Apple 2017 iMac with Intel Core i5, 21.5-inch, 8GB RAM, 1TB Storage - Silver (Renewed)
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AI Verdict
This is a 2017 21.5-inch iMac with a 2.3 GHz dual-core Intel Core i5, 8GB DDR4 RAM, and a 1TB HDD, suitable only for extremely light web browsing and basic document work if you immediately upgrade the
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Pros
- Features a 21.5-inch 1920x1080 LED-backlit display, which some users still find visually appealing for its price point.
- Includes four USB 3.0 ports and two Thunderbolt ports, offering decent connectivity for older peripherals and external drives.
- Comes with Gigabit Ethernet and Bluetooth 4.2 for wired and wireless networking options.
- The 8GB DDR4 2133 MHz RAM, while limited, is upgradeable in some 21.5-inch 2017 models, allowing for potential performance improvements.
- The all-in-one form factor and aluminum build provide a clean desktop aesthetic.
Cons
- The 1TB HDD significantly bottlenecks performance, leading to slow boot times and application launches, with users reporting 5-second delays for system preferences.
- The 2.3 GHz dual-core Intel Core i5-7360U processor is considered underpowered for modern tasks, even for basic use cases, and is described as 'very slow'.
- Runs on macOS Sierra, which is an outdated operating system and will not receive future feature updates, limiting software compatibility and security updates.
- The 1920x1080 resolution display is not 4K, which some users consider a drawback compared to other 2017 iMac configurations.
- The 802.11n Wireless standard is older, potentially offering slower wireless speeds compared to newer Wi-Fi standards.
Dimension Scores
The 2.3 GHz dual-core Intel Core i5-7360U is a 7th generation mobile processor, considered 'very slow' and 'outdated' for current computing standards.
While RAM is upgradeable in some 21.5-inch 2017 models, it often requires screen removal, making it a difficult and potentially costly process; the CPU is soldered.
The all-in-one design and mobile processor generally lead to adequate thermal management and quiet operation for light tasks, though no specific user complaints about noise were prominent in searches.
The iMac's aluminum and glass construction is described as 'well-built' and 'iconic,' maintaining a premium feel even years later.
Best For
- Extremely light web browsing and email after an SSD upgrade.
- Basic document creation and word processing in a non-demanding environment.
- A secondary display for a newer, more powerful Mac Mini or MacBook.
- Watching streaming content like Netflix or Twitch, assuming an SSD upgrade to handle browser performance.
Not Recommended For
- Any form of music production or complex creative work due to the slow processor and HDD.
- Users expecting current macOS feature and security updates.
- Gaming beyond very simple, older titles, even with the Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640.
- Anyone needing fast multitasking or quick application launches.
Watch Out For
- The included 1TB HDD is a major performance bottleneck; users report initial setup being 'extremely slow' and applications taking 'at least five seconds' to open.
- Apple is expected to stop releasing updates for Intel-based Macs sooner than for Apple Silicon models, potentially leaving this device without future security patches or software compatibility.
- Renewed units may not come with original Apple peripherals; some buyers received 'junk' non-Apple keyboards and mice.
- RAM upgrades can be difficult and may require professional service, as some 21.5-inch models require screen removal, which Geek Squad reportedly will not do.
- The 2.3 GHz dual-core i5 processor is a 'dog' and 'not just slow and outdated, the specs are bad to begin with' according to user feedback.
Full Specifications
| RAM | 8 GB SDRAM |
| ASIN | B07DCWXRYW |
| Brand | Apple |
| Color | Silver |
| Series | iMac 21.5" MMQA2LL/A |
| Batteries | 4 AAA batteries required. |
| CPU Model | Core i5 |
| CPU Speed | 2.3 GHz |
| Processor | 2.3 GHz core_i5 |
| Cache Size | 8 GB |
| Hard Drive | 1000 GB HDD |
| Item Weight | 18.3 pounds |
| Memory Speed | 2.3 GHz |
| Chipset Brand | Intel |
| Wireless Type | 802.11ac |
| Processor Brand | Intel |
| Card Description | Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640 |
| Operating System | macOS Sierra |
| Flash Memory Size | 1 TB |
| Hardware Platform | Mac |
| Item model number | A1418 |
| Screen Resolution | 1920 x 1080 |
| Product Dimensions | 17.7 x 20.8 x 6.9 inches |
| Computer Memory Type | DDR4 SDRAM |
| Graphics Coprocessor | Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640 |
| Hard Drive Interface | Unknown |
| Number of Processors | 1 |
| Max Screen Resolution | 1920x1080 Pixels |
| Graphics Card Ram Size | 999999 GB |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 17.7 x 20.8 x 6.9 inches |
| Memory Storage Capacity | 8 GB |
| Number of USB 3.0 Ports | 4 |
| Graphics Card Description | Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640 |
| Specific Uses For Product | Student, Business |
| Hard Drive Rotational Speed | 5400 RPM |
| Standing screen display size | 21.5 Inches |
| Personal computer design type | All in One |
What Buyers Say
The most striking feedback for this renewed 2017 21.5-inch iMac is the near-universal condemnation of its 1TB HDD, which users describe as making the system 'extremely slow' and 'a dog' right out of the box. Many users report that even basic tasks like opening system preferences can take several seconds. While the physical design and display are still appreciated by some, the outdated dual-core processor and slow storage severely limit its usability for anything beyond the most basic, non-demanding tasks, especially without an immediate SSD upgrade. Concerns about future macOS updates for Intel Macs are also a recurring theme.
