Its 24-inch Retina display, supporting 1 billion colors, provides vibrant visuals, though its 256GB SSD might be restrictive for larger projects, especially compared to the 512GB or 1TB options on other models. Weighing just over 22 pounds, it’s relatively portable for a 24-inch all-in-one, but that weight could still be a concern for frequent travelers. Compared with the 2020 27-inch iMac, it sacrifices display size for portability and sleekness. This model appeals most to those who want a powerful yet lightweight device for casual editing and multimedia tasks, but it’s less ideal for intensive professional workflows requiring extensive storage.
Pros:- Powerful M4 chip for fast editing and multitasking
- Vivid 24-inch Retina display with rich colors
- Lightweight and portable design
- Good integration with other Apple devices
Cons:- Limited storage at 256GB SSD
- Heavier than other compact options at over 22 pounds
- Renewed model may have some cosmetic imperfections
Best for: Editors who need a portable, high-performance machine for casual or moderate video editing on the go.
Not ideal for: Heavy-duty professionals or those with large storage needs, as its 256GB SSD limits project size and expansion options.
- Display:24-inch Retina, 4.5K
- Processor:Apple M4, 8-core
- Memory:16GB
- Storage:256GB SSD
Our verdict“This renewed iMac Air is best for mobile creatives who prioritize performance and portability over large storage capacity.”
Apple 2017 iMac with 2.3GHz Intel Core i5, 21.5-inch, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD (Renewed)
This 2017 iMac offers decent performance with its 2.3GHz quad-core processor and 21.5-inch Retina display, making it a practical entry point for those new to video editing or working on lighter projects. While it falls behind the recent M4 models in raw speed, its all-in-one design with 8GB RAM and SSD provides a smooth experience for basic editing tasks. Compared to newer, more powerful options, it’s less capable with complex, high-resolution projects, but its lower price and renewal status make it appealing for beginners or casual users. Its limited upgrade options and older hardware mean it’s not suited for intensive workflows, but it remains a capable choice for entry-level editing in a budget-friendly package.
Pros:- Affordable price for an Apple desktop
- Decent 21.5-inch Retina display with good color accuracy
- Fast SSD storage for quick file access
- Renewed with minimal cosmetic issues
Cons:- Older hardware limits performance with complex projects
- Limited upgrade options, especially for RAM
- No dedicated graphics card, relying on integrated graphics
Best for: Beginners or hobbyists starting out in video editing who need a reliable, affordable Apple desktop.
Not ideal for: Professional editors or heavy users with demanding workflows, due to its age and hardware limitations.
- Display Size:21.5 inches
- Display Resolution:16:9 aspect ratio
- Processor:2.3GHz Intel Core i5
- RAM:8 GB DDR4
- Storage:256GB SSD
Our verdict“This entry-level iMac is a good starting point for new editors or casual creators on a budget, but not for demanding professional work.”
Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Desktop Computer with M4 Chip, 24-inch Retina Display, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD – Silver
This 2024 iMac offers a compelling balance of performance and affordability, with its M4 chip providing fast processing for editing and multitasking, despite having only a 256GB SSD. Its 24-inch Retina display supports rich, accurate colors, making it suitable for color-sensitive editing tasks. Compared with the higher-priced models, it’s less bulky and more space-efficient but sacrifices some storage capacity and dedicated graphics options. Its sleek design and seamless Apple ecosystem integration make it appealing for those who want a capable editing machine without overspending. However, professionals working with large files or requiring extensive storage should consider additional external drives or more storage-rich options.
Pros:- Fast M4 chip providing quick editing performance
- Vivid 24-inch Retina display with high color fidelity
- Compact, space-saving design
- Excellent Apple ecosystem compatibility
Cons:- Limited storage at 256GB SSD
- No dedicated graphics card option
- Higher price for a renewed model
Best for: Budget-conscious creatives who want a powerful, portable machine for moderate video editing and multimedia work.
Not ideal for: Heavy editors or those with large storage needs, as the 256GB SSD may quickly fill up during complex projects.
- Processor:M4 chip with 8-core CPU/GPU
- Display:24-inch Retina, 4.5K
- Memory:16GB
- Storage:256GB SSD
Our verdict“This model suits creators who need a portable, powerful system with decent storage, but it’s less suited for large, complex projects.”
Apple iMac 21.5-inch 2.7GHz Core i5 All-in-One Desktop (Renewed)
This renewed iMac offers a surprisingly capable setup for basic video editing tasks, especially when compared to older models like the 2017 iMac with its 2.3GHz Intel Core i5. Its 21.5-inch display provides decent screen real estate, but it falls short of newer, higher-resolution screens like the 24-inch M4 iMacs, which deliver sharper visuals and better color accuracy essential for editing. The 2.7GHz Core i5 processor and 8GB RAM can handle light editing workloads, yet may struggle with larger, more complex projects or multi-layer timelines. The 256GB SSD speeds up workflow, but storage can quickly fill up, especially with high-res footage. Being a renewed product, it looks and works like new, with the added reassurance of a 90-day warranty. However, it runs macOS 10.12 Sierra, which limits compatibility with recent editing software updates and features. Compared to the latest M4-based iMacs, this setup is less future-proof but remains a solid choice for those on a tight budget or starting out.
Pros:- Renewed product that looks and works like new, offering good value
- Includes a 90-day warranty for peace of mind
- Decent performance for basic editing tasks with a solid processor and SSD
Cons:- Older macOS version (10.12 Sierra) limits software compatibility and security
- Display resolution and color accuracy are inferior to newer Retina models
Best for: Budget-conscious hobbyists or students needing a capable entry-level machine for light video editing projects.
