Apple Adds 4K Display, Intel Broadwell Processors To 21.5-Inch Mac

Apple has refreshed its 21.5 inch iMac computer with faster specs and has introduced a version that ships with a 4K retina display.

The 4K display has a resolution of 4096 x 2304 pixels and has 9.4 million pixels – 4.5 times that of a standard iMac display. Be prepared to pay a premium for better image and video quality though. A standard 21.5 inch model starts at £899, while the cheapest 4K edition is £1,199.

Underneath the fancy new display is a faster Intel Broadwell processor – which although not the latest generation is an upgrade – as well as Intel Iris Pro graphics, two Thunderbolt 2 ports and 802.11ac Wi-Fi that supports 1.3Gbps networking if you have the equipment.

Apple iMac refresh

All models of the larger 27-inch iMac now come with a 5K retina display and are powered by the latest ‘Skylake’ generation of Intel Core processors and AMD high performance graphics that allow for 3.7 teraflops of compute power. The cheapest 27-inch iMac is £1,499.

One additional extra Mac users might want to consider is a Fusion Drive, which combines large hard drives with flash storage for speed. Frequently used apps and data are moved to the flash storage for quick retrieval.

All iMacs come with the latest versions of Apple’s ‘Magic’ keyboard and mouse, which now have rechargeable batteries. A new rechargeable trackpad with Force Touch is also available, but is not included.

Naturally, the new models ship with the latest version of Mac OS X, El Capitan, and come with free iWork apps, iMovie and Garageband.

The 27-inch iMacs were refreshed last year but, the 21.5-inch has had to wait two years for an update so the added performance will be welcome for those wanting a smaller model.

“These are the most stunning iMacs we’ve ever made. With our gorgeous new Retina displays, more powerful processors and graphics and all-new Magic accessories, the new iMac continues to redefine the ultimate desktop experience,” said Phillio Schiller, Apple’s senior vice president of worldwide marketing.

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