Who else is holding out for a new 27 inch iMac?

[CooperBox]

I hope you are right, the studio display has got the amazing Apple finish but weirdly "boring" compared to the rest of the line-up.

My goodness, how true this is!
I was Christmas shopping yesterday, and passing an Apple store with some time to spare, I went inside for a look around. There was a Mac Studio connected to a Studio Display, and as the store had very few customers I spent 20mins or so undisturbed playing around with it. Nice, but it certainly didn't excite me, and then when I saw the price of the base model+ new display for a total of 4050euros (US$4310) it almost brought on a migraine!
An hour later I was back home and in front of my Intel 2020 27" iMac and enjoying it immensely, with no remorse whatsoever for the purchase of this model, which imho is very underestimated by many.
Don't get me wrong, I understand why professionals would buy the Mac Studio assembly if their livelyhood depends on it. If not I'd simply say to others, search for a 2020 27" 512GB SSD model at a bargain price as I did, and you'll sure to be a 'happy bunny' - and have a stack of money to spare.

 

[colodane]

I too saw the studio display in person for the first time yesterday.

If you search through these forums, you will see that I have been fairly critical of it based on the published specs and especially the PRICE !

But I stopped into the Apple store for 10 minutes while shopping and looked it over. The quality of the display image itself looked great as expected. But no "greater" than my 27 inch iMac. The display model happened to have the adjustable height feature and I played with it for awhile. WOW - what a great tactile experience. Very smooth, terrific adjustment range and an extremely "planted" and stable feeling. Zero wobbling. That, in conjunction with the smaller bezels on the display makes the total package just ooze Quality.

Not saying I'd buy one with my next Mac setup - that depends on what Apple announces on the processor end. But if I ever did have to swallow hard and pony up $1600 for a display, spending the extra $400 for the adjustable base would be a no-brainer.

 

[joshuabeg]

Nice setup! What desk is that? I’m curious the dimensions

Thank you!

The desk is called the Jarvis Standing Desk from a company called Fully. I purchased the legs and mechanism only, and bought a birch wood butcher block from Home Depot for the top. The drawer and cable management tray are also from Fully. The dimensions of the desk top are 48in x 27in

 

[Makisupa Policeman]

My goodness, how true this is!
I was Christmas shopping yesterday, and passing an Apple store with some time to spare, I went inside for a look around. There was a Mac Studio connected to a Studio Display, and as the store had very few customers I spent 20mins or so undisturbed playing around with it. Nice, but it certainly didn't excite me, and then when I saw the price of the base model+ new display for a total of 4050euros (US$4310) it almost brought on a migraine!
An hour later I was back home and in front of my Intel 2020 27" iMac and enjoying it immensely, with no remorse whatsoever for the purchase of this model, which imho is very underestimated by many.
Don't get me wrong, I understand why professionals would buy the Mac Studio assembly if their livelyhood depends on it. If not I'd simply say to others, search for a 2020 27" 512GB SSD model at a bargain price as I did, and you'll sure to be a 'happy bunny' - and have a stack of money to spare.

This is my feeling too. I have the same model with core i7. Very happy. Got a very good price too. I'm certainly not a pro but this computer can still do some fairly heavy lifting. Fans are rarely above idle. Screen is huge and 5K looks awesome. Yes it will probably be getting cut off from OS updates in the next two years or so but oh well. I know I can get at least 6-8 years of life out of this thing with workarounds like using Firefox as a secure browser or even OCLP. I'm not too worried.

 

[bushman4]

Going to wait a little while longer
Hopefully Tim Cook realizes how many people would like 27” iMac

 

[AbbeyAbasalom]

I'm calling Apple's bluff that they actually discontinued this line. I believe Apple said it was discontinued so people would buy the new Studio.

 

[CooperBox]

This is my feeling too. I have the same model with core i7. Very happy. Got a very good price too. I'm certainly not a pro but this computer can still do some fairly heavy lifting. Fans are rarely above idle. Screen is huge and 5K looks awesome. Yes it will probably be getting cut off from OS updates in the next two years or so but oh well. I know I can get at least 6-8 years of life out of this thing with workarounds like using Firefox as a secure browser or even OCLP. I'm not too worried.

Pleased to hear the 27" is to your liking. I too love the screen on mine and have honestly never heard the fans running.
Regarding OS updates, (imho) many put too much importance on this issue.
On quite a number of Macs in my collection, many vintage, I cannot remember the last time I used Safari, in fact I shy away from it - even on the 2020 iMac. I almost never use Google and have a dislike for Safari's close integration with it. I do however always ensure I am using an alternative up-to-date web browser. Even on an early MacBook running Mountain Lion OSX 10.8, I use the lastest compatible FireFox I can find, and I've truly never had a problem with crashes, malware attacks, spamming or system being compromised in any way. Having said that I remain vigilant, never use torrents, never use for banking etc, and obviously steer well clear of any obvious 'risky' sites or others indicated by my privacy & security add-ons as 'unsafe'.

