Choosing the right iMac for photography involves balancing performance, display quality, and budget. The Apple 2021 iMac with M1 remains a strong overall choice for its reliable performance and excellent Retina display. For those seeking the latest hardware, the 2024 M4 iMac with 16GB RAM offers increased speed and future-proofing, though at a higher price. The main tradeoffs involve balancing high-end specs against cost, especially when considering screen quality and processing power. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown to help you pick the perfect iMac for your photographic needs.
Key Takeaways
- The 2024 M4 iMac models generally outperform older M1-based versions in speed and future compatibility.
- More RAM (16GB or higher) significantly benefits photo editing workflows, especially with large files and multitasking.
- Display quality, especially true color accuracy and brightness, remains a key factor for photographers, making Retina screens essential.
- Budget models with less RAM or storage may hinder workflow speed and storage needs over time.
- Choosing between a renewed or new iMac can yield savings without sacrificing essential features, but warranty and longevity vary.
| Apple 2021 iMac All-in-One Desktop Computer with M1 Chip, 24-inch Retina Display, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Blue |  | Best Overall for Photographers Wanting Balance of Power and Display Quality | Processor: 8-core CPU with 8-core GPU | Display: 24-inch Retina 4.5K | RAM: 8GB | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple 2024 iMac Air with Apple M4 Chip, 24-inch, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Silver (Renewed) |  | Best for Portability and Quiet Performance in a Compact Design | Processor: Apple M4 chip | Display: 24-inch Retina 4.5K | RAM: 16GB | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Desktop Computer with M4 Chip, 24-inch Retina Display, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD – Silver |  | Best for Future-Proof Performance and Seamless Ecosystem Integration | Processor: M4 chip with 10-core CPU and GPU | Display: 24-inch Retina 4.5K | Memory: 16GB | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple 2023 iMac with M3 Chip (24-inch, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Renewed) |  | Best for Budget-Conscious Photographers Needing a Capable Machine | Display: 24-inch Retina 4.5K | Processor: Apple M3 chip | RAM: 8GB | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Desktop Computer with M4 Chip, 24-inch Retina Display, 16GB Memory, 256GB SSD, Blue |  | Best for Stylish, High-Performance Editing in a Vibrant Color | Processor: M4 chip with 8-core CPU and GPU | Display: 24-inch Retina 4.5K | Memory: 16GB | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Desktop Computer with M4 Chip, 24-inch Retina Display, 16GB Memory, 256GB SSD, Silver |  | Best Overall for Power and Portability | Processor: M4 chip with 8-core CPU and 8-core GPU | Display: 24-inch Retina, 4.5K resolution | Memory: 16GB Unified Memory | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Desktop Computer with M4 Chip, 24-inch Retina Display, 16GB Memory, 512GB SSD – Silver | | Best for Power Users Needing More Storage | Processor: M4 chip with 10-core CPU and 10-core GPU | Display: 24-inch Retina, 4.5K resolution | Memory: 16GB Unified Memory | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Desktop Computer with M4 Chip, 24-inch Retina Display, 24GB Memory, 512GB SSD, Blue |  | Best for Heavy Multitasking and Large Files | Processor: M4 chip with 10-core CPU and 10-core GPU | Display: 24-inch Retina, 4.5K resolution | Memory: 24GB Unified Memory | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| imac for photographer | Processor | Display | Storage | Color |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple 2021 iMac All-in-One Des | 8-core CPU with 8-core GPU | 24-inch Retina 4.5K | 256GB SSD (up to 2TB options available) | Blue |
| Apple 2024 iMac Air with Apple | Apple M4 chip | 24-inch Retina 4.5K | 256GB SSD | Silver |
| Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Des | M4 chip with 10-core CPU and GPU | 24-inch Retina 4.5K | 256GB SSD | Silver |
| Apple 2023 iMac with M3 Chip | Apple M3 chip | 24-inch Retina 4.5K | 256GB SSD | Silver |
| Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Des | M4 chip with 8-core CPU and GPU | 24-inch Retina 4.5K | 256GB SSD | Blue |
| Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Des | M4 chip with 8-core CPU and 8-core GPU | 24-inch Retina, 4.5K resolution | 256GB SSD | Silver |
| Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Des | M4 chip with 10-core CPU and 10-core GPU | 24-inch Retina, 4.5K resolution | 512GB SSD | Silver |
| Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Des | M4 chip with 10-core CPU and 10-core GPU | 24-inch Retina, 4.5K resolution | 512GB SSD | Blue |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Apple 2021 iMac All-in-One Desktop Computer with M1 Chip, 24-inch Retina Display, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Blue
This 2021 iMac with the M1 chip stands out for its combination of strong performance and a stunning 24-inch Retina display, making it a solid choice for photographers who need color accuracy and speed. Compared to the newer M4-based models, its M1 processor offers excellent performance for editing and multitasking but falls slightly behind in raw power and future-proofing. Its vivid 4.5K display rivals the latest models, ensuring precise color rendition, yet the limited 256GB SSD may be restrictive for large photo libraries. The absence of a dedicated GPU means it’s less suited for GPU-accelerated tasks. Overall, this pick makes the most sense for those who prioritize a proven balance of performance, display quality, and a lower starting price, while understanding storage constraints.
Pros:- Powerful M1 chip offers fast performance for editing and multitasking
- Vivid 24-inch Retina display with excellent color accuracy
- Sleek, colorful design with matching accessories
- Seamless integration with other Apple devices
Cons:- Limited to 256GB SSD storage, which may be restrictive for large photo collections
- No dedicated GPU options for GPU-intensive editing tasks
- Higher price point relative to older models with similar specs
Best for: Professional or enthusiast photographers who want reliable performance with a high-quality display, but don’t need the latest GPU power.
Not ideal for: Photographers handling very large files or requiring extensive storage and GPU acceleration for editing high-resolution videos or complex composites.
- Processor:8-core CPU with 8-core GPU
- Display:24-inch Retina 4.5K
- RAM:8GB
- Storage:256GB SSD (up to 2TB options available)
- Color:Blue
- Ports:2 Thunderbolt/USB 4, up to 2 USB 3, headphone jack
Our verdict“This iMac strikes a great balance for photographers who value display quality and performance without needing the latest hardware or maximum storage capacity.”
Apple 2024 iMac Air with Apple M4 Chip, 24-inch, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Silver (Renewed)
This 2024 iMac Air with the M4 chip offers a lightweight, slim profile ideal for photographers who need a portable setup without sacrificing performance. Compared to the 2021 M1-based iMac, the M4 processor provides a noticeable boost in speed and efficiency, especially for multitasking and editing workflows. Its 16GB RAM enhances handling of larger files and multitasking, while the 4.5K Retina display supports up to 1 billion colors, ensuring accurate previews. However, being a renewed product, it may come with limited warranty, and the 256GB SSD could be too small for extensive photo libraries. It’s best suited for photographers who prioritize mobility and a modern design, but less so for those with large storage needs or who prefer new units with full warranty coverage.
Pros:- Powerful M4 chip delivers fast, efficient performance
- Vivid 4.5K Retina display with high brightness and color support
- Slim, lightweight, and stylish design fits in any space
- Enhanced privacy protections
Cons:- Renewed product may have limited warranty or support
- Limited 256GB SSD storage for large photo libraries
- No dedicated GPU for GPU-accelerated editing
Best for: Traveling photographers or those who need a lightweight, high-performance machine for on-the-go editing and client work.
Not ideal for: Photographers with extensive local storage needs or working with very large files who require higher capacity or dedicated GPU power.
