Apple last updated the 15″ PowerBook in October 2005, making dual-layer SuperDrives standard and putting in higher resolution displays along with a faster memory bus. Because of their 1440 x 960 resolution displays (vs. 1280 x 854 used by prior 15″ aluminum PowerBooks), these 1.67 GHz models are designated hi-res in our listings to distinguish them from earlier models.
We posted a look at hi-rse PowerBook value in late 2005, The October 2005 PowerBook Value Equation. For an overview of the whole line, see Low End Mac’s Compleat Guide to the 15″ PowerBook.
The 15″ PowerBook G4 has two memory slots; earlier models shipped with 256 MB of RAM. We recommend no less than 512 MB for good OS X performance with Mac OS X 10.4 Tiger and 1 GB for 10.5 Leopard, the last version supported by G4 Macs. All aluminum G4 PowerBooks are able to run Mac OS X 10.5 – with 1.0 GHz to 1.67 GHz CPU speeds and room for 2 GB of RAM (which only costs $25-75 these days), they can handle it well.
The 15″ and 17″ aluminum PowerBooks include FireWire 800, gigabit ethernet, and a CardBus slot. 802.11g AirPort Extreme WiFi was standard with all 15″ aluminum PowerBooks except for the 1.0 GHz model, so we try to note when it is not included.
Note that original batteries have probably lost most of their capacity over the years. Other World Computing sells the NewerTech NuPowr 58 Watt-Hour battery, which has up to 26% more capacity than Apple’s original battery, for $69.
The 15″ MacBook Pro replaced the 15″ PowerBook in early 2006; it has since been replaced by even more powerful models based on the Intel Core 2 Duo CPU.
The best deals are marked in bold type in the full listings below. Prices are for used PowerBooks unless otherwise noted. Used PowerBooks typically include a 90-day warranty.
- Got a G4 PowerBook? Join the G4 ‘Books email list.
Best 15″ PowerBook Prices
- 1.5 GHz SD, $245, Wegener Media
- 1.67 GHz SD, $350 shipped, Operator Headgap
Recent Memory Prices
- PC2700 (normal res ‘Books): 512 MB, $12.99; 1 GB, $31.79 ($64 for maximum RAM)
- PC4200 (hi-res 1.67 GHz): 1 GB, $17.99 ($36 for maximum RAM)
Best Mac OS X Prices
Listings note RAM/hard drive size. We do our best to note when AirPort Extreme is not included. Be sure to factor in shipping costs and possible sales tax. Your best value depends on whether you need/want a color printer, extra RAM, etc.
Unless otherwise noted, there is no surcharge for credit card purchases, and shipping is not included. Vendors are listed in alphabetical order. Be sure to visit their sites for full details.
Prices may be limited to quantity on hand. Not responsible for typos.
Buying through some of these links benefits Low End Mac. Buying at these prices benefits you.
Profiles
DV Warehouse
Shipping may add $20 or more.
- 1.67 GHz SD, 512/60, $374
Operator Headgap
When ordering from Operator Headgap, please let them know you heardabout them on Low End Mac when entering your shipping information. Thanks!
- 1.67 GHz SD, 1 GB/120, $349.77 shipped
PowerMax
Ground shipping may add $xxx or more. PowerMax has the broadest selection of used Macs of any dealer we track. Mac OS X 10.4.11 installed.
- none listed at present
Teksale
Ground shipping can add $15 or more. OS X 10.5 installed. 30 day warranty.
- none listed at present
Wegener Media
Shipping may add $16 or more. 60 day warranty.
- 1.5 GHz SD, 1 GB/80, $244.99
PowerBook Accessories
Operator Headgap
When ordering from Operator Headgap, please let them know you heardabout them on Low End Mac when entering your shipping information. Thanks!
- 60W power adapter, $39.77 shipped
- 80 GB 5400 rpm ATA-6 hard drive, 8 MB buffer, $79.77 shipped
- 160 GB 5400 rpm ATA-100 hard drive, 8 MB buffer, $109.77 shipped
- 802.11g Aria Extreme wireless CardBus card, $59.77 shipped
- 8x SuperDrive, $139.77 shipped
Can’t afford a 15″ aluminum PowerBook but need portability? The 13.3″ widescreen MacBook, produced from 2006 through 2010, with its 1280 x 800 display might be perfect for you – see our MacBook Deals page for prices. Also check out our 12″ PowerBook G4 Deals, Titanium PowerBook G4 Deals, iBook G4 Deals, iBook G3 Deals, and PowerBook G3 Deals.
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