Choosing the right iMac for video editing in 2026 depends on your performance needs, workflow, and budget. The 2024 iMac with M4 chip stands out as the best overall choice for its impressive processing power and display quality. For those seeking a balance of performance and affordability, the 2024 iMac Air offers a lightweight design with enough power for most editing tasks. Meanwhile, the 2020 27-inch Retina 5K model remains a strong contender for professionals who prioritize a larger, high-resolution screen. This category presents tradeoffs between raw power, display size, and budget, so keep reading for a detailed breakdown of each option.
Get home office essentials 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 M4 chip models dominate in raw processing power, essential for high-resolution video editing and rendering.
- Display size and resolution remain key for detailed editing workflows, with the 27-inch Retina 5K offering the best screen real estate.
- Budget options like the 2019 Retina 4K iMac still handle editing but lack the latest performance improvements of newer models.
- RAM and storage configurations significantly impact workflow fluidity, especially for large projects.
- Portability is less of a concern with iMacs, but choosing a model with future-proof specs ensures longer usability.
| 2019 Apple iMac with Retina 4K Display (21.5-inch, 8GB RAM, 1TB Storage) (Renewed) |  | Best Budget Desktop for Basic Video Editing | Display Size: 21.5 inches | Display Resolution: 3840 x 2160 pixels | Memory: 8 GB DDR4 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple 2024 iMac Air with M4 Chip, 24-inch, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Silver (Renewed) |  | Best Portable Power for Creative Professionals | Processor: Apple M4, 8-core, 3.2 GHz | Display: 24-inch Retina, 4480×2520 | RAM: 16 GB SDRAM | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple iMac 27-inch with Retina 5K Display (2020 Model, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD) |  | Best High-Resolution Display for Serious Editors | Display Size: 27 inches | Display Resolution: 5120 x 2880 | Processor: 3.3GHz 6-core 10th-gen Intel Core i5 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple iMac 21.5-inch 2.7GHz Core i5 All-in-One Desktop (Renewed) |  | Best for Budget-Conscious Small-Space Editing | Display Size: 21.5 inches | Display Resolution: 1920 x 1080 | Processor: 2.7GHz Core i5 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Desktop Computer with M4 Chip, 24-inch Retina Display, 24GB Memory, 512GB SSD – Silver |  | Best High-Performance All-in-One for Video Editing | Display: 24-inch Retina 4.5K | Processor: M4 chip with 10-core CPU and GPU | Memory: 24GB Unified Memory | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Desktop Computer with M4 Chip, 24-inch Retina Display, 24GB RAM, 1TB SSD – Silver |  | Best Overall for Creative Power and Future-Proof Performance | Operating System: Mac OS | Color: Silver | Display Size: 24 inches | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| imac for video editing | Storage | Memory | Processor | Display Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 Apple iMac with Retina 4K | 1 TB | 8 GB DDR4 | — | 21.5 inches |
| Apple 2024 iMac Air with M4 Ch | 256 GB SSD | — | Apple M4, 8-core, 3.2 GHz | — |
| Apple iMac 27-inch with Retina | 512GB SSD | 8GB DDR4 | 3.3GHz 6-core 10th-gen Intel Core i5 | 27 inches |
| Apple iMac 21.5-inch 2.7GHz Co | 256 GB SSD | 8 GB DDR3 | 2.7GHz Core i5 | 21.5 inches |
| Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Des | 512GB SSD | 24GB Unified Memory | M4 chip with 10-core CPU and GPU | — |
| Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Des | 1 TB SSD | 24 GB Unified RAM | M4 chip with 10-core CPU and GPU | 24 inches |
More Details on Our Top Picks
2019 Apple iMac with Retina 4K Display (21.5-inch, 8GB RAM, 1TB Storage) (Renewed)
This refurbished iMac offers a sharp 4K Retina display, making it a solid choice for entry-level video editing where display clarity matters. Compared with newer models like the 2024 M4-based iMac, it lacks the latest processor and features, but it compensates with a larger 1TB storage capacity. Its main tradeoff is the unspecified processor, which may impact performance during demanding editing tasks. Still, for those on a budget or working with lighter editing projects, this model delivers reliable visual quality and storage at a lower price point.
Pros:- High-resolution 4K Retina display enhances visual clarity
- Refurbished and tested to look and perform like new, offering good value
- Large 1TB storage supports extensive project files
Cons:- Processor details are not specified, raising questions about performance capacity
- Includes generic keyboard and mouse, limiting user experience
- No upgrade options or future-proofing features
Best for: Beginners or casual editors who need a reliable, affordable Apple desktop for light video projects
Not ideal for: Professional editors or those working with high-resolution footage, who need more processing power and upgrade options
- Display Size:21.5 inches
- Display Resolution:3840 x 2160 pixels
- Memory:8 GB DDR4
- Storage:1 TB
- Operating System:macOS Mojave
- Graphics:Integrated GDDR5
Our verdict“A dependable choice for entry-level users seeking a Retina display and ample storage without high costs.”
