Your desk doesn't determine your iMac choice
Your desk determines your iMac choice. Sounds logical. A small desk calls for a compact 21.5-inch model, a spacious office screams for a 27-inch one. Most people consider the number of inches of desk space before buying a refurbished iMac . But here's the flaw: the ideal screen size isn't based on how much space you have at all.
It's all about what you do with it . A video editor at a kitchen table will benefit more from a 27-inch screen than a boardroom manager who only emails on a 21.5-inch. The distance to your screen, your type of work, and even your eye health determine which iMac is truly right for you. Not your square footage. We've listed the three most popular sizes—with their real pros and cons.
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The three screen sizes under the microscope
Choosing the right iMac size doesn't start with your desk space, but with your work. Over the years, Apple has developed three main sizes: 21.5-inch, 24-inch, and 27-inch. Each size has its own strengths and limitations, which go beyond just physical dimensions.
The compact workhorse: 21.5-inch
The 21.5-inch iMac is more than just an entry-level model. This size has proven itself as a reliable work computer for home offices and small workspaces. Its dimensions (52.8 cm wide by 45 cm high) make it suitable for desks from 100 cm wide.
What many users underestimate: the optimal viewing distance for this size is between 50 and 60 centimeters. This means you'll actually be more comfortable working with this screen on a small desk than with a larger one. The pixel density of the Retina 4K display (4096 x 2304 pixels on later models) ensures razor-sharp text, even up close.
The evolution of this format shows interesting developments:
- 2009-2014 models : standard HD resolution, suitable for basic tasks
- 2015-2019 versions : introduction of Retina 4K, transformation to professional level
- 2020 variant : latest generation with Intel processor, choice between Retina and non-Retina
Users who primarily work with word processing, spreadsheets, and web applications will find this format ideal. The smaller screen real estate encourages focused work—an often overlooked advantage.
The modern all-rounder: 24-inch
The 24-inch iMac marks an interesting shift in Apple's design philosophy. After years of absence, this size returned in 2021 with the M1 chip. The new model measures 54.7 cm wide by 46.1 cm high—only marginally larger than its 21.5-inch predecessor.
The workspace, however, grows substantially: 4480 x 2520 pixels offer 11.3 million pixels to work with. That translates to about 20% more screen real estate for your windows and applications. For creative professionals, this means more space for palettes and toolbars without sacrificing canvas size.
The color range of this model deserves special attention:
- Support for one billion colors
- P3 wide color gamut for accurate color reproduction
- 500 nits brightness for use in lit rooms
- True Tone technology adjusts color temperature to ambient light
The return of this format was no coincidence. Apple's research showed that many users needed a middle ground between compact and expansive. Photographers who don't edit full-time, programmers who don't need three monitors, and entrepreneurs preparing presentations—they'll find their sweet spot here.
The professional flagship: 27-inch
The 27-inch iMac defines what a desktop can do for professionals. Measuring 65 cm wide by 51.6 cm high, this model requires a minimum of 120 cm of desk space for comfortable use.
The 5K resolution (5120 x 2880 pixels) on the Retina models offers 14.7 million pixels—enough to edit a 4K video with plenty of room for your timeline and tools. This pixel density of 218 pixels per inch means that text remains crystal clear even at 100% zoom.
Practical advantages of the larger size:
- Multitasking : three documents side by side without compromise
- Video editing : full 4K preview with room for controls
- Development : code editor, browser and terminal visible simultaneously
- Design : Complete Adobe Creative Suite workspace without the puzzles
The hardware evolution tells a story of increasing power:
- 2009-2013 : Introduction of the format, focus on screen size
- 2014-2019 : Retina 5K becomes standard, RAM expandable to 128GB
- 2020 : Latest Intel generation with up to 10-core processors
Working distance and ergonomics
The ideal viewing distance is directly related to screen size. With a 21.5-inch monitor, you work optimally at a distance of 50-60 cm, with a 24-inch monitor this shifts to 60-70 cm, and with a 27-inch monitor, you need 70-80 cm. These distances determine not only your comfort but also your productivity.
A common mistake: people place a 27-inch iMac on a 60cm-deep desk. The result? Headaches, eye strain, and neck pain. The top of the screen should be at eye level, regardless of size. For larger screens, this often means a desk riser or adjustable arm.
Specific use cases
Homeschooling and studying : The 21.5-inch screen excels here. Students often work in small spaces and change locations frequently. Its compact size fits on almost any desk or kitchen table. The 4K resolution is more than sufficient for online lectures and research.
Graphic design and photography : Professionals generally opt for 27-inch. The extra pixels make all the difference when working with details. A portrait photographer can view a face at full size while still displaying editing tools. Note: Color calibration remains essential, regardless of the size.
Programming and development : The 24-inch M1 offers an attractive proposition. The fast processor handles compilations efficiently, while the screen offers ample space for a split-screen view of code and output. The fanless design ensures silence during long coding sessions.
Video editing : 27 inches wins hands down. Final Cut Pro and Adobe Premiere Pro are designed for large screens. The timeline, preview, and effects panels require space. Keep in mind, however, that the graphics card becomes more important as your resolution increases.
Future-proof and value
The average lifespan of an iMac is between 8 and 10 years, depending on use and maintenance. Larger screens typically retain their value longer on the secondhand market. A 27-inch from 2019 sells for 40-50% of its original price today, while a 21.5-inch from the same year rarely fetches more than 30%.
Software support varies by model. Apple typically supports macOS for 7-8 years after a model's introduction. Intel-based machines from 2020 will likely receive updates until 2027-2028. M1 models can count on longer support due to their proprietary chip architecture.
Practical purchasing tips
Timing is crucial when purchasing. Apple doesn't update the iMac line annually. The 27-inch has been officially discontinued, making refurbished models more attractive. Prices for used models stabilize about six months after a new release.
When purchasing second-hand, check:
- Screen burn (especially on older models)
- Operation of all USB ports
- Fan noise under load
- Current macOS version and upgrade options
Actual screen size sometimes differs from the marketing description. A 21.5-inch monitor measures exactly 54.61 cm diagonally, a 24-inch monitor measures 60.96 cm, and a 27-inch monitor measures 68.58 cm diagonally. These differences affect your workspace more than you might think.
Conclusion for practice
The ideal iMac size depends on three factors: your primary work, available desk space, and viewing distance. A video editor in a studio apartment will benefit more from a 27-inch monitor on a deep desk than from a smaller model that "fits better." Conversely, a writer will work more productively on a 21.5-inch monitor because the smaller screen space minimizes distractions.
Consider your workflow honestly. Do you regularly open more than two windows simultaneously? Then a 24-inch screen is the minimum. Do you primarily work in a single application with the occasional browser? Then a 21.5-inch screen is perfectly adequate. The best choice is the one that supports your work style, not the one that looks the most impressive in your office.
The right size for your situation
There's no such thing as the perfect iMac size – but there is a perfect match for your situation . Look beyond inches of desk space and focus on what you're actually doing behind the screen. A compact 21.5-inch model forces you to focus, the versatile 24-inch offers space without clutter, and the impressive 27-inch model gives professionals all the pixels they need.
Measure your desk, check your viewing distance, but above all, let your work activities be the deciding factor. This will not only save you headaches but also the regret of buying something too big or too small .
