The constant annoyance of chasing slow AI tasks is finally addressed by a compact powerhouse. After hands-on testing, I can tell you which Mac desktop actually keeps up with your workload, not just looks great on a shelf. I compared heat, ports, memory, and real-world speeds side by side, so you don’t have to guess.
From tiny Mac minis to the beefier Mac Studio, I weighted AI push, storage speed, and expandability. The winner stays cool under heavy renders, launches apps instantly, and handles multiple displays without breaking a sweat. Read on to see which model earns your workflow’s trust and fits your desk space and budget. After extensive testing, I found the Apple 2026 Mac mini Desktop Computer M6 chip | 12‑core CPU to be the standout choice.
Top Recommendation: Apple 2026 Mac mini Desktop Computer M6 chip | 12‑core CPU
Why We Recommend It: The Apple 2026 Mac mini Desktop Computer M6 chip delivers a balanced mix of compact form factor, strong 12-core CPU performance, and up to 32GB unified memory with 170GB/s bandwidth. It offers three Thunderbolt 4 ports, HDMI, front USB-C, 2.5Gb Ethernet, Wi‑Fi 7, and Bluetooth 6, supporting up to three external displays. Its Neural Accelerator-equipped M6 provides up to 4.8x faster AI performance, making on-device LLMs and AI workflows practical without power-hungry GPUs. While the Mac Studio and M5 Pro options boast higher memory bandwidth and PCIe expansion, the Mac mini M6 excels in space-constrained setups and value, delivering compelling AI capabilities and seamless Apple ecosystem integration at a notably lower price. This combination makes it the best overall pick for most users.
Best mac desktop: Our Top 5 Picks
- Apple 2026 Mac mini Desktop Computer M6 chip | 12‑core CPU – Best Value
- Apple Mac mini M6, 12-core CPU/GPU, 16GB, 512GB SSD – Best Premium Option
- Apple Mac mini M5 Pro, 24GB Unified Memory, 512GB SSD – Best for Creative Professionals
- Apple 2026 Mac Studio desktop computer M5 Max chip | A – Best Premium Mac Desktop
- Apple iMac MK472LL/A 27-Inch Retina 5K Desktop – Best All-in-One Mac Desktop for Home Use
Apple 2026 Mac mini Desktop Computer M6 chip | 12‑core CPU
- ✓ Ultra-compact power
- ✓ Fast AI performance
- ✓ Solid I/O variety
- ✕ Limited internal expansion
- ✕ Premium price tag
| Processor | Apple M6 chip with multi-core CPU (up to 4.8x faster AI performance) featuring Neural Accelerator in GPU cores and Dual 16-core Neural Engine |
| Unified Memory | Up to 32GB of unified memory with 170GB/s memory bandwidth |
| Storage Performance | Up to 2x faster storage (relative inference to prior generations) |
| Memory Bandwidth | 170 GB/s |
| External Connectivity / Ports | Three Thunderbolt 4 ports, one HDMI port, one 2.5 Gb Ethernet port, two USB-C ports (front), 3.5 mm headphone jack (front) |
| Wireless Connectivity | Wi‑Fi 7 (via Apple N1 wireless chip) and Bluetooth 6 |
The moment I unboxed the Mac mini with the M6 chip, I tucked it behind my monitor and watched the little block glow with a confident blue LED indicating it was ready. I plugged in a couple of USB-C drives, a 4K display, and a wireless keyboard, and it felt instant—no fuss, no setup drama.
That tiny footprint is real: five by five inches and somehow powerful enough to double as a proper AI-enabled workstation.
First task: I opened a dozen Chrome tabs, started a few AI tools, and dropped in a 4K video project in Final Cut. The M6’s Neural Accelerator and 32GB unified memory kept everything snappy.
Scenes loaded quickly, and I didn’t notice any stuttering when I scrubbed the timeline. It’s not just fast for a mini; it’s confident enough to feel like a compact powerhouse.
One afternoon, I ran a local LLM prompt workflow and watched the AI layers hum along without relying on the cloud. The dual 16-core Neural Engines pushed responses faster than my previous desktop, and the memory bandwidth proved advantageous for large datasets.
I appreciated the 2.5Gb Ethernet and Wi-Fi 7 connectivity, which kept streaming datasets smooth even when I copied big files in the background.
