iMac 21.5-inch Retina 4K (2017) vs iMac 21.5-inch Retina 4K (2019)

The iMac 21.5-inch Retina 4K (2019) followed the iMac 21.5-inch Retina 4K (2017). Here is how they differ, and which one is worth more when you sell.

SpeciMac 21.5-inch Retina 4K (2017)iMac 21.5-inch Retina 4K (2019)
Released20172019
ChipIntel 7th genIntel 8th gen
Display21.5-inch 4K Retina21.5-inch 4K Retina
Model identifieriMac18,2iMac19,2
U.S. model numberA1418A2116
Versions33
Memory (RAM)8GB, 16GB, 32GB8GB, 16GB, 32GB
Storage256GB SSD, 512GB SSD, 1TB hard drive, 1TB Fusion Drive, 1TB SSD256GB SSD, 512GB SSD, 1TB hard drive, 1TB Fusion Drive, 1TB SSD

Key differences

What actually separates these two models.

  • Chip: the iMac 21.5-inch Retina 4K (2017) uses Intel 7th gen, the iMac 21.5-inch Retina 4K (2019) uses Intel 8th gen.
  • Model numbers: A1418 versus A2116.

Which is worth more when you sell?

With the same configuration and condition, the iMac 21.5-inch Retina 4K (2019) 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 (2017) Value my iMac 21.5-inch Retina 4K (2019)

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 Retina 4K (2019) worth more than the iMac 21.5-inch Retina 4K (2017)?

With the same configuration and condition, the iMac 21.5-inch Retina 4K (2019) 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 (2017) and iMac 21.5-inch Retina 4K (2019) apart?

Check the model identifier (iMac18,2 vs iMac19,2), model number (A1418 vs A2116), release year (2017 vs 2019), chip (Intel 7th gen vs Intel 8th gen). Apple menu > About This Mac shows the model, year and chip.