Looking Beyond the Apple 2023 iMac 24-inch M3? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
The Apple 2023 iMac 24-inch M3 offers a sharp 4.5K Retina display and efficient M3 chip performance in a sleek all-in-one design. If you are searching for apple imac 24 inch m3 alternatives, you might want a different operating system, more RAM, or a distinct brand. This machine prioritizes aesthetics and media quality over raw expandability or Windows compatibility. Its 8GB unified memory and 256GB SSD suit casual users who value clarity and style.
We selected 6 alternatives that share key specifications with the original iMac. These options include models with 24-inch screens, SSD storage, and comparable form factors. Some choices provide Windows 11 Home or Pro for users who need broader software support. Others offer more RAM or different processor architectures for varied multitasking needs. Whether you prefer a budget-friendly HP, a powerful Lenovo ThinkCentre, or a newer Apple iMac M4, each product listed here overlaps with the iMac’s core attributes. You can find a machine that fits your specific workflow and space requirements without sacrificing essential display or storage standards.
How each alternative compares
HP 24-inch Athlon Silver All-in-One PC
The HP 24-inch Athlon Silver All-in-One PC runs Windows 10 Home, offering a different ecosystem than macOS. It features 8GB of RAM and a 256GB SSD, matching the iMac's storage but using a less powerful AMD Athlon processor. The HP unit is lighter at 12.9 pounds and narrower in depth. It suits basic home office tasks where simplicity and lower cost matter more than the iMac's vibrant display or efficient M3 chip performance. You give up the 4.5K resolution and color accuracy for a standard setup.
Apple 24-inch iMac M1
The Apple 24-inch iMac M1 uses the older M1 chip instead of the M3, providing slightly less processing power. It retains the 4.5K Retina display and 8GB of RAM, keeping the visual quality high for media consumption. The M1 model is heavier at 15.6 pounds and slightly deeper. It is a budget-friendly choice for casual users who do not need the latest chip speed. You get similar aesthetics and macOS integration but with older internal components and potentially slower application loading times compared to the M3 version.
Apple iMac 24-Inch M4 All-in-One
The Apple iMac 24-Inch M4 All-in-One features the newer M4 chip, offering improved performance over the M3. It shares the same 256GB SSD storage and 24-inch 4.5K display. The M4 model is significantly lighter at 9.74 pounds and slightly thinner. It is ideal for users who want the latest macOS efficiency and design. You gain faster processing capabilities while maintaining the same compact footprint. The trade-off is a higher price point for the upgraded silicon and reduced weight, making it a premium option for style-focused buyers.
Apple 24-Inch iMac M4 10-Core 256GB SSD
This Apple 24-Inch iMac M4 10-Core model upgrades the unified memory to 16GB, doubling the base iMac's 8GB. It keeps the 256GB SSD and 24-inch display but adds a more powerful 10-core GPU. The unit weighs 9.79 pounds, similar to the standard M4. It is best for users needing more multitasking headroom or graphics performance. You get significantly better RAM for demanding apps while retaining the sleek design. The extra memory and GPU cores make it superior for creative work compared to the standard M3 configuration.
Lenovo ThinkCentre 24" Core i3 All-in-One
The Lenovo ThinkCentre 24-inch Core i3 All-in-One runs Windows 11 Pro and includes 32GB of DDR5 RAM and a 1TB SSD. This offers far more memory and storage than the iMac's 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD. It uses a 6-core Intel processor for strong multitasking. The Lenovo is a practical choice for professional Windows users who need expandability and power. You sacrifice the iMac's high-resolution display and macOS ecosystem for substantial RAM upgrades and a larger storage capacity suitable for heavy data work.
