6 Best 24-Inch Imac Configurations for Power and Style in 2027

Among these 24-inch iMac configurations, I’d pick the 2024 M4 model with 24GB memory and a 512GB SSD as the best overall choice for demanding multitasking and room to grow. The standard 2024 M4 with 16GB memory is a more balanced fit for everyday work, while the M4 16GB renewed configuration may suit buyers who want newer-generation performance with less storage. The main tradeoffs are memory versus storage, newer M4 hardware versus older M1 or M3 models, and new versus renewed condition. An 8GB configuration can cover lighter tasks, but offers less headroom for heavier workloads. Read on for the full breakdown and a guide to choosing the right setup.

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Key Takeaways

• The M4 with 24GB memory and 512GB SSD is the most capable configuration here, pairing the lineup’s largest listed memory and storage with the newer chip generation.
• Both standard M4 configurations have 16GB memory and 256GB SSD; their listed distinction is color, so choose by condition and availability rather than expecting a memory or storage advantage.
• The renewed M4 with 16GB memory and 256GB SSD offers a newer chip generation in a refurbished option, but buyers should check the seller’s condition and return terms.
• The renewed M3 has 8GB memory and 256GB SSD, while the renewed M1 has 8GB memory and 512GB SSD; the older M1 offers more listed storage, but less recent chip hardware.
• Renewed status spans every chip generation in this lineup, so compare condition and seller policies separately from the processor, memory, and storage specifications.

Our Top 24 Inch Imac Configurations Picks

Apple 2023 iMac 24-inch with M3 Chip, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Silver (Renewed)		Best for Everyday Home Use	Chip: Apple M3	Display: 24-inch 4.5K Retina, 500 nits, support for 1 billion colors	Memory: 8GB RAM	VIEW ON AMAZON	See Our Full Breakdown
Apple 2024 iMac 24-inch All-in-One Desktop with M4, 10-Core CPU and GPU, 24GB Memory, 512GB SSD, Blue		Best Premium Configuration	Chip: Apple M4	CPU and GPU: 10-core CPU; 10-core GPU	Display: 24-inch 4.5K Retina, 500 nits, support for up to 1 billion colors	VIEW ON AMAZON	See Our Full Breakdown
Apple iMac 24-inch with M4 Chip, 10-Core CPU, 16GB Memory, 256GB SSD, Silver (Renewed)		Best Renewed M4 Balance	Model year: 2024	Processor: Apple M4, 10-core CPU	Memory: 16GB unified memory	VIEW ON AMAZON	See Our Full Breakdown
Apple 2021 iMac 24-inch with M1 8-core CPU, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD, Silver (Renewed)		Best for More Built-In Storage on a Basic Setup	Model: 2021 iMac, MGPD3LL/A	Processor: Apple M1, 8-core CPU	Graphics: Integrated 8-core GPU	VIEW ON AMAZON	See Our Full Breakdown
Apple 2024 iMac with M4 chip, 24-inch display, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Silver (Renewed)		Best Renewed M4 for Compact Everyday Work	Model year: 2024	Processor: Apple M4, 8 cores	Memory: 16GB unified memory	VIEW ON AMAZON	See Our Full Breakdown
Apple 2024 iMac 24-inch All-in-One Desktop with M4 Chip, 16GB Memory, 256GB SSD, Silver		Best Base M4 Configuration	Processor: Apple M4 chip with 8-core CPU and 8-core GPU	Memory: 16GB unified memory	Storage: 256GB SSD	VIEW ON AMAZON	See Our Full Breakdown

More Details on Our Top Picks

1. Apple 2023 iMac 24-inch with M3 Chip, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Silver (Renewed)

   

   Best for Everyday Home Use

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   This renewed M3 configuration suits buyers who want the familiar 24-inch 4.5K Retina all-in-one for web, documents, video calls, and media without moving up to an M4 model. Its bright display, 1080p camera, and six-speaker Spatial Audio system make it a capable shared household computer, while the included Magic Keyboard and Magic Mouse mean the basic setup is covered. Compared with the 2024 M4 iMac with 16GB memory, this version gives you less headroom for heavy multitasking and only 256GB of storage; the newer model also has a more advanced camera. The tradeoff is clearest in the 8GB of RAM and two listed Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports. I’d choose it for lighter routines, but skip it if you expect demanding apps or a large local library.

