For a renewed iMac that feels closest to a current everyday desktop, I would start with the 2021 24-inch M1 models: they pair responsive performance with a sharp 4.5K screen, though their 256GB SSD and limited ports call for planning. The 27-inch Retina 5K iMac is the stronger pick when screen space matters more than a newer platform, while the 2017 21.5-inch iMac offers a large hard drive and a familiar port selection for basic home use. Across these renewed desktops, the key tradeoffs are newer M1 performance versus older Intel flexibility, display size versus desk footprint, and fast SSD storage versus roomy but slower hard drives. I rank them by how well their overall package suits a likely buyer, not by any single specification.
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Key Takeaways
- The silver and blue 2021 iMacs share the same M1, 4.5K display, 8GB memory, and 256GB SSD; choose between their listed colors and check the exact configuration before ordering.
- The 27-inch 5K model provides the largest, highest-resolution screen here, but its older Intel platform and 8GB of RAM make it a screen-first choice rather than the best all-rounder.
- The 2017 21.5-inch iMac includes a 1TB HDD, which holds more files than the M1 models’ 256GB SSD but loads apps and files more slowly.
- The 21.5-inch iMac with a 256GB SSD can feel quicker during basic file and app access than the 2017 HDD model, but it runs older macOS Sierra and has an older dual-core processor.
- All five options have 8GB of memory in the supplied configurations, so buyers planning sustained heavy multitasking should look beyond this list or verify upgrade options for the exact unit.
| Apple iMac 24-inch (2021) with M1 chip, 8-core CPU, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Silver (Renewed) |  | Best Overall | Display: 24-inch 4.5K Retina, 500 nits, P3 wide color | Processor: Apple M1, 8-core CPU and 7-core GPU | Memory: 8GB | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple iMac 27-Inch Retina 5K Desktop (Renewed) |  | Best for a Large, Detailed Screen | Display: 27-inch Retina 5K | Processor: 3.2GHz quad-core Intel Core i5 | Memory: 8GB DDR3 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 2021 iMac with Apple M1 Chip, 24-inch, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD – Blue (Renewed) |  | Best Blue M1 Option | Display: 24-inch 4.5K Retina, P3 wide color, 500 nits | Processor: Apple M1, 8-core CPU and 7-core GPU | Memory: 8GB | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple 2017 iMac 21.5-inch Silver (Renewed) with Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 1TB HDD |  | Best for Built-In Storage and Legacy Connections | Display: 21.5-inch LED-backlit, 1920 × 1080 Full HD | Processor: 7th-generation Intel Core i5-7360U, dual-core, 2.3GHz | Graphics: Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See 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) |  | Best Compact SSD Option for Basic Tasks | Display: 21.5-inch | Processor: 2.7GHz dual-core Intel Core i5 | Memory: 8GB | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| renewed imac desktop | Display | Processor | Memory | Storage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple iMac 24-inch | 24-inch 4.5K Retina, 500 nits, P3 wide color | Apple M1, 8-core CPU and 7-core GPU | 8GB | 256GB SSD |
| Apple iMac 27-Inch Retina 5K D | 27-inch Retina 5K | 3.2GHz quad-core Intel Core i5 | 8GB DDR3 | 1TB Fusion Drive |
| 2021 iMac with Apple M1 Chip | 24-inch 4.5K Retina, P3 wide color, 500 nits | Apple M1, 8-core CPU and 7-core GPU | 8GB | 256GB SSD |
| Apple 2017 iMac 21.5-inch Silv | 21.5-inch LED-backlit, 1920 × 1080 Full HD | 7th-generation Intel Core i5-7360U, dual-core, 2.3GHz | 8GB DDR4 2133MHz | 1TB HDD |
| iMac 21.5-inch 2.7GHz Core i5 | 21.5-inch | 2.7GHz dual-core Intel Core i5 | 8GB | 256GB SSD |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Apple iMac 24-inch (2021) with M1 chip, 8-core CPU, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Silver (Renewed)
This is my lead recommendation because it combines the newest platform in this group with a high-resolution display that suits both everyday work and casual creative tasks. The M1 chip and 4.5K Retina screen make a more balanced pairing than the older Intel iMacs: the 27-inch model gives you more screen area, but its quad-core Intel chip and Fusion Drive come from an earlier generation; the M1 is the better fit when responsiveness and current-feeling performance matter more than screen size.
