Initial switch with older machine?

mikegold · Jan 4, 2005

What would be the minimum machine that would run OS X?

Due to a cash issue I don't think I can get the new iMac or PowerPC but I'd like to start the move over to Apple.

I see that powermax.com has a lot of older machines for pretty decent prices but I don't know which machines will run which OS.

mynameis · Jan 4, 2005

A rumor going around says that next tuesday Jobs is going to announce a new $500 mac, might want to wait to see how that looks, since old used iMacs and Powermacs sell for ridiculous amounts.

mikegold · Jan 4, 2005

mynameis said:
A rumor going around says that next tuesday Jobs is going to announce a new $500 mac, might want to wait to see how that looks, since old used iMacs and Powermacs sell for ridiculous amounts.

This does sound interesting.

Which of the older machines can run OSX?

Macman · Jan 4, 2005

most g3s will run osx with enough ram, the more ram the better, 128 is the minimum required, but Id suggest at least 512 or higher. including g3 ibooks and pbooks, powermac g3, imac g3.

Avalon · Jan 4, 2005

Check www.lowendmac.com you'll find any info you need.
Most G3 Macs will run OS X natively, some need a few tweaks before running OS X. Everything with a G4 will run OS X right out of the box.

One thing you should keep in mind is that OS X performance is very dependant on memory, 512MB being the minimum to work smoothly with it, no matter which Mac it is.

Meyvn · Jan 4, 2005

You can get refurbished new-type (1.25 GHz) eMacs on the Apple website for 650, and eMacs have been tested to perform EXTREMELY well for their power, coming dangerously close to the iMac G5s in some areas. It really just depends on how much you're willing to pay. If you want to go less than 500, then you may want to go eBaying and look for an old Sawtooth, or a G4 Cube.

ApplejustWorks · Jan 4, 2005

I'd say wait until next Tuesday without making any major decisions...

mikegold · Jan 4, 2005

Thanks for all the info!

oldnews · Jan 4, 2005

mynameis said:
A rumor going around says that next tuesday Jobs is going to announce a new $500 mac, might want to wait to see how that looks, since old used iMacs and Powermacs sell for ridiculous amounts.

Is there a site with more information on this?

mikegold · Jan 4, 2005

oldnews said:
Is there a site with more information on this?

Look Here