Ports are thoughtfully arranged: three Thunderbolt 4 ports on the back, HDMI, and the Ethernet jack, with front USB-C and a headphone jack for quick access. It’s easy to manage cables and still have room to add a second display or two.
macOS felt unusually responsive here, with window tiling and Sidecar behaving like a natural extension of my workflow.
For casual pushes like email, photo editing, and voice notes, the Mac mini with M6 nails that “just works” vibe. It’s surprisingly quiet in a normal desk setup, and the compact chassis fits almost anywhere, which makes it perfect for a clutter-free creative nook.
Bottom line: if you want a small, capable AI-accelerated desktop that doesn’t compromise on performance, this Mac mini earns its keep. It’s a versatile, all-in-one-feel machine without sacrificing upgrade paths or macOS polish.
Apple Mac mini M6, 12-core CPU/GPU, 16GB, 512GB SSD
- ✓ Compact powerhouse
- ✓ Fast AI performance
- ✓ Solid I/O options
- ✕ Limited upgradability
- ✕ Higher price point
| CPU/GPU | M6 chip with up-to 4.8x faster AI performance (Neural Accelerator per GPU core, Dual 16-core Neural Engine) |
| Memory | Unified memory up to 32GB, 170GB/s memory bandwidth |
| Storage | SSD up to 512GB |
| Memory Bandwidth & Storage Performance | Up to 170GB/s memory bandwidth; up to 2x faster storage |
| Ports & Connectivity | Three Thunderbolt 4 ports, one HDMI port, two USB-C front ports, 2.5Gb Ethernet, headphone jack; Wi‑Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6 (N1 wireless chip) |
| Display Support | Supports up to three external displays |
You’ll notice the Mac mini M6 sitting quietly on your desk and immediately hear the soft whirr of its thermal design—not loud, just enough to remind you something serious is running. I fired it up to edit 4K video and the first thing that stood out was how quickly apps snapped to life, even with multiple windows open at once.
I pulled up a complex AI workflow and watched the Neural Accelerator in action as models loaded in seconds rather than minutes. It felt like the machine had learned the workflow alongside me, predicting what I’d need next and preloading assets before I asked.
That responsiveness is real, not theoretical, and it makes long sessions feel less taxing.
The chassis stays impressively compact, so it fits under a monitor without crowding the workspace. The back panel’s HDMI and three Thunderbolt 4 ports give you room to grow, while the front USB-C and headphone jack keep everyday peripherals within easy reach.
The 2.5Gb Ethernet helped smooth large file transfers over the network without throttle.
Storage and memory feel buoyant enough for AI tasks: 16GB unified memory and quick storage access keep large media files clicking along. In practical terms, you can edit timelines, render previews, and run LLM prompts side by side without hiccups.
macOS remains responsive, with window tiling and Universal Clipboard improving daily productivity.
Overall, the M6 Mac mini makes a strong case as a compact power-house for creative and AI workflows. It’s easy to place, easy to connect, and surprisingly capable for its size.
If you want a desktop that’s small but not small on performance, this is the one to consider.
The Mac mini M6 nails quick setup and reliable performance in a tiny footprint, with room to grow as your needs evolve.
Apple Mac mini M5 Pro, 24GB Unified Memory, 512GB SSD
| Processor | M5 Pro chip with next-generation CPU and Neural Accelerator per GPU core |
| Unified Memory | 24 GB |
| Storage | 512 GB SSD |
| System Memory Bandwidth | 307 GB/s |
| External Connectivity | Three Thunderbolt 5 ports, HDMI port, 2.5 Gb Ethernet, two USB-C front ports, 3.5 mm headphone jack |
| Display/Video Support | Supports up to three external displays |
The moment you lift the Mac mini M5 Pro, you notice how compact it actually is—a five-by-five silhouette that tucks under a monitor yet somehow feels like it’s got room to spare inside. The finish is sleek, almost piano-black with a whisper of chrome from the edges, and the weight sits confidently in your hand.
I pop it onto the desk and feel that familiar, premium Mac warmth as the aluminum shell snugly cools under the touch.
Unboxing reveals a small power brick that doesn’t scream “backup generator,” and that’s the vibe you want when a machine this capable fits in a drawer or a tight shelf. The front ports are handy—two USB-C/Thunderbolt dots and a headphone jack—while the back sprouts three Thunderbolt 5s, HDMI, and a 2.5Gb Ethernet.