   Pros:

   • Sharp 4.5K Retina display with 500-nit brightness and support for 1 billion colors
   • Includes color-matched Magic Keyboard and Magic Mouse
   • 1080p camera and six-speaker Spatial Audio suit calls and everyday entertainment
   • Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 provide current wireless connectivity

   Cons:

   • 8GB of memory offers less multitasking headroom than the 16GB and 24GB M4 configurations
   • 256GB SSD can fill quickly with large apps, photos, and video
   • Only two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports are listed, and the unit is renewed

   Best for: Households and students who mainly browse, write, stream, and join video calls on a compact desktop.

   Not ideal for: People who routinely edit large media projects, keep extensive files locally, or want more memory and ports for demanding workflows.

   • Chip:Apple M3
   • Display:24-inch 4.5K Retina, 500 nits, support for 1 billion colors
   • Memory:8GB RAM
   • Storage:256GB SSD
   • Camera:1080p FaceTime HD
   • Ports:Two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports; headphone jack
   • Wireless:Wi-Fi 6E; Bluetooth 5.3
   • Included accessories:Color-matched Magic Keyboard and Magic Mouse
   • Condition:Renewed
   Our verdict

   “Choose this renewed M3 iMac for everyday home tasks and its complete accessory set, but favor an M4 configuration for heavier work or more memory.”

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2. Apple 2024 iMac 24-inch All-in-One Desktop with M4, 10-Core CPU and GPU, 24GB Memory, 512GB SSD, Blue

   

   Best Premium Configuration

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   This is the most capable configuration in this group for buyers who want to keep a 24-inch iMac for demanding multitasking. The M4 10-core CPU and GPU, 24GB of unified memory, and 512GB SSD give it more room for heavier apps and larger working files than the renewed 16GB M4 models or the M3 and M1 options. Its 12MP Center Stage camera can keep a person framed during calls, while up to four Thunderbolt 4 ports offer more connection flexibility than the two-port M3 listing. The shared 4.5K, 500-nit display keeps the same compact all-in-one appeal. The tradeoffs are its fixed all-in-one design and the fact that 512GB may still be limiting for extensive local media libraries. I’d pick it over the 256GB configurations for sustained workloads, not for basic browsing alone.

   Pros:

   • M4 chip with 10-core CPU and 10-core GPU
   • 24GB unified memory gives more multitasking headroom than the other listed configurations
   • 512GB SSD provides twice the capacity of the 256GB options
   • 12MP Center Stage camera and up to four Thunderbolt 4 ports

   Cons:

   • All-in-one construction limits upgrades to individual components
   • 512GB may not be enough for large local video, photo, or project archives
   • More capability than many everyday browsing and office users need

   Best for: Professionals and power users who want a 24-inch Mac desktop for multitasking, creative applications, and frequent video calls.

   Not ideal for: Basic users who mainly browse and stream, or buyers who need extensive local storage or upgradeable desktop components.

   • Chip:Apple M4
   • CPU and GPU:10-core CPU; 10-core GPU
   • Display:24-inch 4.5K Retina, 500 nits, support for up to 1 billion colors
   • Memory:24GB unified memory
   • Storage:512GB SSD
   • Camera:12MP Center Stage
   • Ports:Up to four Thunderbolt 4 ports
   • Wireless:Wi-Fi 6E; Bluetooth 5.3
   • Color:Blue
   Our verdict

   “Pick this M4 configuration when memory, processing headroom, and ports matter more than keeping the setup simple and light-duty.”

