Manage updates with the Download AppApple iMac 21.5-inch (2.5GHz, spring 2011)
Manufacturer: Apple Part number: MC309LL/A
- More product information:
- Editors' review
- User reviews
- Specifications
- Product series
- Accessories
- Manufacturer info
- Bottom Line:
- Apple's $1,199 iMac doesn't offer the same home entertainment features as Windows-based all-in-ones, but its speed, looks, and the future utility of its Thunderbolt port make it a strong choice for performance-sensitive professionals.
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Where to buy
| store | customer rating | inventory | tax & shipping | price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Memory4Less.com | Not yet rated | In stock | Enter zip code to get total price: Price +Tax +Shipping =Total price | as of 06/19/2013 Refurbished |
CNET editors' review
Apple iMac 21.5-inch (2.5GHz, spring 2011) price range: $2,370.21
- Reviewed by: Rich Brown
- Reviewed on: 05/12/2011
The good: As the most-affordable iMac, the Apple iMac 21.5-inch offers competitive speed, the unique potential of its Thunderbolt port, and Apple's trademark design leadership.
The bad: The 21.5-inch iMac isn't the best all-in-one for home entertainment, and its performance competitiveness suffers without an option for more video memory.
The bottom line: Apple's $1,199 iMac doesn't offer the same home entertainment features as Windows-based all-in-ones, but its speed, looks, and the future utility of its Thunderbolt port make it a strong choice for performance-sensitive professionals.
User reviews
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Perfect for getting your feet wet with Mac
by ZomKi on July 7, 2011
Pros: Superfast multitasking, Thunderbolt port which allows me to have dual monitors, Sharp monitor, beautiful form factor, Free upgrade to OS Lion once its realeased, decent graphics.
Cons: Only 500 GB included, price
Summary: I was in the market for a new computer and I decided to go with Apple as I absolutely love my iPad 2. At first I was going for the ...
Summary: I was in the market for a new computer and I decided to go with Apple as I absolutely love my iPad 2. At first I was going for the higher grade 21.5" iMac however after further thought I realized the only difference is 200mhz, minimally better graphics, 1 TB of HD space, and less upgrade options. I decided on the base model and added an external 750 GB drive. Gaming is actually decent on this machine but I've only tested Left4Dead 1 and 2. Overall I am very pleased with my purchase. Though a bit pricier than Windows all in one desktops, I believe with Apple products and the Apple customer service, you get what you pay for.
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Powerful, Beautiful, Great for Switchers
by MatthewCarrasco on May 28, 2011
Pros: Fast quad-core i5 processor is leaps ahead of other all-in ones, and (if you opt for the $1500 model), the graphics are actually good. THe screen is absolutely a dream in terms of vibrancy. BootCamp makes dual-booting easy.
Cons: The graphics card could always be better. Limited post-purchase upgrade options. The Magic Mouse is not particularly accurate.
Summary: As a college student, I needed a fast, but compact PC with enough graphics performance to play modern games at acceptable quality settings. The iMac certainly delivers. Under Windows, it ...
Summary: As a college student, I needed a fast, but compact PC with enough graphics performance to play modern games at acceptable quality settings. The iMac certainly delivers. Under Windows, it can max out less intensive games like Assassin's Creed 2 and The Sims 3, and still looks better than a PlayStation 3 on more demanding titles. OS X is much better than I had imagined it to be, but for most people is not a compelling reason to switch to Macs. Also, it's a shame that there aren't any options for loading 1080p content onto the iMac considering its absolutely stunning screen (iTune 720p HD is still very sharp though). Overall, the new iMac is an awesome machine for those who want a fast, attractive, and versatile PC.
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Beautiful for it's size
Pros: Fast and very user friendly
Cons: Thunder? Exactly not useful yet.
Summary: Just switched and am very happy with it
Summary: Just switched and am very happy with it
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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AWESOME Machine
by DOMINUCE on May 19, 2011
Pros: 21.5 Inch Screen,Thunderbolt connection,Wireless Keyboard and mouse,Facetime. All connections are located in the Rear.Quick Start up as compared to Most Window's based All-in-Ones. i5 core.