Not ideal for: Professional editors or users working with 4K or higher-resolution footage who require more processing power and modern software support.
- Display:21.5-inch
- Processor:2.7GHz Core i5
- Memory:8GB
- Storage:256GB SSD
- Operating System:macOS 10.12 Sierra
- Warranty:90 days
Our verdict“This renewed 21.5-inch iMac is suitable for entry-level video editors on a budget who don’t need the latest features or high-end performance.”
How We Picked
Our evaluation focused on performance, display quality, build reliability, and long-term value for video editors. We compared processing power, GPU capabilities, and memory options to determine which iMacs could handle demanding editing tasks smoothly. Display size and resolution were prioritized since they directly impact editing precision and workflow. We also considered user feedback on reliability and upgradeability, recognizing that editors need a machine that remains capable over several years. The ranking reflects a combination of these factors, aiming to identify options suitable for different skill levels and budgets.Factors to Consider When Choosing Imac For Video Editing
When selecting an iMac for video editing, it’s vital to consider several key factors that influence performance and workflow. Beyond raw specs, understanding how display quality, processing power, and expandability align with your editing needs can prevent costly mistakes and ensure a smoother experience. Here are the main considerations to keep in mind:Processing Power and GPU
Video editing demands a powerful processor and capable graphics. The M4 chip in the latest iMacs offers a significant leap in speed and efficiency compared to older Intel models, particularly for rendering and exporting videos. Selecting a machine with a robust GPU ensures smoother playback and real-time editing, especially with high-resolution footage. However, more powerful options typically come at a higher price, so consider your workload to avoid overspending on features you won’t utilize daily.
Display Size and Resolution
The clarity and size of the display directly affect your editing accuracy and comfort. Larger Retina displays provide more screen real estate and precise color reproduction, which are critical for color grading and detailed work. Smaller screens, while more space-efficient and budget-friendly, can lead to a cramped workspace and reduced multitasking ability. Weigh your workspace limitations against your need for detailed visuals when choosing the right size.
Memory and Storage
For smooth editing, at least 16GB of RAM is recommended, especially when working with 4K or higher resolution footage. More RAM allows for better multitasking and reduces lag during complex exports. Storage capacity should also match your project size; SSDs significantly speed up file access and rendering times. Think about future needs—opting for higher RAM and SSD capacity can extend the useful life of your iMac, but it raises initial costs.
Upgradeability and Longevity
Many newer iMacs have limited upgrade options, so choosing a model with sufficient RAM and storage from the start is wise. While refurbished or older models may be cheaper, they might not support future software updates or have the latest hardware enhancements. Investing in a slightly more capable machine now can prevent the need for early upgrades or replacements, saving money in the long run. Consider your long-term editing plans to determine whether spending more upfront is worthwhile.
Price and Value
Balancing cost and features is key. The most expensive iMacs often include the latest chips and larger displays, but they may offer diminishing returns for casual editors. Conversely, entry-level models or refurbished units can be sufficient for hobbyists or light editors but may struggle with larger projects. Define your primary workflow and budget to select a machine that offers the best value without sacrificing essential performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the M4 iMac suitable for professional video editing?
Yes, the M4 iMac is well-suited for professional video editing, particularly with its powerful chip, fast SSD, and Retina display. It handles 4K and even some 8K workflows efficiently, making it a strong choice for pros who prefer a compact, all-in-one system. However, if your projects involve very high-resolution footage, complex effects, or require extensive multitasking, opting for models with higher RAM and dedicated GPU options might be beneficial.
Should I buy a refurbished iMac or a new one for editing?
Refurbished iMacs can be a smart way to save money while still getting capable hardware, especially if purchased from reputable sources with warranties. They typically offer similar performance to new models of the same generation but might lack the latest features. For lighter editing tasks or hobbyist projects, refurbished units are often sufficient. However, for demanding professional workflows, investing in a new, higher-spec machine ensures longer support and upgradeability.
What is the minimum screen size I should consider for editing?
While smaller screens like 21.5 inches can work for casual editing, a 24-inch or larger display provides more workspace and better color accuracy, which are vital for detailed tasks. The 27-inch Retina 5K display remains the gold standard for professional editors needing maximum detail and color precision. The choice depends on your desk space, portability needs, and budget, but larger, higher-resolution screens generally improve editing efficiency.
How much RAM do I need for smooth 4K editing?
For smooth 4K editing, a minimum of 16GB of RAM is recommended, with 32GB being ideal for more complex projects or multitasking with multiple applications. Insufficient RAM causes lag and longer rendering times, especially when working with large files or multiple layers. Prioritizing higher RAM at purchase can prevent bottlenecks and extend the usable lifespan of your iMac as your editing needs grow.
Is an iMac still a good choice compared to a MacBook for video editing?
iMacs are excellent for stationary editing setups due to their larger screens, better thermal performance, and often more powerful hardware options. They are ideal if you primarily work in a fixed location. MacBooks, on the other hand, offer portability but may compromise on screen size and performance, especially in lower-end models. Your choice should hinge on whether mobility or workspace size is more critical for your workflow.
Conclusion
The best overall iMac for video editing in 2026 is the Apple 2024 M4 iMac 24-inch, offering a compelling balance of power and size. For budget-conscious editors, the Renewed iMac Air provides decent performance at a lower price point. Professionals needing maximum display real estate and processing power should consider the iMac 27-inch Retina 5K (2020). Beginners and casual editors will find the 24-inch M4 models more approachable, while those with specific space requirements or legacy hardware preferences can explore refurbished options. Matching your workflow demands with the right balance of features and budget is key to making a satisfying choice.
Halloween Picks
halloween
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
