MacBook Pro M4 vs iMac M4: which Mac is best for you?
Battle of Apple M4 Macs
by https://www.techradar.com/uk/author/bryan-m-wolfe · TechRadarVersus By Bryan M Wolfe published 4 May 2026
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Apple MacBook Pro (14 inch, M4) review
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
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.
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MacBook Pro M4 vs iMac M4: Specs
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| Row 0 - Cell 0 | 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
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.
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