Cons: Difficult to relocate Windows Based Files on a Mac, Meaning a Simple Plug n Play type way. Apps from the App store ARE WAY OVER PRICED
Summary: ALL in ALL I'd say It's a GREAT Machine,switching from PC to Mac takes some Getting used to..BUT....You'll be glad ya bought One.
Summary: ALL in ALL I'd say It's a GREAT Machine,switching from PC to Mac takes some Getting used to..BUT....You'll be glad ya bought One.
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Spectacular!
Pros: Mac OS X (Face Time & Time Machine in particular are ace, ace, ace); fabulous screen; great performance; aesthetics and lack of desktop (of the physical variety) clutter.
Cons: Good range of ports, but they aren't so easy to access; experiencing problems with Skype videoconference from-Mac-to-PC (not a Mac issue, but annoying nonetheless).
Summary: The kid's Dell tower died. The kids never got on with Vista or with the Dell; it would continually develop allergies to various bits of hardware and party 3rd ...
Summary: The kid's Dell tower died. The kids never got on with Vista or with the Dell; it would continually develop allergies to various bits of hardware and party 3rd software and I was forever taking "tech support" calls whilst I was away from home. They love the iMac - and it just works out of the box. Even the base model is more than zippy enough for their (and my) requirements - in fact, my late 2008 Ally MacBook now feels positively pedestrian by comparison. Like a BMW, it's a little over-priced (and Apple really should include a virus scanner at this price point - since they don't, look at VirusBarrier from Intego); and like a BMW, you won't regret paying the extra for a moment. Highly recommended!
P.S.: If buying in the UK, go to John Lewis and take the extended warranty; an extra 60 quid gets you a 3-year guarantee, which compares pretty favourably with the cost of Apple Care (alright you don't get phone support from Apple, but honestly, I've never needed to use it anyway with any of the six products I now have from Apple).1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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The perfect package...
by MF878 on May 15, 2011
Pros: Mac OS X (obviously)
Sleek design
Quad core
Great keyboard and Magic MouseCons: None yet, runs like a dream.
Summary: This is the computer I should have bought years ago, it has been absolutely spectacular. People (eg. Windows fanboys) often complain about the lack of BluRay, USB 3, etc. but ...
Summary: This is the computer I should have bought years ago, it has been absolutely spectacular. People (eg. Windows fanboys) often complain about the lack of BluRay, USB 3, etc. but you can never have everything. Regardless of those minor setbacks, this is the perfect machine, proof that you cannot beat a computer where the hardware and software are designed and built specifically for each other. I LOVE MY MAC!
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Fast, reliable, and portable! A must have for everyone!
by MrRicearonie on October 4, 2012
Pros: Fast Intel i5 quad-core
Amazing HD screen
Cheap ram upgrade
OSX is beautiful and is great at multitasking
Great preinstalled apps like iMovie, iPhoto, Garageband, and Photobooth
Not a lot of viruses so it is very secure for your family and businessCons: Not a lot of games since most of them are on Windows
Summary: Even though most games are on Windows it is easy to install Windows using Bootcamp. You can easily move it from room to room since the screen and the cpu ...
Summary: Even though most games are on Windows it is easy to install Windows using Bootcamp. You can easily move it from room to room since the screen and the cpu is built in. This is a must have for video editing, web browsing, and using Microsoft office since the Microsoft Office on Windows is still on 2010, for Mac it is the 2011 edition. Once you use your Mac, you will never want to go back to Windows ever again. Buy one today!
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Can't fully switch from PC to Apple iMac
by harleyy2 on September 13, 2012
Pros: Webcam is CLEAR as possible!
