Apple iBook G4

This is the less expensive laptop in Apple's line. The PowerBook is the big one.

This is a nifty little computer. It's small and lightweight (4.9 pounds for the 12.1 display model), and like almost all of the new Apple stuff, cool looking.

It can be configured lots of different ways, but all the iBooks will have this:

-the inherent stability of the Unix-based operating system

-the inherently reduced risk of virues and hacker problems with a Mac

A basic iBook will run you about $1100 and you'll get:

the G4 processor so good performance for a modestly priced laptop

USB and FireWire connections, so most camcorders will connect

 iTunes, iMovie, iPhoto, and GarageBand software

Combo drive (lets you play DVDs or CDs and burn CDs)

Bluetooth capability as an option to connect to devices like cell phones and PDAs

An Airport Extreme card will run you an extra $79. This lets you connect to an Apple based wireless home network, and access the internet at wireless "hotspots" like coffee shops and internet cafes that use the 802.1b standard.

AppleWorks is optional for word processing, spreadsheets and databases for $79. You can also download Open Office free of charge.

It's a refined package that's fun to use. If you're a Windows person, you should really play around with this for a while and see if you like it. It's pretty intuitive, but in some ways, fairly different from using a windows PC. The Apple stores are very low pressure; just go in and play with one. If you have questions, the staff is very professional, courteous and knowledgeable. It's good value and definitely worth considering.