Apple 2024 iMac Air with M4 Chip, 24-inch, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Silver (Renewed)
This renewed iMac Air features the latest M4 chip, offering impressive speed and efficiency for video editing. Its 24-inch Retina display supports a billion colors, making it ideal for color grading and detailed work. Compared to the 2020 27-inch Retina 5K iMac, it sacrifices some screen size but compensates with a lighter, more modern design and faster performance. Its limited 256GB SSD storage might be restrictive for large projects, but the 16GB RAM helps handle multitasking and editing software smoothly. It’s a great fit for creators who value portability and power in a compact form.
Pros:- Powerful M4 chip with 8 cores ensures fast rendering and multitasking
- Vivid 24-inch Retina display with support for a billion colors
- Sleek, lightweight design that fits easily into any workspace
Cons:- Renewed product may have limited warranty or unknown condition
- Limited 256GB SSD storage may require external drives for large projects
- No mention of upgradeability or additional ports
Best for: Freelancers or mobile editors needing a powerful yet portable Mac for editing and multimedia tasks
Not ideal for: Editors handling very large files or requiring extensive local storage, due to limited 256GB SSD
- Processor:Apple M4, 8-core, 3.2 GHz
- Display:24-inch Retina, 4480×2520
- RAM:16 GB SDRAM
- Storage:256 GB SSD
- Weight:22.1 pounds
- Dimensions:21.53 x 5.78 x 18.14 inches
Our verdict“Ideal for creative professionals who prioritize portability without sacrificing speed for most editing tasks.”
Apple iMac 27-inch with Retina 5K Display (2020 Model, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD)
This 2020 27-inch iMac offers a stunning 5K Retina display with vibrant colors, perfect for precise color grading and detailed editing work. Its 3.3GHz 6-core Intel Core i5 processor provides solid performance, but compared with the newer M4-equipped models, it can lag behind in speed and energy efficiency. The 8GB RAM might be limiting for complex editing workflows, and upgrading it could be necessary for demanding projects. Still, its large, high-resolution screen makes it a favorite among professionals who prioritize display quality over raw processing speed, though it comes at a higher cost.
Pros:- Vibrant 5K Retina display with excellent color accuracy
- Powerful 10th-generation Intel Core i5 processor
- 512GB SSD for fast data access and project storage
Cons:- Limited to 8GB RAM, which may hinder performance on heavy editing tasks
- No dedicated GPU options available, potentially impacting rendering speed
- Higher price compared to more recent models with M-series chips
Best for: Professional editors who need a large, high-resolution display and are comfortable with Intel-based architecture
Not ideal for: Users seeking a lightweight, modern design or planning to run the latest software that benefits from M1 or M4 chips
- Display Size:27 inches
- Display Resolution:5120 x 2880
- Processor:3.3GHz 6-core 10th-gen Intel Core i5
- Graphics:AMD Radeon Pro 5300
- Storage:512GB SSD
- Memory:8GB DDR4
Our verdict“Best suited for professionals who need a large, color-accurate display and are okay with Intel-based performance.”
Apple iMac 21.5-inch 2.7GHz Core i5 All-in-One Desktop (Renewed)
This renewed 21.5-inch iMac provides a strong processor and decent display for basic editing tasks, making it a capable starter option. Its 2.7GHz Core i5 is comparable to older models like the 2019 Retina 4K in terms of performance, with the added advantage of a smaller, more space-efficient design. However, it runs macOS Sierra, which limits compatibility with newer applications, and its 1920×1080 resolution is less suited for detailed color work. This pick makes sense for budget buyers with limited space who want a usable Mac, but it may fall short for more intensive editing projects.
Pros:- Fast 2.7GHz Core i5 processor for smooth performance
- Decent 21.5-inch display with good resolution for casual editing
- Renewed and inspected for reliability at a lower cost
Cons:- Older macOS version (10.12 Sierra) limits app compatibility
- Limited display resolution (1920 x 1080) not ideal for color-critical work
- Heavy and large for small spaces, despite smaller screen size
Best for: Small-space users or beginners seeking a cost-effective Mac for light video editing
Not ideal for: Professional editors or those working with high-resolution footage, due to older OS and lower display resolution
- Display Size:21.5 inches
- Display Resolution:1920 x 1080
- Processor:2.7GHz Core i5
- Memory:8 GB DDR3
- Storage:256 GB SSD
- Operating System:macOS 10.12 Sierra
Our verdict“A budget-friendly option for small-space users who need basic editing capabilities on a reliable Mac.”
Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Desktop Computer with M4 Chip, 24-inch Retina Display, 24GB Memory, 512GB SSD – Silver
This latest 2024 iMac with the M4 chip combines raw power with stunning visuals, making it an ideal choice for demanding video editing workflows. Its 24-inch Retina display supports 4.5K resolution with vibrant colors, perfect for detailed color grading and multi-layer editing. Compared to earlier Intel-based models like the 2020 27-inch iMac, it offers faster processing, better energy efficiency, and seamless integration with other Apple devices. The 24GB of unified memory ensures smooth multitasking, though the 512GB SSD might be limiting for large project files, meaning external drives could be necessary for heavy workloads. This model balances performance and design for professionals seeking a future-proof setup.
Pros:- Powerful M4 chip with 10-core CPU and GPU for fast editing and rendering
- Vibrant 24-inch Retina 4.5K display with excellent color accuracy
- Seamless integration with Apple ecosystem and multiple connectivity options
Cons:- Limited storage beyond 512GB SSD may require external solutions
- High price point may be a barrier for some users
- No upgradeability after purchase limits future expansion
Best for: Professional editors and power users who need a compact, high-performance Mac with excellent display quality
Not ideal for: Users with extensive large-file storage needs who prefer more internal capacity or upgrade options
- Display:24-inch Retina 4.5K
- Processor:M4 chip with 10-core CPU and GPU
- Memory:24GB Unified Memory
- Storage:512GB SSD
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi 6E, Thunderbolt 4
- Weight:9.77 pounds
Our verdict“Designed for professionals who want a high-performance, space-saving Mac with stunning visuals and seamless Apple integration.”
Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Desktop Computer with M4 Chip, 24-inch Retina Display, 24GB RAM, 1TB SSD – Silver
This iMac stands out for its impressive combination of a vibrant 24-inch 4.5K Retina display and the new M4 chip, which delivers exceptional speed and responsiveness for demanding video editing tasks. Compared to the 2020 27-inch iMac with Retina 5K display, the M4-powered model offers significantly faster performance, especially in multitasking and rendering, despite the smaller display size. Its 24GB of unified RAM ensures smooth editing workflows, and the 1TB SSD provides generous storage for large project files. However, the lack of dedicated graphics means it might fall short for intensive GPU-accelerated effects compared to higher-end models. Its weight and limited port info are minor inconveniences for stationary setups.
This pick makes the most sense for creative professionals seeking a sleek, powerful, all-in-one system that balances display quality and performance for video editing.
Pros:- Vivid 24-inch 4.5K Retina display with high brightness and color accuracy
- Powerful M4 chip provides fast performance for multitasking and rendering
- Large 1TB SSD ensures ample storage for video projects
- Sleek, colorful design fits well in modern workspaces
Cons:- No dedicated graphics card option limits high-end GPU-accelerated effects
- Weight of 22.4 pounds may reduce portability for mobile workflows
- Limited information on ports and upgradeability
Best for: Video editors who want a compact yet powerful machine with excellent display quality and fast performance in a sleek design.
Not ideal for: Pro users requiring dedicated graphics or extensive upgrade options, as the integrated GPU and limited ports may limit expansion and high-end rendering.
- Operating System:Mac OS
- Color:Silver
- Display Size:24 inches
- Display Resolution:4.5K Retina
- Processor:M4 chip with 10-core CPU and GPU
- Memory:24 GB Unified RAM
- Storage:1 TB SSD
- Graphics:Integrated Graphics
- Item Weight:22.4 pounds
Our verdict“This iMac is ideal for creative professionals who prioritize a stunning display and swift processing in a stylish, all-in-one package.”
