This machine is great for all types of projects, from writing to managing and creating media, but there is a warning regarding storage. The hard drive on these iMacs cannot be upgraded using off-the-shelf parts. Apple included a thermal sensor in the iMac hard drives, and hard drives bought from store shelves lack that sensor. The result? The iMac revs up its fans, producing consistent fan noise at a volume that is just not acceptable. Be mindful of this when deciding how much storage you need.

Otherwise, the iMac is a great home machine. I only have two real complaints: this iMac lacks USB 3.0, which is unfortunate; and the display is prone to glare.

One last thing: the iMac can be used as a monitor for laptops or other computing devices using Target Display Mode. In this state, the iMac can continue to process events even as another machine uses the display. It's a nice touch.

All-in-one for easy set-up; desktop power; nice display; optical media support; iMac can be used as a monitor for laptops or other computing devices

No USB 3; hard drive cannot be upgraded using standard parts; screen is prone to glare