 

[Millennium Twain]

One thing's for sure, once having used a 27" there's no going back to a smaller screen. I've tried a new 24" M1 iMac and much preferred the previous 2020 Intel version. Plus the sound is superior on the latter.
I too would have liked to have purchased a new 27" iMac model but when it didn't happen I was able to get a 2020 27" mid-range model at a superb reduced price. Just love this machine! Currently has 8GB memory (which is fine for all my tasks so far including video editing) but when required will upgrade RAM to 32GB for a mere 150€. And eventually to 128GB when memory prices have plummeted and I decide to sell - but not before at least an M2 27"/30" appears. And I'm sure it will but not before end 2023.
For those who are still undecided, please don't write-off the 2020 27" iMac. Imho it's most definitely an underrated model which will still do most tasks extremely well.

I got a new 27-Inch June of 2021, as replacement for my older 2013 21-Inch. With the idea it would get me through this next decade, and give me better graphics speed and resolution.
Unfortunately, when I finally starting using it this spring, it soon started flashing color pixels on the screen, and
seemingly overheating (fan on), and freezing, and crashing. After several such episodes it crashed, and would not even power on.
I purchased it thinking it would be faster with graphics.
I am finally ready to talk with Apple about about (3-yr warranty) return and repair.
Am I still correct in preferring to stay with this Intel chip machine, in the 27-inch model?
I've never had trouble with my Macs since 1989, so was very surprised with this issue.

My configuration:
27-inch iMac with Retina 5K display, USB-C to USB Adapter
3.8GHz 8-core 10th-generation Intel Core i7 processor, Turbo Boost up to 5.0GHz
16GB 2666MHz DDR4 memory
1TB SSD storage
Radeon Pro 5500 XT with 8GB of GDDR6 memory

 

[wilberforce]

I got a new 27-Inch June of 2021, as replacement for my older 2013 21-Inch. With the idea it would get me through this next decade, and give me better graphics speed and resolution.
Unfortunately, when I finally starting using it this spring, it soon started flashing color pixels on the screen, and
seemingly overheating (fan on), and freezing, and crashing. After several such episodes it crashed, and would not even power on.
I purchased it thinking it would be faster with graphics.
I am finally ready to talk with Apple about about (3-yr warranty) return and repair.
Am I still correct in preferring to stay with this Intel chip machine, in the 27-inch model?
I've never had trouble with my Macs since 1989, so was very surprised with this issue.

My configuration:
27-inch iMac with Retina 5K display, USB-C to USB Adapter
3.8GHz 8-core 10th-generation Intel Core i7 processor, Turbo Boost up to 5.0GHz
16GB 2666MHz DDR4 memory
1TB SSD storage
Radeon Pro 5500 XT with 8GB of GDDR6 memory

I have a very similar spec 2020 iMac, and have had no problems. The i7 CPU with the 5500XT GPU has had very few (possibly none?) reported hardware problems in this forum, I think it is a pretty solid machine, as the 27" 5K iMac has been refined over 6 years. The only hardware problems I have heard with the 2020 iMac were due to third party RAM, and that only occasionally.
If you qualify for warranty repair, I would definitely do it.
Just to check, remove the USB adapter and remove half the RAM (then remove the other half instead). Note that when you change RAM it takes an extra 30 seconds to power on and boot.
I would suggest you need a different reason to switch from Intel to Apple Silicon. My Intel 2020 iMac is just as capable as my M1 Pro machine. In fact my M1 Pro machine had to have the entire logic board replaced, which does not bode well for its reliability, in comparison.

If you have a special need for fast or intensive graphics (check your GPU usage!), then the 5500XT is a pretty good mid-level GPU, but not a top GPU (like the 5700XT, or like the M1 Max or M1 Ultra)

 

[Yebubbleman]

You guys waiting on all new "27 iMac should get one real soon if "Murphy" has anything to do with it. I just plopped down $2500 for a mint 2020 27" Intel I9 10-core ,5K Display, 128GB memory, Radeon 5500 XT with 8GB GPU and a 2Tb SSD. 100% of the time when I purchase a new to me computer the one I was waiting on appears.

M

Damn! Where'd you score that one? I bought a configuration very similar to that from Apple Refurbished about six months ago (mine had the 16GB Video card and 10GbE, but everything else was the exact same as what you had) and it cost me $2000 more!

