Apple PowerBook G4 12.1 in. (0718908426234) Mac Notebook

Let me first preface this review with my experience with Apple. I've been using Macs for about the past six years. I've gone through the 2nd generation 20 GB iPod, 3rd generation 15 GB iPod, PowerMac G3, PowerMac G4, PowerBook G3, iBook G3 and now this PowerBook G4. It was bought as a replacement for my 14" iBook. The main reason I wanted a replacement was size. I am constantly on the go and as small as the 14" iBook was, I wanted to try something smaller ... so there goes the choice for the miniPB.

Packaging
As usual, Apple wrapped up this little guy in the most aesthetically pleasing, not to mention functional, manner. The cords were packaged separately from the manuals and software. Included, you will get the AC adapter, extension cord to the AC adapter, Apple VGA display adapter, Apple video adapter and modem cable. As far as software is concerned, you'll get two DVDs that include your software restore and install.

Features
Y 867MHz G4
Y 256MB PC2100 DDR SDRAM (640MB max)
Y 40GB hard drive
Y slot-loading combo drive
Y 12" screen
Y built-in 1.1 Bluetooth
Y Airport extreme ready
Y built-in 10/100 Base-T
Y built-in 56K modem
Y two 1.1 USB ports
Y one 400 FireWire port

The first thing that struck me was the slot-loading combo drive. It is a 24x10x24 drive and is a very cool addition. A definite step up from the older tray loading version, saves you the trouble of worrying about pressing a CD down too hard on the tray. Secondly, the small size (12") and weight (4.6 lbs!) was a visible upgrade from my 14" iBook. Talk about tiny. I'm a pretty petite little lady and even with me holding it out of the box, it looks tiny! (see photo here: http://images3.fotki.com/v30/photos/8/87795/346038/miniV-vi.jpg)

This miniPB hooked up just perfectly to my internal network with your basic CAT5 cable and then again when I finally installed the Airport Extreme card (very easy install). I just had to turn on this little baby and it was able to share the internet connection with no problem.

I do notice that there is a bit of lag when I'm multi-tasking. I think this is largely due to the 256MB of RAM. I was running 640MB on my iBook and didn't notice such a drag. I will update once I plug in the 512MB chip.

The battery life is a little over half of what Apple reports. They say you can get about 5 hours, I've at most gotten 3:15 hours running normally.

Bluetooth built-in is very cool. I have not been able to play around with it since I don't have any Bluetooth devices, but you can be sure once I get my hands on a Palm Tungsten, I will update again.

Casing
The aluminum casing is fragile. I've had it for less than a week and already there is a tiny dent on my front case. I've dropped a million things on my iBook and was left with only a scratch. I also notice that the miniPB generates a bit more heat due to the metal casing. It gets slightly hotter due to the conductivity of metal as opposed to plastic.

Sounds
The speakers are of excellent quality. The highs hit perfectly and the lows are very good for computer speakers. The volume however, doesn't get as loud as I'd like it to be. If you're outdoors and want to listen to your music, you'd better bring a pair of headphones with your because outside noise will drown out your tunes in a second.

Software
The included software consist of iCal, iPhoto, iTunes, iSync, iChat (which are my favorites) among other programs such as Appleworks. iCal allows you to make your own calendar and sync (with iSync) your palm, compatible cell phone, or iPod. iTunes is a great way to organize all your MP3s into various playlists and again works wonderfully with an iPod. iPhoto allows great organization of your digital photos with the option of making personalized slideshows and even creating a hardback photo album. As for iChat, it's just a pretty way to IM :) And should you ever need to upgrade any of these programs, they're all free through Apple's support site!

Conclusion
I love love love this miniPB and do not at all regret the replacement. If you're on the go and need a small laptop at your side, this is the choice.