The Apple iMac (specifically the current 24-inch M4 model from 2024/2025, still the latest as of March 2026) starts at £1,299 directly from Apple. This base configuration includes:
- Apple M4 chip (8-core CPU, 8-core GPU)
- 16GB unified memory
- 256GB SSD storage
- 24-inch 4.5K Retina display
- Two Thunderbolt 4 ports (upgradable models add more ports, better specs, and start around £1,499–£1,899)
Deals can bring the entry-level down to around £1,208 at retailers like Amazon, and higher configs see discounts too. It’s praised for its stunning display, seamless macOS integration (with Apple Intelligence AI features), quiet/fanless design, excellent build quality, and included color-matched peripherals (Magic Keyboard and Mouse). Many reviews call it the best all-in-one overall due to performance, display quality, and ecosystem perks, though it’s pricier than most Windows equivalents.
Windows all-in-one PCs (from brands like HP, Lenovo, Dell, MSI) generally offer better value at similar or lower price points, with larger screens (often 27-inch or more), touch options, more upgrade flexibility, and Windows compatibility. They often start lower but may have compromises like lower-resolution displays, fan noise, or less premium builds compared to the iMac.
Here are some current price ranges and examples for comparable all-in-one PCs (mid-2026 market, varying by config like Intel Core Ultra or AMD Ryzen processors, 16–32GB RAM, 512GB–1TB storage):
- Entry-level/budget options — Around £500–£900 (e.g., basic Lenovo or Dell 24-inch models with solid everyday performance for web, office, streaming).
- Mid-range (strong competitors to base iMac) — £800–£1,200 (e.g., Lenovo Yoga AIO 27-inch around £850–£1,000, HP 27-inch touch models around £900–£1,100, Dell 24/27-inch around £900).
- Premium/large-screen Windows AIOs — £1,000–£1,500+ (e.g., HP OmniStudio X 27/32-inch models around £1,040–$1,250 after deals, higher-end Lenovo or MSI configs pushing toward £1,200–£1,500).
Price comparison summary (approximate starting prices for decent configs with 16GB+ RAM, good displays):
- Apple iMac 24-inch M4: £1,299 (premium display/performance/ecosystem premium).
- Windows alternatives (e.g., HP, Lenovo, Dell 24–27-inch): £800–£1,200 (often cheaper for similar or larger screens, more ports/RAM options, but may lack the iMac’s polish and efficiency).
The iMac tends to be more expensive upfront (by £300–£600+ for equivalent specs), but many consider it worth it for the superior screen (4.5K Retina), silent operation, longevity, and Apple ecosystem. Windows AIOs win on affordability, screen size variety, touch support, and raw flexibility (e.g., easier upgrades or gaming compatibility in some models).
If you’re in the Apple world (iPhone/iPad integration), the iMac is hard to beat. For general use, budget, or Windows software needs, a Windows all-in-one often provides better bang for the buck. Check current deals on sites like Apple.com, Best Buy, Amazon, or HP/Lenovo/Dell for the latest configs and discounts!
Typical price:
- From about £979 – £1,449 depending on storage and RAM.
Specs (base model)
- Apple M34chip
- 16 GB RAM
- 256–512 GB SSD
- 24″ 4.5K Retina display
- macOS
👍 Strengths
- Best display quality in this class
- Very quiet and efficient
- Excellent for creative work
👎 Weakness
- More expensive for similar specs
- Not upgradeable
Typical price:
- Budget: £699 – £800
- Mid-range: £800 – £1,200
Example specs
- Intel Core i5 / i7 or AMD Ryzen
- 16 GB RAM often available
- 512 GB – 1 TB SSD
- 24″ or 27″ Full HD or QHD display
- Windows 11
👍 Strengths
- Usually cheaper than iMac
- More RAM/storage for the price
- Better upgrade options
👎 Weakness
- Display quality usually lower than iMac
- Build quality often not as premium
✅ Quick verdict
- Best design + display: iMac
- Best value for money: Windows All-in-One PC
- Best ecosystem (iPhone/iPad users): iMac
💡 Simple rule people use
- If you already use iPhone / iPad → buy iMac
- If you want cheaper and more RAM → buy Windows AIO
💰 Simple Price Comparison
| System | Typical price | Screen | Ram |
| iMac M4 | £979–£1,449 | 24″ 4.5K Retina | 16 GB |
| HP AIO | £699–£900 | 24″ FHD | 8–16 GB |
| Lenovo AIO 27 | £799–£1,100 | 27″ FHD/QHD | 16 GB |
| Dell Inspiron AIO | £895–£1,200 | 27″ FHD | 16 GB |