Of eMacs, iBooks, and Panther...

[realityisterror]

This will probably be a long post, so be ready.

First off, I'm 13, and somewhat poor (by my standards). I'm looking to buy a computer in the <$1050 range. That basically leaves me with the iBook and eMac.

So, I want to order a refurbished computer (it's a much better value). I can get:

1GHz G4 eMac, Combo Drive, 60GB HD, 128 MB RAM, etc, etc...
$849
Airport Extreme (refurb) $79
512 MB RAM $75 (Crucial)


OR


800 MHz G3 iBook, CD Drive, 30GB, 128 MB RAM, etc, etc...
$799
Airport (refurb) $59
256 MB RAM $50 (Crucial)


Of course, this is all with the current offerings... iBooks are due for an update soon. eMacs not so soon. So, because money is limited, I'd rather be patient and get Panther update free. This could take a while. So one of my first questions is:

When Panther rolls around, what will the iBooks look like (not literally)?
Is there a chance that the bottom-of-the-line model will have a Combo Drive?
Is there a chance 256 will be the standard RAM?
Also, will the eMac have more RAM?

Of course wanting the best "bang for my buck," I'm leaning toward the eMac: faster and cheaper RAM. My only concern is the size. The thing isn't too big, but try putting it on an 18" desk. I'm thinking that I would put the eMac itself to the left side of the desk. My next round of questions:

Those of you who have eMacs and smaller desks, do you find it comfortable to use your computer? How big is your desk?
How happy are you with the computers speed?
Any comparisons with the 800 iBook?


I know I'm comparing two different beasts, but any help would be very appreciated.

Thanks for your patience,
Reality

 

[Waluigi]

Re: Of eMacs, iBooks, and Panther...

Originally posted by realityisterror
This will probably be a long post, so be ready.
Is there a chance 256 will be the standard RAM?

I'd certainly hope so. On the PC side 512 is becoming the new base standard, and 128 is not enough for anything (I can't believe I'm saying that).

Also, installing your own ram in an iBook will be difficult, so think about it before you open the case up. I work with computers for a living, and have built and fixed way too many in my day, but I'm shocked and very scared when I open up a laptop and looking at the innards.

Good luck with your decision, and seriously go to the Apple store and try both of them out for comparison. Also ask the sales people questions, they are really helpful. Finally, check out the macrumors buyers guide.

--Waluigi

 

[Freg3000]

Re: Re: Of eMacs, iBooks, and Panther...

Originally posted by Waluigi

Also, installing your own ram in an iBook will be difficult, so think about it before you open the case up.

I disagree. Installing Ram in my 12" PB was quite easy. I also believe that most people on these boards have easy times with upgrading. just pop it in. The hardest part is believing that you won't break the chip by pressing it in so hard.

 

[baby duck monge]

i got a 512 MB chip for my ibook for around $80. if you go for the 'book, you should definitely spend the few extra dollars to fill that up all the way. also, i installed it in about 5 mins. the only tool you need is a small screwdriver. if you don't need the portability, though, you should go for the emac.

 

[Waluigi]

Re: Re: Re: Of eMacs, iBooks, and Panther...

Originally posted by Freg3000
I disagree. Installing Ram in my 12" PB was quite easy. I also believe that most people on these boards have easy times with upgrading. just pop it in. The hardest part is believing that you won't break the chip by pressing it in so hard.

Wow, thats really neat! I wish I could say the same for the laptops I work with at work......

--Waluigi