 

[Boidem]

To those demanding Apple release a new larger iMac; have you considered that you are in a relatively tiny niche of customers who actually want such a thing? 27" iMacs sold far less than the 20" and 21.5" versions. So what actual proportion of the entire computer market do you think 27" iMacs actually cater for? Apple would have to consider potential for profit from any product, which is why unprofitable ones are quickly discontinued.

Given that the early Apple Silicon machines were aimed at the 'consumer' end of the market, where the bread an butter is, then it's reasonable to see that they were effectively 'testing the water' in terms of the market. The MBA, MM and iMac have proven to be very popular, so Apple now have that information to inform their next moves. They were never going to release high end machines with no provenance, into a fiercely competitive market sector. Imagine if they had, and there'd been a major drawback with such a machine, and it caused Apple serious damage? Reputation is everything. Apple tend to get most things right, unlike other companies (remember theMicrosoft Zune??). That's what they're good at. So; isn't it better that they spend time getting any new products right before releasing them?

If you want an Apple Silicon Mac with a 27" screen, there's the Studio +Display. Or a MM with a SD, for around what a comparable 27" iMac would have cost. So there's no need for any whinging. What will you do if Apple DON'T release a new larger iMac??? FWIW, I'd be very surprised if they didn't, but then I don't work in Apple's product design and marketing depts.

No seriously; what will you do if they don't?

 

[BamaGuy]

I’m complete in on multiple 27” iMacs! I cannot believe Apple thinks the studio is an acceptable price point for most consumers that want a larger screen, and think a mini just looks horrible with all the cords and connectors matching to a non-similar display (unless you shell out $1500-5000 more). I have two 24” M1s in orange and blue, and they are spectacular, but when I use my older 27” Intel machine at work, it feels vastly larger and I miss it. Everyone at my university of 40,000 people that would use an iMac desktop would get a new version. Big miss for Apple if they don’t make one soon. I’m saying that as a stockholder! Think different (than a studio)! Colors! Fun! Apple!

 

[Gudi]

I’m saying that as a stockholder! Think different (than a studio)! Colors! Fun! Apple!

Yes and No! If the larger iMac was the same colorful M1 with a bigger screen, it would’ve been released together with the 24" iMac. But like the MacBook Air and Pro, the larger iMac serves another purpose for more demanding tasks. You get a much beefier processor with those 16" displays. The larger iMac will have more upgrade options and fewer color options.

 

[rpmurray]

To those demanding Apple release a new larger iMac; have you considered that you are in a relatively tiny niche of customers who actually want such a thing? 27" iMacs sold far less than the 20" and 21.5" versions. So what actual proportion of the entire computer market do you think 27" iMacs actually cater for? Apple would have to consider potential for profit from any product, which is why unprofitable ones are quickly discontinued.

To those that plopped down money for a Mac Studio; have you considered that you are in a relatively tiny niche of customers who actually want such a thing? Mac Studios with the Apple Studio Diplay sell in far less numbers than the 27" iMacs. So what actual proportion of the entire computer market do you think Mac Studios actually cater for?

 

[Boidem]

To those that plopped down money for a Mac Studio; have you considered that you are in a relatively tiny niche of customers who actually want such a thing? Mac Studios with the Apple Studio Diplay sell in far less numbers than the 27" iMacs. So what actual proportion of the entire computer market do you think Mac Studios actually cater for?

No that’s silly and misses the point entirely.

 

[rpmurray]

No that’s silly and misses the point entirely.

Just like how you miss the point about people who want a larger iMac.

 

[ZivaD]

I was but I’ve decided to go mini instead, so I’m holding out for an M2 “whatever” when it comes out.
Everyone of my iMacs has had problems, the current one has an overheating issue that’s very annoying.
I think a less packed unit would be a better option.

 

[stradify]

This thread needs a poll!
The bigger iMac is coming: Yes / No

 

[Zanc]

I have money burning a hole in my pocket for a new 27" iMac. I'm calling Apple's bluff that they actually discontinued this line. I believe Apple said it was discontinued so people would buy the new Studio and their expensive 27" display....otherwise most iMac owners would just continue to wait for the new iMac.

I know so many people who love their 27" iMac and want nothing more than a new one with Apple silicon. We are all going to hold out as long as we possibly can with our current iMacs, and if Apple doesn't eventually release one we'll be forced to buy something else. But for now, even though I want something new I will continue to hold out and use my current 2019 iMac until I can't use it any longer. Apple will be missing out on my cash for as long as I can wait.

Is anyone else doing the same?

I’m in. Note that all Apple have to do is change the chip in the Studio monitor.

 

[lovehateapple]

mini with 27" studio display is a better option for me. The monitor will often outlive the computer so I want to be able to replace the computer without having to throw away a perfectly good monitor.

