How will Altivec affect me if I go iBook G3?

[qwikstreet]

I am torn between a G3 and a G4 iBook. The difference is the cost. I was looking at the G3 900 14" or the G4 933 14". I have no use for Altivec on the G4, but I hear that every days apps will be using this. Is this true and how will it effect me.

My main use of the computer is used for browsing and organizing everyday life. I do use BBEdit, Dreamweaver, and once in awhile Photoshop. I will be using Garage band quite frequently though.

What other reasons should I keep in the back of my head?

*after an airport and Ram maxed out in both, the diference is almost 400$. Is it 400$ well spent, or should I put it towards an iPod and other cool gear?

 

[diablojota]

I would definitely recommend getting the G4 with Altivec. Especially using newer software optimized for this. Several of the iLife products, Photoshop, dreamweaver, all benefit from the Altivec. Go for the G4.

 

[Randman]

I recently went from a 600 G3 iBook to a 1 Ghz G4 iBook and it's great. The speed is there (maxed ram) and it's noticable. I went ahead and got an extreme airport station to go with the new extreme card and the broadband experience went from great to excellent.
The G4's do get a little warmer underneath than the G3s, and the keyboard is a bit tan but offers a much better firmer feedback. The slot-loading CD is a plus over the tray as well.
That said, I don't think there's that much difference between the 900 and 933. Personally I'd opt for the better deal and get an iPod, if you don't have one, if it's between those 2. But the 1 Ghz is worth the extra cost, imho.

 

[Jason]

i'll be honest here

there isnt a HUGE difference in my opinion, i have a PowerMac G4 and an iBook G3 both rated at 800mhz... there is a little difference, but if i were to choose, i would take the g3 because of the price, but at the same time, my needs from a lap top are different (i dont need every ounce of power out of it )

also, as far as ram, i would buy that from a 3rd party, much cheaper, and its easy enough to install in an ibook.

IMO take the extra money, spend it on an ipod like previously said, an ipod is fun