This MacBook Pro model is a fitting successor to the PowerBook G4. If most of the applications you use are available in Universal versions, or are relatively low-power programs running in Rosetta, buying a MacBook Pro will be to your advantage. If you're upgrading from an older PowerBook G4, you'll notice a massive speed boost in Universal applications, while Rosetta applications will run at the speed you're used to. However, if you rely on programs that won't run in Rosetta or you rely on resource-intensive software, you should delay your purchase until Universal versions of those programs become available.

Pros: Classic design; runs Universal applications quickly; bright screen; integrated iSight camera; comes with Front Row application and remote; innovative MagSafe power connector; improved wireless range.

Cons: Non-native apps can run slowly; optical drive inferior to PowerBook G4; no FireWire 800 port; intermittent processor noise on some systems; screen slightly shorter than PowerBook.

Basics

Reviewed Price: $2,499

Processor: 2.16GHz Intel Core Duo

Information about this system on Apple's website