The PowerBook G4 was a line of laptops designed, developed, and marketed by Apple Inc. from 2001 to 2006. During its heyday, it was one of the most popular and sought-after laptops on the market, known for its sleek design, impressive performance, and innovative features. But have you ever wondered how much this technological marvel cost when it was first released? In this article, we’ll take a trip down memory lane and explore the prices of the PowerBook G4 during its production run.
Introduction to the PowerBook G4
Before we dive into the pricing details, let’s take a brief look at the PowerBook G4’s features and specifications. The G4 was a significant upgrade to the previous PowerBook G3 series, with a faster processor, improved graphics, and a larger storage capacity. The laptop was available in various configurations, including the 12-inch, 15-inch, and 17-inch models, each with its own set of features and price points.
The base model of the 12-inch PowerBook G4, for instance, came with a 867 MHz PowerPC G4 processor, 256 MB of RAM, a 30 GB hard drive, and a DVD-ROM drive. The 15-inch model, on the other hand, boasted a 1 GHz PowerPC G4 processor, 512 MB of RAM, a 40 GB hard drive, and a DVD-RW drive. The top-of-the-line 17-inch model featured a 1.33 GHz PowerPC G4 processor, 1 GB of RAM, an 80 GB hard drive, and a DVD-RW drive.
Pricing the PowerBook G4
Now, let’s get to the juicy part – how much did the PowerBook G4 cost when it was first released? The prices varied depending on the configuration, model, and country. Here are some approximate prices for the PowerBook G4 models when they were first launched:
- 12-inch PowerBook G4 (867 MHz, 256 MB RAM, 30 GB HD, DVD-ROM):
- USA: $1,099 – $1,299
- UK: £799 – £999 (approximately $1,100 – $1,400 USD)
- Australia: AU$1,499 – AU$1,799 (approximately $900 – $1,100 USD)
- 15-inch PowerBook G4 (1 GHz, 512 MB RAM, 40 GB HD, DVD-RW):
- USA: $1,599 – $1,999
- UK: £1,299 – £1,599 (approximately $1,700 – $2,000 USD)
- Australia: AU$2,299 – AU$2,999 (approximately $1,400 – $1,800 USD)
- 17-inch PowerBook G4 (1.33 GHz, 1 GB RAM, 80 GB HD, DVD-RW):
- USA: $2,499 – $2,999
- UK: £1,999 – £2,499 (approximately $2,500 – $3,000 USD)
- Australia: AU$3,499 – AU$4,299 (approximately $2,100 – $2,600 USD)
Inflation-Adjusted Prices
It’s essential to note that these prices are not adjusted for inflation. To get a better understanding of the PowerBook G4’s value in today’s money, let’s calculate the inflation-adjusted prices:
- 12-inch PowerBook G4:
- USA (2001): $1,099 – $1,299
- Inflation-adjusted price (2023): $1,600 – $2,000
- 15-inch PowerBook G4:
- USA (2001): $1,599 – $1,999
- Inflation-adjusted price (2023): $2,300 – $2,800
- 17-inch PowerBook G4:
- USA (2001): $2,499 – $2,999
- Inflation-adjusted price (2023): $3,500 – $4,200
Comparing the PowerBook G4 to Modern Laptops
It’s fascinating to compare the PowerBook G4’s prices to modern laptops with similar specifications. Here’s a rough estimate of what you could get for the same price today:
- 12-inch PowerBook G4 (2001): $1,099 – $1,299
- Modern equivalent: Apple MacBook Air (2022): $999 – $1,299
- 15-inch PowerBook G4 (2001): $1,599 – $1,999
- Modern equivalent: Apple MacBook Pro (2022): $1,299 – $1,799
- 17-inch PowerBook G4 (2001): $2,499 – $2,999
- Modern equivalent: Apple MacBook Pro (2022): $1,799 – $2,399
As you can see, the PowerBook G4’s prices seem steep compared to modern laptops with similar specifications. However, it’s essential to remember that the G4 was a premium product in its time, with a unique design, high-quality build, and innovative features.
The PowerBook G4’s Legacy
The PowerBook G4 played a significant role in Apple’s resurgence in the early 2000s. Its sleek design, impressive performance, and innovative features helped reestablish Apple as a major player in the laptop market. The G4’s legacy can be seen in modern Apple laptops, which continue to emphasize design, performance, and innovation.
The PowerBook G4 also holds a special place in the hearts of many Apple enthusiasts, who fondly remember the laptop’s unique design, the ” Titanium” skin, and the iconic “yoga” hinges.
Conclusion
The PowerBook G4 was a groundbreaking laptop that set a new standard for design, performance, and innovation. While its prices may seem steep compared to modern laptops, it’s essential to remember the G4’s unique features, high-quality build, and the value it provided to its users.
