Apple Mid 2020 iMac with 3.8GHz 8 Core 10th Gen Intel Core i7, 27-inch Retina 5K, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD (Renewed)
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AI Verdict
This renewed 27-inch iMac with a 3.8 GHz Core i7, 8GB RAM, and 512GB SSD is for users needing a 5K display and macOS for daily tasks or light creative work.
This renewed 2020 iMac is a situational fit because its 5K Retina display and 3.8 GHz Core i7 processor offer strong performance for many tasks, but the 8GB RAM is a bottleneck for heavy use, and the 'renewed' status introduces quality control risks. The looming end of Intel Mac software support also limits its long-term viability for professionals.
If you need more longevity or consistently high performance for demanding applications, look for an Apple Silicon Mac with at least 16GB of unified memory.
Regret Score™
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Issues discovered after purchase
Critically weak dimension
Amazon rating vs actual quality
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Pros
- 27-inch 5120x2880 Retina 5K display delivers excellent colors and super high resolution.
- 3.8GHz 8-core 10th-generation Intel Core i7 processor provides smooth performance for web browsing and video editing.
- RAM is user-upgradeable up to 64GB DDR4 via a rear hatch.
- Features a 1080p FaceTime camera, an upgrade from previous models.
- Integrated speakers are described as big and amazing, with good bass.
- Includes two Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) ports, four USB 3.2 Type A ports, an SD card reader, Ethernet, and a headphone jack.
Cons
- Base 8GB RAM can be limiting for intensive professional applications.
- Intel-based Macs will eventually face software support limitations as Apple transitions to Apple Silicon.
- The design features large bezels, which haven't changed in years.
- The included Apple Magic Mouse charges from the bottom, making it unusable while charging and some find it uncomfortable.
- Renewed units carry a risk of cosmetic imperfections or functional issues like random shutdowns or non-working peripherals.
Dimension Scores
The 3.8GHz 8-core 10th-generation Intel Core i7 processor provides strong performance for daily tasks and significant improvements for content creation over previous models.
RAM is user-upgradeable up to 64GB DDR4, which is a significant advantage over many modern all-in-one systems.
While not explicitly detailed, the 2020 iMac generally managed thermals well for its class, but heavy loads can still spin up fans.
The original Apple build quality is high, but as a renewed product, there's a risk of receiving units with cosmetic damage or functional defects.
Best For
- Daily productivity and web browsing with a premium display.
- Photo editing and light video editing on a 5K screen.
- Home office setups where screen quality is a priority.
- Users who need macOS and appreciate user-upgradeable RAM.
Not Recommended For
- Professionals requiring the latest software support for years to come.
- Users who need a compact or portable all-in-one.
- Budget-conscious buyers unwilling to risk renewed product issues.
Watch Out For
- Renewed units have been reported to arrive with dents on the base or non-working keyboards and mice.
- Some renewed iMacs experienced random shutdowns or glitches within two months of purchase.
- Amazon Renewed service may refer you to Asurion for repairs, leading to 10+ days without your computer for repair or replacement.
- The 8GB RAM configuration might struggle with demanding professional creative workflows, despite being upgradeable.
- Future macOS updates and professional application support for Intel-based Macs are limited, potentially making the system obsolete in a few years.
Full Specifications
| RAM | 8 GB DDR4 |
| ASIN | B08RJXSK6V |
| Brand | Apple |
| Color | Silver |
| Series | iMac |
| CPU Model | Core i7 |
| CPU Speed | 3.8 GHz |
| Processor | 3.8 GHz core_i7 |
| Cache Size | 16 GB |
| Hard Drive | 512 GB SSD |
| Item Weight | 24.8 pounds |
| Screen Size | 27 Inches |
| Memory Speed | 2666 GHz |
| Chipset Brand | Intel |
| Wireless Type | 802.11ab |
| Processor Brand | Intel |
| Card Description | Dedicated |
| Operating System | Mac OS |
| Flash Memory Size | 512 GB |
| Item model number | MXWV2LL/A-cr |
| Screen Resolution | 5120 x 2880 |
| Product Dimensions | 31 x 24 x 10 inches |
| Computer Memory Type | DDR4 SDRAM |
| Hard Drive Interface | Solid State |
| Number of Processors | 8 |
| Max Screen Resolution | 5120-by-2880 |
| Graphics Card Ram Size | 8 GB |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 31 x 24 x 10 inches |
| Memory Storage Capacity | 512 GB |
| Graphics Card Description | Dedicated |
| Ram Memory Installed Size | 8 GB |
| Specific Uses For Product | Multimedia |
| Hard Drive Rotational Speed | 14400 RPM |
| Standing screen display size | 27 Inches |
What Buyers Say
The biggest surprise with these renewed 2020 iMacs is the sheer number of complaints about receiving defective units or units with significant cosmetic damage, despite Amazon's 'like new' promise. Many buyers reported random shutdowns, glitches, or non-functional peripherals within weeks of purchase. However, for those who receive a working unit, the 5K Retina display is consistently praised for its incredible resolution and color accuracy. Performance for daily use and even some video editing remains smooth, though the base 8GB RAM is a common point of concern for more demanding tasks. The user-upgradeable RAM is a definite plus, but the dated design with large bezels and the uncomfortable Magic Mouse are recurring observations.
