What are the "pros and cons" of the iMac G3 models? Is one right for my needs?

Please note that Apple discontinued the iMac G3 on January 2, 2002.

Like any other purchase, only you can make the decision whether or not the iMac G3 is the right Mac for you, but you can evaluate the pros and cons of the series to see if your needs are met. This summary may be helpful in making a decision:

Pros:

• Kid-friendly, colorful, convenient all-in-one design.
• Memory in all slot-loading models, and AirPort in compatible slot-loading models is easy to upgrade.
• All models can boot MacOS 9, all models support MacOS 9/Classic applications.
• Two Firewire "400" ports standard in all models with 400 MHz and faster processors.
• Internal modem standard.

Cons:

• Small 800x600 internal display and no secondary display support makes these models less than ideal even for basic Internet use (but suitable for basic productivity use and simple games for younger kids).
• Not supported by versions of MacOS X after MacOS X 10.4.11 "Tiger" (models with processors slower than 400 MHz top out with MacOS X 10.3.9 "Panther").
• The memory in tray-loading models, and the hard drive and optical drive in all models are a pain to upgrade.
• No internal expansion beyond memory -- no extra hard drive bays and no PCI slots.
• Slower than the Power Macintosh G4 series.

If you are looking for a cheap, but still usable, desktop Mac and MacOS 9/"Classic" support is important, the iMac G3 models are worth considering. If you have the budget, the eMac, iMac G4, or iMac G5 models would be better choices.

If performance, expansion, and MacOS 9/"Classic" support -- as well as price -- is important, but style, convenience, and size are less so, then a Power Macintosh G4 might be a better choice.

What are the default configurations of the iMac G3?

For the default configurations of every iMac G3, as well as details on a variety of options available at the time of purchase, please refer to the specs page for the model of interest.

What was the intended target audience for the iMac G3?

According to Apple's original 12-page paper advertising insert the iMac's target audience is "Everyone who thinks computers are too complicated, too costly, or too beige."

While that would be just about everyone, Apple intended for the iMac G3 to appeal to existing Mac users who had not upgraded their systems in years, new users who either had not used a computer or had used Windows PCs at work, or even Windows users who were looking for an alternative.

As the "i" in "iMac" stands for "internet," Apple positioned the original iMac as a computer that made the internet easy-to-access, made computing fun, and still packed power. Later iMac G3 models also were designed to make editing home and "pro-sumer" level audio and video quick and easy. The iMac G3 was not targeted to replace "professional Macs", but rather fill the "consumer space" with style.

Where can I buy an iMac G3?

There are any number of places to purchase a used Mac, although the iMac G3 mostly is of interest to vintage enthusiasts these days and remains available only on auction sites.

To purchase upgrades, please visit site sponsor Other World Computing, which sells hard drives, memory, and more for the iMac G3 and every other Mac.