All depends whether or not you need those features, otherwise it is not much different from a G3. Look at the apps you use often and see if they will use Altivec or multiple processors. I use Adobe apps, and Logic Audio, and those benefit from both - even in OS 9. This is why I opted for a 550MHz G4 upgrade in my B&W, when a 900MHz G3 would have been faster for many everyday things. Also I had some apps which actually required a G4, but I don't remember which.