Use iMac as External Monitor with Mac Mini

[exncite]

I have an older 2007 iMac which runs fine. If I were to get a new Mac mini with the M1 chip, would I be able to use the iMac as a "monitor"?

 

[pigoo3]

I think technically it is possible (with the right combination of computer model vintages). Unfortunately I think a 2007 iMac is too old to be able to be used as an external monitor. Please check out this Apple document for more details:

Use your iMac as a display with target display mode - Apple Support

Target display mode is a feature available with certain older Mac models.

support.apple.com

Nick

p.s. On the positive side...something like a 22" monitor (if you shop around or find a good deal)...is possible to purchase for under $100.

Of course if it were me...I'd be shopping for a 27" monitor (2560 x 1440 resolution)...for about $250 (shop around). Way more screen real estate than a 2007 iMac!

 

[exncite]

Thanks Nick. You're probably right. Thought I might be able to save a few bucks.

 

[Raz0rEdge]

It's not worth it since you can pick up a very cheap monitor that doesn't require you to run the iMac to send video to it.

I did this exact thing when I switched from my 2009 iMac to the Mac Mini before purchasing my monitors. It was annoying to use it on a day to day basis.

 

[pigoo3]

Thanks Nick. You're probably right. Thought I might be able to save a few bucks.

I hear ya...I'd want to give it a shot as well.

FYI. I'm also considering getting one of the M1 Mac-Mini's...and I've got all the latest purchasing details. Don't purchase a brand new M1 Mac-Mini ($699) for the base model...there are at least two other lower cost options:

* Purchase a refurbished M1 Mac-Mini from Apple for $589 (just as good as a brand new one...with same exact warranty).
* Used M1 Mac-Mini's can be snatched up via eBay for around $500 (sometimes a touch less).

I'm considering the eBay route myself.

Good luck,

Nick

p.s. Also check your local Craig's List as well. Might spot one for even less.

 

[Randy B. Singer]

I have an older 2007 iMac which runs fine. If I were to get a new Mac mini with the M1 chip, would I be able to use the iMac as a "monitor"?

More info (but not necessarily helpful, I'm afraid):

How to use your iMac as an external monitor

If you have an iMac made in mid-2011 or later, here is how you can use it as an external monitor.

www.cnet.com

How to use an iMac as an external monitor

New iMacs can use Universal Control, but or iMacs from 2009 to 2014 can be used as external monitors when running certain versions of macOS.

www.macworld.com

Luna Display ($135)
allows you to use iMacs that otherwise can't be used as an external display as one (unfortunately, it's priced close to what you would pay for a brand-new external display)

Luna Display — by Astropad

The only hardware solution that turns any Mac or iPad into a wireless second display.

astropad.com