Processor
RAM is OK...not the best
Wireless Keyboard
Wireless Mouse
Keyboard/Mouse connect through Bluetooth
Start Up is quickCons: Safari Browser
Price
RAM is OK...you may need to upgrade to the max of 8GB RAMSummary: I purchased this because I've heard so many people saying "Apple makes the best computers" and that junk so I decided to purchase an iMac that was $1200 (cheapest ...
Summary: I purchased this because I've heard so many people saying "Apple makes the best computers" and that junk so I decided to purchase an iMac that was $1200 (cheapest all-in-one they sell). I've been trying to switch to the iMac full time (for web browsing, email, Microsoft Office) but end up using my PC (maybe because I've used PC's all my life and only used a mac at the Apple Store). I did have to send my PC off to be repaired because the processor broke and had to use this full time for 3 weeks straight. I will definitely say it was very hard...I missed having my PC a LOT!
The one pro I definitely love about this iMac is the webcam built in is CRYSTAL CLEAR! When I Skype with family, friends or business coworkers, I always get "wow - your webcam is totally clear and can actually see you compared to your laptop webcam!" The built in wifi is very nice as well...but I just put my ethernet internet cord into the back of the computer for much faster internet browsing. Also...make sure you download Google Chrome because Safari is just like Internet Explorer...except for Macs!
Overall: Crystal Clear built-in Webcam is perfect for video chats, ethernet port is nice to use instead of the wifi (even for PC wifi is still much slower than ethernet) and I still can't totally switch to this for full time use but that may be because I've never had an Apple Computer in my house. -
Industrial leading design, amazing performance
by CockTheRoach on March 6, 2012
Pros: overall design, great mac os x lion, intuitive magic mouse, sleek keyboard that save space, lightning fast performance
Cons: graphic card could be more powerful
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just perfect
by xlai on September 8, 2011
Pros: great design and performance
very good at gaming ( you can run most games at max settings)
best qualityCons: graphic card could be more powerful for power gamers
Summary: its a great machine for all aspects its performance is superb. screen quality is the best
it really deserve its price i will strongly recommend this machineSummary: its a great machine for all aspects its performance is superb. screen quality is the best
it really deserve its price i will strongly recommend this machine
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Apple
- Part number: MC309LL/A
- Description: Today's iMac has come a long way from the first 15-inch iMac. Take one look and you'll see just how far. A display with edge-to-edge glass covers nearly the entire front of the enclosure. When all you see is the display, nothing gets between you and what's onscreen. Movies, TV shows, FaceTime HD video calls, websites, photos - everything looks stunning on the widescreen 16:9 iMac display. The more pixels a display has, the more light those pixels need to achieve the best picture possible. And that's exactly what the LED backlighting in iMac does: it pushes light through each pixel with remarkable brightness and efficiency. Because the LED backlight doesn't take up much space, the iMac enclosure stays thin - even with all the high-performance components inside. The widescreen iMac display allows more room to separate the two hottest components, the CPU and the GPU. This keeps things cool inside the iMac enclosure. Apple engineers also implemented an intelligent control system that monitors temperatures and delivers just the right amount of airflow to critical components. And the three fans inside iMac have been tuned to be ultra quiet, so you hardly know it's on. Watching a movie, updating your blog, editing photos. Tasks like these require data to travel from place to place. The Intel Core architecture puts the processor, cache, memory controller, and graphics engine on a single chip. Since data doesn't have as far to travel, you get faster performance and greater efficiency. Thunderbolt technology has arrived - and Apple computers are the first to have it. With one tiny port, you get lightning-fast transfer speeds and huge expansion capabilities. Two 10-Gbps data channels per port mean you can transfer data up to 12 times faster than with FireWire 800. And don't worry about a single drive or peripheral tying up the Thunderbolt port: you can daisy-chain as many as six devices plus a display.