- Processor:Apple M4 chip
- Display:24-inch Retina 4.5K
- RAM:16GB
- Storage:256GB SSD
- Color:Silver
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, Thunderbolt 4 ports
Our verdict“This renewed iMac Air is a compelling choice for mobile photographers who want speed and quality without the bulk, provided storage capacity is sufficient for their workflow.”
Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Desktop Computer with M4 Chip, 24-inch Retina Display, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD – Silver
This 2024 iMac with the M4 chip offers a significant leap in processing power, equipped with a 10-core CPU and GPU, making it ideal for demanding photo editing tasks and multitasking. Its 24-inch Retina display supports 1 billion colors, providing exceptional color fidelity. Compared to earlier M1 models, the M4’s enhanced GPU and CPU make rendering and multitasking noticeably faster. However, the premium price might be a hurdle for some, and the 256GB SSD remains a limiting factor for large libraries. Its advanced connectivity options, including Thunderbolt 4 and Wi-Fi 6E, ensure future compatibility. This model is best suited for photographers who want the latest hardware and plan to upgrade their storage externally or use cloud storage solutions.
Pros:- High-performance 10-core CPU and GPU for demanding tasks
- Vivid 24-inch Retina display with excellent color fidelity
- Seamless Apple ecosystem integration
- Future-ready connectivity options like Thunderbolt 4 and Wi-Fi 6E
Cons:- Premium cost might be prohibitive for some
- Limited storage at 256GB SSD for large photo libraries
- No dedicated GPU option for expanded GPU power
Best for: Professional photographers seeking cutting-edge performance and future-proof connectivity for demanding editing workflows.
Not ideal for: Entry-level users or those with large local photo archives who need more storage or a lower-cost option.
- Processor:M4 chip with 10-core CPU and GPU
- Display:24-inch Retina 4.5K
- Memory:16GB
- Storage:256GB SSD
- Color:Silver
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, Thunderbolt 4 ports
Our verdict“This M4-powered iMac is designed for advanced photographers who need top-tier performance and future-proof features, provided they can manage the storage needs externally.”
Apple 2023 iMac with M3 Chip (24-inch, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Renewed)
The 2023 iMac with M3 chip offers reliable performance in a compact, colorful design, making it appealing to photographers on a budget or just starting out. Its M3 processor handles everyday editing tasks smoothly, and the 24-inch Retina display provides accurate colors for previews. Compared to the latest M4-based models, it lags slightly in raw processing power but remains a solid performer for basic to moderate editing workflows. Its 256GB SSD may limit storage for large photo collections, and being a renewed product could involve some warranty considerations. This makes it suitable for hobbyists or those who do not require high-end hardware but still want a stylish, capable Apple desktop.
Pros:- Reliable M3 chip provides smooth performance for common editing tasks
- Vivid 24-inch Retina display with good color accuracy
- Affordable renewed option with familiar Apple ecosystem features
- Compact and colorful design fits well in small spaces
Cons:- Limited storage at 256GB SSD for large photo collections
- No dedicated GPU limits performance with GPU-accelerated editing
- Renewed product may have warranty or support limitations
Best for: Beginner or hobbyist photographers who need a reliable, visually accurate display and decent performance at a lower price point.
Not ideal for: Professional photographers or those with large libraries who need extensive onboard storage and maximum processing power.
- Display:24-inch Retina 4.5K
- Processor:Apple M3 chip
- RAM:8GB
- Storage:256GB SSD
- Color:Silver
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3
Our verdict“This refreshed M3 iMac offers a capable, budget-friendly option for entry-level photographers, though storage and future-proofing are less robust.”
Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Desktop Computer with M4 Chip, 24-inch Retina Display, 16GB Memory, 256GB SSD, Blue
This 2024 iMac in blue with the M4 chip combines a vibrant aesthetic with powerful processing, making it an attractive choice for photographers who want a colorful, capable machine. Its 10-core CPU and GPU deliver swift editing and rendering speeds, surpassing the performance of earlier M1 or M3 models. The 16GB RAM further enhances multitasking and handling large files. Its 24-inch Retina display supports 1 billion colors, ensuring accurate previews and color editing. Compared to the Silver models, this offers a unique aesthetic, but the 256GB SSD could be limiting for extensive photo libraries. It’s ideal for photographers who want a visually striking machine that handles demanding workflows, but those with large storage needs may need external solutions.
