TechRadar Verdict
This is an ideal option for those on the move, but still fairly basic in some areas of performance
Pros
- +
Geared toward mobile use
Good battery power
Stays cool
Cons
- -
Can't handle more advanced options
Gaming capability is small
Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you're buying the best. Find out more about how we test.
With Apple now shipping its Intel dualcore powered MacBook Pro, the Apple iBook G4 can seem slightly dated in comparison. However, at almost half the price and with strong performance, this laptop still has plenty to offer the entry-level market.
Finished in the recognisable white chassis of the iBook range, the 324 x 244 x 36mm dimensions of the Apple make it highly portable. While its rivals may weigh less, the iBook remains well suited to long-term travel use.
An array of ports provide easy access on the left side of the chassis. A slot-loading recordable DVD optical drive keeps operation simple, adding to the travel ability of the Apple; as does its powerful battery life of 280 minutes under test.
Using a PowerPC G4 processor running at 1.4GHz, with 512MB of DDR RAM in support, the iBook carries entry-level components. At this affordable price point, performance is competent if not exceptional, but will suit most basic home use.
Since MobileMark software is unable to run on Apple systems, Cinebench test software was used instead. Scoring 146 points, the iBook will struggle under high-performance applications, but provides ample power for writing and browsing the Internet on the move.
The user interface is equally geared towards mobile use, as the chassis stays cool at all times. With an excellent keyboard and touchpad providing strong usability, the iBook has one of the best designed interfaces around.
Just for fun
Although games are thin on the ground for Apple systems, the iBook carries a dedicated ATi Mobility Radeon 9550 graphics card for mid-level multimedia ability. Scoring 709 points from Cinebench graphics tests, the iBook will suit DVD use perfectly.
Sign up for breaking news, reviews, opinion, top tech deals, and more.
Since Apple currently never uses Super-TFT screens, a standard 14.1-inch TFT screen is in place. Quality is high, although the screen's 1024 x 768-pixel XGA resolution is low, and doesn't allow for much screen space.
In line with most similar systems, networking options are mixed. While highspeed wireless connections can be set-up using the integrated 802.11g Wi-Fi card, Ethernet is restricted to 10/100 Base-T speed. This is fine for home use, but may be too slow for office connectivity.
While many higher powered laptops are available at this price, Apple laptops are usually bought on the strength of design and usability more than raw performance. To this end, the Apple iBook G4 provides a decent and highly mobile travel companion and is well worth a test run.
Tech.co.uk was the former name of TechRadar.com. Its staff were at the forefront of the digital publishing revolution, and spearheaded the move to bring consumer technology journalism to its natural home – online. Many of the current TechRadar staff started life a Tech.co.uk staff writer, covering everything from the emerging smartphone market to the evolving market of personal computers. Think of it as the building blocks of the TechRadar you love today.