The MacBook is very impressive, not only compared to the iBooks and PowerBook it replaces, but also compared to its new Pro brethren. It offers almost everything that people would need in a laptop. There's not much of a performance difference between the 1.83GHz and 2.0GHz models running Intel-native apps, but Rosetta does somewhat better with the faster processor. If you use non-native apps often, and prefer a SuperDrive to a Combo drive, consider this model -- especially if you favor its matte black finish.

Pros: Fast Core Duo processor yields great performance; built-in iSight camera; attractive case design; affordable.

Cons: Rough case edge; weak speakers; poor 3-D game performance; no video cables included; $150 premium for black case.

Basics

Reviewed Price: $1,499

Processor: 2GHz Intel Core Duo

Information about this system on Apple's website