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3. Apple iMac 24-inch with M4 Chip, 10-Core CPU, 16GB Memory, 256GB SSD, Silver (Renewed)

   

   Best Renewed M4 Balance

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   This renewed M4 model is a middle ground for buyers who want a newer-generation chip but don’t need the premium configuration’s 24GB memory and 512GB SSD. Its 10-core M4 CPU and 16GB unified memory suit everyday productivity and moderate multitasking better than the 8GB M3 or M1 options. You also get a 4.5K display and four listed USB ports, giving it more connection options than the M3 configuration. Compared with the 2024 M4 model with 24GB memory, though, it has less room for demanding workloads and half the storage. The 256GB SSD is the biggest practical constraint for users with large files, and its renewed condition comes with a 90-day limited warranty. I’d favor it when M4 performance matters more than storage capacity or a longer warranty.

   Pros:

   • M4 10-core CPU paired with 16GB unified memory
   • 4.5K Retina display with 4480 × 2520 resolution and 500-nit brightness
   • Four USB ports offer more listed connections than the M3 configuration
   • Includes built-in webcam, speakers, microphone, and Magic Keyboard

   Cons:

   • 256GB SSD leaves limited room for large applications and media libraries
   • Less memory and storage than the 24GB, 512GB M4 configuration
   • Renewed condition and 90-day limited warranty

   Best for: Buyers seeking a renewed M4 iMac for office work, study, and moderate multitasking who can manage files carefully.

   Not ideal for: Creative professionals with large project files, buyers who need ample built-in storage, or anyone who prefers a longer warranty.

   • Model year:2024
   • Processor:Apple M4, 10-core CPU
   • Memory:16GB unified memory
   • Storage:256GB SSD
   • Display:24-inch 4.5K Retina, 4480 × 2520, 500 nits
   • Connectivity:Wi-Fi 6E; Bluetooth 5.3
   • USB ports:4
   • Warranty:90-day limited warranty
   • Condition:Renewed
   Our verdict

   “Choose this renewed M4 for newer-chip performance and 16GB memory if 256GB storage and a short warranty fit your needs.”

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4. Apple 2021 iMac 24-inch with M1 8-core CPU, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD, Silver (Renewed)

   

   Best for More Built-In Storage on a Basic Setup

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   This renewed 2021 iMac is the older-generation choice for buyers who value 512GB of built-in storage more than newer processing hardware. That capacity doubles the space in the 256GB M3 and M4 configurations, which can help keep everyday documents and a modest media library on the desktop. Its M1 chip, 8GB memory, 4.5K display, 1080p camera, and six-speaker system still cover common home and office tasks. Compared with the renewed M3 iMac, however, it has an older chip, Wi-Fi 6 rather than Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.0. The 8GB of memory is also a constraint for heavier multitasking, and the 90-day warranty is limited. I’d consider it for straightforward use where storage matters, but choose an M4 if performance headroom is the priority.

   Pros:

   • 512GB SSD offers more built-in capacity than the 256GB configurations
   • M1 8-core CPU and integrated 8-core GPU handle common desktop tasks
   • 4.5K Retina display with P3 wide color and 500-nit brightness
   • 1080p camera and six-speaker audio support calls and media

   Cons:

   • 8GB of memory limits heavier multitasking compared with the M4 models
   • Older Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity than the newer options
   • Renewed unit carries a 90-day limited warranty

   Best for: Home and office users with basic workloads who want a renewed 24-inch iMac and more built-in storage than the 256GB models.

   Not ideal for: People running demanding applications, keeping many apps active, or seeking newer wireless standards and longer-term warranty coverage.

   • Model:2021 iMac, MGPD3LL/A
   • Processor:Apple M1, 8-core CPU
   • Graphics:Integrated 8-core GPU
   • Memory:8GB
   • Storage:512GB SSD
   • Display:24-inch 4.5K Retina, 4480 × 2520
   • Connectivity:Wi-Fi 6; Bluetooth 5.0
   • Ports:Two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports; up to two USB 3 ports
   • Warranty:90-day limited warranty
   Our verdict

   “Pick this renewed M1 if 512GB storage matters more than newer-chip performance, but step up to an M4 for more demanding work.”

