[Tim916]

I've decided that I need an inexspensive backup machine in case something goes wrong with my 15" PB. I'd also like to have the extra portability for travelling that a 12" machine provides.

I'm debating on whether to go with one of the new 12" iBooks for $1000, which seem to be an excellent value, or to get a refurb 12" PB for $1,300, which is a bit lighter and slimmer, but doesn't really have anything else that I need.

I'm kind of leaning towards the iBook since it seems to be a better value, and frankly, has everything that I need. Does anyone have a compelling reason to go with the PB other than the fact that it is sexier?

[SSharon]

sexier and a faster hard drive, that's about it though.

[Randman]

You can go to 1.5GB of ram on an iBook but only 1.25GB for a PB12.

Though rather than have two laptops have you considered a Mac mini?

[iREZ]

for a back up..id go with an ibook. you could get more ram in there, batt life is way superior, better airport range and it costs a whole hell of a lot less.

[Tim916]

I have considered a mini, but I'd really like to have a small laptop for trips.

[theTechyDork]

iBook all the way. The new ones have great value, more RAM capabilities, and are great for a back up machine to your 15" PowerBook. I'm sure you'll love it. It also costs much less. Go for the iBook.

[mitchell_pgh]

Unless you really need one of the few PB only features, I would go iBook.

Save that $300 for when there is a clear difference between the PB and the iBook.

[theTechyDork]

Originally Posted by mitchell_pgh

Save that $300 for when there is a clear difference between the PB and the iBook.

Exactly. Like a Mactel PowerBook in a few years. The iBook will be great for you now.

[mitchell_pgh]

Originally Posted by theTechyDork

Exactly. Like a Mactel PowerBook in a few years. The iBook will be great for you now.

Also, the benchmarks coming back for the iBook vs. PB say that they are nearly running at the same speed.

[buffalolee]

Refurb Powerbook. It looks more suave.

[hcorf]

if it wasnt backup, i would say go with the pb, they look much better and i think in some cases refurb gear is actually more reliable because someone has actually looked at it and fixed it instead of it just rolling of the production line.


why not get a refurb ibook?

[brettcamp]

I've had both. For a backup machine, go for an iBook -- a refurb model is an excellent idea, but check to see if it comes with an AirPort card.

[Kenneth]

Like I said on other threads, I just got myself a 12-inch iBook as a 'backup' Mac. It serves me pretty well.