Is iMac M3 worth it?

iMac
1

Hi, I’m torn between getting an iMac M3 with 512GB and 16GB of RAM, or building a decent Windows PC. My work mainly involves video editing, Photoshop, and Lightroom, along with having multiple browser tabs open. Is the iMac M3 powerful enough for this? I’m inclined towards the iMac because of its aesthetic appeal. Any advice would be appreciated. Thank you!

2

The M3 will definitely handle your needs, just make sure to get the 16GB of RAM.

  • 8GB = hell no
  • 16GB = good
  • 24GB = you can do anything!
3

Ira said:
The M3 will definitely handle your needs, just make sure to get the 16GB of RAM.

  • 8GB = hell no
  • 16GB = good
  • 24GB = you can do anything!

Thanks! I’m planning to get the iMac since I’ve always used Windows.

4

Definitely go for the iMac! It’s not just about raw power; the screen quality, resolution, and color accuracy are unmatched by any Windows setup, even an all-in-one.

16GB is sufficient, but be cautious not to fill the SSD completely.

5

@Jori
Thanks! I’m looking at 1TB with 24GB.

6

If my M1 can handle it, the M3 will do great!

7

Keller said:
If my M1 can handle it, the M3 will do great!

Thanks!

8

I got the M3 with 24GB last year, and I absolutely love it!

9

I can’t speak on the M3 because my 2011 iMac is still going strong (I upgraded it with an SSD and more RAM). No 2011 Windows system has survived like that. If you’re looking for longevity, Apple is the way to go.

Also, 16GB is generally the minimum for serious work on an ARM Mac, and keep in mind that you can’t upgrade later, so 24GB might be a wise choice.

10

There are also rumors about the M4 iMac coming out by the end of the year, depending on when you’re looking to buy…

11

I just bought the M3 with 1TB and 24GB RAM. It’s extremely fast and I won’t need a new computer for the next 7-9 years. Plus, the design is great!

12

Nico said:
I just bought the M3 with 1TB and 24GB RAM. It’s extremely fast and I won’t need a new computer for the next 7-9 years. Plus, the design is great!

I’m definitely buying the same setup based on your feedback!

13

Get the M3 with as much RAM as you can and consider a 4TB SSD. It’s blazing fast.

14

Harlan said:
Get the M3 with as much RAM as you can and consider a 4TB SSD. It’s blazing fast.

Too bad they don’t offer a 4TB SSD internally.

15

Vale said:

Harlan said:
Get the M3 with as much RAM as you can and consider a 4TB SSD. It’s blazing fast.

Too bad they don’t offer a 4TB SSD internally.

You can always add an external 4TB drive.

16

@Harlan
Oh, I thought you meant internal 4TB.

17

Harlan said:
Get the M3 with as much RAM as you can and consider a 4TB SSD. It’s blazing fast.

Thanks for the suggestion!

18

I have the 8GB model and I manage multiple apps, browser tabs, and Lightroom without crashing, but it does use a lot of swap, which isn’t optimal. Definitely consider the 16GB; you’ll be glad you did. The iMac is perfect for content creation and as a media center. Good luck with your purchase!

19

@Taylor
Thanks for your input! I appreciate it!

20

I have the same specs: M3 with 512GB and 16GB RAM. I’m not doing heavy workloads, but it manages everything I throw at it effortlessly. I think I’m good for a few more years.