MacBook Pro M4 vs iMac M4: which Mac is best for you?

Date:
Mon, 04 May 2026 18:45:00 +0000

Description:
Refer to these as "budget Macs," but remember they are still very powerful machines.

FULL STORY ======================================================================Copy link Facebook X Whatsapp Reddit Pinterest Flipboard Threads Email Share this article 0 Join the conversation Follow us Add us as a preferred source on Google Newsletter Subscribe to our newsletter Apple MacBook Pro (14 inch, M4) review 1,899 at Currys 2,118 at AO.com 2,199.97 at Laptops Direct 2,899 at Scan



The 14-inch MacBook Pro with the M4 chip is a powerful laptop designed for professionals. It features the M4 chip for exceptional performance in tasks like video editing and graphic design. The device boasts a 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display with ProMotion technology for vibrant visuals and smooth scrolling. Pros M4 Nano-texture screen Centerstage camera Excellent design Cons No design updates No Wi-Fi 7 Apple iMac (M4, 2024) review 1,199 at Laptops Direct 1,219 at Argos 1,249 at Currys 1,684 at very.co.uk



The 2024 iMac is Apple's latest iteration of its iconic all-in-one desktop computer. It boasts a sleek, modern design with a vibrant 24-inch Retina 4.5K display. Powered by the efficient M4 chip, it offers solid performance for everyday tasks like browsing, email, and productivity apps while remaining whisper-quiet, thanks to its fanless design. The iMac is a stylish addition
to any home or office, available in a range of eye-catching colors. Pros
Still the best all-in-one computer A modern build in vibrant, fun colors M4 chip speeds things up, and 16GB of RAM starting is a welcome upgrade Cons No major changes to the design Magic Mouse has moved to USB-C, but the port is
in an inconvenient place In the ever-evolving world of Apple devices, selecting the right machine for your needs can be exciting and overwhelming. Two of Apple's standout offerings, the 2024 MacBook Pro with the M4 chip and the 2024 iMac with the M4 chip , present a compelling choice for those
seeking power and performance. Both devices benefit from the impressive capabilities of Apple silicon, but their distinct designs and features cater to different priorities. This article compares these two machines, examining their strengths and weaknesses across key areas such as performance, display, portability, connectivity, and upgradeability. The goal is to help you make
an informed decision. Article continues below You may like MacBook Pro
14-inch (M4) vs MacBook Pro 16-inch (M4): Which is the one for you? MacBook Pro M4 vs Mac Pro M2: which Mac is best for you? Apple Mac Studio M2 vs iMac M4: Which is the one for you? MacBook Pro M4 vs iMac M4: Specs Swipe to
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MacBook Pro M4

iMac M4

Display

14.2 inches or 16.2 iinches

24-inches

Type

Liquid Retina XDR display

Retina 4.5K display

Refresh rate

Up to 120Hz adaptive refresh rate (ProMotion technology)

60Hz refresh rate

Processor / Graphics

M4, M4 Pro.or M4 Max

M4 only

Memory

8GB, 16GB, or 24GB

8GB, 16GB, or 25GB

Storage

512GB, 1TB or 2TB

256GB, 512GB, 1TB, or 2TB

Ports

3x Thunderbolt 4, HDMI, SDXC, MagSafe 3, headphone jack

Up to 4x Thunderbolt 4, headphone jack MacBook Pro M4 vs iMac M4: Prices & availability (Image credit: Apple) The MacBook Pro (2024) was released in
2024 and has since been superseded by the M5-powered models - although it's not an essential to upgrade, given how good the M4 chip is even now.

The laptop is available in two display sizes: 14 inches and 16 inches. The 14-inch model offers an entry-level M4 chip or a mid-range M4 Pro chip. The 16-inch model has either the M4 Pro or the M4 Max chip. Additionally, all models allow you to customize RAM and storage options.

Prices start from around $2000 / 2000 depending on which machine you choose. For comparison, the latest M5 models are priced from $1699 in the US and from 1699 in the UK , with the 16-inch models running from $2699 / 2699. The iMac is offered in four configurations. Only the base model features an M4 chip with an 8-core CPU and an 8-core GPU. The other three models are equipped
with an M4 chip that has a 10-core CPU and a 10-core GPU. Get daily insight, inspiration and deals in your inbox Sign up for breaking news, reviews, opinion, top tech deals, and more. Contact me with news and offers from other Future brands Receive email from us on behalf of our trusted partners or sponsors By submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.

Prices start from $1299 direct from Apple in the US , while in the UK, it costs from 1299 at Apple . MacBook Pro M4 vs iMac M4: Portability (Image credit: Future) Regarding portability, the MacBook Pro M4 is the clear
winner. Designed for mobility, this laptop allows you to take it to work, school quickly or anywhere else you need. In contrast, the iMac M4 is an all-in-one desktop computer.