Dell 23.8" All-in-One Intel Core 3 100U Desktop
The Dell 23.8-inch All-in-One features a touchscreen and runs Windows 11 Home. It uses an Intel Core 3 100U processor, which is less powerful than the iMac's M3 chip. The screen is smaller at 23.8 inches and lacks the 4.5K Retina resolution. It weighs 12.3 pounds and is very thin. This option suits users who value touch interaction and a compact form factor for basic office tasks. You give up display sharpness and processing power for a familiar Windows interface and direct touch control.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Apple 2023 iMac 24-inch M3
Best for: casual users wanting style and clarity
- Processor
- Apple M3
- System Memory
- 8 GB
- Storage Capacity
- 256 GB SSD
- Screen Size
- 24-inch
- Display Resolution
- 4.5K Retina
- Graphics
- 8-core GPU
View on Amazon: Apple 2023 iMac 24-inch M3 Affiliate link
This all-in-one desktop pairs an 8-core M3 chip with 8GB of unified memory and a 24-inch 4.5K Retina display. The 256GB SSD provides standard storage for everyday tasks. You get a 1080p camera and six-speaker audio system in a thin, colorful chassis. It suits users who want a clean setup with strong integrated graphics and vivid visuals for media consumption and light work.
Pros
- 24-inch 4.5K Retina display with 500 nits brightness
- Apple M3 chip with 8-core CPU and 8-core GPU
- 1080p FaceTime HD camera and six-speaker sound system
- Thin all-in-one design in multiple colors
Cons
- Only 8GB of unified memory limits heavy multitasking
- 256GB SSD storage fills up quickly for large files
- No dedicated graphics card for professional rendering
Good fit if
- You want a stylish, space-saving desktop for home use
- You prioritize display quality and color accuracy for media
- You need a reliable machine for web browsing and office apps
Skip if
- You require more than 8GB of RAM for professional software
- You need extensive storage beyond 256GB without external drives
- You prefer Windows compatibility for specific business applications
Verdict: Apple 2023 iMac 24-inch M3 delivers a sharp, colorful display and efficient performance for casual users. It fits those who value aesthetics and media quality over raw power or expandability.
HP 24-inch Athlon Silver All-in-One PC
Best for: Basic home office tasks
- Processor
- AMD Athlon Silver 3050U
- System Memory
- 8 GB DDR4-2400
- Storage Capacity
- 256 GB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD
- Screen Size
- 23.8"
- Display Resolution
- FHD (1920 x 1080)
- Operating System
- Windows 10 Home
View on Amazon: HP 24-inch Athlon Silver All-in-One PC Affiliate link
This HP all-in-one desktop pairs a 23.8-inch FHD display with an AMD Athlon Silver 3050U dual-core processor. It includes 8 GB of DDR4 RAM and a 256 GB PCIe NVMe SSD. The system runs Windows 10 Home and features a pop-up privacy camera. You get a wired keyboard and mouse combo. It is a compact, budget-friendly option for basic computing tasks and light productivity work.
Pros
- 23.8-inch FHD anti-glare display
- AMD Athlon Silver 3050U processor
- Upgradable 8 GB DDR4 RAM
- Pop-up HP Privacy Camera
- Includes wired keyboard and mouse
Cons
- Dual-core processor limits multitasking
- 256 GB storage fills up quickly
- Runs Windows 10 Home
Good fit if
- You need a simple desktop for web browsing
- You want a compact unit with a built-in screen
- You prefer Windows 10 over newer versions
Skip if
- You require high performance for gaming
- You need more than 8 GB of RAM
- You want a modern operating system
Verdict: HP 24-inch AIO AMD Athlon offers a straightforward setup for basic tasks. It suits users who prioritize a low price and simple operation over processing power.
Apple 24-inch iMac M1
Best for: Casual home use and media consumption
- Processor
- Apple M1
- System Memory
- 8GB
- Storage Capacity
- 256GB SSD
- Screen Size
- 24-inch
- Display Resolution
- 4.5K Retina
- Graphics
- 7-core GPU
View on Amazon: Apple 24-inch iMac M1 Affiliate link
This 24-inch all-in-one desktop uses the Apple M1 chip with an 8-core CPU and 7-core GPU. It pairs that processor with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of SSD storage. The display is a 4.5K Retina screen with P3 wide color. It offers a thin design and studio-quality audio. This model suits users who want a compact, colorful system for everyday tasks.