General
- Desktop type All-in-one desktop system ,
Monitor included - Packaged Quantity 1
- Type Personal computer
- Product Form Factor All-in-one
- Built-in Devices Antenna,
Stereo speakers,
Infrared receiver - Localization English
Processor / Chipset
- Type Intel Core i5 2.5 GHz
- Number of Cores Quad-Core
- 64-bit Computing Yes
- CPU Qty 1
- Max CPU Qty 1
- Processor Main Features Intel Turbo Boost Technology 2
Cache Memory
- Installed Size L3 cache - 6 MB
- Cache Per Processor 6 MB
RAM
- Installed Size 4 GB / 8 GB (max)
- Technology DDR3 SDRAM
- Memory Speed 1333 MHz
- Memory Specification Compliance PC3-10600
- Form Factor SO DIMM 204-pin
- Configuration Features 2 x 2 GB
Environmental Parameters
- Min Operating Temperature 50 °F
- Max Operating Temperature 95 °F
- Humidity Range Operating 5 - 95% (non-condensing)
- Sound Emission 18 dBA
Hard Drive
- Type HDD
- Capacity 1 x 500 GB
- Interface Type Serial ATA-300 Serial ATA
- Spindle Speed 7200 rpm
Storage Controller
- Type 1 x Serial ATA - Integrated
- Controller Interface Type Serial ATA-300
Hard Drive (3rd)
- Type None
Optical Storage
- Type DVD±RW (±R DL)
- Read Speed 24x (CD) / 8x (DVD)
- Write Speed 24x (CD) / 8x (DVD±R) / 4x (DVD±R DL)
- Rewrite Speed 16x (CD) / 6x (DVD-RW) / 8x (DVD+RW)
Floppy Drive
- Type None
Optical Storage (2nd)
- Type None
Card Reader
- Type Card reader
- Supported Flash Memory Cards SD Memory Card,
SDXC Memory Card,
SDHC Memory Card Storage Removable
- Type None
Monitor
- Monitor Type LED
- Diagonal Size 21.5 in
- Max Resolution 1920 x 1080 ( Full HD )
- Widescreen Display Yes
Graphics Controller
- Graphics Processor / Vendor AMD Radeon HD 6750M
- Video Memory 512 MB GDDR5 SDRAM
Camera
- Form Factor Integrated
Input Device
- Type Mouse,
Keyboard Audio Output
- Type Integrated
- Sound Output Mode Stereo
- Speaker(s) 2 x Right / left channel
Keyboard
- Keyboard Name Apple Wireless Keyboard
- Connectivity Wireless
- Interface Bluetooth
- Localization & Layout English - North America
Audio Input
- Type Microphone
Telecom
- Modem None
Mouse
- Connectivity Wireless
- Technology Laser
- Interface Bluetooth
- Features Multi-Touch
Networking
- Type Integrated
- Wireless LAN Supported Yes
- Data Link Protocol Bluetooth 2.1 EDR,
IEEE 802.11a,
Fast Ethernet,
Ethernet,
Gigabit Ethernet,
IEEE 802.11b,
IEEE 802.11n,
IEEE 802.11g - Compliant Standards IEEE 802.11g,
Bluetooth 2.1,
IEEE 802.11n,
IEEE 802.11a,
IEEE 802.11b Printer
- Type None
Miscellaneous
- Cables Included Power cable ( 1 pcs.)
