A "what if" buying decision: 17'' Display w/12'' PB or 15'' PB?
Assuming that the prices were the same, let's just say the final total would be $2400 what would you opt for. Here are the specs...
PowerBook (12'')
1.33 GHz G4
80 GB 5400 RPM
512 RAM
64 MB Geforce 5200 MX
17'' Apple Display-with connector
---or
PowerBook (15'')
1.5 GHz G4
128 MB Radeon 9700
80 GB 5400 RPM
512 RAM
Backlit
Which set-up would make you happier?
PowerBook (12'')
1.33 GHz G4
80 GB 5400 RPM
512 RAM
64 MB Geforce 5200 MX
17'' Apple Display-with connector
---or
PowerBook (15'')
1.5 GHz G4
128 MB Radeon 9700
80 GB 5400 RPM
512 RAM
Backlit
Which set-up would make you happier?
Comments
Originally posted by Cam'ron
do u only get the 17" monitor with the 12"?? if that is so that would definitely be my choice. when i think of a portable device it should be very compact and easy to carry around, i find the 12" an awesome size and the slight difference in mhz, video card and backlight are definitely minor. 12" all the way!!
Interesting perspective. I am reconsidering my PowerBook 15'' purchase, which is kind of funny because of the thread I started. I cancelled my order to think it over. So, I'm grasping for ideas, and trying to figure out what I really need and what is the best value for my dollars.
Yes, the 12'' PB and the 17'' Display is one option, the other is just the loaded 15'' PB.
I am going to Penn State University, and am going to be taking 14 credits this summer to get an early start, as I am trying to finish my degree in 3 years by doing all the summer sesssions at the main campus. What is the best computer for a student at PSU? A student that is double majoring in Business Marketing and Film.
Originally posted by Logan
Wow, a little off topic but I would be very interested in hearing about double majoring in business and film, because I want to do the same thing.
Haha, what is it that you want to know? Just IM me at dhuge67.
Originally posted by Messiahtosh
Assuming that the prices were the same, let's just say the final total would be $2400 what would you opt for. Here are the specs...
PowerBook (12'')
1.33 GHz G4
80 GB 5400 RPM
512 RAM
64 MB Geforce 5200 MX
17'' Apple Display-with connector
---or
PowerBook (15'')
1.5 GHz G4
128 MB Radeon 9700
80 GB 5400 RPM
512 RAM
Backlit
Which set-up would make you happier?
Easy decision, I'd go with the 15" powerbook. Not only is it more powerful than the 12" but you get to take the extra screen real estate with you wherever you go, unlike the 17" apple display. Not to mention you can always add an external display for the 15" at a later time if you really feel you need it.
Originally posted by Messiahtosh
Assuming that the prices were the same, let's just say the final total would be $2400 what would you opt for. Here are the specs...
PowerBook (12'')
1.33 GHz G4
80 GB 5400 RPM
512 RAM
64 MB Geforce 5200 MX
17'' Apple Display-with connector
---or
PowerBook (15'')
1.5 GHz G4
128 MB Radeon 9700
80 GB 5400 RPM
512 RAM
Backlit
Which set-up would make you happier?
Since the Pbook is gonna be your only computer at college, I say the 15" route. The specs are better, and, while the 12" would be preferable for just taking class notes and giving presentations, the screen size when your at home would be an issue. I'm all about simplicity, and having to plug in a monitor every time i wanted to use my computer productively would drive me crazy. Also, you'll probably finding yourself using the wireless network more than you think, whether its from your couch or a library, and all that time will be spent only on the Pbook screen. I cant decide between the 12 or 15 for myself, but my Pbook will *hopefully* be in addition to a desktop, so the situation is different. I say get the 15" now, then try to get a 17" or 20" display down the road.
I wouldn't have canceled that order!
And ipodandimac is right about something else: wireless networks are only getting more widespread, so you'll find yourself using your PowerBook AWAY from your desk so much more (I know I do!), so why not enjoy 3 more inches of screen (nice and wide for palettes) in the process.
Re-instate your original order, goofball!
If all you did was take notes and just needed a small, capable computer...sure the 12" rocks. But you do all that video stuff, so I'd imagine - especially as the years roll on throughout college - you'll appreciate the faster hard drive and ATi 128MB graphics and larger screen (and lighted keyboard when you are surfing wirelessly) that the 15" offers.
If I was going buy a PowerBook today, I'd get the 15" SuperDrive model and bump up the graphics to 128MB and get the 5400rpm drive.
The 12" and 17" are totally righteous machines (and I'd be proud to own any of the three PowerBook models), but in my situation - and probably yours - the 15" just seems the best fit: all the perks and frills the 12" lacks, in a more compact, luggable size than the 17" (and about $300-400 cheaper too!).
Just my 2¢...
I was struggling with the very same question, but after having a play with the two today, I think having the 15" to start with then adding a screen later (cost permitting) is the best way, I didnt think I could live with the 12" for a year or so when I was mobile etc.. the 12" is perfect for some, as is the 15" and the 17" , different strokes for different folks.. always a tricky choice.. I agonized for a long time, just need to put my order in (xtra vram and 5400rpm) and get mobile around the house... g5 desktops be damned !
And never leave the house...
My question is: Is the 128 Video Memory upgrade really worthwhile? Will that only benefit me if i get a larger external screen down the road?
I'd also vote for putting this in the proper forum for purchasing advice.
*click*
Originally posted by Paul
who knows maybe you will win the lotto or something and can add the 17 later.
I think if he wins the lotto he will get the 23 inch screen.
Originally posted by quagmire
I think if he wins the lotto he will get the 23 inch screen.
I would actually just get the 12'' and the 17'' PowerBooks, along with a dual 2 GHz G5 and a 23'' screen...if I won the lotto.
Originally posted by Messiahtosh
Have you ever thought about the possibility of having your laptop stolen? I don't think it's a big deal if I'm consciencious enough about protecting it, but still.\
If my laptop or iPod got stolen, I would hunt the thief down and there would be a serious ass-whopping. So yes, I have thought about that.
Originally posted by Messiahtosh
Have you ever thought about the possibility of having your laptop stolen? I don't think it's a big deal if I'm consciencious enough about protecting it, but still.\
You can get locking mechanisms for your notebook. That's what the lock thing is on the side of the PBs. I believe you put some kind of cable through it and lock it to something, so if anyone really wants it, they have to work way to hard for it to be worth it.
Either that or just make sure you lock your room whenever you go out, than again, that's always a good idea in college. You avoid a lot of trouble that way.
[/speaking from experience]
Originally posted by Messiahtosh
Assuming that the prices were the same, let's just say the final total would be $2400 what would you opt for. Here are the specs...
PowerBook (12'')
1.33 GHz G4
80 GB 5400 RPM
512 RAM
64 MB Geforce 5200 MX
17'' Apple Display-with connector
---or
PowerBook (15'')
1.5 GHz G4
128 MB Radeon 9700
80 GB 5400 RPM
512 RAM
Backlit
Which set-up would make you happier?
lol who cares what would make ME happier... what would make YOU happier? :P
I like laptops & all for portability, but I never want to really sacrifice power---go with the ATI Radeon 9700, and bump it to 128mb :P (get a gig of ram)
Have you ever thought about the possibility of having your laptop stolen? I don't think it's a big deal if I'm consciencious enough about protecting it, but still. >>
Definitely get theft insurance. Perhaps as a college student you can get an inexpensive rider on your parents' homeowner policy.
Also back up your data regularly and often. As further protection store at least one of your backups off site.