While its slim design is aesthetically pleasing, it is meant to stay in one place. You wont be able to pack it in a backpack or take it on a plane. If portability is a priority for you, the MacBook Pro is the best choice. What
to read next Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M5/M5 Pro/M5 Max) review Mac Pro M2
vs Mac Studio M2: Which is the one for you? The best MacBook and Macs of 2026

However, the iMac is an excellent option if you need a stationary machine
with a larger screen and are willing to sacrifice portability.

Winner: Of course it's the MacBook Pro MacBook Pro M4 vs iMac M4:
Performance (Image credit: Future / Lance Ulanoff) The MacBook Pro M4 and
iMac M4 feature Apple's impressive M4 chip, but the two have minor
performance differences. The iMac M4 has a base 8-core CPU and 8-core GPU, whereas the MacBook Pro M4 has a more powerful 10-core CPU and 10-core GPU. This gives the MacBook Pro an advantage in graphics-intensive tasks like
video editing and gaming.

However, the MacBook Pro and the iMac can be configured with up to 24GB of unified memory. This extra memory can significantly enhance performance for demanding workflows that involve multitasking and memory-intensive applications.

Winner: At the base model level, the MacBook Pro. Otherwise, it's a tie. MacBook Pro M4 vs iMac M4: Display (Image credit: Future/Jacob Krol) It's important to note some significant differences between the MacBook Pro M4 displays and the iMac M4. The MacBook Pro features a smaller 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display with a higher resolution of 3024 x 1964 and a superior refresh rate of up to 120Hz, thanks to ProMotion technology. This results in smoother scrolling, more responsive animations, and a more fluid visual experience overall.

In contrast, the iMac M4 has a larger 24-inch Retina 4.5K display with a resolution of 4480 x 2520, but it only offers a standard refresh rate of
60Hz. While the iMac's display is still sharp and vibrant, it does not
include ProMotion technology or the high refresh rate found in the MacBook Pro.

Ultimately, the best display for you depends on your preferences. The iMac
has an advantage if you prioritize a larger screen with sharp visuals. However, the MacBook Pro's display is the better choice if you value a smoother, more responsive experience and portability.

Winner: For size, the iMac MacBook Pro M4 vs iMac M4: Upgradeability (Image credit: Future/Jacob Krol) Both the iMac M4 and the MacBook Pro M4 have significant limitations regarding upgradeability. Neither device allows user upgrades to the processor or graphics, as these components are integrated
into the M4 chip. This means you must select your desired specifications at the time of purchase.

Memory upgrades are also impossible on either machine, as the RAM is soldered directly to the motherboard. This means you are locked into the amount of memory you initially choose.

The only component of the iMac M4 that might be user-upgradeable in some configurations is the storage. However, Apple does not officially support
this process, and it can be pretty complex, potentially voiding the warranty.

In summary, the iMac M4 and MacBook Pro M4 offer limited upgradeability. Before purchasing, consider your needs for processing power, graphics performance, and memory; upgrading these components later will not be straightforward.

Winner: iMac MacBook Pro M4 vs iMac M4: Connectivity (Image credit: Future / Lance Ulanoff) The iMac M4 and MacBook Pro M4 have notable differences in connectivity. The MacBook Pro M4 offers a consistent array of ports across
all configurations: three Thunderbolt 4 ports, an HDMI port, an SDXC card slot, and a headphone jack. This provides a comprehensive range of options
for connecting displays, peripherals, and storage devices.

In contrast, the iMac M4 comes in two different configurations. The base
model is limited to just two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports, which may not be sufficient for some users. To enjoy a more extensive range of connectivity optionsfeaturing four Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports, Gigabit Ethernet, and a Magic Keyboard with Touch IDyou must choose the higher-priced configuration.

While both machines offer modern and fast connectivity options, the MacBook Pro provides a more consistent and versatile set of ports from the start.

Winner: MacBook Pro MacBook Pro M4 vs iMac M4: Verdict (Image credit:
Future) The 2024 MacBook Pro M4 and iMac M4, powered by the same Apple silicon, provide distinct experiences tailored to different needs. A key differentiator is portability; the MacBook Pro is designed for mobility,
while the iMac is a stationary desktop. In terms of performance, the MacBook Pro generally has a slight advantage due to its standard 10-core GPU and higher maximum memory configuration, although the iMac features greater
memory bandwidth.

Regarding displays, the MacBook Pro boasts a 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display with ProMotion technology, offering a smoother and more responsive visual experience. In contrast, the iMac features a 24-inch Retina 4.5K display, which provides more screen real estate.

Neither machine allows for user upgrades to the processor, graphics, or memory. Regarding connectivity, the MacBook Pro offers a consistent set of ports across all its configurations, while the iMac M4 comes in two configurations with varying port options. Choosing between these devices depends on whether you prioritize portability and an exceptional display experience (MacBook Pro) or a larger screen with an all-in-one design (iMac).

Most folks would probably get more use out of the MacBook Pro, although you are likely to pay more.

Winner: MacBook Pro



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Link to news story: https://www.techradar.com/computing/macs/macbook-pro-m4-vs-imac-m4-which-mac-i s-best-for-you


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