Spec 2000 vs real life G3/P3

[sjs]

Both my machines are clean and well- maintained. Mac is running OS X and P3 is running NT (but not on a network). Both OS's are the latest version, as are web browsers, etc. Those folks who said a G4 1 gh barely keeps up with a P3 1gh are testing functions that do not reflect the actual way most consumers use their computers: email, internet, Word and so on. The only significant difference I see is that the P3 launches programs about 3 seconds faster than my G3 600. If I had a G3 800 I wonder if that would close the gap? My conclusion is that for non-technical usage a G3 at 800 to 1000 would be just fine.

iMac 600 PIII 800

Startup 1:20 1:22
Shutdown 0:05 1:02

Launch Mail - Outlook 0:09 0:05
Close - Relaunch 0:03 0:01

Launch OmniWeb - IE 0:07 0:04
Close - relaunch 0:04 0:01
Go to MSNBC 0:10 0:10
Close - re Go 0:08 0:08
Go to Apple 0:06 0:06

Launch Word X - Word 2000 0:09 0:05
Close - relaunch 0:03 0:02

Launch iPhoto 0:08 counting...

[stoid]

Your results are fairly inconclusive. Loading a program doesn't tell you how fast the computer will actually run the program. If you want really benckmark results, do photoshop, or some processor intensive task like that. The SPEC2000 benchmark tests actual processor speed, and disregards application optimization. Basically, what I'm saying is that your results don't say much, they aren't good benchmark subjects, as they can be swayed by how well the application is optimized for the processor/operating system.

[buffsldr]

I totally agree with you, especially that iPhoto test.

[mac15]

always nice to know but
keep up the good work

[Beej]

LOL. I like the iPhoto test! :D

[sjs]

I'm pretty sure the P3 is hung up...iPhoto still hasn't launched.