Which iMac G4 models can boot MacOS 9? Which iMac G4 models can only run MacOS 9 applications in the "Classic" Environment?: EveryMac.com

iMac G4 Q&A - Updated January 18, 2009

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Which version of the MacOS is pre-installed on the iMac G4? Which iMac G4 models can boot MacOS 9? Which iMac G4 models can only run MacOS 9 applications in the "Classic" Environment?

The iMac G4/700 (Flat Panel), G4/800 (Flat Panel), and G4/800 17-Inch (Flat Panel) are capable of booting in MacOS 9. Subsequent models are only capable of booting a version of MacOS X and running MacOS 9 applications in the "Classic" Environment provided by MacOS X 10.4.11 "Tiger" and lower ("Classic" is not supported starting with MacOS X 10.5 "Leopard").

The version of the MacOS pre-installed, as well as the degree of MacOS 9 compatibility is provided on the specs page for each system.

However, this information also is provided below for your convenience:

iMac G4	Pre-Installed	MacOS 9 Support
G4/700 (FP)	9.2.2 & X 10.1.2	Boot/Classic Mode
G4/800 (FP)	9.2.2 & X 10.1.2	Boot/Classic Mode
G4/800 17" (FP)	9.2.2 & X 10.1.2	Boot/Classic Mode
G4/800 - X Only (FP)	X 10.2.3	Classic Mode Only
G4/1.0 17" (FP)	X 10.2.3	Classic Mode Only*
G4/1.0 15" FP (USB 2.0)	X 10.2.3	Classic Mode Only*
G4/1.25 17" FP (USB 2.0)	X 10.2.3	Classic Mode Only*
G4/1.25 20" FP (USB 2.0)	X 10.3.1	Classic Mode Only*

*These models are capable of using MacOS 9 applications within the MacOS X "Classic" environment provided with MacOS X 10.4.11 "Tiger" and lower ("Classic" is not supported starting with MacOS X 10.5 "Leopard").

For more on MacOS 9, please refer to the MacOS 9/Classic Support Q&A.

Can the iMac G4 run Windows?

The iMac G4 models are capable of running Windows through emulation using a program like Microsoft Virtual PC 6.1 or Virtual PC 7, but they cannot boot Windows or run Windows via virtualization like the Intel-based Macs.

If you need a system capable of running Windows, you would be best served with an Intel-based Mac or a Windows PC.

For more on running Windows on Intel-based Macs, please also check out the Windows on Mac Q&A.

Can the iMac G4 run Linux?

Yes. Adelie Linux is supported on the iMac G4.

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