Apple Powerbook G4 (2001-2002)

Solid case design; respectable performance and battery life; ample software package; Bluetooth 2.0+EDR; hard drive-protection application.

Lacks audio input and multimedia controls; mediocre sound; free telephone support lasts a mere 90 days.

The attractive 14-inch iBook G4 has most of the features, performance, and battery life a basic user will need, but Intel Core Duo-based iBooks loom large on the horizon.

Brilliant display has superfine native resolution; less expensive than prior version; DVD burner; improved battery life; includes Apple's Sudden Motion Sensor and ambient-light sensor.

Expensive; lacks a TV tuner card; has only two USB ports.

The 17-inch PowerBook G4 delivers a competitive set of features, a great software package, good battery life, and style in spades, but you can find plenty of less expensive options out there.

Excellent design; good productivity performance; solid set of features and connections; great speakers; killer software bundle.

Lacks external volume and multimedia controls; middling gaming performance; just average battery life; free phone support lasts just 90 days.

Though pricier than the 12-inch iBook G4 and some comparable PC laptops, the 12-inch PowerBook G4's performance, solid set of features and software, and killer design will overjoy intermediate and advanced mobile users.

Low base price; well-designed case; lengthy battery life; hard drive-protection technology; robust software package; Bluetooth 2.0+EDR.

No external multimedia controls; no audio input; weak speakers; only 90 days of free telephone support.

Though it's less powerful than the PowerBook, the reasonably priced 12-inch iBook G4 has a well-designed case, long battery life, and great software, which make it a good choice for anyone seeking a solid entry-level laptop.