AppleInsider Staff
Build-to-order iMac options from Apple's official online store now include either 256 or 512 gigabytes of flash storage for both the 21.5- and 27-inch models.
Choosing 256 gigabytes of all-flash storage will add $300 to the entry-level iMac price, while 512 gigabytes will cost an extra $600. The new options were first noticed on Thursday by MacRumors.
Previously, buyers of the 21.5-inch iMac had no all-flash options when customizing their order. The choices were restricted to a default 1-terabyte 5400rpm Serial ATA drive, or spending an additional $250 for a 1-terabyte hybrid Fusion Drive.
As for the 27-inch iMac, the only flash drive available previously was a massive 768-gigabyte option that cost an additional $900.
All iMacs in default configurations are advertised to ship within 24 hours from Apple's online store. Availability of the all-in-one desktops was severely constrained through the end of 2012, which prompted Apple CEO Tim Cook to admit last week he wished he had held off on launching the thinner iMacs until 2013.
Apple's apparent production issues were said to have stemmed from a unique screen lamination process that allowed Apple to achieve the ultrathin design. With those issues now seemingly addressed, Apple is offering more options for internal storage.
For a breakdown of the best prices on other iMac configurations, see the iMac section of the AppleInsider price guide, included below:
Separately, for those interested in going portable with a MacBook Pro with Retina display, MacMall is offering the high-end 13.3-inch model with an Intel Core i5 2.5-gigahertz processor, 8 gigabytes of RAM and 768 gigabytes of flash storage for just $1839.99, or $1,159 off the suggested price. Be sure to apply the coupon code APPINSDRMWB38717 before checking out to receive your discount.
Prices on Apple's MacBook Pro models continue to fall. Users can browse the latest deals in the MacBook Pro price guide section listed below:
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55 Comments
When will these SSDs drop in price? Surely some time soon?
Nice. [color="white"]Waiting for people to state they want this SSD size options for Fusion Drive.[/color]
When will these SSDs drop in price? Surely some time soon?
It wasn't that long ago that they were $2/Gig, now they are under a $1. I'm surprised the Apple prices actually aren't that bad. They must have lowered the Tax! LOL
Still waiting for an updated TBD with that new screen lamination process... Also USB 3.0 and MagSafe 2...
When will these SSDs drop in price? Surely some time soon?
Have you seen the Crucial M500 960GB SSDs?
Not that you'd be able to use one in a 21.5" iMac, but I've got a mini that's going to get one (if they are ever back in stock).
This is my 4th iMac I've owned in the past 8 years. Do yourself a favour and don't order one with a Fusion drive. I would go so far as to say Apple's claims about Fusion Drives are false. It's so slow sometimes, waking from sleep etc. etc. I was absolutely led to believe it would be a lot faster than it actually is, and I've regretted getting a Fusion Drive ever since.
If these options existed a 2 months ago I would have absolutely chosen one of them.