It’s a setup you can wire up fast and forget about, until you need a dozen displays or a ProRes RAW render.
In day-to-day use, the M5 Pro feels instant. The Neural Accelerator in the GPU cores boosts AI tasks without fanfare, so you’re not waiting on slow prompts or laggy models.
macOS glides through multitasking, and window tiling helps you keep a creative workflow organized without bouncing between apps like a pinball.
Storage and memory are responsive enough to handle large projects—4080p timelines, big datasets, or heavy video exports feel smoother with the 512GB SSD and 24GB unified memory. The bandwidth of 307GB/s shines during demanding renders, letting you push more frames and data through without stuttering.
Compatibility with Apple devices is on-point, whether you’re copying text from iPhone or mirroring a workout scene to your Mac while you edit. The compact size makes it easy to place anywhere, yet performance feels like a proper desktop powerhouse.
If you’re after a tiny desktop that can run AI workloads locally and chew through creative tasks, this little brick delivers with quiet confidence.
Pros:
Cons:
- Limited internal expansion
- Premium price point
Apple 2026 Mac Studio desktop computer M5 Max chip | A
- ✓ Quiet under load
- ✓ Massive memory bandwidth
- ✓ Real-time AI on-device
- ✕ Premium price
- ✕ Limited expansion beyond ports
| Processor | Apple M5 Max chip with next-generation CPU and GPU, third-generation ray tracing |
| Memory | Up to 128GB unified memory |
| MemoryBandwidth | Up to 614GB/s |
| Storage | Up to 2x faster storage (unspecified base speed) |
| Ports and Connectivity | Four Thunderbolt 5 ports, two USB-C ports, two USB-A ports, HDMI, SDXC card slot, headphone jack; Wi‑Fi 7 (Apple N1 wireless chip) and Bluetooth 6 |
| DisplaySupport | Supports up to five external displays |
You strap in and open the Mac Studio, and the first thing you notice is the whisper-quiet roar it barely makes while you push it to the edge of your workflow. That’s not just clever marketing—the advanced thermal system actually keeps the M5 Max churning through AI workloads and 3D render tests without spilling into your audio space.
The tiny 7.7-inch square feels deceptively calm on your desk, yet it powers through huge files as if they’re nothing. With four Thunderbolt 5 ports and a quick hardware handshake over Wi‑Fi 7, you’re instantly wired for clustered AI compute or a multi-display setup that just works without drama.
Internally, the M5 Max shines: a CPU that snaps awake for video encodes, a GPU that handles real-time ray tracing, and a Neural Accelerator tucked into every GPU core. You can feel the data move faster as you shuffle massive datasets, 3D scenes, and on-device AI tasks without waiting for the disk to catch up.
Memory and storage aren’t just numbers on a spec sheet here. You’re looking at up to 128GB of unified memory and 614GB/s bandwidth, which translates to smoother edits, quicker previews, and less time staring at progress wheels.
And with up to twice the storage speed, loading large projects feels almost instantaneous.
Everything integrates into macOS with a familiar flow that just feels right for creative work. You can control iPhone content from your Mac, mirror your device, or copy-paste between apps with ease, which saves you from constant toggling.
If you’re chasing a desktop that handles heavy AI, 3D, and media tasks in one compact package, this Mac Studio is surprisingly approachable in day-to-day use.
The real-world takeaway: you get pro-level power without turning your workspace into a heat island or a noise disaster. It’s the kind of machine you set up once and rely on for years of big projects, not something you babysit between tasks.
Apple iMac MK472LL/A 27-Inch Retina 5K Desktop
| Display | 27-inch Retina 5K display |
| Processor | 3.2 GHz Intel Core i5 Quad-Core |
| Memory | 8 GB RAM |
| Storage | 1 TB Fusion Drive |
| Graphics | AMD Radeon R9 M390 |
| Operating System | macOS |
You cradle the keyboard and lean in, noticing how the 27-inch Retina display instantly draws you in with crisp colors and a surprising amount of brightness for a desktop still in good shape. The first time you power it up, the fan drops to a soft hum, and you realize the machine isn’t just big for show—it feels sturdy under your wrists as you type.
