they both have combo drive. I noted the combo b/c powerbook comes both ways. I don't need it, making the machine cheaper.
My wife wants an ipod so it works out perfectly.

Which machine??

 

Graphic design tells me powerbook. Pay a little more for a bigger payoff in the long run.

 

I am still unsure. I have priced Dell's and they are close to 2k with a warranty. That is the same money as a powerbook. The ibook still is appealing b/c of it's $1300 price tag w/ applecare.hmmmmmmmmmmm, more research.

 

If you have one close to you, go visit an Apple Store or Best Buy. Check out the Powerbook vs. iBook. I had a 14" iBook for about 2 months before I traded up for the 15" Powerbook..I'm on my third one now, I absolutely love it! The widescreen is NIIICCEEE!

PS..You can order online through the education store, and they do not ask for confirmation of enrollment. So, there's your discount right there.

 

build your own - www.newegg.com
$1000 would build a beefy box

 

My bro just told me that i can save $100 on a powerbook by purchasing it through a college. So i sold my old comnpaq presario laptop and purchased the 12" powerbook SUPERDRIVE for $1499. You get a free ipod when u purchas a laptop.

 

I would suggest a Dell. That is what my wife uses for website and graphic design, and she does it 8 hours a day. Never had any problems with it, and it's easier to upgrade and cheaper to get software for.

 

Dell is a great company for desktops, but in my opinion, not for laptops. The plastic always creaked and it cracked easily, overall construction seemed poor. I had one a couple of years ago, so they might have changed. For a windows laptop, I would recommend HP, their cases are very solid and HP has great tech support. Right now we have 3 HP laptops in the office I work at, and all have my approval as far as contruction.

 

I have a Toshiba Tecra M2 and i love it. I have had it for a little over a year.Great laptop.

 

apple has a 15-day trial period. check there website.. here ill make it easy for you.