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5. Apple 2024 iMac with M4 chip, 24-inch display, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Silver (Renewed)

   

   Best Renewed M4 for Compact Everyday Work

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   This renewed silver M4 configuration offers 16GB of unified memory and the newer M4 generation in a straightforward 24-inch setup. It fits everyday productivity and moderate multitasking more comfortably than the 8GB M3 and M1 models, while the 4.5K Retina display keeps text and images crisp on a desk-friendly all-in-one. Compared with the renewed M4 listing with a 10-core CPU and the same 16GB and 256GB capacity, this product data describes an 8-core M4; the listings do not establish identical chip configurations, so buyers should check the exact unit details. Its 256GB SSD is the main compromise, and the 90-day warranty is shorter than many buyers may prefer. I’d choose it for a tidy, everyday workstation, not for large media projects or buyers who want maximum M4 performance.

   Pros:

   • M4 processor paired with 16GB unified memory
   • 24-inch 4.5K Retina display with 500-nit brightness and 218 pixels per inch
   • Includes Magic Keyboard and mouse, along with built-in speakers, microphone, and webcam
   • Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3

   Cons:

   • 256GB SSD can constrain large applications and local media storage
   • Listed as an 8-core M4, unlike the 10-core M4 renewed configuration
   • Renewed condition includes a 90-day limited warranty

   Best for: Home users and students who want an M4-based 24-inch desktop with 16GB memory for everyday work and a compact desk setup.

   Not ideal for: People who store large creative projects locally, need a longer warranty, or want the 10-core M4 configuration and more performance headroom.

   • Model year:2024
   • Processor:Apple M4, 8 cores
   • Memory:16GB unified memory
   • Storage:256GB SSD
   • Display:24-inch 4.5K Retina, 4480 × 2520, 218 pixels per inch, 500 nits
   • Connectivity:Wi-Fi 6E; Bluetooth 5.3
   • Ports:4 USB ports
   • Warranty:90-day limited warranty
   • Condition:Renewed
   Our verdict

   “Choose this renewed M4 for everyday work and 16GB memory in a silver all-in-one, provided its 256GB storage and 8-core configuration suit your needs.”

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6. Apple 2024 iMac 24-inch All-in-One Desktop with M4 Chip, 16GB Memory, 256GB SSD, Silver

   

   Best Base M4 Configuration

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   I’d choose this configuration for buyers who want the 2024 iMac’s refreshed M4 platform without stepping up to the 10-core model’s larger memory and storage allotments. Its 8-core M4 CPU and GPU with 16GB unified memory suit everyday work, presentations, and moderate photo editing, while the 4.5K Retina display gives detailed visuals a central role in the setup. The Center Stage camera and six-speaker Spatial Audio system also make it a capable family or video-call computer without extra peripherals.

   Compared with the 10-core M4 configuration with 24GB memory and 512GB SSD, this silver model is more limited for demanding multitasking and large local libraries. Its 256GB SSD is the clearest compromise, so cloud storage or external drives may be part of the plan. I’d also avoid treating Apple Intelligence availability as guaranteed; compatible software and availability requirements apply.

   Pros:

   • 4.5K Retina display supports up to 1 billion colors and reaches 500 nits
   • M4 chip and 16GB unified memory suit everyday productivity and moderate photo editing
   • 12MP Center Stage camera and six speakers with Spatial Audio support video calls and media
   • Supports up to two external 6K displays

   Cons:

   • 256GB SSD can fill quickly with large applications, photos, and video files
   • 8-core CPU and GPU are less capable than the 10-core M4 configuration for heavier workloads
   • Apple Intelligence features depend on compatible software and availability requirements

   Best for: Home users, students, and office workers who want a current 24-inch M4 iMac for everyday tasks, video calls, and moderate creative work.

   Not ideal for: People editing large media libraries, running demanding creative workloads, or keeping extensive files and applications locally; the 256GB SSD and 8-core GPU leave less room than the 10-core, 512GB configuration.

