I'd like help in choosing an older Mac. I entered Macdom six months ago via an original blueberry clamshell iBook G3. Beyond an iconic product design, I've appreciated the simplicity and reliability of freedom from Micro$oft (I use a PC at work). I've enjoyed stretching it about as far as a 300 MHz processor can go (maxed out RAM and upgraded to OS X 10.2.8) but I'd like to be able to streaming low-fi video and use current web browser features; seems like time for something more.
A bit about my computer usage: I am fairly non-tech; when my work Wintel machine fails an expert comes to fix it. At home I'm on my own; I like simple. My iBook serves mainly as a netbook: I use Gmail, Google Docs, and Google Reader for productivity and news, and Pandora, GrooveShark, LaLa, and Playlist to stream music. I don't make much use of social media, and real-time isn't a trend I have not had much interest in or need for (so far). I've tried Chrome with extensions on a Windows machine and think it could meet virtually all my routine computing needs. I even contemplate getting a netbook and migrating it to ChromeOS as a next step (maybe using JoliCloud and EyeOS until that's easy to do). Searching online showed me that for the $250-500 cost of a netbook I could step well forward in power with a used iMac (functioning MacBooks seem out of that pricerange). The architect in me appreciates the compact, elegant designs of both the G4 and G5 iMacs, and depending on age and screen size I find both in a tolerable $250-500 price range. Whatever I buy, I'd like to use it for a long, long time (this iBook turned 10 recently, and as a complement to a more capable desktop I want to continue to use it for light browsing for more years). With that as background: (1) What should I expect as the performance delta between the G4 and G5 in light usage, and does it justify the extra cost? Is the G4 advanced enough to serve me for several years, or will I soon need to step up again soon to keep up with internet trends? (2) I find OS X 10.4 on most G4s and 10.5 on more G5s; any guidance on which OS is most useable with each processor? (3) I'll need wifi but it isn't always installed; is it hard for a non- technical end user to install? Is a USB wifi router worth considering instead? (4) Given that I'm mostly okay with the 12 inch iBook screen, a 17 inch screen seems adequate; any great reason to go larger? (5) Wikipedia tells me there's variation in processor speed and features even within the G4 and G5 lines; faster and newer generally cost more. How important are the upgrades (700 v. 800 v. 1250 v. 1600 v 1800 v 2000 MHz? webcam? ambient light sensor? iSight?) and are they significant in choosing a machine I can use for the next several years? (6) Are there other Macs I should consider, (I don't want a CRT eMac, but maybe a Mini?) and if so why? I'm eager for your feedback-- -- -- You received this message because you are a member of G-Group, a group for those using G3, G4, and G5 desktop Macs - with a particular focus on Power Macs. The list FAQ is at http://lowendmac.com/lists/g-list.shtml and our netiquette guide is at http://www.lowendmac.com/lists/netiquette.shtml To post to this group, send email to g3-5-list@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/g3-5-list