How We Picked
These iMacs were selected based on performance benchmarks, display quality, build reliability, and value for video editing. We prioritized models with powerful processors, ample RAM, and high-resolution screens that can handle demanding editing software like Final Cut Pro and Adobe Premiere. Cost-effectiveness was also considered, balancing features against price to identify options suitable for amateurs, pros, and those upgrading from older systems. The ranking reflects a combination of hardware capabilities, user reviews, and the potential for long-term use in a professional editing environment.| imac for video editing | Operating System | Graphics |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 Apple iMac with Retina 4K | macOS Mojave | Integrated GDDR5 |
| Apple 2024 iMac Air with M4 Ch | — | — |
| Apple iMac 27-inch with Retina | — | AMD Radeon Pro 5300 |
| Apple iMac 21.5-inch 2.7GHz Co | macOS 10.12 Sierra | — |
| Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Des | — | — |
| Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Des | Mac OS | Integrated Graphics |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Imac For Video Editing
When choosing an iMac for video editing, several factors influence how well the machine will perform and how satisfying your workflow will be. Beyond just specs, consider the balance between screen size, processing power, upgradeability, and price. Making the right choice requires understanding your project scope, budget constraints, and future-proofing needs. Here are key considerations to keep in mind:Performance Power and Chipset
The processor and graphics capabilities directly affect rendering times and multitasking. The newer M4 chip offers significant gains over previous Intel-based models, especially in handling 4K and higher-resolution footage. If your workflow involves complex effects or 3D work, investing in the latest chip makes a noticeable difference. However, for lighter editing, a mid-tier model may suffice, saving costs without sacrificing essential speed.
Display Size and Resolution
Video editing benefits from larger, high-resolution screens, which allow for detailed timeline work and color grading. The 27-inch Retina 5K display provides the most workspace and pixel density, making it ideal for professional editors. Smaller screens like the 24-inch models are more compact and portable but may limit multitasking and detailed viewings. Consider how much screen real estate you need versus desk space and portability.
Memory and Storage
Ample RAM and fast storage are critical for managing large video files and complex projects. 16GB of RAM is a good starting point, but 24GB or more can prevent bottlenecks during intensive tasks. Fast SSD storage minimizes loading and rendering times; 512GB or higher is recommended for working with large files without constant external drives. Balance your budget with these specs to avoid slowdowns that disrupt your editing flow.
Budget and Future-Proofing
While premium models offer unmatched performance, they come at a higher price. Investing in a more powerful iMac can extend the usable lifespan of your machine, especially as editing software demands grow. Conversely, more affordable options might require compromises, such as external storage or lower-resolution screens. Identify your current needs and future plans to choose a model that offers the best long-term value.
Ports and Connectivity
Reliable external connections are important for high-speed data transfers, external drives, and additional peripherals. Most iMacs include multiple Thunderbolt and USB-C ports, but checking for enough connectivity options prevents bottlenecks. Consider your workflow—if you routinely work with external monitors, RAID arrays, or card readers, ensure your chosen model supports these devices comfortably.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I upgrade the RAM or storage on these iMacs later?
Most newer iMacs, especially the M4 models, have soldered RAM and SSDs, making upgrades after purchase impossible or highly challenging. This means it’s important to choose a configuration that meets your current and future needs from the start. For users planning large projects or working with 4K+ footage, opting for higher RAM and storage during purchase ensures smoother performance over time.
Which iMac model offers the best value for video editing in 2026?
The 2024 iMac Air with M4 chip balances performance and affordability well. It provides enough power for most editing tasks and features a compact, lightweight design. While it doesn’t have the ultra-large display of the 27-inch model, its performance, price point, and modern features make it an attractive choice for hobbyists and semi-professionals looking for a capable machine without overspending.
Is a larger screen always better for video editing?
While a larger, high-resolution screen like the 27-inch Retina 5K greatly enhances editing precision and multitasking, it also requires more desk space and may be less portable. Smaller screens like the 24-inch models are more space-efficient and still capable, but may limit detailed work or multi-window workflows. Your specific workspace and project scope should guide your choice.
Are refurbished or renewed iMacs reliable for professional editing?
Refurbished iMacs from reputable sources can offer excellent value and reliable performance if properly vetted. Apple’s certified refurbished units often come with warranties and thorough testing, making them suitable for professional use. However, they may lack the latest features or upgrades found in newer models, so weigh the benefits of savings against potential limitations in future-proofing.
How important is GPU performance on an iMac for video editing?
While iMacs are not gaming machines, GPU performance plays a role in accelerating rendering, effects, and real-time previews in editing software. The latest M4 chips integrate powerful GPU components that significantly enhance editing workflows. For advanced color grading, 3D work, or high-resolution effects, a more capable GPU can reduce wait times and improve overall efficiency.
Conclusion
For most users seeking a versatile, high-performance machine, the 2024 iMac with M4 chip stands out as the best overall choice, offering a balance of speed, display quality, and future-proofing. Budget-conscious editors or hobbyists will find the 2024 iMac Air to be an excellent value, providing modern features at a lower price. Professionals requiring maximum screen real estate and top-tier performance should consider the 2020 27-inch Retina 5K iMac. Beginners or those upgrading from older systems should prioritize models with ample RAM and storage to ensure longevity. Ultimately, your choice depends on your editing scope, workspace, and budget, but these options cover the main needs effectively.
Fall Picks
fall essentials
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