The main compromise is the configuration, not the design. 256GB of SSD storage is quick but can fill up if you keep a large photo library, video projects, or many local files. Two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports are also a narrower starting point than the 2017 model’s listed USB and Thunderbolt connections. I would treat external storage or a hub as part of the plan for a desk with several accessories. The 8GB memory is shared across the system and not presented as user-upgradeable, so this is not my pick for intensive workloads with many large applications open.
Compared with the blue M1 listing below, the supplied core specifications are effectively the same. I rank this silver version first as the more understated all-purpose choice, not because it has a performance advantage. The slim body, 1080p camera, and six-speaker audio make it well suited to video calls and shared home-office use, too.
Pros:- M1 performance is the strongest all-round platform in this lineup.
- 24-inch 4.5K Retina display offers sharp detail and P3 wide color.
- 1080p camera and six-speaker audio suit calls and media use.
- Slim all-in-one design takes up relatively little desk space.
Cons:- 256GB SSD may require external storage for large libraries and projects.
- Two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports leave fewer direct connections than the older 2017 model.
Best for: Buyers who want a modern-feeling renewed iMac for general work, study, video calls, and light creative projects.
Not ideal for: People who need lots of built-in ports, more than 256GB of internal storage, or memory for demanding professional workloads.
- Display:24-inch 4.5K Retina, 500 nits, P3 wide color
- Processor:Apple M1, 8-core CPU and 7-core GPU
- Memory:8GB
- Storage:256GB SSD
- Camera:1080p FaceTime HD
- Audio:Six-speaker system and three-mic array
- Ports:Two Thunderbolt/USB 4; up to two USB 3
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0
Our verdict“I recommend the silver 2021 M1 iMac as the best balance here, provided 256GB of storage and a small port selection suit your desk.”
Apple iMac 27-Inch Retina 5K Desktop (Renewed)
The 27-inch iMac earns its place for buyers who value workspace and image detail above a newer processor. Its Retina 5K display gives spreadsheets, timelines, and high-resolution images room to breathe; compared with the 24-inch M1 models, the larger panel can reduce the need to juggle windows. For photo work or document-heavy days, that extra screen area is a tangible advantage.
Its age shows in the rest of the configuration. A 3.2GHz quad-core Intel Core i5 and 8GB of DDR3 memory are less appealing for demanding multitasking than the M1 models, and the 1TB Fusion Drive should not be mistaken for a fully SSD-based setup. It offers more capacity than the M1’s 256GB SSD, but responsiveness and storage behavior differ. The supplied details also say memory is not upgradeable beyond 8GB; I would verify that claim and the exact unit’s configuration before buying, since renewed listings can vary.
This is a screen-led alternative, not my default recommendation for everyone. It beats the compact 21.5-inch options on viewing area and resolution, but it occupies more desk space and comes with an older platform. Keyboard and mouse are listed as included, though they may be generic, so buyers who care about accessory quality should check the seller’s details.
Pros:- 27-inch Retina 5K panel offers the most screen area in this group.
- Quad-core Intel processor is suited to general desktop work and moderate tasks.
- 1TB Fusion Drive provides more listed capacity than the M1 configurations.
- Keyboard and mouse are included according to the listing.
Cons:- Older Intel platform is less compelling for sustained demanding work than M1.
- 8GB DDR3 memory and the Fusion Drive are dated compromises.
- Large chassis takes more desk space than the 21.5-inch and 24-inch choices.
Best for: Visual workers and multitaskers who want a spacious 5K screen for documents, images, and side-by-side windows.
Not ideal for: Buyers prioritizing a newer chip, a compact footprint, or a stated upgrade path beyond 8GB memory.
- Display:27-inch Retina 5K
- Processor:3.2GHz quad-core Intel Core i5
- Memory:8GB DDR3
- Storage:1TB Fusion Drive
- Graphics:AMD Radeon R9 M390
- Design:All-in-one desktop, silver
- Accessories:Keyboard and mouse listed; may be generic
- Condition:Renewed
Our verdict“I would choose this 27-inch model for its 5K workspace, not for buyers seeking the newest performance or the smallest footprint.”
2021 iMac with Apple M1 Chip, 24-inch, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD – Blue (Renewed)
For buyers who want the M1 iMac’s performance and display but prefer a more colorful setup, this blue 2021 model offers the same core appeal as my overall pick. The supplied specifications match the silver version on the M1 chip, 8GB memory, 256GB SSD, and 24-inch 4.5K screen. I rank it just below the silver listing because the stated hardware does not give it a performance edge; its distinction is the blue finish and the preference that comes with it.
