Apple refreshes iMac with Haswell, faster SSDs and next-gen Wi-Fi

[Jos]

Apple has announced an update to the iMac family of all-in-one desktops that brings the latest Intel “Haswell” processors, better graphics, next-generation Wi-Fi and faster PCIe flash storage options into the same thin design revealed by the company last year. The refreshed lineup is available starting today in stores and online.

The company is keeping the same price points and, as usual, there are two configurations to choose from for each model with a few customization options for those who want to max out their machines -- and wallets.

The 21.5-inch iMac is available with a 2.7 GHz quad-core Intel Core i5 and Intel Iris Pro for a suggested retail price of $1,299; or with a 2.9 GHz quad-core Intel Core i5 and Nvidia GeForce GT 750M for $1,499. Its larger sibling, the 27-inch iMac is available with a 3.2 GHz quad-core Intel Core i5 and Nvidia GeForce GTX 755M for $1,799; or with a 3.4 GHz quad-core Intel Core i5 and the same Nvidia chip for $1,999.

People who wish to upgrade further can choose up to a quad-core Intel Core i7 processor clocked at 3.5 GHz, an Nvidia GeForce GTX 780M series graphics card with 4GB of video memory, up to 32GB of 1600 MHz DDR3 RAM, and up to 1TB of all-flash storage or 3TB of Fusion storage combining traditional hard drives with SSD.

Speaking of storage, Apple says the updated iMac now features support for PCIe-based flash storage that makes Fusion Drive and all-flash storage options up to 50% faster than the previous generation.

Last but not least, the new iMac now supports the same 802.11ac Wi-Fi connectivity present in the latest MacBook Airs, which should improve wireless range and transfer speeds when connected to compatible router.

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https://www.techspot.com/news/54109-apple-refreshes-imac-with-haswell-faster-ssds-and-next-gen-wi-fi.html

 

[Jad Chaar]

Wow $1300 for a iMac with Intel graphics? Now this is just a screw up by Apple. At least bring it down to $999.

 

[ElShotte]

Hmmm, seeing as how each better model comes with a better video chipset, and is ultimately upgradeable to a GTX780M, I wonder if the video chipset is swappable. That would be awesome.

 

[9Nails]

Hmmm, seeing as how each better model comes with a better video chipset, and is ultimately upgradeable to a GTX780M, I wonder if the video chipset is swappable. That would be awesome.

My guess is that these are different logic boards that they're swapping at the factory. These items are probably not an "off-the-shelf" item that you'll find at a local PC components store. In other words, they'll be an expensive upgrade, even if you do it yourself.

 

[Jad Chaar]

Hmmm, seeing as how each better model comes with a better video chipset, and is ultimately upgradeable to a GTX780M, I wonder if the video chipset is swappable. That would be awesome.

The iMac is basically built like a laptop and it will most likely be soldered onto the motherboard like Nails said.

 

[Guest]

Lol.overpriced computers for theisheeps. but I really ROFL on this story from another tech site.

 

[GhostRyder]

The price of these things is completely uncalled for, that's a ridiculous price for a machine with Integrated graphics. I can buy a medium gaming laptop for 1300 that would blow that thing out of the water in almost all areas.

 

[Guest]

You all seem to ignore the price of a similar IPS monitor.

 

[9Nails]

You all seem to ignore the price of a similar IPS monitor.

I can pick up a 22" IPS monitor at NewEgg down as low as $120. It's not great enough of a factor to justify iMac when I'm just looking to match spec for spec. Of course when I build my own spec'ed to match computer I'll end up saving money any way. What you're paying additional for with Apple is service / support, and the software platform to run Apple titles.

If I was dead set on that AIO factor, I can start out below the $400 price point in a Lenovo, Acer, Asus, or HP. Of course I wouldn't do that since I want a system that would have enough power to run a few titles simultaneously. (And I would want Windows instead of Android.) So going up to a $700 - $750 price range and there's a plethora of AIO computers to pick from - including ones with an IPS display. It would take an additional $550 dollars to get to Apple's vaulted price level.