Pros
- 24-inch 4.5K Retina display with P3 wide color
- Apple M1 chip with 8-core CPU and 7-core GPU
- Studio-quality three-mic array and six-speaker sound system
- 1080p FaceTime HD camera
- Two Thunderbolt / USB 4 ports
Cons
- Only 8GB of system memory
- 256GB SSD storage is limited
- 7-core GPU is less powerful than the 8-core or 10-core options
Good fit if
- You need a compact, colorful desktop for home use
- You prioritize a high-quality 4.5K display for media
- You want a quiet, all-in-one system for web browsing
Skip if
- You require more than 8GB of RAM for heavy workloads
- You need high-end gaming performance with a stronger GPU
- You want the latest M4 chip technology
Verdict: Apple 2021 iMac M1 24-inch delivers a vibrant 4.5K display and efficient M1 performance for everyday tasks. It fits users who value a compact, colorful design over raw processing power or large storage capacity.
Apple iMac 24-Inch M4 All-in-One
Best for: Stylish macOS desktops
- Processor
- Apple M4 (8-core CPU)
- System Memory
- 16GB Unified Memory
- Storage Capacity
- 256GB SSD
- Screen Size
- 24-inch
- Display Resolution
- 4.5K Retina
- Graphics
- 8-core GPU
View on Amazon: Apple iMac 24-Inch M4 All-in-One Affiliate link
This 2024 iMac pairs a 24-inch 4.5K Retina display with the M4 chip. You get 16GB of unified memory and a 256GB SSD. The all-in-one design is thin and comes in pink. It runs macOS and supports Apple Intelligence. This setup suits users who want a stylish, compact desktop with strong performance for everyday tasks and creative work.
Pros
- M4 chip with 8-core CPU
- 24-inch 4.5K Retina display
- 16GB unified memory
- 12MP Center Stage camera
Cons
- 256GB SSD storage is limited
- No Windows compatibility
- No dedicated graphics card
Good fit if
- You want a compact, colorful desktop
- You prefer macOS for creative work
- You value high-resolution displays
Skip if
- You need Windows operating system
- You require large storage capacity
- You want a dedicated GPU
Verdict: Apple 2024 iMac M4 24-inch offers a vibrant 4.5K display and efficient M4 performance. It fits users who prioritize design and macOS integration over raw gaming power or expandable storage.
Apple 24-Inch iMac M4 10-Core 256GB SSD
Best for: users wanting a stylish, high-res macOS desktop
- Processor
- Apple M4
- System Memory
- 16GB
- Storage Capacity
- 256GB SSD
- Screen Size
- 24-inch
- Display Resolution
- 4.5K Retina
- Graphics
- 10-core GPU
View on Amazon: Apple 24-Inch iMac M4 10-Core 256GB SSD Affiliate link
This all-in-one desktop features a 24-inch 4.5K Retina display and the Apple M4 chip with a 10-core GPU. It includes 16GB of unified memory and a 256GB SSD. The design is thin and comes in seven colors. It suits users who want a powerful, stylish machine for macOS tasks without external peripherals.
Pros
- 24-inch 4.5K Retina display with 500 nits brightness
- Apple M4 chip with 10-core CPU and 10-core GPU
- 16GB unified memory for smooth multitasking
- 12MP Center Stage camera and six speakers with Spatial Audio
Cons
- Only 256GB SSD storage capacity
- No dedicated graphics card options available
- Locked to macOS operating system
Good fit if
- You need a vibrant, high-resolution display for creative work
- You want a compact, colorful all-in-one design
- You are already invested in the Apple ecosystem
Skip if
- You require Windows 11 for specific software
- You need more than 256GB of internal storage
- You prefer a desktop with upgradeable components
Verdict: Apple 2024 iMac M4 24-inch delivers strong performance in a sleek package for users who prioritize display quality and macOS integration over expandability.