That 3.2GHz quad-core bites through photo tweaks and light video edits without the lag you dreaded.
Opening apps feels snappy enough for everyday tasks, and the 1TB Fusion Drive keeps programs from waiting at the splash screen. You notice the aluminum chassis stays cooler than you expected, even after a couple of hours of chroma keying and browser-heavy workflows.
It’s not a speed demon, but it handles your day-to-day with a calm, dependable rhythm.
multitasking with a dozen Chrome tabs, Illustrator, and music playback runs smoothly, and the Radeon M390 gives a modest boost for light gaming and GPU-accelerated tasks. The 8GB RAM shows its limits when you push it—photoshop brushes heavy layers or long exports can feel slower than modern machines—but it’s still usable if you don’t live in GPU-intensive territory.
The Mac OS X experience remains approachable, with familiar gestures and a comfortable desktop layout.
The physical footprint is substantial, but the 27-inch screen is worth it if you crave real estate for timelines and palettes. Ports are plentiful for a Mac of this era, and the display’s color accuracy helps when you’re lining up prints or presenting a project to a client.
It’s a thoughtful setup if you’re upgrading from an older iMac or switching from Windows and want something that “just works” without a learning curve.
In real life, it wires into your home office with a quiet confidence. You’ll appreciate the balance between a generous display and practical performance for creative and productivity tasks.
It’s a reliable workhorse for everyday use, with a few caveats if you’re chasing top-tier speed.
Overall, you get a solid, approachable 27-inch Mac desktop that handles daily creative work and media consumption with ease. If you value a large, sharp display and a familiar macOS experience, this iMac holds its own in a world of faster rigs.
What Are the Different Models of Mac Desktops Available?
The different models of Mac desktops available today include:
- iMac 24-inch: This model features a stunning 4.5K Retina display and is powered by Apple’s M1 chip, making it a great option for everyday tasks and creative work.
- iMac 27-inch: With a larger 5K Retina display, this model is ideal for professionals who require enhanced graphics and processing capabilities, also featuring Intel processors for intensive applications.
- Mac mini: A compact and versatile desktop, the Mac mini is equipped with the M1 chip and offers excellent performance for both casual users and developers, all at an affordable price point.
- Mac Studio: Designed for high-performance tasks, the Mac Studio features powerful M1 Max or M1 Ultra chips, making it perfect for video editing, 3D rendering, and other demanding applications.
- Mac Pro: This is Apple’s most powerful desktop, designed for professionals who need extreme performance and customization options, featuring Intel Xeon processors and extensive upgrade capabilities.
The iMac 24-inch is an all-in-one desktop that combines powerful hardware with an elegant design, making it suitable for both personal and professional use. Its vibrant display is perfect for graphic design, video editing, and general multimedia consumption.
The iMac 27-inch offers even more screen real estate and a higher pixel density, which is beneficial for tasks that require precision and clarity, such as photo editing and programming. Its configuration options allow users to choose high-end graphics cards and processors for heavy workloads.
The Mac mini is a small but powerful desktop that does not come with a monitor, keyboard, or mouse, giving users the flexibility to set it up according to their preferences. Its affordability and performance make it a popular choice for students and professionals alike.
Mac Studio stands out with its impressive performance tailored for creative professionals, offering advanced graphics and processing power that can handle the most demanding creative applications. Its design prioritizes cooling and efficiency, allowing for sustained performance during intensive tasks.
Mac Pro is built for the most demanding users, featuring an expansive modular design that allows for extensive customization and upgrades. This makes it the go-to choice for studios and professionals needing the highest level of performance for tasks like film production and software development.
What Key Features Should You Consider When Choosing a Mac Desktop?
When choosing the best Mac desktop, several key features should be considered to ensure it meets your needs.
- Processor: The processor is crucial as it determines the speed and efficiency of the Mac desktop. Options vary from the M1 chip in entry-level models to the more powerful M1 Pro and M1 Max in higher-end configurations, affecting performance in tasks like video editing and gaming.
- Memory (RAM): Sufficient RAM is essential for multitasking and running demanding applications smoothly. Most models come with a minimum of 8GB, but for more intensive use, especially in professional environments, 16GB or more is recommended.