 

[rpmurray]

The monitor will often outlive the computer ...

I've found that most people buy a new monitor about as often as they do a computer so it always surprises me how often this straw man argument is brought up.

 

[HobeSoundDarryl]

In my case (making living on Macs and iMac 27" as my primary for a long time), when the tech guts of that iMac conked, I lost my best Mac, my best Windows PC and my monitor. The value proposition of the iMac 27" of the past is substantial at purchase and terrible at the end when one part can make it all useless.

So, I will never again buy an AIO iMac "bigger" no matter what. (Good) Screens DO tend to outlast Macs, typically because macOS will obsolete the Mac portion even before the hardware itself is ready to be retired (see hacks to make old Macs install new macOS and work fine).

To those who covet a new iMac "bigger," I get you, understand, and hope Apple rolls one out. However, as shared earlier, I would much more expect it to be branded "pro" and priced like iMac Pro than for it to arrive at the traditional under $2K "starting at" price. If true, does your enthusiasm for one change if "starting at" is- my guess- $3499 and "nicely configured" is up in the $4K-$5K range? I strongly suspect that's the iMac "bigger" that will eventually arrive. Rationale was offered in my prior post.

iMac 27" was a relatively great value Mac for many years. I suspect it was discontinued because Apple wanted more profit margin which they got and probably then some with its implied replacement. When it resurrects, I suspect it will have the new target margin too... which is why the starting at price will probably be >$3K instead of the traditional <$2K we fondly recall.

My advice: Pair Mac Studio (or the rumored new Mini) with a good third-party screen if you want Mac functionality and value. A good monitor that is flexible to be usable with the computer AFTER the next one you buy should deliver great value than getting one that is heavily married to the computing tech inside.

Furthermore, if you need Windows too, bootcamp likely will NOT return (I don't consider Windows for ARM to be sufficiently complete Windows). So the apparent new bootcamp is a separate PC for the Windows side of things. If so, a monitor with at least 2 video inputs is much nicer than one with only one input (and having to switch cables). I finally went ultra-wide 5K2K in a 40" and love it. I can't see a visual quality difference vs. the former iMac screen but now I have much more working space. When I need Windows, I can even split screen to have both on screen at the same time. The flexible hub that is not solely a few thunderbolt ports lets both platforms share the same keyboard and mouse.

There are options outside the walled garden (too) for those seeking classic iMac bigger" screens AND good overall value for the money. Shop around and see for yourself. I loved my iMac 27" machines for well over a decade. But I'd never go back now... unless Apple created an iMac ultra-wide that included a resurrection of target display mode so that it could be a dumb monitor after macOS obsoletes the tech guts... and priced all that at a great value as iMac 27" used to be priced relative to the rest of the lineup.

 

[wilberforce]

I've found that most people buy a new monitor about as often as they do a computer so it always surprises me how often this straw man argument is brought up.

100% agree. Every time I got a new computer, I got a new monitor at nearly the same time. Monitors improve and get bigger. I still have two old monitors that are still perfectly functional, but now never used. They look very mediocre and small compared to current monitors. Sure, my monitor will "last" 10 or 15 years, but I am fickle and will trade it for the latest one in 5 years. The monitor is what I am looking at all the time, not the electronic bits in the box.

 

[lovehateapple]

I've found that most people buy a new monitor about as often as they do a computer so it always surprises me how often this straw man argument is brought up.

Sorry, but I'm not one of those who buys a new display every time I upgrade my computer. If you count people who buy laptops or all-in-ones, then of course they have to buy a new monitor every time they buy a new computer. I used to own an imac, but quickly discovered they didn't make financial sense for the reason I already explained. I understand its a personal choice, so its definitely not a straw man argument.

 

[Gudi]

I used to own an iMac, but quickly discovered they didn't make financial sense for the reason I explained.

Have you considered to not "throw away a perfectly good monitor", but sell it used or for parts?

I'm still using an LG Flatron L1910B from circa 1997 (?) together with a Mac mini 2012. Simply because newer monitors (2004?) did not outlive my computers. They died early and I had to look in my basement for a replacement. And of course I tried to fix my Samsung by replacing a blown capacitor with a soldering iron. It did give the monitor a few more years lifetime, but not enough.

If modern monitors were build to last like that good old LG, it would make sense to buy them separately. But they are not and they get outdated too, just like computers. The iMac as a package is just so much cheaper and nicer than every modular setup. For the perceived benefit of reusability you gain a bunch of compatibility problems with external monitors. And at the end you put a perfectly fine monitor in your basement, because it still works and is too good to throw it away, but also not good enough to use or to sell.