iBook vs. PowerBook

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RonaldMacDonald

Registered
I went to a store and looked at both iBook and PowerBook. They were both G4 and had the same amount of ram (256). The iBook was 933MHz and the PowerBook was just under 900MHz. Since the machines on display were all hooked up to the internet, I tried a test. I opened a Safari browser on both a 12' PowerBook and ad 14" iBook. I typed in the same URL in both browsers and hit the enter keys on both machines at the same time. The download times seem about the same. So what's the difference?
 
The Powerbook (12") is 1 GHz. The 867 MHz model was the prvious, sold untill last september / october.

The other programs show the difference.
 
I agree with the previous posters: entering a URL in Safari isn't going to test anything about the machine other than the internet connection. Your best bet to do some of your own benchmarking is to open up a few of your favorite programs and use them for a bit, comparing experiences between the two machines.
 
Powerbook all the way. Its obvious. It just packs so much more plus in the past, my iBook had problems. Id tell more but work calls.
 
The 933 MHz iBook is also bigger. You'll want to compare the 800 Mhz iBook G4 and the 12" PowerBook G4 (1 GHz). The real question, however, is what you'll need it for.
 
If you want a 12, you have to compare the 800 iBook with the PowerBook. But you can also compare a 14-inch iBook running 1Ghz with the PowerBook 12.
Late last year I wanted to upgrade but not break the bank. I liked the PB 12 but went with the 1 Ghz iBook 14 as I thought it offered a little more value with a cheaper pricetag.
 
I certainly won't talk anyone out of the PowerBook, but I'll stick up for the even the low end iBooks (which I have one).

My 12" iBook has become my new favorite computer of all time. It used to be my iMac 400. By favorite, I mean in a "VW Bug" sort of way. Sure, it's not the most powerful by a long shot. It may even have a few missing features or "issues", but doggone if the little thing doesn't deliver what I ask it to do.

One thing I would remind a purchaser is to think about pixel resolution. I was going to get the 15" iBook, but then I realized that it also maxed out at 1024x768 (same as the 12"), which basically meant there was no pixel quantity benefit to the larger screen. I could read the 12" just fine, so I went with that. I also don't need my iBook for demanding applications in general, though I did edit an onsite trade show video with it and it did just fine.

As always, I'd say it depends on a user's needs. IMO--none of the laptops, except the highest end models, really impress me in terms of performance. I did some in store tests and found the models to get progressively faster asone would expect, but only marginally so until you get to the big boys.

For my needs, I just couldn't convince myself that the PowerBooks were worth it. And I was right. For someone else, it could easily be worth it to pop for more speed and features.
 
Fryke has a point. It depends on what you need it for. I have the new 12 G4 iBook, I like it. I also have a G4 desktop, I really only use the iBook for word processing and stuff. The Powerbooks are nicer, with out a doubt. My reasoning is this. If you need a portable, iBook is sweet. If you need a desktop replacement, or don't plan to travel with the Powerbook much, then go for the PB.
 
I think the powerbooks become more important when you want a screen bigger than 12inch and higher resolution. Comparing 12'' G4 iBook and 12'' alubook I would definitely go for the iBook, when money is a concern. There is not a huge difference between these two beauties, but the price..
And Apple knows that as well and that's why there are rumors on 13'' alubooks replacing the 12''..
 
powermac said:
Fryke has a point. It depends on what you need it for.
Click to expand...

Basically home use. I don't want to take up so much space with a desktop. When you say portable, are you talking about moving it around in the house or taking it on trips? What is the issue with the PB. Is it heavier or something? I assume the PB is more durable?

As to what I want to do with it, mostly web surfing, email. I will leave the really hard stuff for my desk top at work. I might do a little website building once in a while.

Also, in comparing the resolution between 12" PB and 14" iBook, does it fit the same amout of stuff on the screen? Just smaller on 12" PB?
 
Actually the iBook is more durable. Airport works better with the iBook also(plastic case).

For light work etc the iBook is the way to go.
 
RonaldMacDonald said:
Also, in comparing the resolution between 12" PB and 14" iBook, does it fit the same amout of stuff on the screen? Just smaller on 12" PB?
Click to expand...
Both screens have 1024x768. This means, you will have the same size for working. However, the bigger iBook screen actually allows you to sit more far away, while the 12inchs of the powerbook will get too small.
And the 14inch iBook has a much longer duration compared to the powerbook. I would really suggest you to pick the 12inch iBook. Best thing you can get for that money and for your demands.
 
Zammy-Sam,

In reading over your post, I am a little confused. Are you saying the 12" iBook represents the better deal than the 14" iBook because it is the same resolution? I wear reading glasses. Do you think the 14" would be better on my eyes? Thanks!
 
Yes, the 14" would be better on your eyes - but needs a little more space on the desk and in the bag - if you carry it with you. If you have trouble reading small type, the 14" is the way to go.

If portability is what you want, you'll take the 12" iBook.
 
In short, if you decide on a 12", the iBook is the better choice. The difference between the 12 iBook and 12 PB, are minimal.

The 14" iBook has the same screen resolution than the 12" iBook. The logic here is you will get 2 more inches of screen and the processor is faster. I personally, went for the 12'' iBook over the 14" simply because I could not reasonably see much of a difference in two inches of screen space.

What I meant by real portable meaning, I take my iBook to work everyday. In my opinion, let say I got a 15" PB, I would not take it to work everyday like my iBook. It would stay on my desktop at home more.

I see the PowerBook line as real alternatives to a Desktop. I love my little iBook, would not want to depend on it as my only computer. Especially in the areas of HD space and processing power.
 
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