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Which Mac for Child?

S

steeler

macrumors regular
Original poster
Jan 30, 2008
164
4
When I was young, our family had an Apple ][e that I believe enhanced my learning abilities and just made learning more fun. Now as a father, I'm looking to purchase a Mac for our 4 year old to use. For the most part, we'll use it together, but I also can see him using some educational games, educational software, and programming with less supervision as he learns more during the next few years. It also should be able to smoothly run Internet based flash games and video. I believe that the right exposure to computers at a young age is critical and I want him to have an opportunity similar to mine.

We don't really have the space for the permanent setup of another desktop computer, so I was looking at laptops (iBook or Powerbook). Based on these requirements, I think I need a G4 running at least 800 MHz, but 1 GHz would be better. Is that enough power, is it too much power?

EDIT - Our budget is to spend as little as possible (isn't it always), but still get something that will meet our needs. I'm thinking $400-$500.

What Mac would you get for a child?
 
An eMac would be good, if you had the space..less room for 'accidents' than with a laptop.
 
I have an iBook G4 (1.2 GHz) that can handle all that. Make sure you've got plenty of memory -- mine has 768 MB. I think 256 MB would probably not be enough.

Educational software is usually not too hard on a system, but it does tend to eat up HD space. That might be your biggest issue using a laptop rather than a desktop.

I bet you could go as low as 800 MHz and still be fine. That's about the bottom limit though. I honestly don't know if you'll be able to find a computer with those specs for $500.
 
I have considered iMacs, eMacs, and Mac minis, but the problem is that we don't really have space to set up something that needs a monitor and keyboard. Part of the reason for looking at laptops was to have something that could be easily set up and taken down when not in use.

I can look for someplace to put a desktop permanently. How about the processor type and speed?

EDIT TO ADD (based on wordmunger's response):
I have been following iBook and Powerbook auctions on eBay. Several (with appropriate specs and in decent shape) have ended in the $400-$500 range during the past week or two, so I know it's possible. I'll have to be diligent though. Thank you for the response on the processing power.
 
steeler said:
I can look for someplace to put a desktop permanently.
Click to expand...
I think it will definitely enhance your child's computing experience to have a dedicated area to do his/her computing. Plus, it is less hassle for you...not having to clear off a space and get the laptop out. Additionally, you'll be far less likely to have an accident that will result in tears (from both you and your child). :)
 
I have a Mini for my kids and wife. It sits in a small draw / cubby hole that comes below a lot of desks. All you need on top is a small flat screen lcd monitor and a keyboard. I use a wireless keyboard and you can move it out of the way. With that said, the cost of a Mini and keyboard / mouse / lcd, I would go with a low end iMac.
 
aaronw1986 said:
Haha...yea, an 8 core with 32 GB of RAM, :p
Click to expand...

Don't forget the 8800 GT. Your'e a bozo if you don't get that.

Now for a serious reply. I too think it would be good to have a dedicated place for this kind of setup. The thing is, you don't need to have a desktop to do that (obviously). An iBook G4 with a processor above 1Ghz would a last a fair while for his needs.
 
I would avoid a notebook at all costs.

You say you will be there with him 'most of the time'.

Those kids are QUICK and during the time you are not there things will happen.

We gave our kids older G4 Power Macs ..... keyboard and mouse are all they are exposed to, computer sits below and behind the desk.

This way if they ever violate the NO DRINKS rule and have a spill, all that might be lost is the keyboard and mouse.

Do the math ---> 4 Year Old + Laptop Computer = Repair Bill

Been there, done that !!!
 
id look for a powerbook ti. part of me wants to say that you can get away with 667mhz, he is a kid and educational software doesnt have high requirements. perhaps the 800mhz model would last a bit longer. the ram is cheap enough now that you can probably get 1 gig for it without breaking the bank
 
iMac G4's are really nice, the one with the nice tilt/swivel screen.

imacg4.gif
 
For a 4 year old?? Jeez... I wish I had a mac when I was 4.:rolleyes:

Anyway, try to get your hands on a 1GHz or higher iBook G4. There small, rugged, and plastic! Or for something more stylish, a 12" PowerBook G4.
 
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