- Storage Options: Mac desktops offer a range of storage options, from SSDs to larger HDDs, impacting speed and capacity. SSDs provide faster data access and boot times, while HDDs offer more space for a lower cost, making your choice dependent on your usage and budget.
- Graphics Performance: Depending on your needs, graphics performance can be a significant factor, especially for gamers or creative professionals. Mac desktops with dedicated GPUs or enhanced integrated graphics will deliver better performance in rendering and gaming scenarios.
- Display Quality: The display quality influences your overall experience, particularly for design work or media consumption. Look for Retina displays with high resolution and color accuracy to enhance visual clarity and detail.
- Connectivity Options: Assess the available ports and connectivity options, such as USB-C, Thunderbolt, and HDMI. These determine how easily you can connect peripherals, external displays, and other devices essential for your workflow.
- Operating System and Software Compatibility: macOS is known for its stability and user-friendly interface, but ensure that the software you need is compatible with the version of macOS on the desktop. Consider future software updates and whether you might need additional software for your tasks.
- Design and Form Factor: The design and size of the Mac desktop can affect your workspace setup. Choose between the compact iMac or the more modular Mac mini, depending on your space and aesthetic preferences.
- Price and Budget: Mac desktops are available at various price points, so it’s essential to find a balance between features and your budget. Consider what features are most important to you and how they align with your financial constraints.
How Do Processors Affect Performance in Mac Desktops?
- Clock Speed: The clock speed of a processor, measured in gigahertz (GHz), indicates how many cycles per second the CPU can execute. Higher clock speeds generally result in faster processing capabilities, allowing the Mac desktop to handle tasks quickly, which is particularly important for demanding applications like video editing or 3D rendering.
- Core Count: Modern processors often come with multiple cores, which enable them to handle several processes simultaneously. A higher core count allows a Mac desktop to perform better in multitasking scenarios, as it can distribute workloads across multiple cores, improving performance in applications designed to take advantage of parallel processing.
- Architecture: The architecture of a processor refers to its design and instruction set, which affects how efficiently it processes information. Apple’s transition to custom silicon, like the M1 and M2 chips, showcases a focus on energy efficiency and performance optimization, resulting in significant improvements in speed and battery life compared to traditional Intel processors.
- Thermal Management: The ability of a processor to manage heat generation affects its performance sustainability. Efficient thermal management allows processors in Mac desktops to maintain high performance without throttling, ensuring that they can run demanding applications for extended periods without overheating.
- Integrated Graphics: Some processors come with integrated graphics capabilities, which can improve performance in graphic-intensive applications without the need for a dedicated GPU. This is particularly beneficial for Mac desktops aimed at users who require decent graphical performance for tasks such as photo editing and casual gaming.
Why Is RAM Important for a Mac Desktop’s Efficiency?
The underlying mechanism involves how data is processed in a computer. When you run applications, they load data into RAM for quick access. If there is insufficient RAM, the system resorts to using the hard drive or SSD for memory swapping, which is significantly slower. This can lead to performance bottlenecks, especially during intensive tasks such as video editing or graphic design, where large files are common. In essence, more RAM equates to a smoother and faster user experience, as it minimizes the need for the system to fetch data from slower storage mediums.
Furthermore, as software becomes more sophisticated and resource-intensive, the demands on RAM increase. A report from Apple indicates that modern macOS versions and applications are optimized for higher RAM capacities, making sufficient memory a critical component for maintaining efficiency and ensuring longevity in performance as users upgrade their software (Apple, 2022). This shows a clear link between the amount of RAM and the ability of a Mac desktop to keep up with evolving technological demands.
How Do Prices Compare Across the Different Mac Desktop Models?
| Model | Price | Specifications | Release Year | Storage Options |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mac Mini | $699 – Entry-level model, ideal for casual users. Additional options available for RAM and storage. | Apple M2 chip, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD. | 2022 | 256GB, 512GB SSD options available. |
| iMac 24-inch | $1,299 – Aesthetic design with powerful performance. | Apple M1 chip, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Retina display. | 2021 | 256GB, 512GB SSD options available. |
| Mac Studio | $1,999 – High-performance for professionals. | Apple M1 Max chip, 32GB RAM, 512GB SSD, integrated 32-core GPU. | 2022 | 512GB, 1TB, 2TB SSD options available. |
| Mac Pro | $5,999 – Ultimate performance for demanding tasks. | Intel Xeon W, 32GB RAM, customizable storage options, up to 128GB RAM. | 2019 | 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB, 4TB, 8TB SSD options available. |
What Are the Pros and Cons of Owning a Mac Desktop?
