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

PowerBook G4 Q&A - Updated February 19, 2007

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

All "Titanium" PowerBook G4 models are capable of booting MacOS 9, whereas "Aluminum" models can only run MacOS 9 applications in the "Classic" environment when booting MacOS X 10.4.11 "Tiger" and lower (MacOS X 10.5 "Leopard" and higher do not support MacOS 9 at all). 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 in this handy chart for your convenience:

PowerBook G4	Pre-Installed	MacOS 9 Support
400 (Original - Ti)	9.1*	Boot/Classic Mode
500 (Original - Ti)	9.1*	Boot/Classic Mode
550 (Gigabit - Ti)	9.2.1 & X 10.1	Boot/Classic Mode
667 (Gigabit - Ti)	9.2.1 & X 10.1	Boot/Classic Mode
667 (DVI - Ti)	9.2.2 & X 10.1.4	Boot/Classic Mode
800 (DVI - Ti)	9.2.2 & X 10.1.4	Boot/Classic Mode
867 (Ti)	9.2.2 & X 10.2.1	Boot/Classic Mode
1.0 (Ti)	9.2.2 & X 10.2.1	Boot/Classic Mode
867 12" (Al)	X 10.2.4	Classic Mode Only
1.0 17" (Al)	X 10.2.4	Classic Mode Only
1.0 12" (DVI - Al)	X 10.2.7	Classic Mode Only
1.0 15" (FW800 - Al)	X 10.2.7	Classic Mode Only
1.25 15" (FW800 - Al)	X 10.2.7	Classic Mode Only
1.33 17" (Al)	X 10.2.7	Classic Mode Only
1.33 12" (Al)	X 10.2.7	Classic Mode Only
1.33 15" (Al)	X 10.3.3	Classic Mode Only
1.5 15" (Al)	X 10.3.3	Classic Mode Only
1.5 17" (Al)	X 10.3.3	Classic Mode Only
1.5 12" (Al)	X 10.3.7*	Classic Mode Only
1.5 15" (SMS/BT2 - Al)	X 10.3.7	Classic Mode Only
1.67 15" (Al)	X 10.3.7	Classic Mode Only
1.67 17" (Al)	X 10.3.7	Classic Mode Only
1.67 15" (DLSD/HR - Al)	X 10.4.2	Classic Mode Only
1.67 17" (DLSD/HR - Al)	X 10.4.2	Classic Mode Only

*For complete details, please refer to the appropriate specs page.

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

Can the PowerBook G4 run Windows?

The PowerBook G4 series is capable of running Windows through emulation using a program like Microsoft Virtual PC 7, but it 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 PowerBook G4 run Linux?

Yes. Adelie Linux is supported on the PowerBook G4.

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