Apple iBook Notebook 14" M9418LL/A (1.0-GHz PowerPC G4, 256 MB RAM, 40 GB Hard Drive, DVD/CD-RW Drive)

Rating:
Summary: Depends on your needs
Review: If you're a Windows user and in no mood for switching, please read whatever review there is for the latest PC based laptop and go away.

If you're still reading and are interested in trying something really different or you're a Mac user already, welcome! The iBook and the PowerBook fill out the portable line of Mac based computers. Even though they are somewhat similar in processor speed, which one you get depends on what you want to use it for. The PowerBooks have many features that the iBooks do not. They are powerful enough to serve as a desktop replacement (unless you need G5 power), while the iBooks would be more like an extension of your established computing experience. They are priced accordingly. If you need DVD burning, and the mega RAM associated with Apple's Pro line of software, get the PowerBook. If all you need is a portable for Microsoft Office or AppleWorks, or to watch a DVD movie and play some games while away from home, get the iBook.

Since I already have a desktop that serves my major project needs (Final Cut/Soundtrack and the like), I just wanted one that would run those programs and let me transfer later to my main machine. I chose the iBook. I never considered the earlier G3 iBooks, since they were not ready for what I wanted. The G4 iBooks are a terrific value. With the money you save over a PowerBook, give it some more RAM (You can easily add 512MB for a total of 640MB) or maybe a faster hard drive (All Apple portables use 4200RPM drives which are slow IMHO). Get AppleCare for 3 additional years of protection. This is a great machine.