VGA Monitors: Which Macintosh Models Are Compatible

This article explains which Macintosh computers introduced before November 1997 work with VGA monitors.

For computers introduced since November 1997, see technical document 86183, "VGA Monitors: Which Macintosh Models are Compatible, Part 2".

Most Macintosh computers work with VGA monitors, including:

Macintosh LC Computers
LC
LC II
LC III
LC 475
LC 630

Performa Comptuers
Performa 400, 405, 410, 430
Performa 450
Performa 460, 466, 467
Performa 600
Performa 630 series

Centris/Quadra Computers
IIvx/IIvi
Centris/Quadra 610
Centris/Quadra 650
Centris/Quadra 660AV

Quadra Computers
Quadra 605
Quadra 700
Quadra 800
Quadra 900
Quadra 950
Quadra 840AV
Quadra 630

Power Macintosh Computers
Power Macintosh 5200 series
Power Macintosh 6100 series
Power Macintosh 6200 series
Power Macintosh 6300
Power Macintosh 7100 series
Power Macintosh 7200 series
Power Macintosh 7600
Power Macintosh 8100 series
Power Macintosh 8500 series
Power Macintosh 9500 series

PowerBook Computers
PowerBook 160
PowerBook 165c
PowerBook 180
PowerBook 180c
PowerBook 190 Series - Must have external video upgrade
PowerBook 500 Series
PowerBook Duo (with MiniDock or Duo Dock)
PowerBook 2400
PowerBook 3400
PowerBook 5300 Series

Making the Connection

To connect a VGA monitor to the Macintosh video port, an cable adapter may be required. Third-party cable vendors should have these adapters available for purchase. More recent Macintosh computers use a VGA-style connector and do not need an adapter. Refer to your computer's owner guide or Mac OS Help for additional information on connecting a VGA monitor to your computer. For information on display adapters, see technical document 33001, "Display Adapter Table".

VGA monitors may have variances when purchased from different VGA monitor vendors. It is best to test a monitor for compatibility with your Macintosh before making a purchase decision. VGA monitors also have different image quality specifications. There may be significant differences between Apple monitors and various VGA monitors. A side-by-side review of the monitors should be done before deciding which monitor to buy.

Published Date: Feb 20, 2012