What are the major differences between the iMac G5 and the iMac G4 Flat-Panel?

Please note that all models mentioned in this Q&A have been discontinued.

The iMac G5 series is completely different from the iMac G4 "Flat-Panel" series. The iMac G5 models use completely different logicboard designs with significantly faster PowerPC 970 (G5) processors, faster graphics processors, faster RAM, larger hard drives, built-in stereo speakers, and more.

Photo Credit: Apple Computer (iMac G4 Flat-Panel - Left, iMac G5 - Right)

Both the iMac G4 "Flat Panel" and iMac G5 use innovative all-in-one designs, but there is no mistaking the two. The iMac G4 "Flat Panel" models house the internal components in an attractive 10.6" half-sphere, ice white case with a chromed stainless steel neck that supports the flat-panel display (left). The iMac G5, on the other hand, has the entire computer placed behind the flat-panel display in an integrated all-in-one enclosure suspended by an aluminum stand with an adjustable hinge (right).

The original iMac G5 models and the "Ambient Light Sensor" second generation of the iMac G5 support the "Electronics Standards Association (VESA) mounting interface standard" which makes it easy to mount the iMac G5 directly on a kiosk, wall, or articulating arm, but the iMac G5 "iSight" models do not. For more information, please refer to "iMac G5 (iSight): No VESA Mount Adapter Kit" from the Apple Support Site.

It would be difficult to mistake any iMac G5 models for earlier iMac models by performance or appearance. For complete details about any iMac model, please refer to the specs page for the system or systems of interest.

Please refer to the Ultimate Mac Comparison feature to dynamically compare any iMac G5 model to any other G3 or later Mac.