Pros:- Powerful M4 chip with high-performance CPU and GPU
- Vibrant 24-inch Retina display with excellent color support
- Stylish, colorful design that stands out
- Seamless Apple ecosystem integration
Cons:- Limited storage at 256GB SSD may require external drives
- Premium price point may be a barrier for some buyers
- No dedicated GPU upgrade option available
Best for: Photographers seeking a stylish, high-performance desktop with vibrant color options and future-proof hardware.
Not ideal for: Photographers with massive local storage needs or those on a tight budget who prefer lower-cost, less colorful options.
- Processor:M4 chip with 8-core CPU and GPU
- Display:24-inch Retina 4.5K
- Memory:16GB
- Storage:256GB SSD
- Color:Blue
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, Thunderbolt 4 ports
Our verdict“This colorful M4 iMac is an excellent choice for photographers who want both style and speed, provided they can supplement storage externally.”
Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Desktop Computer with M4 Chip, 24-inch Retina Display, 16GB Memory, 256GB SSD, Silver
This model stands out for its balance of performance, display quality, and sleek design, making it a top choice for photographers who need a capable all-in-one. The M4 chip with an 8-core CPU and GPU ensures fast, multitasking performance, especially when working with large RAW files or editing software. Its vibrant 24-inch Retina display offers excellent color accuracy, critical for precise photo editing. Compared to the 512GB version, this model might fall short for those managing extensive libraries, but its portability and seamless Apple ecosystem integration compensate well. The limited storage is a drawback if you prefer local storage over cloud workflows, and the price may be steep for budget-conscious creatives. Still, its overall package makes it a flexible, all-around performer for most photography needs.
Pros:- Fast performance with the new M4 chip for multitasking and editing
- Vibrant 24-inch Retina display with excellent color fidelity
- Seamless integration with other Apple devices
- Sleek, modern design fits well in creative spaces
Cons:- Limited storage capacity at 256GB SSD, may require external drives or cloud storage
- Premium price may be prohibitive for some users
- No upgrade options for RAM or storage after purchase
Best for: Photographers who prioritize a portable, powerful, and color-accurate all-in-one with excellent device integration.
Not ideal for: Photographers with large photo libraries or extensive local storage needs who require more than 256GB of space.
- Processor:M4 chip with 8-core CPU and 8-core GPU
- Display:24-inch Retina, 4.5K resolution
- Memory:16GB Unified Memory
- Storage:256GB SSD
- Color:Silver
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, Thunderbolt 4 ports, supports up to two 6K displays
Our verdict“This iMac excels for photographers who want a balanced mix of power, portability, and display quality in an all-in-one setup.”
Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Desktop Computer with M4 Chip, 24-inch Retina Display, 16GB Memory, 512GB SSD – Silver
This version makes a strong case for users who need more room for photo libraries and editing projects, thanks to its larger 512GB SSD and upgraded M4 processor with a 10-core CPU and GPU. Compared with the 256GB model, it offers significantly more storage, reducing reliance on external drives, which is a big plus for busy professionals. The 24-inch Retina display remains vibrant and sharp, ideal for detailed editing. However, the higher price point might deter hobbyists or those on a tight budget, and the storage is still limited for users with massive archives. Its seamless Apple ecosystem integration remains a key advantage, especially when paired with other devices. This pick suits those with heavier workflows or larger photo collections, willing to pay a premium for extra internal space.