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| User-friendly interface with seamless integration across Apple devices. | Higher initial cost compared to other desktop options. |
| Strong performance for creative tasks like video editing and graphic design. | Limited hardware upgrade options compared to custom-built PCs. |
| Robust security features and regular software updates. | Software compatibility issues with some applications, particularly games. |
| High-quality build and aesthetic design. | Less customization available compared to Windows desktops. |
| Higher resale value compared to many other PCs. | Limited gaming capabilities due to hardware restrictions. |
| Better customer support and warranty options. | Potential lack of support for legacy software and peripherals. |
What Do Users Think About the Best Mac Desktop Options?
Users have varying opinions on the best Mac desktop options based on their needs and preferences:
- iMac 24-inch: The iMac 24-inch is praised for its stunning Retina 4.5K display and sleek design, making it a great choice for both creative professionals and casual users. Many appreciate its powerful M1 chip, which offers impressive performance and energy efficiency, particularly for graphic design and video editing tasks.
- Mac mini: The Mac mini is often highlighted for its compact size and versatility, allowing users to connect their own monitors and peripherals. It is favored by users looking for a cost-effective Mac experience without sacrificing performance, especially with the M1 chip providing robust processing power for everyday tasks and more demanding applications.
- iMac 27-inch: The iMac 27-inch remains popular among users who prioritize a larger screen and advanced capabilities. The 5K display offers exceptional color accuracy and detail, making it ideal for professionals in photography and video production, while the high-performance Intel processors cater to those needing more computing power.
- Mac Pro: Users who require maximum performance and customization often turn to the Mac Pro for its modular design and high-end specifications. It is favored by professionals in fields such as 3D rendering and scientific research, as it can be tailored with powerful GPUs and extensive RAM to meet demanding workloads.
- Mac Studio: The Mac Studio has gained popularity for its unique combination of power and form factor, designed specifically for creative professionals. Its M1 Max and M1 Ultra chips provide unparalleled performance for tasks like video editing and 3D modeling, and users appreciate its ability to handle multiple high-resolution displays seamlessly.
What Accessories Can Enhance Your Mac Desktop Experience?
Several accessories can significantly enhance your Mac desktop experience:
- External Monitor: An external monitor can greatly improve productivity by providing additional screen space for multitasking. High-resolution displays, like 4K or ultrawide monitors, allow for clearer visuals and a better overall viewing experience, making it easier to manage multiple applications.
- Ergonomic Keyboard: An ergonomic keyboard helps to reduce strain on your wrists and improve typing posture. Many ergonomic options feature split designs and adjustable heights, which can provide comfort during long working hours and enhance typing efficiency.
- Mouse or Trackpad: A high-quality mouse or trackpad can improve navigation and precision on your Mac. Devices like the Apple Magic Mouse or Magic Trackpad offer smooth gestures and customizable controls, increasing your workflow efficiency.
- Docking Station: A docking station simplifies connections for multiple peripherals by allowing you to connect various devices through a single hub. This is especially useful for those who use their MacBook in different locations, as it can quickly transform it into a desktop setup with ease.
- External Hard Drive: An external hard drive provides additional storage space for backups, files, and media. This is essential for Mac users with limited internal storage, enabling them to keep their system running smoothly without compromising on file accessibility.
- Monitor Stand: A monitor stand can help elevate your screen to eye level, promoting better posture and reducing neck strain. Many stands also offer additional storage solutions for keeping your workspace organized and clutter-free.
- Webcam: An external webcam can enhance video quality during virtual meetings or content creation. Many external options provide better resolution and features like autofocus and low-light correction, which can significantly improve your online presence.
- Desk Organizer: A desk organizer helps keep your workspace tidy by providing dedicated spaces for various items such as pens, notepads, and charging cables. A well-organized desk can lead to increased focus and productivity.
- Speakers or Headphones: Quality speakers or headphones can enhance your audio experience while listening to music or during video calls. Premium audio devices provide clearer sound and better bass, making your media consumption more enjoyable.