Evan Kleiman
- 2000.09.13
Q. What is the best Mac for a kid?
A. This is a simple question pondered by many people. What
really is the best Mac for a kid? Well, it depends on what they'll
use it for.
If your child just uses the computer for typing up homework and
reports, almost any old '030 machine will do. I'd recommend getting
a Performa of some sort. You can snag one on eBay for under $100! The Performa 500 series even has a built
in monitor! (Also check out the Low
End Mac Swap List.)
As far as software is concerned, all you need is System 7.5 and
Claris Works. This software can be found all over for under $30,
and if you're looking on eBay, you'll probably even find a computer
with ClarisWorks already on it.
Pretty much any Mac-compatible printer will do good. You can get
any old Epson Stylus series ink jet printer and be fine.
If your kid uses the computer mostly for "homework" or, in adult
language, "games," you'll need a bit more powerful machine. The
best processor will probably be a Power PC 603e. You can get a
complete Performa 5000 series* computer (with the built in
monitor!) for under $250 at places like PowerMax and MacResQ. As for software - well, the
kids know what programs are best to do "homework" with.
- * Note that some 5000 (and 6000) series models are considered
Road Apples and should be avoided. However, the 5400 and 5500 have a new internal design and avoid
the Road Apple label. ed
The last type of kid is one that uses the computer for
everything. Web pages, homework, games, programming, and many other
things. The best type of computer for this kind of work is an iMac.
You can get a new iMac for $799,
and it comes with all of the software you'll need. Also, it's sure
to last your kid a long time.
As for a printer, the Epson Stylus 740i is probably the best
pick. You can get one that will match your new iMac quite
nicely.
Not every kid will always fall in to one category for which Mac
to get. But this will help you get started. At least it's better
than going to a computer store where they might push one of those
"other" computers.
Evan Kleiman has been writing for Low End Mac since January
1999. He also runs his own site, Evansite. Evan uses an iMac,
along with some vintage hardware. You can read more about his
computing experience in The Many Macs of
Evan Kleiman.
