Apple's iBook G4 notebook computers are aiming for a chunk of the laptop PC market. While you won't get the same specs on the iBook G4 12-inch as on a comparable PC, you do get Apple's excellent design and a pretty good machine that's priced close to a grand.

The 12-inch iBook G4 doesn't have a monstrous screen, but the 12.1-inch LCD is bright and easy on the eyes. It's definitely easy on the back as well, weighing less than five pounds and measuring less than 1.5 inches thick.

The 1.35GHz PowerPC G4 processor delivers decent performance, though you may want more than the 512MB of starting memory. You can step it up to 768MB for only $50, or max the system out at 1.5GB of RAM, adding $500 to the sticker price.

Hard drive space is respectable at 40GB. Users with greater storage needs can move it up to a 60GB drive for $50 or take it up to 80GB for $100.

The combo DVD-ROM/CD-RW drive lets you play movies as well as burn audio and data CDs. The iBook features ATI's Mobility Radeon 9200 with 32MB of dedicated video memory, handling gaming and graphics easily.

Apple'[s AirPort Extreme wireless connectivity is built into the iBook to connect to the Net on the road. Bluetooth 2.0 is built in with an EDR module, so you can connect to any Bluetooth peripherals without wires.

Thanks to the efficiency of the components, the iBook manages to average over six hours of life from a single battery charge, giving you plenty of time to get some work done or some movies watched on a cross-country flight.

There's only a one-year limited warranty on the iBook as well as 90-days of complimentary telephone support. You can extend these both to three years for $249 by purchasing the AppleCare Protection Plan.

The Apple iBook G4 12-inch doesn't have the largest screen or the most powerful processor, but it is a compact, inexpensive, and well-designed laptop that is easy to port around and that looks great wherever you take it.

Pro: Compact, good price
Con: Small screen, low RAM

FOR MORE INFORMATION
Apple
1 Infinite Loop
Cupertino, CA 95014
408-996-1010
http://www.apple.com

Warranty
1-year limited