What are 12" Powerbooks worth?

[smwatson]

Im looking into getting myself a 12" Powerbook G4 and a nice low price. All i need it for is some light Office work (studying for A-Levels). So basically Word and Excel. I cant afford to splash out on a Macbook Pro, and i hate the keyboard on the new Macbook. And its too big anyway, and a bit too heavy. So basically, how much can i expect to pay for a Powerbook G4 12"? Probably one of the more recent models, with either standard configuartion for me to upgrade (RAM), or with some extras?
Cheers

 

[IJ Reilly]

Check eBay for completed auctions.

 

[munckee]

Craigslist is another good place to look. There have been some of the slower models around here listed for $500-600. Not a bad deal, IMO.

 

[smwatson]

Thats why i was looking into these rather than a new model.

 

[Makosuke]

As said, for all questions on "about what does X cost/is X worth", I've found that a quick eBay search for completed auctions of the item (make sure you only pay attention to the ones that actually sold) is the quickest and easiest way to find the going rate.

And it looks like the 1.33GHz models are generally running around $750, while the older 867MHz ones are around $500. You might be able to get a better deal than that if you're lucky, but that's probably about what you should expect to pay.

 

[Collin973]

I'd say 500-550 for 867mhz...650-700 for a 1.ghz (depending on harddrive/ram/cosmetic condition, etc.).

Craigslist is an excellent place to check out. Usually ebay goes for alittle higher, but I've found exceptional deals on craigslist...like a g4 Imac flat screen for $350!!! (almost bought it).

I recently bought a 12" powerbook for $500, but it came with 10.2.8 on it and no software and had a few cosmetic scratches on the top lid, but it is an amazing computer. I got tiger put on it and it's doing great.

Let me tell you, a 1 ghz with 768mb of ram (or more) will do everything you need to. It's a great little computer.

So, I'd say definitely check out craigslist. I usually check out the major cities (NY, LA, Boston, Washing DC) and ask the seller to ship. Mac forum market places usually go alittle higher, and ebay's about the same. Look around and you'll find a great deal!

 

[playm0de]

Ive been looking for a 12 inch powerbook also. Ive kept an eye on the 1.33 ghz models but never jumped on one because I wasnt sure if I wanted it or not. Here are some links to what some of them have gone for:

1.33 ghz 12 inch powerbooks:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=9741949664&rd=1&sspagename=STRK:MEWA:IT&rd=1

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=9741815695&rd=1&sspagename=STRK:MEWA:IT&rd=1

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dl...90000431675&rd=1&sspagename=STRK:MEWA:IT&rd=1

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dl...50004058466&rd=1&sspagename=STRK:MEWA:IT&rd=1

and this 1.5 ghz powerbook 12 inch went for cheap also:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dl...60002888432&rd=1&sspagename=STRK:MEWA:IT&rd=1

Hope that helps.

 

[eidrunner247]

Those are very good prices too. It's just a matter of knowing how much you want to spend, and having the patience to wait and find the computer you need. Sometimes it's being in the right place at the right time. I think some of the best deals are those with a buy-it-now option, especially if the seller just started the aution a few hours ago. It's just constant searching; if you have the time, it's worth it. But as you can see, even some of the auctions can go at decent prices.

 

[MalcolmJID]

Whooo! You are in England!

I myself is after a 12" PB, hopefully the Alu. ones. As I'm in the same position as you (A-levels) so will only need it for light work, and maybe some Photoshop work, so goin for a PB as opposed to a MB is lookin good for now. (A few teething problems with the switch to Intel, waiting for Universal apps etc).

So yea, I've been looking on eBay. I think we'll be looking at around £500-£600 for a decent spec machine.. But there are obviously more expensive ones goin around.

 

[smwatson]

ahhh rip-off Britain. £600 vs $850

 

[MalcolmJID]

Tell me about it

I'm off to work now (overtime lol). Bring in some dosh for a PB

Au revior.

 

[boiee]

if my school still has some available, i can get them (new 1.5 ghz) for $999 plus tax

 

[Shasta]

Next week check eBay for my 12" PB 867
40 Gig HD, 1.25 Gig ram, Combo... a few extras

It goes live on Sunday, so I might update this with a link

I'm hoping to get $550+ because of the upgrades and bonus

 

[playm0de]

if my school still has some available, i can get them (new 1.5 ghz) for $999 plus tax

I'd go for that. Ive been thinking of picking up a refurb apple...I just cant justify spending $1200 on an older machine.

 

[tjwett]

i've got a 12" 1.5 ghz, only a few months old. i was gonna sell it for an even $1000 but i'll probably end up giving it to my girlfriend.

 

[smwatson]

Can i be your girlfriend?

(joke by the way, i only want a free PB)