It is the first computer from Apple to use the new PowerPC processor created by IBM and Motorola. The low-profile ("pizza-box") case was inherited from the Centris/Quadra 610 and 660AV models, and replaced the Macintosh Quadra series that used the Motorola 68040 processor, Apple's previous high-end workstation line.

For the consumer market, the 6100 was re-branded as a Macintosh Performa with model numbers in the 6110 – 6118 range denoting bundled software and hard drive sizes. An Apple Multiple Scan 15 display and AppleDesign Keyboard were included as part of the package. For the server market, a variant was offered with additional server software, called the Apple Workgroup Server 6150.

The 6100 was discontinued without a direct replacement.