- Features 802.11n Wireless LAN,
Bluetooth 2.1,
Camera Expansion / Connectivity
- Slots Memory,
4 (total) / 2 (free) x SDXC memory card SO DIMM 204-pin - Interfaces 1 x Thunderbolt,
1 x FireWire 800,
4 x USB 2.0,
1 x Audio - SPDIF output/headphones,
1 x Audio - SPDIF input/line-in,
1 x LAN (Gigabit Ethernet),
1 x IrDA Power
- Device Type Power supply
- Power AC 120/230 V ( 50/60 Hz )
Operating System / Software
- OS Provided Apple OS X 10.8 Mountain Lion
- Software Apple iCal,
Apple QuickTime,
Apple iTunes,
Apple Dashboard,
Apple Spotlight,
Apple XCode Developer Tools,
Apple Address Book,
Apple Safari,
Apple DVD Player,
Apple iLife,
Apple Time Machine,
Apple Quick Look,
Apple Spaces,
Photo Booth,
Front Row,
Apple Mac OS X Mail,
Apple iChat Dimensions & Weight
- Width 20.8 in
- Depth 7.4 in
- Height 17.8 in
- Weight 20.5 lbs
Manufacturer Warranty
- Service & Support 1 year warranty
- Service & Support Details Limited warranty - 1 year,
Technical support - Phone consulting - 90 days Sustainability
- ENERGY STAR Qualified Yes
- EPEAT Compliant EPEAT Gold
- Greenpeace policy rating (Nov 2011) 4.6
- Greenpeace policy rating (Nov 2012) 4.5
Product series
-
Apple iMac 27-inch (3.1GHz, spring 2011)
Manufacturer: Apple
Specs: Intel Core i5 3.1 GHz,
4 GB / 16 GB (max),
Apple OS X 10.8 Mountain Lion,
DVD±RW (±R DL),
AMD Radeon HD 6970M,
TFT active matrix,
LCD display,
L3 cache,
6 MB -
Apple iMac 27-inch (2.7GHz, spring 2011)
Manufacturer: Apple
Specs: Intel Core i5 2.7 GHz,
4 GB / 16 GB (max),
Apple OS X 10.8 Mountain Lion,
DVD±RW (±R DL),
AMD Radeon HD 6770M,
TFT active matrix,
LCD display,
L3 cache,
6 MB -
Apple iMac 21.5-inch (2.7GHz, spring 2011)
Manufacturer: Apple
Specs: Intel Core i5 2.7 GHz,
4 GB / 16 GB (max),
Apple OS X 10.8 Mountain Lion,
DVD±RW (±R DL),
AMD Radeon HD 6770M,
TFT active matrix,
LCD display,
L3 cache,
6 MB -
Apple iMac 21.5-inch (2.5GHz, spring 2011)
Manufacturer: Apple
Specs: Intel Core i5 2.5 GHz,
4 GB / 8 GB (max),
Apple OS X 10.8 Mountain Lion,
DVD±RW (±R DL),
AMD Radeon HD 6750M,
TFT active matrix,
LCD display,
L3 cache,
6 MB
Accessories
- Klear Screen iKlear Apple Polish Kit - cleaning kit (34705268)17.29 - 20.85
- Corsair Mac Memory memory - 4 GB - SO DIMM 204-pin - DDR3 (34740973)24.99 - 37.99
- Kingston memory - 2 GB - SO DIMM 204-pin - DDR3 (34741119)15.63 - 18.99
- Corsair Mac Memory memory - 8 GB : 2 x 4 GB - SO DIMM 204-pin - DDR3 (34741108)44.99 - 62.37
- Kanex iAdapt V2 - video / audio adapter - DisplayPort / HDMI (34941909)19.99
- Logitech diNovo Mini Keyboard (32784878)115.68 - 168.67
- Intermec keyboard (35058896)478.19 - 517.50
- Kensington Notebook Keypad/Calculator with USB Hub - keypad (34991754)24.00
- Manhattan Numeric - keypad (34564735)10.32
- Unotron SpillSeal Meditech Magic Washable Antimicrobial Keyboard S6000KMT - keyboard (34666150)45.99
- Microsoft Natural Ergonomic Keyboard 4000 (31485240)33.99 - 63.32
- Logitech Illuminated Keyboard (33264750)60.89 - 117.89
- Razer Lycosa (32640959)69.99 - 94.66
- Logitech Cordless Desktop MX 5500 Revolution - keyboard and mouse set (32822577)124.99 - 224.79
- Logitech Cordless Desktop Wave Pro (33300017)229.99
Manufacturer info
- Manufacturer profile
- Browse Apple products on Shopper.com
-
- Manufacturer:Apple
- Address:
One Infinite Loop, Cupertino, CA 95014 - Phone: 1-408-996-1010
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