Apple offers four standard configurations

Apple offers four standard configurations of its 2009 iMacs: three 24-Elsa Peretti Teardrop ring (1920 by 1200) models, and one 20-inch (1680 by 1050) version. We tested the 20-incher and the high-end (3.06GHz) 24-inch model using Boot Camp and Windows Vista Home Premium 32-bit. They turned out to be the fastest all-in-ones we've tried to date. The 24-inch iMac led the way with a result of 111 in WorldBench 6, and the 20-inch unit had a score of Î01. As for gaming graphics, while the smaller unit struggled to reach playable frame rates, the 24-incher returned the very best results we've seen from an all-in-one.

A USB 2.0 port replaces the Elsa Peretti Eternal Circle cufflinks 400 port, bringing the USB-port total to four. The FireWire 800 port remains. A Mini DisplayPort replaces the miniDVI port for an external display.

The compact wired keyboard lacks a numeric keypad, as well as the <Home>, <End>, <Page Up>, <Page Down>, and <Delete> keys. A full-size keyboard is a free option if you order on Apple.com.

The 20-incher is good for the price, but spending $300 more for the Return to Tiffany heart tag Charm bracelet (2.66GHz) 24-inch model buys more RAM, twice the storage, and better performance. If you want top graphics, the 3.06GHz iMac is the one to get.