Apple iBook G4 - PPC G4 1 GHz - RAM 256 MB - HDD 40 GB - CD-RW / DVD - Mobility Radeon 9200 - MacOS X 10.3 - 14.1" TFT 1024 x 768 ( XGA )

I was converted to the use of Macs 2 years ago, and have not turned back since. They are so much easier to use than PCs, not mention more stylish and user friendly.

With the ibook, comes a huge collection of Mac generic programs which are really well designed and a pleasure to use. They are bright, colourful - and after looking at the general design of the Mac, PCs will seem ugly and you too won't be able to turn back:

Iphoto, is a great photo storing and editing program which allows you to sort, store, edit, make slideshows, and email your photos.

ITunes - one of the best music programs out there. Store, edit, sort, make playlists and download music. Ultra compatible with the Apple ipod, and so so easy to use.

Imovie - now this program is a gem. A basic movie editing program which allows you to insert photos and music from itunes and iphoto to create great viewing. Add titles, special effects, just drag in the movie clips you want - and you're away!

Ical - the ultimate organiser. Your digital diary - get emailed, or opt for pop-up messages to alert you of events you schedule. The best thing about this program, is that you can share your calendar with other people, and your information will update in their own ical. Most websites that have calendars of events online are now using ical, so that users can just download their calendars and put them in their own ical. Might sound complicated, but it's a breeze - just now that ical is the answer to staying organised.

Ichat - now, this is awesome! Chat to anyone with an AOL, or mac account instantly. You can also talk using your in-built microphone to others with ichat AV. When using ichat - you can personalise the photo that appears next to the person you are chatting to. Drag and drop any picture you like into the box, and you will be looking at the person you are chatting to. Drag and drop files into the text window, and it's a quick way to send someone a photo!

Mail - consolidate all of your email accounts into one simple program. No more logging into 5 different accounts to check your messages, store them all in the one place regardless of whether they are yahoo, hotmail or anything else!

There are many other programs which come standard with the ibook package, and you will love them all. They are just so easy to use - I can't stress that enough. Apple ibooks are sexy, smart - and unbelievably easy to use. Perfect for studying, or getting creative with your photo and movie making. You will not regret your purchase, and before you know it you too will be an avid Apple supporter.

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.

I purchased my notebook used with a one year guarantee, but the product had been advertised as totally reconditioned. I had to return it just a few days later because it stopped working all together. Apple replaced some parts that went bad, but now I can't use the scroll tool. It's a problem I'm sure can be fixed, I just wish that I didn't have to go through all the hassle.

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