Display · The Beige Era · 1987
Macintosh RGB Display
The Macintosh RGB Display was how many users first saw a Mac desktop in color.
Core color display for the first modular color Macs.
Macintosh Portrait Display (1989)
Macintosh RGB Display: key facts
When was the Macintosh RGB Display released?
The Macintosh RGB Display arrived in 1987. Apple discontinued it in 1992.
How much did the Macintosh RGB Display cost?
The Macintosh RGB Display launched at $999 in 1987, about $2,817 in today’s money (approximate, US CPI).
What specs stand out?
Key specs: 13" color RGB CRT, 640×480 display, Macintosh video.
Why does the Macintosh RGB Display matter?
Core color display for the first modular color Macs.
Full specifications
| CPU | — |
|---|---|
| Cores | — |
| Memory (RAM) | — |
| Storage | — |
| Display | 13" color RGB CRT, 640×480 |
| GPU | — |
| Ports | Macintosh video |
| Weight | Varies by model |
| Dimensions | CRT monitor |
| Operating system | Driver/firmware support |
| Released | 1987 |
| Discontinued | 1992 |
| Launch price | $999 |
How the Macintosh RGB Display compares to today
Launched at $999 in 1987, about $2,817 in today’s money (approx., US CPI).
Method note: clock comparisons use frequency only; price conversions use US CPI.
Sources
Specs checked against Apple technical specifications archive, EveryMac, Mactracker, Wikimedia Commons image credits.
Related Display models
Open the Macintosh RGB Display in the interactive archive →
Last updated: 2026-08-11