   • Processor:Apple M4 chip with 8-core CPU and 8-core GPU
   • Memory:16GB unified memory
   • Storage:256GB SSD
   • Display:24-inch 4.5K Retina display, 500 nits, supports up to 1 billion colors
   • Camera and audio:12MP Center Stage camera; three microphones and six speakers with Spatial Audio
   • Connectivity:Up to four Thunderbolt 4 ports, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3
   • Dimensions:21.54 x 5.79 x 18.15 inches
   • Weight and color:9.72 pounds; Silver
   Our verdict

   “Choose this silver M4 configuration for a capable everyday iMac with a sharp display, provided 256GB of storage is enough for your workflow.”

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How We Picked

I compared the six configurations by their chip generation, memory, and SSD capacity, then weighed how those specifications fit common desktop workloads. More memory and storage can provide useful headroom for multitasking and locally stored files, while a newer chip generation is a stronger starting point for buyers who want current hardware. I also treated renewed condition as a separate decision: a renewed model may fit a buyer’s priorities, but the listing’s condition details and return policy matter.

The ranking puts the M4 with 24GB memory and 512GB SSD first because it has the strongest listed combination for varied and demanding use. The 16GB M4 models follow as balanced choices, with the renewed version distinguished by condition rather than a stated specification advantage over the standard silver model. The M3 and M1 configurations rank lower because each lists 8GB memory; the M1’s 512GB SSD is a storage advantage, but does not erase its older chip generation. Since the supplied configurations do not establish differences in display, ports, or included accessories, I do not use those details to rank them.

Factors to Consider When Choosing 24 Inch Imac Configurations

Choosing between these 24-inch iMac configurations is less about picking the newest label and more about matching memory, storage, and purchase condition to your routine. I’d decide in that order before narrowing the options by chip generation or finish.

Choose Memory for the Workload You Actually Run

Memory affects how much work a computer can keep active at once, so it can matter more than a small difference in storage capacity. For browser tabs, video calls, documents, and casual creative tasks, 16GB is a more flexible starting point than the 8GB options in this lineup. Buyers who regularly juggle demanding apps or larger projects may prefer the M4 configuration with 24GB. A common mistake is to focus on chip generation while overlooking the memory listed beside it. If your workload is light and stable, 8GB may still fit, but it leaves less room for heavier multitasking. Choose based on your busiest normal day, not just what you run at setup.

Match SSD Capacity to Your Local Files

The 256GB SSD configurations suit buyers who keep a modest local library or rely on cloud storage and external drives. A 512GB SSD gives more space for apps, documents, media, and active project files without needing to manage storage as often. That matters particularly for photo, video, or audio work, where source files can accumulate quickly. More storage does not make an older chip newer, and a bigger drive cannot compensate for memory limits during multitasking. Before choosing, estimate how much data you need available offline and whether you already use external storage. This helps prevent paying attention to the larger number without checking whether it solves your actual constraint.

Weigh Chip Generation Against the Rest of the Configuration

The M4 models are the newest chip generation represented here, while the M3 and M1 options may appeal to buyers focused on a specific renewed configuration. Newer hardware is a sensible priority if you expect to keep the computer for years or run more demanding applications. Still, chip generation is only one part of the decision: an M4 with 16GB memory and 256GB storage is not the same fit as an M4 with 24GB and 512GB. The M1 configuration lists twice the SSD capacity of the 256GB models, but it also has 8GB memory and an older chip. Avoid choosing on the processor name alone; compare the complete specification against your workload.

Treat Renewed Condition as Its Own Buying Decision

Renewed configurations appear across the M1, M3, and M4 choices here, so renewed does not identify a particular level of performance. It describes the product’s sale condition, which should be checked separately from the technical specifications. Read the seller’s description for cosmetic condition, included components, warranty coverage, and the process for returns or defects. Do not assume that every renewed listing uses the same inspection standard or offers identical support. A renewed model may make sense when its configuration fits and its terms are clear. If certainty about condition is your priority, compare a standard listing with the renewed alternative before deciding.

