iMac 21.5-inch: Retina 4K (Late 2015) vs (2017, non-Retina)
The iMac 21.5-inch (2017, non-Retina) followed the iMac 21.5-inch Retina 4K (Late 2015). Here is how they differ, and which one is worth more when you sell.
| Spec | iMac 21.5-inch Retina 4K (Late 2015) | iMac 21.5-inch (2017, non-Retina) |
|---|---|---|
| Released | 2015 | 2017 |
| Chip | Intel 5th gen | Intel 7th gen |
| Display | 21.5-inch 4K Retina | 21.5-inch 1080p |
| Model identifier | iMac16,2 | iMac18,1 |
| U.S. model number | A1418 | A1418 |
| Versions | 2 | 2 |
| Memory (RAM) | 8GB, 16GB | 8GB, 16GB |
| Storage | 256GB SSD, 512GB SSD, 1TB hard drive, 1TB Fusion Drive, 2TB Fusion Drive | 256GB SSD, 1TB hard drive, 1TB Fusion Drive |
Key differences
What actually separates these two models.
- Chip: the iMac 21.5-inch Retina 4K (Late 2015) uses Intel 5th gen, the iMac 21.5-inch (2017, non-Retina) uses Intel 7th gen.
- Display: 21.5-inch 4K Retina versus 21.5-inch 1080p.
- Storage: only the iMac 21.5-inch Retina 4K (Late 2015) came with 512GB SSD, 2TB Fusion Drive.
Which is worth more when you sell?
With the same configuration and condition, the iMac 21.5-inch (2017, non-Retina) usually gets the higher offer.
Memory, storage, condition, battery health and accessories all change the final number, so get an exact estimate for yours.
Value my iMac 21.5-inch Retina 4K (Late 2015) Value my iMac 21.5-inch (2017, non-Retina)
What changes the offer for either model
Configuration. More memory and storage raise the offer, and only the configurations Apple sold can be chosen in the quote.
Condition. Offers are graded from Like New to Damaged. Cracked glass and dents have the largest effect.
Function. Faults that need repair are deducted.
Eligibility. Both must be signed out of their Apple Account with Find My and Activation Lock off, and free of any lock or lost/stolen report.
Not sure? About This Mac shows the chip, memory and storage.
Comparison questions
Is the iMac 21.5-inch (2017, non-Retina) worth more than the iMac 21.5-inch Retina 4K (Late 2015)?
With the same configuration and condition, the iMac 21.5-inch (2017, non-Retina) usually gets the higher offer. Exact offers depend on memory, storage, condition and accessories, so use the quote tool for each.
How do I tell the iMac 21.5-inch Retina 4K (Late 2015) and iMac 21.5-inch (2017, non-Retina) apart?
Check the model identifier (iMac16,2 vs iMac18,1), model number (A1418 vs A1418), release year (2015 vs 2017), chip (Intel 5th gen vs Intel 7th gen), display (21.5-inch 4K Retina vs 21.5-inch 1080p). Apple menu > About This Mac shows the model, year and chip.