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12-inch PowerBook G4/1.5GHz (SuperDrive)

The 12-inch model of Apple's PowerBook line received a Jan. 31 update that included a speed bump to 1.5GHz, 512MB of installed RAM and integrated Bluetooth 2.0 support. This updated model also adds scrolling Trackpad and Sudden Motion Sensor Technology. This model features an 80GB hard drive and an 8X SuperDrive. In October 2005, Apple dropped the Combo Drive-equipped PowerBook, and cut the price on the 12-inch SuperDrive-equipped model to $1,499.

 Reviewed Full Review

Individually, none of the changes in the latest round of PowerBook updates will knock your socks off. But collectively, they make the PowerBook lineup both more appealing and more affordable.

Pros: Compact size; increased standard memory; improved SuperDrive, trackpad, and Bluetooth; reduced price.

Cons: Small screen; lacks high-end ports and features; only one DIMM slot; heavier than comparable Windows laptops.

Basics

Reviewed Price: $1,699

Processor: 1.5GHz G4

Information about this system on Apple's website

Price Comparison

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PCTechSystems, Inc. $499.00
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Lab Tests

Speedmark 3.3 Score136
Cinema 4D XL 8.54:36
iMovie HD0:58
iTunes 4.72:24
Photoshop CS2:00
Compressor12:06
Unreal Tournament22.4fps
Tested ConfigurationSuperDrive model. Mac OS X 10.3.7 with 512MB RAM, with Processor Performance set to Highest.