Decide Whether You Need More Than 256GB Before You Buy

Storage needs are easy to underestimate because an iMac can feel roomy when new and fill up as apps, downloads, and creative files collect. If you prefer keeping work files on the computer, the 512GB configurations offer more breathing room than the 256GB options. If you already organize files on external drives or in cloud storage, 256GB may be enough and can let you prioritize memory instead. Think about whether your files need to be available without an internet connection, especially for travel or large projects. Also account for the space your operating system and applications use, rather than treating the full SSD capacity as free workspace. This check can prevent choosing a configuration that forces constant file cleanup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the M4 iMac with 16GB memory a better choice than the M3 model with 8GB?

For buyers choosing between these listed configurations, the M4 with 16GB memory is the more flexible setup for multitasking and newer-generation hardware. The M3 model has 8GB memory and a 256GB SSD, so it may fit lighter routines but offers less listed memory headroom. Your workload still matters: someone who mainly uses a few basic apps may not need the M4’s extra capacity. Compare the specific listing’s condition as well, since the M4 16GB configuration in this roundup is renewed. If you expect your use to grow, I’d favor the added memory and newer chip generation over the M3’s lighter specification.

Should I choose 24GB memory or a 512GB SSD if I can only prioritize one?

Choose 24GB memory if you regularly run many apps at once or work with demanding projects that benefit from more active memory. Choose a 512GB SSD if your main frustration is keeping files and applications stored locally. In this lineup, the M4 with 24GB memory also includes a 512GB SSD, so buyers do not have to trade between those two specifications in that configuration. The renewed M1 also lists 512GB storage, but pairs it with 8GB memory and an older chip generation. Make the decision by identifying whether your bottleneck is active workload capacity or file space.

Does renewed status make an M4 iMac a poor choice?

Not by itself; renewed status and technical capability are separate parts of the purchase. The renewed M4 listed here has 16GB memory and a 256GB SSD, making its specifications relevant to buyers seeking an M4 configuration. The added uncertainty is the product’s condition and the seller’s policies, which can vary by listing. Check warranty coverage, return terms, included accessories, and the condition description before ordering. If those details are unclear or you prefer a standard listing, compare it with the new silver M4 model that has the same listed memory and storage.

Is the renewed M1 iMac still worth choosing for its 512GB SSD?

It may suit a buyer who values the listed 512GB of storage and expects to use the computer for lighter, familiar tasks. Its tradeoff is an older M1 chip and 8GB memory, so it offers less headroom than the M4 configurations and less listed memory than the M3 is paired with here. More SSD capacity helps store files, but it does not change how much work the computer can keep active at once. Compare its renewed condition and seller terms with the renewed M3 before deciding. If long-term flexibility or heavier multitasking matters, the M4 options are stronger matches.

Which configuration is the safest pick if I am not sure how my needs will change?

I’d favor the M4 with 24GB memory and 512GB SSD when flexibility is the priority, since it has the highest listed memory and storage in this group. It gives more room for varied workloads and locally stored files than the 16GB, 256GB M4 configurations. If you do not need that much capacity, the standard M4 with 16GB memory is a more restrained setup for everyday use. Consider purchase condition alongside those specifications: the 24GB model is listed as a standard configuration, while the 16GB renewed M4 calls for a closer look at seller terms. The safest fit is the one that covers your likely workload without paying for capacity you will not use.

Conclusion

For the best overall balance of capability and headroom, I’d choose the 2024 M4 with 24GB memory and a 512GB SSD. The best everyday fit is the standard 2024 M4 with 16GB memory and 256GB SSD, while the renewed M4 with those same listed specifications may appeal if its condition and seller terms suit you. For a beginner with light needs, an 8GB renewed model can handle a simpler routine, but I’d choose the M3 over the M1 if newer chip hardware matters more than extra SSD space. The best storage-focused option among the older models is the renewed M1 with 512GB, though its 8GB memory makes it a less flexible choice. Choose the M4 24GB configuration for demanding use, the 16GB M4 for general work, and an older renewed model only when its particular tradeoff matches your priorities.