Lenovo ThinkCentre 24" Core i3 All-in-One
Best for: Multitasking on Windows 11 Pro
- Processor
- Intel Core i3-1315U
- System Memory
- 32GB DDR5
- Storage Capacity
- 1TB SSD
- Screen Size
- 23.8"
- Display Resolution
- FHD (1920x1080)
- Touchscreen
- Non-Touch
View on Amazon: Lenovo ThinkCentre 24" Core i3 All-in-One Affiliate link
This Lenovo ThinkCentre all-in-one desktop pairs a 24-inch FHD IPS display with an Intel Core i3-1315U processor. It includes 32GB of DDR5 RAM and a 1TB SSD. The system runs Windows 11 Pro. It offers a 100Hz refresh rate and 99% sRGB color coverage. You will get a wired keyboard and mouse. It suits users who need solid multitasking performance and a clean workspace setup.
Pros
- Intel Core i3-1315U 6-core processor
- 32GB DDR5 system memory
- 1TB PCIe SSD storage
- 23.8-inch FHD IPS display
- Windows 11 Pro operating system
Cons
- Non-touch screen limits interaction
- 250 nits brightness is modest
- Includes only wired peripherals
Good fit if
- You need ample RAM for heavy multitasking
- You prefer Windows 11 Pro features
- You want a clean desk with wired input devices
Skip if
- You require a high-resolution 4K display
- You need a bright screen for sunny rooms
- You want a touchscreen interface
Verdict: Lenovo ThinkCentre i3 AIO delivers strong multitasking capabilities with its 32GB DDR5 RAM and 6-core processor. It is a practical choice for users who prioritize performance and a professional operating system over touch interaction.
Dell 23.8" All-in-One Intel Core 3 100U Desktop
Best for: Basic Windows 11 Home tasks
- Processor
- Intel Core 3 100U
- System Memory
- 8 GB
- Storage Capacity
- 512 GB SSD
- Screen Size
- 23.8"
- Graphics
- Intel Graphics
- Operating System
- Windows 11 Home
View on Amazon: Dell 23.8" All-in-One Intel Core 3 100U Desktop Affiliate link
This Dell all-in-one desktop pairs an Intel Core 3 100U processor with a 23.8-inch FHD display running Windows 11 Home. It features an IPS panel with 99% sRGB coverage and a 5MP camera. The system includes dual Bluetooth speakers and Dolby Atmos support. At 12.3 pounds, it offers a compact footprint for home or office use, prioritizing clear visuals and comfortable viewing angles.
Pros
- Intel Core 3 100U processor
- 23.8-inch FHD IPS display with 99% sRGB
- Touchscreen capability
- Dual Bluetooth speakers with Dolby Atmos
- 5MP+IR camera with HDR
Cons
- Intel Core 3 100U is entry-level for heavy tasks
- 23.8-inch screen is smaller than the 24-inch competitors
- FHD resolution is lower than the 4.5k Retina displays on the list
Good fit if
- You need a Windows 11 Home system for basic productivity
- You want a compact 23.8-inch desktop with touchscreen
- You prioritize color accuracy with 99% sRGB coverage
Skip if
- You require a 4.5k or higher resolution display
- You need a high-performance CPU for gaming or video editing
- You prefer a 24-inch or larger screen size
Verdict: Dell 23.8" AIO Intel Core 3 is a practical Windows 11 Home option for users who value a touchscreen and accurate colors on a smaller, compact screen. It fits well for office work but falls short for those seeking high-resolution visuals or powerful processing.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Apple 2023 iMac 24-inch M3 | HP 24-inch Athlon Silver All-in-One PC | Apple 24-inch iMac M1 | Apple iMac 24-Inch M4 All-in-One | Apple 24-Inch iMac M4 10-Core 256GB SSD | Lenovo ThinkCentre 24" Core i3 All-in-One | Dell 23.8" All-in-One Intel Core 3 100U Desktop |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Processor | Apple M3 | AMD Athlon Silver 3050U | Apple M1 | Apple M4 (8-core CPU) | Apple M4 | Intel Core i3-1315U | Intel Core 3 100U |
| System Memory | 8 GB | 8 GB DDR4-2400 | 8GB | 16GB Unified Memory | 16GB | 32GB DDR5 | 8 GB |
