iMac 24-inch M1 (2021) vs iMac 24-inch M3 (2023)
The iMac 24-inch M3 (2023) followed the iMac 24-inch M1 (2021). Below: what separates them and which earns more at resale.
| Spec | iMac 24-inch M1 (2021) | iMac 24-inch M3 (2023) |
|---|---|---|
| Launch year | 2021 | 2023 |
| Chip | M1 | M3 |
| Display | 24-inch 4.5K Retina | 24-inch 4.5K Retina |
| Model identifier | iMac21,1 / iMac21,2 | Mac15,4 / Mac15,5 |
| U.S. model number | — | — |
| Versions offered | 2 | 2 |
| Memory (RAM) | 8GB, 16GB | 8GB, 16GB, 24GB |
| Storage | 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB | 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB |
What is different?
The points that matter when you identify or sell one.
- Processor: iMac 24-inch M1 (2021) runs M1, while the iMac 24-inch M3 (2023) runs M3.
- Memory (RAM): the iMac 24-inch M3 (2023) alone offered 24GB.
Which one earns more at resale?
With the same configuration and condition, the iMac 24-inch M3 (2023) normally earns more.
Memory, storage, grade, battery health and extras all shift the final figure, so price your exact unit.
What moves the price on either one?
Configuration. Extra memory and storage lift the figure; the price check lists only combinations Apple actually built.
Condition. Grades run from Like New to Damaged, and cracked glass or dents cost the most.
Function. Anything needing repair comes off the price.
Eligibility. Either one needs to be signed out of its Apple Account, with Find My and Activation Lock off and no lock or lost/stolen flag.
Unsure? About This Mac lists the chip, memory and storage.
Side-by-side questions
Is the iMac 24-inch M3 (2023) worth more than the iMac 24-inch M1 (2021)?
Matched for configuration and condition, the iMac 24-inch M3 (2023) normally earns more. Memory, storage, grade and included accessories still move each figure, so price both separately. Each iMac estimate draws on this month's resale data for that configuration, and your condition answers refine it before anything is shipped. We price configuration and condition, not averages, which is why two iMac units from the same year can land far apart.
Which details separate the iMac 24-inch M1 (2021) from the iMac 24-inch M3 (2023)?
Look at the model identifier (iMac21,1 / iMac21,2 vs Mac15,4 / Mac15,5), release year (2021 vs 2023), chip (M1 vs M3). About This Mac, in the Apple menu, names the model, year and chip. The quickest check is the About screen, under Settings on iPad and iPhone or the Apple menu on a Mac, which names the model, year and chip.