The BEST piece of equipment I have EVER OWNED
Written: Aug 22 '00
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Great performance, beautiful display, sexy
Cons: Larger than some notebooks
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| dancilmi's Full Review: Apple PowerBook G3 (M7308LL/A) Mac Notebook |
Let me preface this review by saying that I LOVE this computer. I use my computer for practically everything. From writing this review, to listening to music, to photo editing, to playing the occasional game, to keeping track of my life. I would be completely lost without my Powerbook. This is the fifth Macintosh computer I have used in my home, and I am one of the most profound Mac advocates on the planet. I like Macintoshes MUCH better than I like IBM-clones (I find it ironic by the way that IBM actually participates in the manufacture of Apple processors instead of processors for Windows-compatible machines).
I want anyone who reads this review to understand that I am a very objective person by nature, and I am a Mac-lover for several reasons. I feel that the user interface is extremely intuitive to use. As someone who has spent countless hours troubleshooting both Windows machines and Macintoshes, I can tell you conclusively that the cause-and-effect relationships that exist in the Mac environment are much closer to leaps of logic than leaps of faith. The greatest thing about Apple's computers is that they are designed to be comfortable to work with. That translates to a computer that can be wonderfully simple for the "technologically disinclined", extremely flexible for the "power user", and a willing tool for everyone in-between. That being said, let me say that I write this review for the purpose of informing those who don't already own this computer OBJECTIVELY, and I refuse to let the fact that I am enamored with Macs in general interfere with my objectivity.
The last computer I had (a Mac desktop that I bought in 1997), was due for replacement, as I am the type who tends to push my computer’s limits with programs like Photoshop. I had always wanted a laptop in the past, but until recently none were adequate to properly do the job of a desktop computer. Then in 1998 Apple introduced a Powerbook G3 that had a processor that was very close to desktop speed, the capability to have more than 64MB of RAM, a large hard drive, and a screen (14.1" viewable, 1024 x 768 resolution) that is actually larger than 15" desktop monitors. So in 1999, after reading a number of rave reviews and playing with one myself, I decided I had to have one. Of course I bought the high-end one with DVD and 128MB of RAM, it's my nature to spend more money for better products, especially when I will be using them as much as I use my Powerbook.
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When my Powerbook finally arrived at my door and I started unpacking it, it was immediately apparent to me that Apple had put a lot of thought into their product. EVERYTHING I needed was included in the box: manuals, software, power cable, telephone cord, network cable (one of the few computers that comes with 10BaseT networking built-in to the machine itself, no additional PC card required), speaker connector, the whole nine yards. The computer itself is a work of art. It is beautifully sculpted, with a sleek shape and sophisticated simplicity that exude power and elegance simultaneously. You immediately feel compelled to touch it and taunted to explore its abilities. The Powerbook G3 is just downright sexy.
Could the reality of using the machine possibly live up to the expectations I had set for it within 30 seconds of opening the box? After a year of use, I can say enthusiastically, YES. Initial setup was almost nonexistent. Slide in the battery, plug in the power cable, hit the power key, enter some basic information, and you’re ready to go.
The next thing that strikes you is the display. The 14.1" active-matrix TFT is bright, clear, and gives you the same desktop space (1024 by 768 pixels) as a standard 17" monitor. You also immediately start to feel comfortable with the computer’s touchpad and full size keyboard (until recently laptop keyboards felt cramped and confined). Combine these features with easy connectivity to external devices (via Firewire and USB on the current models), and you have a laptop that for most people can truly eliminate the need for a desktop computer. In fact, I feel that there are only two things that would necessitate buying an additional desktop computer. First, those who need to use add-on cards that are only available in PCI format. Also, those who need the extreme speed that are attainable only with a G4 desktop. That is not to say that everyone else should buy this Powerbook, but if you need the portability that only a laptop can provide, you now need only one computer.
I have found the performance of this machine to be more than adequate to handle almost all of my rigorous needs. The G3 processor gives me great graphic performance when coupled with 128MB of RAM. The 56k modem is as fast as they come (and when the service becomes available in my area, the 10BaseT connector will allow me to add a cable modem or DSL modem very easily). Battery life is realistically a respectable 3.5 hours under normal use. For anyone who will be spending long periods of time away from a power outlet, I suggest buying a second battery (about $150). This allows you to either have two batteries in at the same time, or you can swap the batteries while the computer is in sleep mode without having to shut down.
I use the computer as a desktop machine about 85% of the time, but when I have to take it with me, I only require 30 seconds to pack it up and hit the road (I just close the top, disconnect my various peripherals, and slide it into my carrying case). The DVD drive is fairly fast and DVD movies look great (especially cool when you’re on a long flight, just pop in a movie, plug in your headphones, and relax as everyone oohs and aahs with wonder and jealousy).
Apple’s technical support and warranty services are wonderful. I have only had 2 occasions to call them, but both times they were very knowledgeable and courteous on the phone, and the problems never recurred. The manual and help system are easy to follow as well, so most problems will be pretty easy to solve on your own.
There are only a few downsides to the Powerbook G3. While it is fairly light (about 6 pounds with battery) and thin (a little over an inch), it is deeper and wider than some notebook computers, making it a little cumbersome if you have to carry it constantly. Like most laptops, it also tends to get pretty warm while sitting on your legs, and you may want to consider purchasing an add-on numeric keyboard if you use one often.
While it has its limitations and frustrations, I say without hesitation that this is the best computer I have ever owned, and the best purchase I have ever made of ANY product.
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
dancilmi
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Member: Dan Cilmi
Location: New York
Reviews written: 12
Trusted by: 18 members
About Me:
An electronics, computer, and photography buff. IT consultant by trade.
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