That shared configuration still makes it a stronger everyday choice than the older Intel models for most general computing. The 4.5K P3 display and M1 platform are a more current-feeling combination than the 2017 iMac’s Full HD screen and hard drive, while the 27-inch model remains the better match for buyers who want a bigger workspace. Its compact 11.5mm-thin design can also suit a cleaner or smaller desk.
Storage and connectivity remain the tradeoffs: 256GB fills faster than the older iMacs’ listed 1TB drives, and the small port selection may call for a hub. The listing notes up to two USB 3 ports alongside two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports, so check the exact configuration and included accessories with the seller. With only 8GB of memory listed, I would not choose it for work that routinely pushes memory limits.
Pros:- M1 chip and 4.5K display deliver the same core strengths as the silver 2021 pick.
- Blue finish adds a distinctive look to a home or studio workspace.
- Six-speaker system and 1080p camera support media and video calls.
- Thin all-in-one body keeps the desk setup visually compact.
Cons:- Listed 256GB SSD may be restrictive for large local files.
- Port selection is limited compared with the 2017 Intel iMac.
- 8GB memory is not listed as user-upgradeable.
Best for: Buyers who want the 2021 M1 iMac’s everyday speed and 4.5K screen in a blue finish.
Not ideal for: Anyone choosing on performance differences from the silver M1 listing, or needing ample internal storage and direct ports.
- Display:24-inch 4.5K Retina, P3 wide color, 500 nits
- Processor:Apple M1, 8-core CPU and 7-core GPU
- Memory:8GB
- Storage:256GB SSD
- Camera:1080p FaceTime HD
- Audio:Six-speaker system
- Ports:Two Thunderbolt/USB 4 and up to two USB 3
- Color:Blue
Our verdict“I would pick the blue M1 iMac over the silver one only when its finish is the better match for your space; the listed core hardware is otherwise alike.”
Apple 2017 iMac 21.5-inch Silver (Renewed) with Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 1TB HDD
This 2017 21.5-inch iMac is the practical pick for a buyer who needs lots of listed internal capacity and prefers a more familiar assortment of connections. Its 1TB HDD and four USB 3 ports give it a different kind of utility from the M1 models, which are faster and sharper-screened but start with a 256GB SSD and fewer built-in ports. For a basic family computer holding documents, music, and photos, capacity may matter more than quick load times.
The tradeoff is that the hard drive is the weakest storage arrangement in this lineup for responsiveness. Applications and files may take longer to open than on the M1 SSD models or the 21.5-inch SSD option below. The Full HD display is also a clear step down in resolution from both the 24-inch 4.5K and 27-inch 5K screens. Its dual-core 7th-generation processor and 8GB memory suit light browsing, email, and office tasks, but I would skip it for heavier editing or long-term performance headroom.
The listing’s port details should be checked carefully: the supplied description refers to USB-C/Thunderbolt in its pros, while the specification list names four USB 3 ports and two Thunderbolt ports without clearly identifying USB-C. I would confirm the exact ports on the unit before making a purchase. Compared with the older SSD-equipped 21.5-inch model, this one gives up speed for much more stated storage.
Pros:- 1TB hard drive offers the largest stated capacity among the compact models.
- Four USB 3 ports and two Thunderbolt ports provide several listed connections.
- 21.5-inch size fits more readily on a modest desk than the 27-inch model.
- Full HD screen is suitable for routine documents and web use.
Cons:- HDD storage is slower than the SSDs in the other listed options.
- Dual-core 7th-generation processor is dated for demanding workloads.
- Full HD resolution falls short of the 4.5K and 5K displays here.
Best for: Households needing a renewed all-in-one with a 1TB internal drive and multiple listed USB connections for basic tasks.
Not ideal for: Buyers who need fast app loading, a high-resolution display, or strong performance for demanding creative work.
- Display:21.5-inch LED-backlit, 1920 × 1080 Full HD
- Processor:7th-generation Intel Core i5-7360U, dual-core, 2.3GHz
- Graphics:Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640
- Memory:8GB DDR4 2133MHz
- Storage:1TB HDD
- Wireless:802.11n Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.2
- Ports:Four USB 3.0 and two Thunderbolt listed
- Ethernet:Gigabit Ethernet (RJ-45)
Our verdict“I would choose this 2017 iMac for capacity and connections on a basic-use desk, but not when speed or screen detail is a priority.”
iMac 21.5-inch 2.7GHz Core i5 (ME086LL/A) All-In-One Desktop, 8GB Memory, 256GB SSD, macOS 10.12 Sierra (Renewed)
This older 21.5-inch iMac has a simple advantage over the 2017 model: its 256GB SSD should make everyday startup and file access feel quicker than a mechanical hard drive. That matters for light home or office use, where waiting on common apps can be more noticeable than having a large storage pool. It is also the least complicated choice here for buyers who want a compact all-in-one with SSD storage and do not keep a large local library.
