Buying a PowerBook versus iBook
From Mac Guides
One of the most common questions potential Mac portable owners have is whether to buy a PowerBook or an iBook. What are the major concerns, given that PowerBooks are significantly more expensive?
- The monitor is probably the most important difference. The 15-inch model displays at 1400 X 960, and the 17-incher is 1680 X 1050. The 12-inch PowerBook and all the iBooks are 1024 X 768.
- The major difference between the 12-inch PowerBooks and iBooks is the PowerBooks' slight improvement in processing power, graphical power, a faster hard drive, and most notably, a SuperDrive and dual-screen capabilities (although all iBook G4s can be "hacked" to support dual-screen or "span" mode). A PowerBook can also be run in clamshell mode whereby the screen is closed but the computer remains awake whereas an iBook cannot without a hack. Even with a hack, there have been worries about operating iBooks in clamshell mode that regard heat dissipation through the iBook's keyboard. However, most of the heat from the iBook's processor is directed to the back vents of the computer through heat pipes, so the truth behind these claims is debated.
- iBooks have a better AirPort signal than PowerBooks, though PowerBooks have improved from previous versions.
- iBook case materials are said to be more durable than those of PowerBooks.
- The 14-inch iBook has the longest battery life of any Mac laptop. The 14-inch iBook gets about 5 real-world hours, compared to the 15-inch PowerBook that gets 3 to 3 and a half. The latest models claim a 5.5 hour battery life, compared to 6 hours for the 14-inch iBook and 5 hours for the 12-inch iBook, but real-world performance is generally lower.
- Apple's store also provides a table which compares the various iBook and PowerBook models. Apple Store Link
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See Also
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Links
- iBook Screen Hack (MacRumors assumes no responsibility for damage to your hardware, including data loss, if you misuse this hack. It is quite safe, but if you break it, it is your own fault)