| Storage Capacity | 256 GB SSD | 256 GB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD | 256GB SSD | 256GB SSD | 256GB SSD | 1TB SSD | 512 GB SSD |
| Screen Size | 24-inch | 23.8" | 24-inch | 24-inch | 24-inch | 23.8" | 23.8" |
| Display Resolution | 4.5K Retina | FHD (1920 x 1080) | 4.5K Retina | 4.5K Retina | 4.5K Retina | FHD (1920x1080) | not stated |
| Graphics | 8-core GPU | not stated | 7-core GPU | 8-core GPU | 10-core GPU | not stated | Intel Graphics |
| Touchscreen | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | Non-Touch | not stated |
| Operating System | not stated | Windows 10 Home | not stated | macOS | macOS | Windows 11 Pro | Windows 11 Home |
| Memory | not stated | 8GB RAM | 8GB RAM | not stated | not stated | 32GB RAM | not stated |
| Storage | 256GB SSD | 256GB SSD | 256GB SSD | 256GB SSD | 256GB SSD | 1TB SSD | 512GB SSD |
| Display Feature | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | Touchscreen |
| Dimensions | 21.5 × 5.79 × 18.2 inches | 21.3 × 16.1 × 8.05 inches | 27.2 × 6.89 × 23.8 inches | 21.5 × 5.79 × 18.1 inches | 21.5 × 5.79 × 18.1 inches | not stated | 1.58 × 21.9 × 14.1 inches |
| Weight | 15.6 pounds | 12.9 pounds | 15.6 pounds | 9.74 pounds | 9.79 pounds | not stated | 12.3 pounds |
| Size | 256GB | 8 GB RAM | 256 GB SSD | 8GB - 256GB | not stated | 16GB Unified Memory, 256GB SSD Storage | not stated | All-in-One |
| Color | Blue | Snow White | Silver | Pink | Green | Luna Grey | White |
| Model | MQRK3LL/A | 24-dd0010 | MGPK3LL/A | MWUG3LL/A | MWUY3LL/A | ThinkCentre AIO | DEC24250-3413WHT-PUS |
Frequently asked questions
Can I use Windows instead of macOS on a 24-inch all-in-one PC?
Yes, several alternatives offer Windows 11 Home or Windows 10 Home. The HP 24-inch Athlon Silver PC runs Windows 10 Home, providing a familiar desktop environment. The Lenovo ThinkCentre and Dell 23.8-inch models also use Windows, allowing you to access a wider range of software and games not available on Apple devices.
Which 24-inch all-in-one has the most RAM for multitasking?
The Lenovo ThinkCentre 24-inch Core i3 All-in-One features 32GB of DDR5 RAM. This is significantly higher than the 8GB found in the HP Athlon and Apple M1 iMac. The high memory capacity supports heavy multitasking and professional workflows on Windows 11 Pro without slowing down.
Is there a 24-inch all-in-one with a touchscreen?
The Dell 23.8-inch All-in-One Intel Core 3 Desktop includes a touchscreen display. This feature allows for direct interaction with the interface, which is useful for basic office work and navigation. Most other options, like the Apple iMacs and the HP Athlon, rely on traditional mouse and keyboard input.
What is the lightest 24-inch all-in-one PC available?
The Apple iMac 24-Inch M4 All-in-One is the lightest option at 9.74 pounds. The slightly different M4 configuration weighs 9.79 pounds. These are notably lighter than the Apple M3 iMac and the HP Athlon, which both weigh over 12 pounds, making them easier to move or mount.
Can I get more than 256GB of storage on a 24-inch all-in-one?
Yes, the Lenovo ThinkCentre 24-inch Core i3 All-in-One includes a 1TB SSD. Most other listed models, including the Apple iMacs and the HP Athlon, come with 256GB SSDs. The larger storage on the Lenovo provides more space for files, applications, and media without needing external drives.
Does the Dell 23.8-inch all-in-one have a compact design?
The Dell 23.8-inch model has a slim profile with a depth of only 1.58 inches. It weighs 12.3 pounds and fits well in smaller spaces. While it is not the lightest, its narrow depth and white color make it a practical choice for users seeking a compact Windows desktop.