Its age makes the caveats substantial. The 2.7GHz dual-core Core i5 and 8GB memory are a limited foundation for heavier multitasking, and the listed operating system is macOS 10.12 Sierra. Buyers should check whether the software they depend on supports the installed system and what upgrade path is available for this exact unit. By comparison, either 2021 M1 iMac delivers a newer platform, a much sharper display, and a better camera, while the 2017 model offers far more internal storage.
The supplied listing describes inspection and testing by qualified suppliers and a minimum 90-day warranty, but I would confirm the warranty terms and condition with the seller. This is a narrowly targeted value in practical terms: it favors an SSD over HDD capacity, not longevity, screen quality, or modern performance. Skip it if you expect to edit video, keep many applications open, or need current software support without checking compatibility first.
Pros:- 256GB SSD can improve everyday responsiveness over the 2017 HDD model.
- 21.5-inch all-in-one design suits a more limited desk area.
- Listing states the unit is inspected, tested, and cleaned.
- Supplier-backed warranty is listed for at least 90 days.
Cons:- macOS 10.12 Sierra is old, so software compatibility needs checking.
- Dual-core processor and 8GB memory limit demanding multitasking.
- 256GB capacity is modest compared with the 1TB older iMac options.
Best for: A buyer seeking a small-footprint renewed iMac with SSD storage for simple browsing, writing, and household tasks.
Not ideal for: People who need a current-feeling platform, modern macOS support, high-resolution visuals, or room for large files.
- Display:21.5-inch
- Processor:2.7GHz dual-core Intel Core i5
- Memory:8GB
- Storage:256GB SSD
- Operating system:macOS 10.12 Sierra listed
- Model:ME086LL/A
- Renewed condition:Supplier inspected, tested, and cleaned per listing
- Warranty:Minimum 90-day supplier-backed warranty listed
Our verdict“I would consider this only for light, clearly compatible tasks where SSD responsiveness matters more than a newer platform or high-resolution screen.”
How We Picked
I ranked these renewed iMac desktops by the choices that most affect ownership: day-to-day responsiveness, display usefulness, storage type and capacity, connectivity, and age of the hardware and operating system. A newer chip can make everyday work feel more fluid, but a smaller SSD may mean managing files or adding external storage. Likewise, a 5K screen has a real appeal for detailed visual work, yet it does not erase the tradeoffs of an older processor or a fixed 8GB memory configuration.
I also treated the two 2021 M1 listings as closely related options rather than pretending their core hardware differs: both supplied descriptions list an 8-core M1 CPU, 7-core GPU, 4.5K display, 8GB memory, and 256GB SSD. Color is the clearest stated distinction, and I gave the silver model the overall slot while reserving the blue listing for buyers who specifically want that finish. Because these are renewed units, I put less weight on claims about cosmetic condition or included accessories than on the listed configuration. Buyers should confirm the exact condition, included keyboard and mouse, warranty terms, and ports on the listing before choosing.
| renewed imac desktop | Ports |
|---|---|
| Apple iMac 24-inch | Two Thunderbolt/USB 4; up to two USB 3 |
| Apple iMac 27-Inch Retina 5K D | — |
| 2021 iMac with Apple M1 Chip | Two Thunderbolt/USB 4 and up to two USB 3 |
| Apple 2017 iMac 21.5-inch Silv | Four USB 3.0 and two Thunderbolt listed |
| iMac 21.5-inch 2.7GHz Core i5 | — |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Renewed Imac Desktops
When I compare renewed iMacs, I start by separating platform, screen, and storage. A familiar iMac silhouette can hide major differences: the 2021 M1 machines have a newer chip and 4.5K display, while older Intel models may offer a larger screen, a larger hard drive, or more listed ports. A good match depends on which compromise you can live with every day.
Choose performance by workload, not model name
The M1 chip in the 2021 24-inch models is the strongest general-purpose platform in this group. It suits browsing, office work, video calls, and many modest creative tasks better than the older dual-core Intel options. The 27-inch 5K iMac’s quad-core processor may still suit routine desktop work, but its age and 8GB DDR3 configuration make it a less attractive fit for sustained heavy multitasking. For demanding creative applications, check each app’s current system requirements and the exact renewed configuration rather than assuming any older iMac will keep pace.
