iMac Mid-2010

Although technically a "configure-to-order" version of the iMac "Core i3" 3.2 21.5-Inch (Mid-2010), the iMac "Core i5" 3.6 21.5-Inch (Mid-2010) is also listed as a distinct model for clarity. The two models are identical, except for the processor.

The iMac "Core i5" 3.6 21.5-Inch Aluminum (Mid-2010) is powered by a dual-core 3.6 GHz Intel "Core i5" I5-680 (Clarkdale) processor, featuring a dedicated 256k level 2 cache per core and a 4 MB shared level 3 cache. It uses a "Direct Media Interface" (DMI) connecting the processor and chipset at 2.5 GT/s, in place of a system bus.

By default, it is equipped with 4 GB of RAM (1333 MHz PC3-10600 DDR3 SDRAM), a 1 TB (7200 RPM) hard drive, a vertical slot-loading DVD±R DL "SuperDrive", and ATI Radeon HD 5670 graphics with 512 MB of dedicated GDDR3 memory. The system also includes an integrated iSight camera and stereo speakers under the 21.5" glossy 16:9 LED-backlit TFT Active Matrix LCD (1920x1080 native) with "IPS technology".

Connectivity consists of four USB 2.0 ports, a Firewire "800" port, built-in AirPort Extreme, and Gigabit Ethernet, along with an audio-capable Mini DisplayPort that supports an external display up to 30" (2560x1600).

Externally, the "Mid-2010" iMac line maintains the "edge-to-edge" glass design and "seamless all aluminum enclosure" of the "Late 2009" models they replaced. Internally, however, the "Mid-2010" series boasts faster processors, graphics, and memory, as well as support for the SDXC card format.

The "Mid-2010" iMacs came with a compact aluminum Apple Wireless Keyboard and a multi-touch "Magic Mouse," with an optional US$69 upgrade to a multi-touch "Magic Trackpad" for notebook-style gesture controls. An aluminum remote was also available for an additional US$19.

As a build-to-order option for the 21.5-inch model, this machine offered the pinnacle of dual-core iMac performance. Its high 3.6 GHz clock speed delivered excellent performance in many applications where single-threaded performance was key. The inclusion of Turbo Boost technology, allowing for even higher speeds when needed, was also a valued feature. While it shared the same graphics and basic design as the Core i3 models, it was an attractive option for users seeking pure processor power. However, with growing interest in quad-core models, its position was considered somewhat niche.