Apple first introduced its iMac family in 1998 and they’ve been popular systems for Mac power users ever since. But they can be rather expensive, leading many to seek out alternative options. Fortunately, there are plenty to choose from. We love the HP Envy 32 for its all-in-one design, great hardware options, and fantastic connectivity.
There are other great options too, though, including Apple’s own Mac Mini, and Microsoft’s Surface Studio 2.
The best iMac alternatives
- HP Envy 32
- Surface Studio 2
- Dell Inspiron 27 7000 Series
- Apple Mac Mini
HP Envy 32
HP
HP’s Envy 32 is simply one of the best iMac replacements you can find. It’s an HDR 600-class machine packing a 31.5-inch screen with a 3,840 x 2,160 resolution, a 600-nit peak brightness, and a 6,000:1 contrast ratio. It’s a great solution for gamers too, with options for the GeForce GTX 1650, the RTX 2060, and the RTX 2080 (Max-Q) discrete GPUs.
Behind the screen, you’ll find either Intel’s ninth-generation Core i5-9400 or its Core i7-9700 processor, depending on the configuration. It’s complemented by 16GB or 32GB of system memory (two slots) and a barrage of different single and dual storage configurations. HP’s AIO PC supports Intel’s Optane memory too.
For connectivity, the Envy 32 provides plenty, including Thunderbolt 3, USB-C and USB-A at USB 3.2 Gen 2 speeds, and HDMI 2.,0 input. The base supplies wireless charging for your compatible mobile devices. The 5MP camera features a cool pop-up design so you can tuck it away when not in use.
You can read more about this product in our review of the larger, curved 34-inch model.
Surface Studio 2
Microsoft
Sure, the starting price is rather steep at $3,499, but Microsoft’s second-generation Surface Studio is a great alternative for creators. The 28-inch touch screen and Zero Gravity hinge provide ample ways to inspire and keep those creative juices flowing. It supports both the Surface Dial (sold separately) and the Surface Pen (included) so you can draw, paint, and move the natural, mouse-free way.
The hardware is a little outdated, with Microsoft only providing three set configurations based on Intel’s seventh-generation i7-7820HQ four-core processor, but it’s still plenty powerful. It’s complemented by Nvidia’s GTX 1060 or GTX 1070 discrete CPU, 16GB or 32GB of system memory, and 1TB or 2TB of storage. Connectivity includes four USB-A 3.2 Gen 1 ports, a single USB-C port 3.2 Gen 1 port, an SD card reader, 3.5mm headphone jack, and an Ethernet port.
Read our full Microsoft Surface Studio 2 review
Dell Inspiron 27 7000 Series
Dell
If you’re hunting for an iMac alternative at a much lower starting price, Dell’s Inspiron 27 7000 series starts at just $799. It features a 27-inch Full HD InfinityEdge display framed by an 8mm border and complemented by a pop-up camera. It’s backed by Intel’s tenth generation Core i5-10210U or Core i7-10510U four-core CPU with integrated graphics — depending on the configuration — and 8GB or 12GB of system memory.
On the connectivity front, Dell’s AIO PC includes both HDMI input and output. Other ports consist of four USB-A and one USB-C, an audio combo jack, Ethernet, and an SD card reader. Storage configurations are rather limited, however, with up to a 512GB primary SSD and a 1TB secondary 5,400RPM hard drive. It supports Dell’s Mobile Connect app for Android and iOS.
Read our full Dell Inspiron 27 2700 review
Apple Mac Mini
If you want or need to stay within the Apple ecosystem but don’t want an iMac, the Mac Mini is a good alternative. Apple provides two starting points: A Core i3-8100B model at $799 and a Core i5-8500B model at $1,099. In both cases, you can upgrade to Intel’s Core i7-8700B six-core chip during the configuration process before purchasing the unit through Apple.
It also includes 8GB to 64GB of system memory, and up to 2TB of storage. Connectivity includes one Ethernet port, four Thunderbolt 3 ports, an HDMI 2.0 output, and an audio combo jack. Unlike the other units on this list, Apple’s Mac Mini requires an external display — up to three, depending on the resolution and connection.
Read our full Apple Mac Mini review
