The iBook represents the budget- end of Apple's notebook range. Its sturdy white lid, and solid base give it a quality feel, and it even manages to come in at only 2.5kg, including power pack.
Compared to the other notebooks in this Labs, the ageing 700MHz G3 processor (from the same generation as the Pentium III) and 256MB of PC100 SDRAM are falling well behind in performance terms. The 20GB hard disk is reasonable, although many of the other notebooks here include DVD, while the iBook only features a CD-ROM. The 12.1in screen is also a little disappointing given the range of 14.1in screens in this Labs.
The software bundle is excellent, with OS X 10.1 at the core, and Apple's impressive suite of apps including iMovie, iTunes and AppleWorks, among others. At $2,305, it is reasonably priced, although better value is to be found with the likes of the Acer TravelMate or Twinhead efio!