Apple iMac M6 Review: M6 chip boosts performance but design is identical

The Apple iMac M6 arrives with a performance boost driven by the new M6 chip, even as the exterior hardware remains identical to the 2021 redesign. While the internal architecture features significant gains in core counts and local artificial intelligence capabilities, the base model retains a 256GB storage capacity that CNET reported as "insulting" for a modern desktop computer.

Performance Gains Through M6 Silicon

According to CNET, the 12-core version of the M6 demonstrated a 37% increase in multi-core speed on Geekbench 6 and a 36% gain on Cinebench 2024 compared to the previous M4 model. The M6 also adds a neural accelerator to each GPU core, aiding AI performance. PCMag noted that while these hardware improvements are measurable, the gains in graphics performance were not as profound as some anticipated, with the Mac mini M6 outperforming the iMac in certain 3DMark benchmarks due to superior airflow in the mini’s chassis.

Continuity in Design and Display

Despite the internal evolution, the iMac retains the 24-inch, 4,480×2,520-resolution Retina display established during the 2021 transition to Apple silicon.

Photography and creative professionals may find the display sufficient, though PetaPixel noted that the screen is not very bright compared to other displays.

Connectivity and Storage Limitations

Networking receives a notable update across the lineup, with support for Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6. For wired connections, the 12-core M6 model includes 2.5Gb Ethernet housed in the power brick, while the base model includes Gigabit Ethernet on its power supply.

PetaPixel highlighted the absence of an SD card slot and Thunderbolt 5 ports, noting that the machine relies on Thunderbolt 4. The 256GB base storage remains a consistent point of critique across reviews, as it cannot be upgraded after purchase. Consequently, users are often forced to choose between a $200 storage upgrade or an upgraded processor configuration.

Improved Gaming Performance Shows Hardware Progress

Gaming performance has historically been a challenge for the iMac, but the M6 configuration shows improvement. PCMag reported that the new model can now run demanding titles like Cyberpunk 2077 at playable frame rates, provided settings are kept modest—a task the previous generation could not complete. To measure performance, testers utilize the 2022 strategy game Total War: Warhammer 3 via Steam, recording average frames per second in the Battle benchmark at Ultra and Low settings at 1080p. While the iMac no longer occupies the central position it once held in Apple’s lineup, it remains a "fuss-free" desktop option for home and office environments, according to PetaPixel.

Testing Methodology

• Solar Bay is utilized for ray-tracing testing.
• The Wild Life Extreme test is used to push hardware to its limits at 4K resolution.
• The Cyberpunk 2077 test is run using Ultra and Ray Tracing Overdrive presets at 1080p and 1440p resolutions.

Answers to Common Hardware and Upgrade Questions

Can I upgrade the internal storage on the M6 iMac after buying it?
No, the solid-state drive is not user-upgradable. CNET advises that buyers should prioritize spending their budget on increasing the internal storage capacity at the time of purchase to avoid relying on external hard drives.

What is the difference between the 10-core and 12-core M6 models?
PetaPixel notes that the 12-core version includes four Thunderbolt 4 ports, compared to the two ports found on the base model.

Does the M6 iMac support ray tracing? Yes, the graphics hardware in the M6 chip supports ray tracing.