G4 or MacBook?

[goodwolve]

I have been reading these forums for a while and thought that perhaps it would be best to just ask my question directly.

I am a graphic designer who currently works on (don't roll your eyes please) a Blue G3 desktop running OS9. It is a work horse and I have loved everything about it.

I am now, though, in the position that I need to update my system because the work that I am doing is more current... I have to work online and be portable.

I currently use Microsoft Office and the Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator mostly). I have the upgrade for OSX but I don't have the cash to upgrade to a new computer and CS3.

So, I am wondering if it would be best to upgrade (and for me it would be an upgrade) to an iBook G4 or to run the software slower on a Mac Book?

Thank you

 

[extraextra]

I would wait till you can afford the Macbook + CS3. I don't think it's worth it at this point to get an iBook, unless you get a REALLY good deal on one.


Running a bunch of Adobe CS apps on a Macbook with 2GB RAM goes pretty slowly for me.

 

[davidjearly]

Look for a cheap PowerBook on eBay. I managed to pick the machine in my sig up for less than $400 last year. Perfect condition.

You just need to find a good deal at the right time.

DO NOT get a MacBook for your needs.

 

[leekohler]

I have been reading these forums for a while and thought that perhaps it would be best to just ask my question directly.

I am a graphic designer who currently works on (don't roll your eyes please) a Blue G3 desktop running OS9. It is a work horse and I have loved everything about it.

I am now, though, in the position that I need to update my system because the work that I am doing is more current... I have to work online and be portable.

I currently use Microsoft Office and the Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator mostly). I have the upgrade for OSX but I don't have the cash to upgrade to a new computer and CS3.

So, I am wondering if it would be best to upgrade (and for me it would be an upgrade) to an iBook G4 or to run the software slower on a Mac Book?

Thank you

Wow- I feel your pain. I'm in the business and know how much money we (don't) make. My advice to you would be to buy the MB and run the software slower until you can get new software. The reason? A MacBook will still be there for you when you can get the new software, an iBook G4 won't. Err on the side of hardware my friend. But- if you still don't want to go there, let me know. I have a 14" 1Ghz iBook G4 I might sell you if you want it, but my advice is still to go with the newer machine. You'll be happier in the long run. Just being honest.

 

[goodwolve]

Thanks!

I have written a huge pro/con list and I am still undecided. The thing is, if the G4 works for two more years I would be happy. Who knows what Apple will bring out after that. At this point I feel I will ALWAYS be behind. I really appreciate your thoughts though.

Question: What is a good price for a G4 iBook... or a powerbook? And what would be the best specs.

You can tell that I have been using such an old machine that I don't even know what to look for!

Jackie