Match display size and resolution to your desk
The 27-inch Retina 5K model is the clear choice for more screen area and detailed visual work. Its larger panel can make side-by-side windows easier to manage than on the 24-inch M1 models, although it takes up more desk space. The 24-inch M1 screens offer a useful middle ground with 4.5K resolution in a slimmer body. Both 21.5-inch models are more compact, but their Full HD-era screens do not deliver the same detail. I would choose based on the work you do and viewing distance, not just the largest number.
Understand the difference between SSD, HDD, and Fusion Drive
Storage capacity and speed are separate decisions. The 256GB SSDs in the M1 and older compact SSD listings are responsive but leave less room for local files. The 2017 model’s 1TB HDD holds more but is slower when loading apps or opening files. The 27-inch listing has a 1TB Fusion Drive, which combines storage technologies; it is not the same as having a large all-SSD volume. If your files are mostly in cloud storage, a smaller SSD may be workable. For large libraries, check the cost and convenience of external storage before choosing.
Check ports, accessories, and the exact renewed unit
The 2021 M1 iMacs list two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports and up to two USB 3 ports, while the 2017 listing names four USB 3 ports and two Thunderbolt connections. Port descriptions can be inconsistent, so I would verify the exact configuration, especially if you rely on wired networking, external drives, or older accessories. Renewed listings may also differ in cosmetic condition and included keyboard or mouse. Confirm what arrives, the return window, warranty coverage, and whether the seller’s description matches the specific unit being offered.
Treat age and operating system support as part of the purchase
The oldest option here explicitly lists macOS 10.12 Sierra, so buyers should check software compatibility before placing an order. Older hardware can be adequate for a narrow task, but an operating system that no longer supports a needed app or security requirement can turn a capable desktop into the wrong tool. Confirm what version is installed, whether the machine can run the version you need, and whether the seller provides any setup details. For a computer intended to serve for years, the 2021 M1 options are the safer direction among these five, while still requiring care around fixed memory and storage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which renewed iMac in this comparison is the best all-round choice?
I would choose the silver 2021 24-inch M1 iMac for the broadest mix of current-feeling performance, a sharp 4.5K screen, and a compact all-in-one design. The blue 2021 listing has the same stated core specifications, so it is a close alternative if that color better suits your workspace. Both have only 8GB of memory and 256GB of SSD storage, which can limit demanding work and large local libraries.
Is the 27-inch 5K iMac better than the 24-inch M1 models?
It is better for buyers who value a larger 5K screen and more room for windows, but it is not the stronger all-round machine in this group. The 24-inch M1 models offer a newer chip and SSD storage, while the 27-inch listing pairs an older Intel processor with 8GB of DDR3 memory and a Fusion Drive. I would prioritize the 27-inch option for screen size and choose M1 for a more modern general-use platform.
Should I choose the 1TB HDD or a 256GB SSD?
Choose the 1TB HDD if holding more files on the computer is your main need and you can accept slower access than an SSD. Choose a 256GB SSD if quicker app and file access matters more and you are comfortable using cloud or external storage for larger collections. The 2017 iMac has the listed 1TB HDD, while the two M1 iMacs and the older compact SSD option list 256GB SSDs.
What should I check before buying a renewed iMac?
I would confirm the exact processor, memory, storage, operating system, display condition, ports, included accessories, and warranty or return terms for the specific renewed unit. Listings can include generic keyboards and mice, and renewed stock may vary in cosmetic condition. For older models, check whether the installed or available macOS version supports the apps you need. Also verify port details if your setup depends on specific connections.
Are these renewed iMacs suitable for professional creative work?
The 27-inch 5K display can appeal to image-focused work, and the M1 models can handle many everyday creative tasks, but the listed 8GB memory configurations and limited storage are meaningful constraints. I would not assume any of these is suitable for a professional workflow without checking the software’s requirements and the demands of your projects. For large video timelines, complex graphics, or extensive multitasking, seek a configuration with more memory and storage than the listings provide.
Conclusion
My recommendation depends on what you want from a renewed iMac. For the best everyday balance, choose the silver 2021 M1 model; take the blue version instead if its finish is your preference, since the listed core hardware is alike. For a large, detailed workspace, the 27-inch 5K Intel iMac is the screen-first choice, with age and memory limits accepted as tradeoffs. For more built-in file capacity and several listed connections, the 2017 21.5-inch iMac may suit basic home use, though its HDD and Full HD screen feel dated beside M1. The older 21.5-inch SSD option is best kept to light, compatible tasks where quick storage access matters more than a newer platform. Before choosing any renewed unit, I would confirm condition, macOS compatibility, included accessories, ports, and warranty details with the seller.
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