Pros:- Powerful 10-core M4 chip delivers fast processing for editing
- Large 512GB SSD offers more storage space for extensive photo libraries
- Vibrant, high-brightness Retina display supports detailed color work
- Elegant design with excellent device ecosystem integration
Cons:- Higher price point may be a barrier for budget-conscious buyers
- Limited upgrade options for internal storage or RAM post-purchase
- Still not ideal for very large photo archives without external solutions
Best for: Professional photographers or advanced hobbyists who require ample onboard storage and fast processing power.
Not ideal for: Beginners or casual shooters who don’t need the extra storage or power, as the higher cost may not justify their needs.
- Processor:M4 chip with 10-core CPU and 10-core GPU
- Display:24-inch Retina, 4.5K resolution
- Memory:16GB Unified Memory
- Storage:512GB SSD
- Color:Silver
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, Thunderbolt 4 ports, supports up to two external 6K displays
Our verdict“This model is best suited for photographers who need a balance of speed, internal storage, and premium display quality for demanding workflows.”
Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Desktop Computer with M4 Chip, 24-inch Retina Display, 24GB Memory, 512GB SSD, Blue
This configuration makes a compelling case for demanding photographers juggling multiple editing apps or large projects, thanks to its substantial 24GB RAM and fast M4 processor with a 10-core CPU and GPU. The larger memory pool ensures smoother multitasking, especially when working with multiple layers or high-resolution files. Its 24-inch Retina display with high brightness and accurate colors supports detailed editing needs. Compared with the 16GB models, this setup minimizes slowdowns during intensive workflows but comes at a higher cost. The 512GB SSD remains a limiting factor for storing large collections locally, which might require external drives. Still, for users with complex projects or heavy multitasking, this iMac offers a robust, high-performance environment tailored to professional needs.
Pros:- Massive 24GB RAM supports heavy multitasking and complex editing
- Powerful 10-core M4 chip ensures fast processing even with demanding software
- Vivid 24-inch Retina display with excellent brightness and color accuracy
- Supports external displays up to two 6K screens for expanded workspace
Cons:- Higher price point may be restrictive for some users
- Limited internal storage at 512GB, requiring external solutions for large archives
- No upgradeability for RAM or storage after purchase
Best for: Power users and professionals who need maximum RAM and performance for large, complex photo editing tasks.
Not ideal for: Casual photographers or those with limited budgets who don’t need extensive multitasking or huge RAM capacity.
- Processor:M4 chip with 10-core CPU and 10-core GPU
- Display:24-inch Retina, 4.5K resolution
- Memory:24GB Unified Memory
- Storage:512GB SSD
- Color:Blue
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, Thunderbolt 4 ports, supports up to two 6K displays
Our verdict“This iMac is ideal for professional photographers who need maximum multitasking power and a high-quality display for complex editing workflows.”
How We Picked
The products were evaluated based on performance benchmarks, display quality, build reliability, and value for professional photographers. Emphasis was placed on processing power, RAM capacity, screen resolution, and color accuracy, as these directly impact photo editing efficiency. Additionally, considerations like future-proofing, expandability, and overall cost were factored into the rankings. Products were compared to highlight their strengths and tradeoffs, ensuring that each recommendation serves a specific user need—from budget-conscious amateurs to demanding pros seeking top-tier performance.| imac for photographer | Color | Connectivity |
|---|---|---|
| Apple 2021 iMac All-in-One Des | Blue | — |
| Apple 2024 iMac Air with Apple | Silver | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, Thunderbolt 4 ports |
| Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Des | Silver | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, Thunderbolt 4 ports |
| Apple 2023 iMac with M3 Chip | Silver | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Des | Blue | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, Thunderbolt 4 ports |
| Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Des | Silver | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, Thunderbolt 4 ports, supports up to two 6K displays |
| Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Des | Silver | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, Thunderbolt 4 ports, supports up to two external 6K displays |
| Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Des | Blue | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, Thunderbolt 4 ports, supports up to two 6K displays |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Imac For Photographers
When selecting an iMac for photography, understanding key factors can help you make a more informed decision. Beyond raw specs, consider how the device fits into your workflow, storage needs, and budget. The right choice balances performance with longevity, ensuring your investment remains relevant for years to come.Display Quality and Color Accuracy
The core of a good photography iMac is its display. Retina screens with high resolution and wide color gamut support (like P3 color) ensure your edits are true to life. Don’t compromise on brightness and contrast, as these affect how you perceive your images. A screen that reproduces colors accurately reduces editing errors and enhances your creative control.