In conclusion, the PowerBook G4 was a remarkable laptop that continues to inspire Apple’s modern laptop designs. Its legacy is a testament to Apple’s commitment to innovation, design, and performance. Whether you’re an Apple enthusiast or a tech aficionado, the PowerBook G4 is a fascinating piece of tech history that’s worth revisiting.
| Model | Processor | RAM | Hard Drive | DVD Drive | Price (2001) | Inflation-Adjusted Price (2023) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12-inch PowerBook G4 | 867 MHz PowerPC G4 | 256 MB | 30 GB | DVD-ROM | $1,099 – $1,299 | $1,600 – $2,000 |
| 15-inch PowerBook G4 | 1 GHz PowerPC G4 | 512 MB | 40 GB | DVD-RW | $1,599 – $1,999 | $2,300 – $2,800 |
| 17-inch PowerBook G4 | 1.33 GHz PowerPC G4 | 1 GB | 80 GB | DVD-RW | $2,499 – $2,999 | $3,500 – $4,200 |
Note: The prices mentioned in this article are approximate and based on publicly available data. The inflation-adjusted prices are calculated using the US Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation calculator.
What is the PowerBook G4 and why is it significant?
The PowerBook G4 is a line of laptops developed and sold by Apple Inc. from 2001 to 2006. It was a significant release as it marked a major upgrade from the previous PowerBook G3 models, offering improved performance, design, and features.
The PowerBook G4 was popular among creative professionals, students, and business users due to its powerful processing capabilities, large storage capacity, and innovative design elements such as the titanium alloy body and 15-inch or 17-inch widescreen displays. During its production run, the PowerBook G4 underwent several revisions, with each iteration introducing new features and improvements.
What made the PowerBook G4 so powerful?
The PowerBook G4’s processing power came from its Motorola PowerPC G4 processor, which provided a significant boost in performance compared to its predecessors. The processor’s clock speed ranged from 667 MHz to 1.67 GHz, depending on the model, and it was accompanied by up to 2 GB of RAM.
In addition to its powerful processor, the PowerBook G4 also featured advanced graphics capabilities, including ATI Mobility Radeon and NVIDIA GeForce graphics cards, which enabled users to run demanding applications such as video editing software and 3D modeling tools.
What were some of the key features of the PowerBook G4?
The PowerBook G4 boasted a range of impressive features, including its stunning 15-inch or 17-inch widescreen displays, which offered a wide viewing angle and high-resolution support. It also featured a range of connectivity options, including FireWire, USB, and Ethernet ports, as well as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities.
Another key feature of the PowerBook G4 was its innovative design, which included a durable titanium alloy body and a compact, lightweight form factor. This made the laptop an ideal choice for users who needed a powerful machine that could withstand the rigors of frequent travel.
How much did the PowerBook G4 cost when it was first released?
When the PowerBook G4 was first released in 2001, its starting price was around $2,500 for the base model, which featured a 667 MHz processor, 128 MB of RAM, and a 10 GB hard drive. The high-end model, which boasted a 1 GHz processor, 512 MB of RAM, and a 30 GB hard drive, cost around $3,500.
It’s worth noting that these prices are equivalent to around $4,000 to $6,000 in today’s money, adjusted for inflation. This makes the PowerBook G4 a significant investment, even by today’s standards.
Is the PowerBook G4 still usable today?
While the PowerBook G4 is no longer a state-of-the-art machine, it is still possible to use one today, albeit with some limitations. The laptop’s operating system, Mac OS X, is no longer supported by Apple, and many modern software applications are not compatible with the PowerBook G4’s older hardware.
However, if you’re looking for a laptop for basic tasks such as web browsing, email, and word processing, the PowerBook G4 can still be a viable option. You may need to install an older operating system or use open-source software to get the most out of the machine.
Can I still find PowerBook G4 laptops for sale?
Yes, it is still possible to find PowerBook G4 laptops for sale, although the market for these machines is limited. You can try searching online marketplaces such as eBay, Craigslist, or Facebook Marketplace, where you may be able to find used or refurbished PowerBook G4 models from individual sellers or third-party vendors.
Additionally, some specialty computer stores or vintage electronics retailers may still carry PowerBook G4 laptops or offer repair services for these machines.
Is the PowerBook G4 worth collecting?
The PowerBook G4 has become a sought-after collector’s item among vintage computer enthusiasts and Apple fans. The laptop’s sleek design, nostalgic appeal, and historical significance make it a valuable addition to any collection.
If you’re considering collecting a PowerBook G4, look for models in good condition, with minimal wear and tear, and ideally with their original packaging and accessories. You may also want to research the laptop’s specifications and features to ensure that you’re getting a rare or high-end model.