“I paid a premium for a 'renewed' iMac and it showed up with a dent and the keyboard didn't even work, then it started shutting down randomly after a month. This is ridiculous for $800.”
Common Praise
- The 27-inch 5K Retina display is absolutely amazing with excellent colors and resolution.
- Performance is smooth for web browsing, daily tasks, and even video editing.
- RAM is easy to upgrade to 64GB DDR4 via a rear hatch.
- The integrated speakers deliver big, amazing sound with good bass.
- The 1080p FaceTime camera is a noticeable improvement for video calls.
Common Complaints
- Renewed units frequently arrive with dents, non-working keyboards/mice, or develop critical failures like random shutdowns.
- Amazon Renewed customer service is often unhelpful, directing users to Asurion for lengthy repair processes.
- The base 8GB RAM is insufficient for professional applications and heavy multitasking.
- The Magic Mouse is uncomfortable to use and cannot be used while charging due to the bottom charging port.
- The design with thick bezels feels dated compared to newer machines.
Ownership Tips
- You'll likely want to upgrade the RAM yourself to at least 16GB or 32GB for a smoother experience, especially if you do anything beyond basic tasks.
- Consider replacing the included Magic Mouse with a more ergonomic option; the charging port placement is a constant annoyance.
- Be prepared for potential software update limitations in the coming years as Apple shifts entirely to Apple Silicon.
- If you get a renewed unit, thoroughly inspect it immediately for cosmetic damage and test all components, especially the included peripherals.
- The 5K display is truly a standout feature and makes everything look incredibly sharp, even years later.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I upgrade the RAM on this iMac?
Yes, the RAM on the 2020 27-inch iMac is user-upgradeable. You can expand it up to 64GB DDR4 by accessing a hatch on the back.
What kind of ports does this iMac have?
It comes with two Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) ports, four USB 3.2 Type A ports, an SD card reader, an Ethernet port, and a headphone jack.
Is the display quality still relevant in 2024?
Absolutely. The 27-inch 5120x2880 Retina 5K display is still considered amazing, with super high resolution and excellent colors.
What are the potential issues with buying a renewed unit?
Users have reported receiving renewed units with physical damage like dents, non-functional accessories, or experiencing system glitches and random shutdowns shortly after purchase.
How long will this Intel iMac receive macOS updates?
While Apple has promised to support Intel-based Macs for some time, software companies will eventually stop supporting older macOS versions, potentially making Intel Macs obsolete for professional applications in a few years.
Buying Guide
When looking at an all-in-one like this iMac, you're buying into an ecosystem and a specific form factor. You're paying for the integrated display and the convenience of a single unit, but it often means less upgradeability than a traditional desktop. For renewed products, you need to be extra vigilant about the condition and the seller's return policy, as quality can vary wildly.
27-inch Retina 5K display
This isn't just a big screen; it's a super high-resolution canvas (5120x2880 pixels). Think of it like watching a 4K movie, but with even more detail and space for your apps. Text looks incredibly sharp, and photos and videos pop with accurate colors.
8GB RAM
RAM is your computer's short-term memory. 8GB is okay for browsing and basic office work, but if you open many browser tabs, edit photos, or run multiple apps, you'll quickly hit its limits. It's like having a small desk; you can only spread out so many papers before it gets cluttered.
512GB SSD
This is your computer's long-term storage, where your operating system, apps, and files live. SSDs (Solid State Drives) are much faster than old-school hard drives, meaning your iMac boots up quickly and apps launch almost instantly. 512GB is enough for the OS and a good number of apps, but heavy media users might fill it up fast.
3.8GHz 8-Core 10th Gen Intel Core i7
This is the brain of your computer. An 8-core i7 from the 10th generation is still a capable processor, especially for single-threaded tasks and many creative applications. It means your computer can handle multiple tasks simultaneously without bogging down, like juggling several conversations at once.
Alternatives
If this iMac doesn't fit, consider a newer all-in-one with an ARM-based processor and at least 16GB of unified memory for better long-term software support and power efficiency, or a mini PC paired with a dedicated 5K monitor for more flexibility.
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