[Veltliner]

I'm thinking of getting a used powerbook G4 - primarily for writing (running Final Draft and Microsoft Word). Add=on: if it could handle final cut and Lightroom, it would be a plus, so I'm definitely not thinking about a Titanium).

I have seen several 1,5 ghz G4 powerbooks (80gig hard drive) and I wonder if that was a good model (there are always better, more reliable models, and lesser ones).

1. Do you think it is a good decision to buy such a rather outdated machine?

2. If so, which model would you recommend, and at what price?

3. How do you check if a laptop is OK? How would you check a used laptop?

4. Would you only buy a laptop that is still covered by apple care?

Thanks!

[Sethro]

Alot of people will tell you thats its a not a good idea to get a non-Intel machine, although I personally feel that the Powerbook's were one of the best laptops made by Apple. They are very realiable and some times when running certain applications like Microsoft Office 2004 and other non-native applications they actually run faster than other Intel Mac's.

If I were to get a Powerbook I would consider buying the latest revision that was released before the new Macbook Pro's were debuted. Most likely in a 15" or 17" depending on your own personal preference.

A good way to check a used laptop to make sure that its functioning correctly would be to run a Hardware Test of the machine, this would determine if the hardware bundled with machine like RAM, is functioning correctly. Additionally make sure that other things like the screen, superdrive and keyboard are working correctly.

Apple Care is a excellent insurance policy to have, its always a good idea to get one. Its a definite plus.

In the end alot of people will have there own opinions, its ultimeltly your choice. Consider alternatives and do some more research, try going to an Apple Store and look at some machines which you like and consider the alternatives both in price and quality.

Good Luck

[tintin220]

(1) Wrong forum.
(2) I would say, given that they are much cheaper, it might not be such a bad idea depending on what you need to do with it.
(3) I would recommend the same model I have, the October 05 revision. It has most of the features that the MBPs today have, differing mainly in RAM speed/capacity, processor, and camera.
(4) These numbers do not correspond to the ones on your questions.

[rjt1000]

I have a 12 inch PB 1.33 ghz, and its been a great machine, and is still fine for everday tasks that dont take that much computing power. But, that said, 1.5 ghz PB's are $600-$900 on eBay, depending on size and features, and most have no warranty. Since you can get a refurb MacBook for as little as $850 at the Apple on line store (with a full year warranty) its hard to recommend a used PowerBook. IMHO, there are just too many (expensive) things that can go wrong with a used laptop to gamble $600+ without a warranty. If a MacBook would meet your needs, and cashflow isnt the limiting factor, that would be your best value. If you need certain PowerBook features, that are not on a MacBook, I would try to find one with some Applecare warranty remaining, and preferably test it out in person before buying. (i.e. try Craigs list rather than eBay)

[Veltliner]

Originally Posted by Sethro 

A good way to check a used laptop to make sure that its functioning correctly would be to run a Hardware Test of the machine, this would determine if the hardware bundled with machine like RAM, is functioning correctly.
Good Luck

Thanks. Good idea.

It may look more reasonable to buy a macbook. They don't cost much more than a used powerbook, and are faster.

I just don't like the keyboard. And this is very important, if you write a lot.

[Veltliner]

Originally Posted by rjt1000 

IMHO, there are just too many (expensive) things that can go wrong with a used laptop to gamble $600+ without a warranty.

That's the key issue.

I will go back to an apple store and play around a little bit longer with a macbook. My first reaction to the keyboard with its flat keys was decidedly negative.

The great thing about the powerbook and macbookpro keyboard are the keys, that are much easier to hit than those flat macbook keys.

I am not sure if I want to buy a powerbook from ebay. A laptop is difficult to buy without seeing it. Maybe I try craigslist, where you can actually do, what Sethro recommended: run a hardway test.

Thanks for your feedback!