Apple PowerBook G4 Notebook (1.67GHz PowerPC G4, 512MB, 80GB, DVDRW/CD-RW, Mac OS X, 15.2

Reviewed by: whirled

Strengths: Very fast, intuitive and easy to use. Beautiful sleek design.

Weaknesses: It's pricey and doesn't come with any really practical software.

Overall: I've used both Macs and PCs for about 18 years. But for most of those years, I've always had a PC at home (be it a desktop or laptop). I now work in publishing and was told that I would need to get a Mac because it performs better with graphic elements than a PC. I opted for the powerbook because it took up less room than a desktop model (and I live in a small apartment), and it was just as powerful. The Powerbook works like a dream. I haven't had any problems with it yet -- no viruses, no need to end task out of programs (as I had to do often with windows programs). The Apple store is also helpful with their walk-in help desk (although you may have to pay for some services). They also offer workshops -- some of which are free. What I didn't really like about it -- reasons that I always bought a PC instead -- was that it came with very little pratical programs. It had Garage Band, which is neat, but pretty much useless to me. I would have prefered a better word processor than text edit, which is very rudimentary, I think. All the other programs I need I had to buy separately, such as PhotoShop, etc. Bottom line, if you are going to be working with a lot of graphical elements, this is probably the best choice. You can also get upgrades (faster processor, better graphics card), but it will cost more. If you want a computer to use for mostly word processing, maybe some type of photo editing with family photos, then go with a PC. Most PCs work just as well, cost a lot less and there are more newly developed programs work with PCs before Macs (an example is Google Earth -- it's very cool and I'd love to be able to use it on my Powerbook. Right now I can only use it on my PC at work).

Reviewed by: garrettks

Overall: Pros:- Brilliant 15" widescreen display. - Striking hardware design, aluminum casing. - Mac OS X, The most elegant and stable consumer operating system I've experienced. - Compared to several Windows laptops I've seen, the PowerBook seems more rugged, less flimsy, higher quality components (inside and out). - Up to 2gb of RAM possible. - Auto screen dimming, backlit keyboard. - Zero configuration to connect to any wired or wireless network. - Top notch Apple service and support, I highly recommend purchasing AppleCare. - Size and weight, compact and lightweight.Cons:- Battery could be better. A friend of mine just bought an Inspiron 6000. While the 6000 seems cheapish, the battery lasts twice as long as my PowerBook battery. - I really can't think of any others, you'll love this laptop!

Reviewed by: brads79

Strengths: 2G Ram, 2 USB ports and 1 Firewire port, power on and access wireless networking out of the box.

Weaknesses: Machine heats up and only 80G hard drive

Overall: I purchased this Mac after a nearly 10 year lapse since my last Mac (a PowerMac 7200/90). I have become addicted to the ease of the interface as well as the ability to use Microsoft Office and connect with my office's wireless network. I am the only Mac user in my office and none of my coworkers know it. The machine is slim and its sleek design makes it easy to take it anywhere. The wireless card allows access to the Internet in any airport, hotel or coffee shop with Wi-Fi. My Powerbook in conjunction with a .Mac account with 2G of storage allows me to continue to be productive no matter where I might find myself. If Apple increases the size of the hard drive in its next offering and installs next generation wireless technology as well, I see no reason not to continue using a Mac. Hopefiully, more professionals will begin understanding that the costs and time associated with using a Windows network are not worth the trouble when Apple continues to develop extraordinary products like this mobile computer. I urge average to above average computer users to take the 15" Powerbook for a spin because you will fall in love with it as I did...again.

Reviewed by: ktubaugh

Strengths: The 1.67GHz G4 processor combined with 1 GB RAM and an 80GB 5400RPM hard drive make this thing smoking hot in the performance department. Kudos to Apple for packing so much into such a small package.

Weaknesses: This machine runs hot! Invest in an elevated stand to prolong the life on your machine. Also, the battery life leaves something to be desired. Invest in a spare one if you are a heavy traveler.

Overall: I purchased this laptop to replace my old 15.2" titanium PowerBook G4 667MHz. I considered purchasing a new computer from several other manufacturers, but I eventually settled on the PowerBook. I just fell in love with the responsiveness of the machine and all the great software that comes pre-loaded from the factory. Apple's track record for great support and reliability are unmatched by other companies. I am involved in PC support for more than 2000 machines in a mixed environment (Linux, UNIX, Windows, Mac, etc). I have first hand experience with the support departments of various vendors and I must say that Apple is always the most responsive. As long as Apple keeps improving their products, I will continue to buy them without hesitation. Congratulations to Apple on developing such a great product!