“Honestly, this thing was so slow with the hard drive, I almost threw it out. Had to put an SSD in it myself just to make it barely usable for checking email. Don't buy it unless you're ready to tinker.”
Common Praise
- The 21.5-inch 1920x1080 display is still considered visually appealing by some for its price.
- The aluminum and glass construction provides a premium and 'well-built' feel.
- The all-in-one form factor offers a clean and space-saving desktop setup.
- Includes a good selection of ports, including 4x USB 3.0 and 2x Thunderbolt.
- Can handle very light gaming like Minecraft at 60fps on default settings.
Common Complaints
- The 1TB HDD makes the system 'very slow' and 'a dog,' with long boot times and application delays.
- The 2.3 GHz dual-core Intel Core i5 processor is underpowered for modern computing, even for basic tasks.
- Concerns about Apple ending macOS support for Intel Macs, leading to a lack of future feature and security updates.
- Renewed units often ship with generic, non-Apple keyboards and mice that are considered 'junk'.
- RAM upgrades can be difficult and may require professional service due to screen removal.
- The 1080p display is not 4K, which is a letdown for some users expecting a higher resolution.
Ownership Tips
- The 1TB HDD is the primary bottleneck; replacing it with an SSD is almost mandatory for a tolerable experience.
- Performance is comparable to a 2017 13-inch MacBook Pro (non-Touch Bar) due to the mobile CPU.
- The operating system (macOS Sierra) is outdated, and future software compatibility will become an increasing issue.
- Expect to purchase your own Apple-branded keyboard and mouse if you want the full Apple experience, as renewed units often don't include them.
- Even with an SSD, the dual-core i5 processor limits its ability to handle multiple applications or demanding software.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I upgrade the RAM on this 2017 21.5-inch iMac?
Some 21.5-inch 2017 iMac models have upgradeable RAM, but it often requires removing the screen, which can be a complex process and may not be serviced by all repair centers.
Is the 1TB HDD fast enough for everyday use?
No, the 1TB HDD is a significant performance bottleneck, leading to very slow boot times and application loading. Users strongly recommend upgrading to an SSD for a usable experience.
Will this iMac receive future macOS updates?
This 2017 Intel iMac is running an older macOS version (Sierra) and is unlikely to receive future feature updates, with security updates also expected to cease sooner than for Apple Silicon Macs.
What kind of peripherals come with this renewed iMac?
Renewed units may not include original Apple keyboards and mice. Some users reported receiving generic or 'junk' peripherals that were not Apple-branded.
Is the 21.5-inch 1080p display still good in 2024?
While some users find the 1080p display acceptable for its price, it is not a 4K Retina display, which was available on other 2017 iMac configurations. It lacks the pixel density of newer displays.
Can I use this iMac for light gaming?
For very simple or older games, it might be 'definitely playable' at 60 frames per second on default settings, but it's not recommended for modern or graphically intensive titles due to the Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640 and overall system performance.
Buying Guide
When looking at older all-in-one computers like this iMac, you need to understand that the processor and storage are the biggest factors in how fast it feels. An older, slower processor combined with a traditional hard drive (HDD) will make everything, from opening apps to browsing the web, feel sluggish. Don't expect it to perform like a new machine, even for basic tasks, without upgrades.
Processor (2.3 GHz dual-core Intel Core i5)
This is the 'brain' of the computer. A dual-core processor from 2017, especially at 2.3 GHz, means it can only handle a couple of simple tasks at once before slowing down. Think of it like a small engine in a big car; it'll get you there, but slowly.
Storage (1TB HDD)
This is where all your files and the operating system live. An HDD (Hard Disk Drive) uses spinning platters, which are much slower than modern SSDs (Solid State Drives). It's like having to walk to a library to get a book versus having it instantly appear on your e-reader. This is the biggest reason for slow boot times and app launches.
RAM (8GB DDR4)
RAM (Random Access Memory) is like your computer's short-term memory. 8GB is the minimum for comfortable multitasking today. If you open too many browser tabs or applications, the computer will start to feel slow because it has to constantly swap data to the much slower storage.
Alternatives
If this iMac doesn't fit your needs, look for a desktop with an SSD for storage and at least a quad-core processor, or consider a newer model with Apple Silicon for significantly better performance and longevity.
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