Are there any alternatives?

The primary alternative is the 27-inch 5K iMac. The top-of-the-line model is still more powerful in tasks like video exporting, and the configurations are far more versatile.

　　The HP Envy All-In-One 32 is the best alternative on the Windows side of the spectrum. It’s not as sleek, but has a powerful desktop Intel chip inside, along with Nvidia RTX graphics.

　　

How long will it last?

Nothing in the 24-inch iMac is user-upgradable. So long as you configure it to your needs to start with, this iMac should last you upwards of a decade. Apple is good about supporting older Mac systems with software updates, and the M1 will continue to be a solid performer many years after the day you buy it.

　　

Should you buy it?

Absolutely. The iMac is really good at being the iMac for everyone. So long as you can forgive the white bezels, everyone except the most power-hungry creative professionals will be delighted by what it offers.