Processing Power and RAM
Fast processors like the M4 chip significantly cut down rendering times and improve multitasking. For professional work, 16GB of RAM is often a baseline, especially when working with large RAW files or multitasking across editing software. Cheaper models with less RAM may cause slowdowns or limit your workflow expansion over time.
Storage Capacity and Expandability
Photo projects can quickly consume storage, so opting for at least 512GB SSD is wise, with 1TB or more being preferable for serious photographers. While internal storage isn’t expandable on iMacs, consider external drives for backups and archives. Balancing storage with your budget can prevent future upgrades and data management headaches.
Budget and Future-Proofing
Higher-end models with the latest chips and more RAM tend to offer longer relevance, especially as software demands grow. However, they come at a premium. Budget models may suffice for hobbyists or those just starting, but be mindful of potential upgrades or compromises in speed and display quality over time. Consider your long-term needs before settling on a cheaper option.
Design and Ergonomics
While performance is critical, comfort during long editing sessions matters too. The slim profile and adjustable stands of newer iMacs make for a more ergonomic setup. Ensure your workspace can accommodate the screen size comfortably, and consider external accessories if needed for optimal posture and workflow efficiency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the latest M4 iMac worth the upgrade for photo editing?
The M4 iMac offers improved processing speed, better RAM options, and enhanced future compatibility, making it a worthwhile upgrade for professional photographers. If your current setup struggles with large files or multitasking, the M4 provides a noticeable boost. However, if your workflow is light and your current iMac meets your needs, the upgrade might be less urgent. The decision largely hinges on your demand for speed and longevity.
Should I choose a renewed iMac or buy new?
Renewed iMacs can offer significant savings while still providing high performance and recent hardware features, making them attractive for budget-conscious buyers. However, they may lack the latest chips or warranty coverage of new models. For critical professional use, buying new ensures maximum longevity and support, but for hobbyist or secondary setups, renewed options can be a savvy choice if purchased from trusted sources.
How much RAM do I really need for professional photo editing?
For most professional photography work, 16GB of RAM is the sweet spot, especially when working with large RAW files and multitasking with editing software. If you frequently run multiple applications simultaneously or handle very large projects, 24GB or more can provide additional buffer, reducing lag and increasing productivity. Skimping on RAM can lead to slower workflows and frustration.
Is a 24-inch display enough for detailed photo editing?
Yes, a 24-inch Retina display can be sufficient for detailed editing when it offers high resolution and accurate color reproduction. However, a larger screen or a dual-monitor setup can improve your workflow by providing more workspace and reducing eye strain during long sessions. The key is ensuring the display’s quality, not just its size, to get precise color and detail.
Should I prioritize storage or RAM when choosing an iMac?
Both are important, but for photographers, RAM often has a more immediate impact on workflow speed, especially during multitasking and handling large files. Storage is also critical but can be supplemented externally if needed. Investing in a model with ample RAM first, then upgrading storage via external drives, can provide a balanced and cost-effective setup.
Conclusion
For most photographers, the 2024 M4 iMac with 16GB RAM and Retina display strikes the best balance of power, display quality, and future-proofing, making it ideal for professional work. Budget-conscious users or hobbyists might consider the renewed M1 model for solid performance at a lower cost. Newcomers or those new to Mac should look at models with simpler configurations to avoid overwhelming features, while professionals demanding maximum speed and longevity should opt for the premium M4 options with higher RAM and storage. Your choice should align with your current needs and future plans.
