Classic iMac Performance in a Renewed Package
The Apple iMac 21.5-inch (Late 2015, Renewed) combines Apple’s signature all-in-one design with reliable specs for everyday productivity and multimedia. Featuring a Full HD 21.5-inch display, it delivers crisp visuals, while its 5th Gen Intel Core i5-5575R quad-core processor ensures smooth performance for daily tasks, from browsing and emailing to light creative projects.
Equipped with 8GB RAM and a 1TB HDD, this iMac balances multitasking with generous storage capacity. Graphics are powered by Intel Iris Pro 6200, ideal for streaming, casual creative work, and clear image rendering.
Renewed and pre-installed with macOS Catalina (10.15), it arrives ready to use out of the box. It includes Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and an integrated camera, making it a reliable choice for home, students, and small offices.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Classic all-in-one Apple design, slim and space-saving
Intel Core i5 quad-core processor handles daily workloads smoothly
1TB HDD offers plenty of storage
macOS Catalina pre-installed and ready to use
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for modern connectivity
Includes camera for FaceTime and video calls
Certified Renewed with minimum 1-year warranty
Cons:
HDD storage slower than modern SSDs
Not a Retina 4K display (Full HD only)
8GB RAM is fine for basics but limited for heavy creative workflows
Older Intel platform compared to Apple Silicon
What This Product Is Used For
This iMac is suited for students, home users, and professionals who want a budget-friendly entry point into macOS. It’s excellent for web browsing, productivity apps, media streaming, and light creative work.
Why We Like This Product (YPC Team Review)
At YPC, we tested this renewed 2015 iMac in our office lounge. While the HDD was noticeably slower than SSD-based models, the overall performance was still smooth for web and office tasks. The slim aluminium body continues to look modern, and the fact it ships with macOS Catalina pre-installed makes it usable out of the box. We think it’s a smart buy for those wanting the Apple ecosystem at a lower cost.
Alternatives Worth Considering
Apple iMac 21.5-inch (2017, Renewed) – Newer dual-core CPU with Thunderbolt 3 ports, same Full HD resolution.
Apple iMac 21.5-inch (2019, Renewed) – Adds Retina 4K display and Radeon Pro graphics for sharper visuals.
Apple iMac 24-inch (M3, 2023) – The latest Apple Silicon model, much faster with a 4.5K Retina display.
Tips on How to Use Correctly
Upgrade the HDD to an SSD for faster boot and load times.
Use iCloud to sync files across Apple devices.
Keep macOS Catalina updated with the latest patches.
Use external drives if storing large amounts of media.
Comparisons with Alternatives
Compared to the 2017 iMac, this Late 2015 model is slightly older but comes at a lower cost with similar Full HD performance.
Against the 2019 iMac, it lacks the sharp Retina 4K display and dedicated graphics.
Relative to the 2023 iMac (M3), it’s far less powerful but significantly cheaper for those who just need a basic Apple desktop.
Full Technical Specification
Display: 21.5-inch Full HD (1920 × 1080) IPS panel
Processor: Intel Core i5-5575R, 2.8GHz quad-core (Turbo up to 3.3GHz)
Graphics: Intel Iris Pro Graphics 6200
Memory: 8GB RAM
Storage: 1TB HDD
Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Ports: 4 × USB 3.0, 2 × Thunderbolt 2, SDXC card slot, Gigabit Ethernet
Camera: FaceTime HD webcam
Audio: Stereo speakers, headphone jack
Operating System: macOS 10.15 Catalina pre-installed
Accessories: Magic Keyboard & Magic Mouse (check seller – not always included)
Colour: Silver aluminium finish
Dimensions: 45.0 × 52.8 × 17.5 cm (with stand)
Weight: 5.68kg
Warranty: Minimum 1-year (renewed certification)
FAQs
Q1: Is this model Retina?
No, this 2015 model features a Full HD display, not Retina 4K.
Q2: Can I upgrade the RAM?
No, RAM is soldered on this model and cannot be upgraded.
Q3: Is the HDD fast?
The 1TB HDD offers capacity but is slower than modern SSDs.
Q4: Can I install a newer macOS?
Yes, it can be upgraded beyond Catalina (up to macOS Monterey).
Q5: Does it include a webcam?
Yes, it has a FaceTime HD camera for video calls.
Q6: Is this good for gaming?
It’s suitable for casual gaming but not modern AAA titles.
Q7: Does it come with Apple accessories?
Some renewed models include Magic Keyboard and Mouse — check with the seller.
Q8: What warranty does it include?
At least a 1-year warranty as part of the Renewed programme.
Q9: Can I connect external monitors?
Yes, via Thunderbolt 2 or HDMI adapters.
Q10: Who is this iMac best for?
Users wanting an affordable Mac desktop for basic computing and macOS ecosystem access.
Buyer’s Guide – YPC Recommendation:
The Apple iMac 21.5-inch (Late 2015, Renewed) is a solid choice for buyers who want macOS performance, large storage, and Apple’s design without paying premium prices. While not as sharp or fast as modern Apple Silicon models, it remains a reliable, cost-effective entry point into the Apple ecosystem.
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